Harrison Township board approves firefighter hire, drain cleanout and routine business

At the Sept. 22 meeting the Harrison Township Board of Trustees handled routine business and several operational items.

The Board approved hiring Brendan Chung as a probationary firefighter-paramedic. The hiring is conditional on successful completion of a psychological evaluation, a background investigation and a pre-employment physical; if hired, the Fire Department’s suppression staffing would reach 26 of 27 positions. Clerk Adam Wit moved the hire and Trustee Dean Olgiati seconded; the motion carried.

The Public Works Commissioner proposed cleaning out the Irwin Drain (in the northern township, serving part of Clinton Township and three mobile-home parks). The township’s share of the 50% cost is $11,335.00; the Board approved the cost-share partnership with Macomb County Public Works. Clerk Adam Wit moved and Trustee David Bratto seconded the motion, which carried.

The Board also approved its consent agenda, which included the regular meeting minutes from Sept. 8, 2025, the August 2025 Revenue and Expenditure Report, and payment of bills totaling $1,147,326.52. The Regular Agenda was approved earlier in the meeting with a procedural motion to move the marihuana appeal item and add the Irwin Drain item. Public comment included remarks from residents Barb Zinner, Dave Santoro (who spoke about short-term rentals), and C. William Bardill; Supervisor Kenneth Verkest responded to comments. The meeting adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

Next steps: hiring depends on final background and medical clearances; the Drain cleanout will proceed in partnership with Macomb County Public Works per the approved cost share.