Watson Township Treasurer Sue Jones Thursday night proposed to her colleagues that the township be opened up to students who need Internet access to do their homework.
Jones said Internet service in the mostly rural township is spotty and some students do not have any access at all. She maintained that because so many schools have had to switch gears and go to on-line learning at least half the time, the tool is necessary for children’s education.
She acknowledged, however, that Internet service at the township hall sometimes is less than desirable, but at least the kids would be given the chance to use it.
Supervisor Kevin Travis added that he believes the service should be provided much like area libraries do, permitting students outdoor access or indoors as long as Covid-19 protocol measures are observed.
In other business at the meeting Thursday evening, the board:
- Continued discussion and debate over a plan to have the Hopkins Area Fire Department take over coverage of Watson Township, reducing the service contract with Martin Township.
It was decided that a special meeting to discuss that issue alone should be held either late this month or next month, besides the regular meeting.
During public comment, Sue Wakefield, retired Plainwell Schools Superintendent and a Hopkins High School graduate, said she had concerns about the move, asserting it would be more costly and she suggested Travis abstain from voting because he is a member of the Hopkins Area Fire Authority.
Travis replied that he and Jones are representatives of Watson on the HAFA, which is required by the group’s regulations. He added that it’s not true that switch to Hopkins would be more expensive, nor would it result in a poorer ISO rating.
The supervisor said the impetus for the move was the result of recent flooding at Big Lake, where residents said they wanted the Hopkins department stationed at the Watson hall because it was closer for quicker response.
Martin Township Fire and Rescue covers Watson from the township line west to 20th Street for $15,000 per year under contract. At least one first responder is available at the hall between five and eight hours per day.
Former Township Supervisor and Trustee Rod Zeinstra also expressed concerns about Hopkins taking over coverage for all of Watson.
- Tentatively approved a rezoning request from Shawn and Stephanie Culver, for an agricultural parcel to residential, but official action requires an ordinance amendment that will be voted on next month.
- Adopted a resolution in support of a county-wide Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) ordinance.