Longtime area planner Mark Sisson has announced his resignation from his position with area townships and the City of Wayland to concentrate on duties as full-time planner for Gaines Township.

Kirk Scharphorn of Professional Code Inspections of Dorr Thursday night told the Watson Township Board that PCI could handle much of the job at a much cheaper rate of $50 an hour. He recommended, however, that the township still hire a planner on an on-call basis for more specialized aspects of such services.

Sisson also has served as planner for the City of Wayland, Leighton Township, Hopkins Township, Salem Township and Watson for more than a quarter of a century. Gaines is a big enough township to require the services of a full-time planner.

“Mark is not running his business like he did,” Scharphorn told Watson board members. “For the most part, we do everything that’s needed. At $50 an hour, you’re not going to find it (planning services) any cheaper.”

Scharphorn pointed out that PCI already provides the township with building and electrical inspections services and now could provide the same for zoning.

He added that PCI has a good working relationship with Planning Commission Chairman Dave Carter and the other members. He said PCI now is doing this kind of work for both Salem and Hopkins townships.

Because PCI’s work load has increased so much he’s hired former Hopkins Township Planning Commission Chairwoman Lori Castello to join the company to help him with planning and zoning matters. Castello also formerly was the secretary at Hopkins High School and has a lot of contacts.

Sisson’s last day as planner for many area municipalities was right after Thanksgiving.

PHOTOS: Mark Sisson   Kirk Scharphorn