DRUMMOND ISLAND TOWNSHIP
29935 E. Pine St
Chippewa County, Michigan
906-493-5321

Board of Trustees The township board meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6:30 PM at the township hall. Meetings are open to the public. View agendas and minutes here. Krystal Truax, Supervisor - (906) 322-0609 supervisor@drummondislandtownship.org Drummond Island’s rich history is built on generations of families contributing to the community, and Krystal (Bosley) Truax is honored to carry on that tradition as our newly elected Township Supervisor. Krystal is a third-generation islander, born and raised here. After graduating from read more Amanda Fairchild , Clerk - (906) 322-5815 clerk@drummondislandtownship.org Amanda has called Drummond Island home for over two decades, bringing a wealth of community involvement and local knowledge to her new role. Originally from Pickford, Michigan, Amanda moved to Drummond Island in 2000. In 2005, she married her husband, Michael Fairchild, known to many as "Seed," who was born and raised on the island. Together, read more Jeanette Alguire , Treasurer - (906) 493-5321 treasurer@drummondislandtownship.org Jeanette brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her new role, with a strong professional background and a deep appreciation for the community. Jeanette has spent several years as Senior Vice President, managing budgets and overseeing financial operations of a large, successful read more Justin Bailey, Trustee - (906) 281-1783 justin@drummondislandtownship.org With deep roots on the island and a strong connection to the community, Justin brings both passion and expertise to his new role. Justin was born on Drummond Island and spent his early years here before moving to Houghton Lake. Summers were always spent on the island with his grandparents, and as a fifth-generation member of the Bailey family and fourth-generation Laakso, Drummond Island has always read more Kevin Kruzel, Trustee - (231) 838-8949 kevin@drummondislandtownship.org Drummond Island Township is proud to announce that Kevin Kruzel will continue serving as a Trustee for a second term. As the only incumbent member of the board, Kevin brings valuable experience and dedication to the role, along with a deep connection to the island’s community and history. Kevin is a full-time resident of Drummond Island and has been read more Governance Drummond Township is governed by a five member board consisting of a supervisor, clerk, treasurer and two trustees. There are many laws that govern townships, but the two main laws dealing with township administration and governance are: General township laws, the Revised Statutes of 1846, R.S. of 1846 (Chapter 41 of the Michigan Compiled Laws) Charter Township Act, (Chapter 42 of the Michigan Compiled Laws) All Michigan laws are available to the public on the free, searchable Michigan Legislature website . The laws can be searched by keyword, or Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) number, such as "41.721" or "42.8". There are additional statutory requirements with which townships must comply. Procedures for the township’s financial administration, such as budgets, accounting, investments and deposits, are closely regulated by the state. Township meetings must comply with Michigan’s Open Meetings Act (MCL 15.261, et seq.), and township records must be stored and made available in conformance with specific laws, such as the Freedom of Information Act (MCL 15.231, et seq.)

