Kidder Township supervisors have approved two-year contract extensions for township manager Suzanne Brooks and chief of police Matthew Kuzma.

Brooks reports that the township is interviewing for a township secretary/treasurer and for a township clerk.

Kuzma also recommended officer Michael Nikityuk for a full-time officer position.

“(His) enthusiasm and work ethic are commendable. I am sure (he) will be a continuing asset to our department and the residents of Kidder Township,” wrote Kuzma in his recommendation.

Other business

• The annual cost of living adjustment (3.4%) for 2024 was approved for eligible recipients.

• The 2024 annual budget was approved. Taxes remain at 3.65 mills, 2 mills for the real estate fire tax split between the two fire companies, and 1.3 mills for ambulance and rescue. An earned income tax of 1% is split between the township and school districts. A 1% real estate transfer tax is also split between the township and school districts. There is a $52 local services tax. On mechanical amusement devices, there is a tax of $50 each. A 4% tax is applied on revenues from amusement activities, limited to 40% on golf.

• The 2024 fee resolution setting fees for the year was tabled.

The general fund will be $1,593,000 - up $92,253 from 2023. The 2023 budget was adjusted to match expenses.

• Bills of $145,497 were approved.

• A permit was approved for Big Boulder Ski Area to hold a fireworks display on Jan. 27.

• Audience members spoke out against more warehouses in the township, and against the proposed solar farm. An anti-warehouse group may be forming.

• Supervsors conditionally approved subdivisions for the Split Rock Country Club of three lots and one lot, as well as a lot line adjustment for two lots in Split Rock for the Tronzo family.

• The Lake Harmony Rescue Squad was out 35 times for calls and 10 more times to run with fire calls.

• Police responded to 253 calls.

• The Zoning Hearing Board met earlier in December about a shed on a lot that had only boat docks. A shed is not permitted on a lot without a primary structure. The lot owners applied for a variance. The zoning officer suggested that they build a house on the property. Negotiations between attorneys for the owners and the ZHB worked out a plan to get a survey and apply for permits to build a house. The matter will be continued to April’s ZHB meeting.

• Kidder supervisors will reorganize at 5 p.m. today and hold their regular meeting at 6:30 p.m. on Jan. 23.