Niles Charter Township is making progress toward finishing its portion of the Indiana-Michigan River Valley Trail that, when finished, would connect Niles to Mishawaka with 34 miles of multi-use trail.

In December, the state Department of Natural Resources informed the board that its application was among those recommended for approval to receive a development grant in the amount of $286,000.

Township Clerk Terry Eull said the township had been informed of the news by letter and read a portion of the letter during Monday’s regular board meeting. Eull said steps still need to be taken before the township receives the grant.

The state legislature must approve the grant, and the township must also enter into an agreement with the DNR.

Also on Monday, the board approved the hiring of John Hess, of Niles, as maintenance utility worker for township Department of Public Works. Approval is subject to Hess’ passing a background check, physical test and drug test. He will start on a six-month probationary period.

Jim Ringler township treasurer, said Hess was one of four candidates interviewed for the job.

“All four were very good candidates — it was very difficult to choose which one to hire,” Ringler said. “We had to narrow it down to who the best was — the committee did — and we thought Hess was the best.”

Hess replaces Scott Krueger, who resigned from the position Dec. 13.