Assessing & Land Division Brooke Milbrandt is the Drummond Township Assessor. January 2025 Township Assessor Report She can be reached at: assessor@drummondislandtownship.org Phone: (906) 322-6625 Katie Chipman-Bergsma is the Assessor Assistant. She can be reached at: assessor@drummondislandtownship.org Phone: (906) 440-2257 The assessor holds office hours at the township hall on the 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. She is also available by appointment. January through March by appointment only. 906-322-6625 Responsibilities and Forms Assessing The Assessor is responsible for identifying and valuing all taxable real and personal property within Drummond Township in accordance with Michigan’s General Property Tax Laws. The Assessor maintains property record information for every parcel of property within Drummond Township including legal descriptions and physical improvements to parcels including commercial, industrial and residential buildings, and accessory structures. The Assessor also maintains taxpayer record information, received in various forms, such as Deeds, Property Transfer Affidavits, Homeowner’s Principal Residence Exemption Affidavits and other related documents. Frequently Asked Questions Assessor Accessibility Policy Address Application Property Protest: Form 4031 July December Board of Review Affidavit.pdf MI Qualified Forest Program Frequently Asked Questions EXEMPTION FORMS Disabled Veterans: Disabled Veterans Exemption FAQ 5107-State Tax Commission Affidavit for Disabled Veterans Exemption Personal Property: 5076-Affidavit to Claim Small Business Tax Exemption STC Poverty Forms: https://www.michigan.gov/treasury/local/stc/poverty-exemption-forms-and-policy-related-to-pa-253-of-2020 Form 5739 - Affirmation of Ownership & Occupancy Form 5737, Application for MCL 211.7u Poverty Exemption (michigan.gov) Drummond Island Poverty Exemption Guidelines and Asset Test Principal Residence: 2856-Principal Residence Exemption Guidelines 2368-Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) Affidavit 2602-Request to Rescind Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) 4640-Conditional Rescission of Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) Township Land Division Policy The Assessor also performs the function of Land Division Administrator. The Land Division Administrator is charged with the review and approval of unplatted splits in accordance with the Land Division Act (Public Act 591 of 1996, MCL 560.101 et seq]. The Township must approve or disapprove the proposed division with 45 days after the filing of a complete application for division with the Assessor/Administrator. Application for Land Division Divisions Table 3278 - Transfer Divison Rights Request to Combine Parcels 2024 ECF Study 2024 Land Value Study Land Value Study Continued Drummond Island Twp Land Division Policy

Township Treasurer Jeanette Alguire serves as Drummond Township Treasurer. She was elected in November 2024. She can be reached at 906/493-5321 or treasurer@drummondislandtownship.org As Treasurer, some of her official duties include: Responsible for all revenues received by Drummond Township from bank and investment accounts and tax collection. Maintains Township receipt records in accordance with the Uniform Chart of Accounts as directed by the State Treasurer. Assists residents and property owners with the tax related issues. Collaborates with Township Board of Trustees to develop the annual Township budget. Tax Tips If your address changes or if you want your bill sent to a winter address, please let us know so we can update our database. Summer 2024 taxes are due September 16. Late interest and penalties began accruing September 17. Taxes may be paid to the township until the last day of February. Winter taxes are due the last day of February . Beginning March 1, all taxes are considered delinquent and must be paid to the Chippewa County Treasurer. Please check your winter bill to see if it says "Summer Taxes Owing". If that is the case, your summer bill still has a balance owed.

News, Events, Announcements Photo credit: Lisa MacDonald Township Calendar Click the image to view the Township Calendar. Events scheduled at Drummond Island Township Hall and the Township Golf Course are listed here. To request an event or meeting to be added, please visit our scheduling page for details and submission instructions. Announcements Click the image to view township announcements. Find out what's happening right now! Island events, programs, announcements, and news are listed here. Also, please follow our Facebook page or Instagram for up-to-date announcements. Photo credit: David Bardsley Moving Forward Together Click the image to view the newsletters. Each month, Supervisor Truax shares updates, board activity, policy highlights, and priorities for the township. The newsletter provides residents with clear, timely information on local government work and decisions. Missed the Township Meeting? Click the image to view information about township meetings, including agendas and meeting minutes. Township meetings take place at 6:30 PM on the first Tuesday of each month, unless otherwise announced. Drummond Island Digest Click the image to view their website. The Drummond Island Digest is a locally published newspaper that regularly features township updates, community news, and island stories. While privately operated, it serves as a valuable source of information for residents and visitors alike. View their Facebook page here .

