After more than a year of uncertainty with the Ontwa Township sewer issue, elected officials and residents alike can finally enjoy a breath of fresh air.

Wastewater board chairman John Brandt announced at Monday’s township meeting that surcharge fines from Elkhart were dropped from $26,000 to $1,000.

“In the past six months there was a decrease of $25,000. We also received a letter from Elkhart stating [the Ontwa Township wastewater board’s] exemplary work on the project and how happy they are now to work with Ontwa Township and its members, “Brandt said.

Gary Foldenaur, project manager of Severn Trent Services, sent out a letter Monday to supervisor John Bossler regarding the Ontwa Township sewer system testing. According to the letter, the end of pipe hydrogen sulfide (H2S) testing is going well. Also, a total of 8,879,670 gallons was pumped to the Elkhart wastewater treatment plant from Feb. 5 to March 5.

Following the good news, several audience members voiced concern when the wastewater board filled its spot for wastewater administrator, naming Paul Sniadecki. The position was advertised but had little public interest, and only two candidates applied. Before the selection process, though, one candidate withdrew, leaving only one person vying for the position. Sniadecki, also the deputy supervisor, is also the wastewater administrator. He will be paid for both salaried positions, which was an issue with some residents attending the meeting.

“With wastewater administration and deputy supervisor there is no conflict of interest,” said clerk Teri McNaughton.

Some residents in the audience disagreed, saying that Sniadecki should not be holding two positions based on time strain and finances. Among those concerned was Jeff Higley, Sr., a resident of Ontwa Township.

“I just think its wrong to have one guy doing two jobs and not getting the community more involved,” he said.

In other business, the board:

• Highlighted the budget, annual and salary resolutions.

• Discussed appointing a three-person committee to sit and privately write job descriptions for board members including compensation and job duties.

• Listened to Jeff McCray of Burnham & Flower Insurance Group discuss the Michigan Township Participating Plan (PAR Plan). The PAR Plan went over liability insurance and property insurance. The coverage amount for the Township Hall building contents was increased from $27,690 to $50,000.
The next meeting is April 13.