Ongoing and Completed

Projects Overview

1. Pickleball Courts

   • DDA Project with a total cost of $191,799.

   • Majority of work completed last year, with remaining finishing touches scheduled for this year.

2. Park Playground Upgrades

   • Secured a $584,000 DNR Spark Grant to enhance playground facilities.

3. Sewer Interceptor Project

   • Joint project with Ira Township at a total cost of $2.16 million.

   • Received a $1,000,000 EPA grant.

4. Sewer Collection Rehabilitation Project

   • Estimated project cost of $3.1 million.

   • Currently seeking grants for completion in the next fiscal year.

5. Outdoor Exercise Equipment for Park

   • Received a grant of $176,000, covering 100% of costs.

   • Construction planned for early spring 2025.

6. Sans Souci Algae Wastewater Treatment Plant – Phase 1

   • Awarded a $2 million grant to fully fund the project.

   • This is the first algae treatment plant in Michigan that recycles algae into ink or rubber for shoes.

7. Sans Souci Wastewater Treatment Collection System – Phase 2

   • In collaboration with the EPA to establish a $2,250,000 grant for total funding.

   • Working with DTE for additional support.

   • This facility will be the first in the country to capture 169 tons of carbon credits annually, which can be sold to offset operational costs.

8. Waterline Replacement Project

   • Replacing the water main from Algonac to Ira.

   • Scheduled for 2025-2026 with an estimated cost of $8.4 million.

   • Received a $3,500,000 EPA grant.

9. Colony Tower Repainting and Structural Updates

   • Repainted and made structural improvements to the Colony Tower.

10. Blue Bill Bridge Replacement

    • Project funded with over $700,000 in Federal, State, and County grants.

11. Flamingo Bridge Replacement

    • Total project cost of $1,560,000, with $1,527,100 secured from Federal, State, and County grants.

12. Bayview Shores Culvert Replacement

    • Large culvert replacement planned for 2025.

    • Secured $100,000 in County funds and actively working to obtain State and Federal funding.

13. Road Repaving Projects

    • Completed repaving of Fruit Rd, Cemetery Rd, Starville Rd, Phelps Rd, Middle Channel Dr, Bates Hwy, Golf Course Rd, and Marsh Rd.

    • Additional repaving of McKinley, Benoit, and Stone Roads.

14. Upcoming Bridge Projects

    • Rebuilding the Mayberry Bridge, Anchor Bay Dr Bridge, and Krispin Road Culvert in 2025.

15. Clay Community Garden

    • Established a community garden for local engagement and green space development.

16. Harsens Island Nature Park & Kayak Launch

    • Estimated project cost of $520,000.

    • Seeking a $400,000 DNR development grant to support the initiative.

 

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Clarifying the Accomplishments and Transparency of Clay Township

Clay Township has always prioritized transparency and accountability. Our audits are a testament to our commitment—there is nothing to hide. Every board member initially appointed has been re-elected, a clear indication of public confidence and trust.

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Collaboration with the DDA:
We actively support the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and their various programs, such as the façade grant initiative. The DDA is an independent agency with dedicated initiatives to enhance our community. Regular engagement with DDA meetings and programs ensures we are aligned in fostering local development.

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Environmental Stewardship:
Our board has implemented comprehensive plans to protect natural resources and the environment. With over $5.8 million in GLRI grants secured for habitat restoration, we have transformed the North Channel into a hub for Sturgeon angling, demonstrating our commitment to sustainable resource management. We also have a robust plan in place for potential environmental risks, such as oil spills, to prevent contamination of our marshes and canals.

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Infrastructure and Public Health:
The Southwater Municipal Authority is actively upgrading the plant to meet future needs. This proactive approach highlights our focus on maintaining and improving public infrastructure, in contrast to the county's lack of initiative in this area.

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Addressing Community Concerns:
The odors from the Algae Plant have been addressed through collaborative efforts and expert consultation. We welcome feedback and work diligently to resolve issues affecting our residents.

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Fighting Invasive Species:
Our Phragmites Advisory Board is at the forefront of combating invasive species. With multiple treatment methods and ongoing research projects, we are working to preserve our natural ecosystems.

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Financial Responsibility and Taxation:
2022-2023 (Jan 15, 2024) UHY auditors present the Township is in "Excellent Financial Condition" This is represented by the fund balance available (See Fund Balance). We continue to operate with the lowest tax rate in the county, while maintaining healthy fund balances and securing grants that minimize the financial burden on our residents.

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Water Main Project and Debt Management:
Our water main replacement project, supported by $3.5 million in grants, is designed to be completed within six years with the current $30 debt charge. Removing this charge would result in higher costs for our residents or delay essential infrastructure improvements, demonstrating our balanced and forward-thinking fiscal strategy.

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Commitment to Transparency:
We believe in open and honest governance. Unlike others, our board has never shied away from audits or public scrutiny. Our approach is grounded in delivering documented results, not empty promises. We are focused on continuing to build a strong, transparent, and progressive community for all residents.