Township Board Meetings Meeting Agendas Meeting Minutes Frank J. Sasso Township Hall 29935 E Pine Street Drummond Island, MI Monday - Friday 9AM to 2PM 906-493-5321 Follow

PUBLIC NOTICE SPECIAL ELECTION COMMISSION MEETING DRUMMOND ISLAND TOWNSHIP ELECTION COMMISSION MEETING TUESDAY, JULY 2, 2024 6:15 PM DRUMMOND ISLAND TOWNSHIP HALL 29935 E. PINE STREET, DRUMMOND ISLAND FOR THE PURPOSE OF APPOINTING ELECTION INSPECTORS FOR THE AUGUST 6, 2024 ELECTION Township Clerk Amanda Fairchild serves the Drummond Township Clerk. Amanda is charged with the safekeeping of Drummond Township's correspondence, records, books and papers. She documents all monies disbursed by the township according to the Uniform Chart of Accounts, as prescribed by the state treasurer. Amanda also prepares and maintains the journals and ledgers reflecting the Township's assets, liabilities, fund equities, revenues and expenditures for each fund. As Township Clerk, Amanda is responsible for elections and election workers, all payroll and receiving. Additionally, Amanda maintains meeting minutes, records of township contracts, resolutions, ordinances and other special proceedings and activities. ELECTIONS AND RESULTS APPLY FOR AN ABSENTEE BALLOT HERE VOTING STRAIGHT TICKET INFORMATION

Drummond Island Airport is centrally located on the Townline Road. For additional information contact, Manager, James Bailey, 906-493-5411. You will find a unique experience, during summertime landings or take-offs the paved runway is between fairways #4 and #5 of the Drummond Island Golf Course. Airport The Drummond Island Airport is centrally located on Townline Road , one-half mile from the Four Corners. Bailey Services LLC runs the airport. For additional information, contact the manager, James Bailey, at (906) 493-5411.

Senior Lunch Senior lunches, provided through a partnership with Drummond Island Township and the Chippewa Luce Mackinac Community Action Agency , are served every Monday through Thursday at 12 PM. Meals are available for dine-in or takeout at Frank J. Sasso Township Hall, 29935 E. Pine Street, Drummond Island. Menu View the current Senior Lunch Menu . Copies of the menu are also always available at township hall. Menu items may occasionally change based on availability or the chef’s discretion. For any questions, please call ahead or check with the kitchen at 906-493-5059. Delivery Delivery is available through Meals on Wheels and the Community Action Agency for those who need it. Please arrange with the kitchen at 906-493-5059 for a one-time delivery or regular delivery of meals. Cost Suggested donation is $3 for seniors 60 & up and $6 for everyone else. Schedule Senior Lunch is served Monday through Thursday at 12 PM. If changes occur due to weather or any other reason, updates will be posted on our Facebook page or available by phone at 906-493-5321. Call during business hours (Monday–Friday, 9 AM–2 PM). Pick-Up To schedule a pickup, call the kitchen at 906-493-5059. Help Often Needed Looking for a rewarding job or volunteer opportunity with local seniors? Please contact Donna Alexander at Chippewa Luce Mackinac Community Action 906-632-3363 for more information or talk with Chef Frank Monday through Friday at township hall. Meet Chef Frank We're fortunate to have Chef Frank preparing our Senior Lunches at Township Hall. He brings a fresh, creative approach to every dish—far beyond what you'd expect from a typical lunch program. Chef Frank’s culinary career spans from Detroit to Drummond Island, including 11 years at Bayside Dining and nearly 16 years as executive chef at the Sault Ste. Marie Country Club. His passion for food runs deep, shaped by decades of experience and a love of cooking that started in a busy family kitchen. Senior Lunch is served Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays at 12 PM. Call 906-493-5059 to let Chef Frank know you're coming—or just stop by. Suggested donation is $3 for seniors 60+, and $6 for guests under 60. Menus are posted on our Township Calendar .

Drummond Island Township Cemetery The Township Cemetery is located on Townline Road; just north of the Four Corners. The Sexton is Celia Bias . She can be reached at 906/493-5123.

