MARION TOWNSHIP PARK #2

In late spring, work began on Township Park #2, just west of the township hall.  Dead trees were removed and the fence row cleaned up.  This fall, the Operating Engineer’s School used the area for a training project, digging a retention pond and roughing in a driveway and parking area.  The area around the pond has been seeded.  Next spring, we hope to plant tree seedlings.  If there is enough interest this winter, we could have ice skating and sledding at Park #2—please call the township and let us know of your interests. Suggestions and comments on the development of Park #2 are welcome, or if you would like to be on the township Parks and Recreation Committee, please call (517) 546-1588. 

TAX INFORMATION

Partial payments may be made on your tax bill.  The township office will be open December 31, 2008 from 10:00 am-3:00 pm to receive tax payments only.  The final day to pay winter taxes without penalty is February 17, 2009 .  From February 18 to March 1, a 3% penalty will be added.  The final day to pay taxes at the township is March 1, 2009 .  This is a Sunday, so please place your payment in the lock box and we will send you a receipt.  Postmarks are NOT accepted.

FROM THE ASSESSOR’S OFFICE

The Livingston County Assessor’s Association and Livingston County Equalization are in the process of scheduling a number of informational meetings about property assessment procedures and laws.  The meetings will be free to residents and held throughout the county.  Meeting dates and times will be advertised locally and are being scheduled for late January to early February 2009.  Watch for updates at  www.mariontownship.com, or the local cable channel, Charter channel 18.

Property data is available to all residents upon request.  The assessing office is available to review property record cards and answer any questions.  Feel free to contact us during regular business hours.

Assessing staff is currently out in the field doing inspections.  Field inspections may include taking photographs, measuring structures, etc.  Staff will be carrying identification, including photo name badges.  If you have any questions, feel free to contact the township office during regular business hours.

DPW DEPARTMENT

MHOG has updated its policy to include online payments with MasterCard or Visa for water and sewer billing.  You can set up an online account on Genoa Township ’s website, www.genoa.org.  If you have any questions on utility billing, contact Carol at 800-881-4109.  For service requests or water meter installations, call Barb at (517) 545-1339.  For water emergencies, please call 800-441-4991.  For sewer emergencies, call (517) 546-7150 weekdays 8:00 am-4:00 pm ; for emergencies after hours, weekends and holidays, call 911.  If you have any questions regarding water or sewer connections, special assessments or REUs , please call Cindy at the township hall, Monday-Thursday, 9:00 am-5:00 pm .  Visit www.mariontownship.com, for more information.

FROM THE CLERK’S OFFICE

The township’s first “Trunk or Treat” was held on Halloween.  Thanks to all of the “trunkers” who helped make this event a success!  We had a good turnout, with approximately 135 trick-or-treaters.  The weather was perfect and everyone had a lot of fun. 

The clerk’s office is winding down from a very busy election this November.  The total number of ballots processed was 5604, which is 78% of the registered voters in the township.  Precincts were busiest first thing in the morning.  With just a few minor glitches, everything went well, and thanks to everyone who helped during this busy time.

The 2^nd Annual Heritage Days Steam Engine Show and Flea Market is scheduled for June 13-14, 2009 .  If you’d like to volunteer, secure a booth for the flea market, be a vendor, or have talent to share for entertainment, contact the clerk’s office during regular business hours.  We’re looking forward to another successful event!

NOTARY SERVICES

Notary services are available at the township hall during regular business hours.  The service is free to Marion Township residents.

RECYCLE ITEMS

In the main entrance to the township offices, you will find recycle bins for special items we are collecting from our residents.  There are bins for household batteries, prescription eyewear, and cell phones.  We also collect seasonal items such as used Christmas lights during the holidays.

DOG LICENSE INFORMATION

To purchase a dog license, the rabies vaccination must be current and NOT expire within 30 days of your purchase.  Please check the certificate’s date before you come in to buy the license.

PARKS & RECREATION AUTHORITY

We would like to thank the following residents for their contributions to the Howell Area Parks and Recreation Authority events:

On October 1, a square dance was held at the Pardiac Farm’s barn on D-19 and Coon Lake Road .  Thanks to the Pardiacs for allowing us to use their barn for this dance and helping to make it a success.  We look forward to having a similar event in the future.

On November 15, a buck pole built by Jim Haydu, Chris McClure and Charles Musson was used for the first annual buck display.  We thank them for their donation of labor in building this pole.

WATERSHED UPDATE

As participants in the Shiawassee watershed management group, we got our feet wet in stream sampling by capturing some of the macro invertebrate residents of the Shiawassee River near Norton Road .  This was the start of a multi-year project to monitor the quality of Marion Township surface water.  If any residents want to join in the next event, please let us know—you may look good in waders!

HOLIDAY HOURS

The township offices will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, December 24 and 25 for the Christmas holiday.  We will also be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, December 31 and January 1 for the New Year holiday.  Best wishes for a safe and happy holiday season!