To view or leave comments on this story, click HERE.
(Editor’s Note: Peninsula Township Supervisor Maura Sanders reports in with updates on the winery lawsuit, township survey, the potential new fire station and more. Big thanks to Maura for these weekly updates that keep us tuned into what’s happening at the Township offices. Read on for this week’s note. -jb)
Old Mission Gazette is Reader Supported.
Click Here to Donate and Keep the Gazette Going.
October 23, 2025
The smell of wood burning in the fireplace is in the air!!
WOMP vs Peninsula Township Update
Filings in the winery lawsuit can be found here. They are also available on Pacer (a website that keeps all public records current on all federal litigation) here. Once you register on Pacer, you can find the case by going to the Michigan Western District court under case number 1:20-cv-01008.
The appraisal reports for Mission Point Lighthouse, Bowers Harbor Park, Archie Park and the Swaney Road vacant lot are expected at any minute. The reports will be shared with the Town Board (TB) and then the public. We will be able to make decisions, if necessary, on how to leverage our assets against any damages pursued by WOMP.
The goal of the Town Board is to enter into good faith negotiations and/or mediation with WOMP and Protect the Peninsula (PTP) prior to an appearance at the Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals. There have not been any court updates since I reported last week. However, our newly contracted insurance coverage counsel began work on our behalf this week.
The Parks Committee met Monday at 3 p.m. (watch the meeting video here, available for 30 days following the meeting). The committee discussed the importance of waiting for the forthcoming survey results before discussing the possibility of a parks millage in 2026. Other methods of generating revenue, such as placing donation tubes at the parks, were discussed. The committee is working hard to finalize new signage for Archie Park and is beginning the process of working on signage for Bowers Harbor Park and Haserot Beach.
Shoreline Stabilization. The Township is currently applying for a Shoreline Stabilization Study Grant through the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Water Resources Development Act and the Energy and Water Development appropriations. Andy Smits, our Grand Traverse County Drain Commissioner, is helping lead the charge. Funding is needed for a comprehensive slope stability study of Old Mission Peninsula to support resiliency planning for roadways, commerce and public safety. We have requested help via Senator Slotkin’s office.
Updates From Down the Hall
Planning, Zoning and Assessing Departments: The final interviews for the Planning, Zoning and Assessing administrative position have been completed, and we plan to make an offer soon. This is a newly created position that will combine the administrative roles from all three offices into one full-time position versus three contracted and/or part-time positions. This is cost savings as well as a production increase, and we were able to attract top talent by combining support services into one role.
Peninsula Township Fire Department: Regarding the potential new fire station 1, Chief Gilstorff has started exploring possible financing options. Unfortunately, the responses have not been positive due to the WOMP damages award.
He has also found that this lawsuit could potentially affect financing for any new equipment or fire engines down the road. Fortunately, the new truck that was ordered nearly two years ago should be delivered by late November to early December. The department is excited about the new engine and believes it will enhance our ability to provide a high level of fire suppression service.
Looking Ahead to Next Week – and Beyond
Peninsula Community Library‘s Trick or Treat will take place in the PCL Garden on Saturday, October 25th, from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The not-too-scary family event will include skeletons, stories, crafts and more! Stories start promptly at 11 a.m. followed by other activities. Kids may come in costume if they like.
Survey News. I will post the survey results when the report is ready. I anticipate it within the next week.
Please keep an eye on all upcoming upcoming meetings via the township website and our live streamed meetings (saved for 30 days) on our YouTube Channel.
Have a wonderful October weekend, Everyone! I hope everyone is taking advantage of these beautiful fall colors and the amazing skylines that Mother Nature has been providing in coordination with the rain!
Maura Sanders, Peninsula Township Supervisor
Phone: (231) 223-7323
Email: [email protected]
Office Hours: Mondays 7:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.; Tuesdays – Thursdays 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; closed Friday – Sunday and Holidays. If TCAPS is closed due to weather, Peninsula Township offices are closed at least until 10 a.m. Please check the website homepage for any updates.
Also Read…
To view or leave comments on this story, click HERE.
No surprise on the lawsuit’s impact on funding for the fire station. What effect will the lawsuit have on the township’s future insurance contracts? Will premiums & deductibles rise significantly, and coverage be reduced? It’s unlikely the current insurers will renew their policies as they have sued the township. Will future lawsuits expose the township to even more liability? What insurance company will provide coverage for a township that continues to support unconstitutional zoning ordinances?