Follow the Drummond Island Township 5-Year Recreation Plan Facebook Page DNR 5-Year Recreation Plans DNR Recreation Plan (2025-2029) DNR Recreation Plan (2020-2024)

Spotlight on our Township Team Ernie Seaman Ernie Seaman is the heartbeat of township operations. As Maintenance Lead, he supports nearly every part of Drummond Island’s public infrastructure. Whether it needs fixing, hauling, plowing, clearing, setting up, or maintaining, Ernie is the one making it happen. He manages township buildings, the fire hall, golf course, airport, ambulance garage, cemetery, parks, and more. He handles water systems, well testing, mechanical repairs, snow removal, event setups, and year-round maintenance. From preparing the Fourth of July parade ambulance to clearing fireworks debris the next morning, Ernie ensures it all runs smoothly. Born and raised on the island, Ernie brings unmatched knowledge, humility, and a tireless work ethic to his role. He also runs Drummond Island Firewood Service and, with his wife Wendy, enjoys life surrounded by family, time outdoors, and weekends at their south shore camp. Ernie doesn’t seek recognition, but his work speaks for itself. The township runs better because of him, and we are grateful for all he does. Joan Riordan Joan Riordan manages the Drummond Island Township Museum with a passion deeply rooted in family and island history. A sixth-generation Drummond Islander, Joan grew up just steps from the museum. Her early connection began as a child alongside her grandmother, one of the museum’s founding members. Joan is a retired nurse who studied at Lake Superior State University and began her career in Lansing before spending over 30 years in Sault Ste. Marie in hospital and clinical settings. After returning to Drummond Island in 2000, she continued her healthcare work with Chippewa County Home Health before becoming involved with the Historical Society. She has served on the Drummond Island Historical Society Board for over two decades and now leads the museum’s operations and development. Joan is excited to welcome visitors and share the museum’s newest exhibits, including a detailed model of the Johnswood settlement. The museum is open daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day, 1–5 PM, and free to visit. Donations are always welcome to help preserve and grow this treasured local resource. Celia Bias Celia Bias has served as Drummond Island Township’s sexton for over a decade, managing the care and records of the township cemetery with dedication and respect. Her responsibilities include coordinating burials, assisting families with cemetery plots, and preserving important historical records. A lifelong Drummond Island resident, Celia brings a strong connection to the community and a deep sense of care to her work. She is known for her attention to detail and her commitment to ensuring the cemetery remains a place of dignity and remembrance. Outside of her role, Celia enjoys spending time outdoors with her family and pets. Her son Joe has taken a special interest in the island’s history and often helps her with cemetery tasks. Celia’s steady leadership and heartfelt service help honor the past while supporting the needs of families today. Brooke Milbrandt Brooke Milbrandt brings knowledge, experience, and attention to detail to her role as Township Assessor for Drummond Island. She is responsible for identifying and valuing all taxable properties in the township, maintaining accurate records, and ensuring fair and consistent assessments in accordance with Michigan tax law. With a strong background in municipal assessment, Brooke also serves several other northern Michigan communities and brings a deep understanding of the region to her work. Her approachable nature and professionalism make her a valued resource for property owners and township staff alike. Brooke holds regular office hours on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month from 10:30 AM to 1:30 PM at the Township Hall, and is also available by appointment. She works closely with Assessor Assistant Katie Chipman-Bergsma to support the needs of the community throughout the year. Craig Hoffman Craig Hoffman oversees the care and maintenance of the Drummond Island Township Golf Course. With more than 40 years of experience in golf course management, including 20 years as superintendent of Drummond Island Resort’s The Rock Golf Course, Craig brings deep expertise in turf care and course operations. He studied Turfgrass Management at Michigan State University and has also served as superintendent at Egypt Valley Country Club and the Links of Gateway near Detroit. A past president of the Northern Michigan Turf Management Association, Craig has also served on the Michigan Groundwater Advisory Council and national committees focused on environmental stewardship and water quality. Craig and his wife, Amy, have lived on Drummond Island since the mid-1990s. Amy is the Human Resources Director for Carmeuse in Cedarville and previously worked for Drummond Island Resort. Their daughter lives in Marquette. The Drummond Island Township Golf Course is open to the public from early May through late October. Memberships and golf cart storage are available