Someone has taken down 25 mph speed limit signs in and around Moline. That someone is the State of Michigan, and Leighton Township officials are not happy about it.
Faith Miedema, who represents the Leighton Library Board at township meetings, asked Supervisor Steve Wolbrink Thursday evening what happened to the signs and why they have been taken down.
The supervisor that the state no longer recognizes residential speed limits of 25 mph because they are too difficult to enforce. Some kind of traffic study conducted by the Michigan State Police is expected soon.
“There was no common sense involved in this decision,” Wolbrink said. He then quipped that perhaps citizens of Leighton Township should have a slow-motion parade while the study is being performed.
Clerk Rachel Fennema agreed with those disappointed with the removal of the signs.
“I walk on the road (locally) and I’m not happy with this either,” she said, noting that rural children often walk or use their bicycles on roads routinely because of the lack of sidewalks, so there will be safety issues.
Wolbrink said state law currently indicates that all roads without speed limit signs are under a default of 55 mph. He added that at least the local 35 mph signs have remained within the township.
Wolbrink urged citizens to get in touch with state lawmakers and to vote in November because it makes a difference.
In other business Thursday night, the Township Board:
• Learned that R & L Carriers plans to build a facility on the northeast corner of the intersection of 142nd Avenue and Division (See cover photo). Planning Commission member John Hooker told board colleagues it will be a truck terminal with emphasis on transporting materials.
• Adopted a resolution permitting the second annual Hot Air Balloon Festival at Calkins Field Sept. 9 and 10. Organizers Niaa Smith and Anthony Winters will be be required to provide proof of insurance.
• Approved the purchase of five office chairs for a total of $1,785 from Integrity Business and purchase of a new computer for $1,110 from IT Right for use by the deputy clerk.
• Learned from Fire Chief Matt Weston that the department was busy in July with 37 calls and it has received 16 in the last 10 days. Weston also said he and fellow firefighters expect delivery of a new truck in early October.
Regardless of whether the sign is there or not, the speed limit in a residential area is 25 mph, maybe the supervisor can show residents his proof of the state not recognizing speed limit enforcement and the 55 mph only applies to dirt roads or roads in urban areas that are not posted with a speed limit sign. But some local townships can set their own enforcement.