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Additional liquor license availability

On December 1, 2011, following release of the official 2010 census population figures, Garfield Township was notified by the State of Michigan that two additional liquor licenses are now available within the Township.  In response, and to provide fair and open rules governing how these licenses would be assigned, the Township Board adopted a resolution on January 10, 2012, establishing procedures for recommending businesses for new liquor licenses in the Township.   At this time, the Township has already received four applications for the two available licenses and are reviewing same.  Township businesses interested in applying for the available licenses must contact Township Clerk Kay Schumacher, in writing, on or before January 31, 2012 at 6:00 p.m., to be considered.  More information and future updates can also be obtained from the Clerk’s Office at (231) 941-1620.

Off-leash dogs in parks

The Township has recently had a rise in complaints about off-leash dogs in parks, including dogs harming wildlife in the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area. By both Township and County ordinance, all dogs must be leashed at all times.

Many pet owners may be unaware of this law; EDUCATION IS KEY! If you see someone walking a dog off-leash, please consider taking a moment to speak with them about this law, and the harm that unleashed dogs can cause to themselves, to people, and to wildlife. If necessary, the Grand Traverse County Sheriff's department may write citations to those violating this law. 

Help spread awareness of the leash law to keep the parks enjoyable for all, including your pets!

Preliminary Flood Insurance Rate Map

The preliminary flood insurance rate map referenced in the Winter 2011 newsletter is available on the Township Maps Page.

Township announces new street and trail now open!

Silver Drive Construction Project - "South Campus Entrance"

Motorists and pedestrians should be aware that the first phase of Silver Drive and the Buffalo Ridge Trail project is now open, providing a south access point to the Grand Traverse Commons. The Township is requesting your help while everyone adjusts to the changes in traffic patterns that this connection will allow, by doing the following:

• Slow Down - The street is designed to keep the pace of vehicles to 20 MPH. Encourage and remind drivers how unique the Grand Traverse Commons properties are and that we want to respect the Historical Character of this place. The slow pace also allows for commuter cyclists to share the street.
• Give Room - The street is designed at the minimum width of 10' lanes. This lane width is 2' narrower than most of the streets in the area and requires special attention for drivers and cyclists.  Give Room to buses and other larger vehicles as they will be challenged to skillfully navigate the street and traffic calming measures along the way.  
• Completely Stop - At all of the stop signs. You'll notice we added stop signs at Cottageview Drive last week. Completely stopping at all of the stop signs will help meter the increase in traffic flow along the route and reduce long lines that may form as you travel through.
• Look Out - The traffic signal operation at Silver Lake Road will be a significant change to drivers. Drivers on Franke Road will not expect traffic from the north. Look Out for other traffic as you enter and exit the street as others may not be aware of the new connection. Pedestrians and cyclists can now fully utilize the intersection, so keep a Look Out for people crossing the street.

Thanks for your help!