Cannon Township Board and Planning Commission Recaps: February, March & April

Okay, I know I’m in a busy phase of life with three little kids and rarely sit still, but for me, that winter flew by!

I love writing these updates because it helps me stay current—and hopefully helps you, too. If you ever want more details on any topic, I always suggest watching the meeting video first. That said, I’m always happy to provide context, and if I don’t know the full reason behind a process or decision, I’ll absolutely find out and explain it to you. Remember this is just from my lense!

Here’s a swift (and easy-to-follow) summary of our recent Cannon Township meetings:

February 10, 2025 – Township Board Meeting

  • Held our first closed session since I’ve been a Trustee, focused on strategy regarding the Kitson Parking situation.

February 24, 2025 – Public Hearing on Bella Woods Development

  • One of my favorite community meetings to date—so many aspects of the project were respectfully discussed.

  • No new Board action yet—more research is being done, especially related to sewer access.

  • [See minutes here.]

  • [Watch Meeting here. Starts at minute 2:33]

March 10, 2025 – Township Board Meeting

  • Heard from Carla Wagner’s lawyer regarding the Kitson Parking issues.

  • Budget resolution was postponed to the next meeting due to additional questions.

  • Cemetery fees were updated:

    • Direct cost adjustment (+2.8%).

    • Removed the $5 processing fee for purchasing plots.

    • Reminder: The Township is willing to buy back plots if your family has any that are no longer needed.

    • New burial rules allow:

      • Two cremations per plot, or

      • One burial plus one cremation.

    • Contact the Clerk’s office for more info!

    • [See minutes here.]

    • [Watch Meeting here. Starts at minute 1:12]

March 24, 2025 – Township Board Meeting

  • We requested public input on a grant application for non-motorized trail expansion (Parks and Recreation project).

  • Loved seeing how many residents came out to show their support! 🚴‍♂️🌳

  • Trails are expensive, but Parks & Rec has done an amazing job planning, saving, and working toward the next phase.

  • If you have questions about trails, Todd Olson, the Parks & Rec Chair, is incredibly welcoming and happy to help!

  • Reminder: If a trail is ever proposed across private property, property owners are always informed and included in the planning.

Upcoming Election Reminder

  • For residents in the Forest Hills area of Cannon Township (approx. 133 voters):

    • Your upcoming election will be held at the Township Offices, not at your regular polling location.

Bella Woods Development Update

  • Supervisor Grimm shared that the north lots at the proposed Bella Woods site “perk,” meaning septic systems are an option.

  • [See minutes here.]

  • [Watch Meeting here. Starts at minute 1:34]

April 14, 2025 – Township Board Meeting

  • Treasurer David Spencer led the meeting (light agenda overall).

  • Carla Wagner shared her perspective on the Kitson Parking situation.

Planning Commission (PC) Updates

February 11, 2025 – PC Meeting

  • Met briefly to formally state we were not discussing an item that evening.

March 11, 2025 – PC Meeting

  • Recommended approval for the Judson Farms Site Condominium (located at 7305 Young Ave). This item has not moved to the Board yet. I’m not sure why.

April 8, 2025 – PC Meeting

  • Meeting canceled due to illness and not enough members present to make a quorum. (Items will be moved to May 13 Meeting)

  • (Fun Fact: "Quorum" means having the minimum number of members needed to conduct official business.)

Reflections on Serving Cannon Township

We are currently down one Planning Commission member—if you're interested in serving, apply through the Township website! [More info here.] I absolutely love serving on the Planning Commission.
It’s a lot of work to properly research topics on a swift turnaround, but if your heart is in it, it’s incredibly rewarding.

  • The Township covers training expenses.

  • The commission, led by Jeff Twyman, is extremely welcoming, educated, and genuine.

  • You even receive a small stipend for your time.

Upcoming Meetings

✅ Next Planning Commission Meeting: May 13, 2025

If you made it this far—thank you!
I’m so grateful to serve this community and to keep finding ways to make sure you feel informed, heard, and connected.

If you ever have questions, feel free to reach out. 💬
We are in this together!

— Jes

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Upcoming Project at Luton Park: Geological Survey Work Underway

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Reflections on an Evening with Calley Means: Root Causes & Real Conversations