for those who want to make the most of the season. Rob Anderson Rob Anderson manages the Drummond Island Township Park Campground and brings lifelong island experience to the role. A Drummond Island native, Rob has spent nearly his entire life here and stepped into campground management in 2023 after a long career with Cloverland Electric as a lineman and later a line foreman. He also served the community as a firefighter and coached multiple youth sports over the years. At the Township Park Campground, Rob oversees day-to-day operations, water and electrical systems, seasonal maintenance, and overall grounds care. He enjoys meeting campers from across the region and appreciates the many visitors who return each summer. Rob works closely with camp host Jeff Henning, who lives on site during the summer and provides steady support to guests and campground operations. Rob’s life centers on family and time outdoors. He enjoys hunting, snowmobiling, boating, traveling, golfing, and making the most of the natural beauty that surrounds the island. For Rob, the best part of Drummond Island is the people and the strong sense of community they create. The Township Park Campground now offers online reservations that open one year in advance. Reservations can be made at https://www.drummondislandtownship.org/dicampground . The campground is open from May through October, weather permitting. Steve Gottschling Steve Gottschling manages the seasonal operations of the Drummond Island Township Golf Course, helping to ensure a welcoming and well-run experience for all visitors. From May through October, Steve oversees daily operations including scheduling, staffing, finances, and clubhouse management. He also coordinates league play, community events, and pro shop offerings, which now include new merchandise, expanded snacks and drinks, and premium golf gear. With the addition of Starlink internet and credit card capability, the course is more accessible than ever for golfers and those looking to rent the clubhouse for events. Steve helps keep this cherished community course running smoothly through each busy season. Ron VanSumeren Ron VanSumeren plays an important role in keeping the Drummond Island Township Golf Course looking its best. Now in his fourth season as a part-time maintenance technician, Ron focuses much of his time on the fairways, ensuring the grounds are in great shape for golfers all season long. After retiring from a 34-year career with the Department of Corrections in Jackson, Michigan, Ron moved to Drummond Island five years ago with his wife, Marian, a lifelong island resident and traveling nurse. Together, they enjoy a full family life with eight children and twelve grandchildren. When he is not working at the golf course, Ron enjoys golfing himself, taking on yardwork, and staying busy with home improvement projects. His attention to the details that matter helps make the golf course an enjoyable and well-kept destination for residents and visitors alike. LaRae Dorman LaRae Dorman has served as Corps Captain of the Drummond Island Ambulance Corps since 2019, offering steady leadership, sound decision-making, and compassion in every emergency. She joined the Corps in 2010 after EMT training, initially committing to three years of service. Fifteen years later, she remains a trusted part of local EMS. A lifelong island resident, LaRae stepped into leadership following the retirement of longtime Corps Leader Pam Ellis, who continues to mentor and will celebrate 50 years with the Corps in 2025. Outside of EMS, LaRae enjoys working outdoors, caring for animals, and finding peace in the natural beauty of island life. She supports the upcoming transition of local ambulance services to NEMSA in early 2025. This regional partnership is designed to bring full-time, reliable EMS coverage to rural communities across the Eastern Upper Peninsula, including Drummond Island. Ben Richwine Benjamin Richwine has been a dedicated member of Drummond Island Fire & Rescue for 25 years. On March 26, 2022, he stepped into the role of Fire Chief, leading with a steady hand and a team-first mindset. His leadership emphasizes the value of every volunteer and the importance of working together. Ben first joined the department because of the camaraderie with friends already serving. Over time, that sense of teamwork grew into a lasting commitment to helping others during emergencies. Born and raised on Drummond Island, Ben has deep roots in the community. He finds it hard to name one favorite thing about the island because it has always been home, full of memories, familiar places, and meaningful connections. Outside of Fire & Rescue, Ben enjoys relaxing at camp, boating on the lake, and spending time with his family. His advice to the community: Be ready for the unexpected. A simple emergency plan at home or work can make a big difference when it matters most. Ray Whiteman Ray Whiteman joined the Township Golf Course team in 2012, managing all daily operations for 12 seasons including memberships, greens fees, cart rentals, and merchandise. In 2024, he became League Manager, running the Tuesday and Wednesday leagues and handling scheduling, handicaps, and scoring. Before moving to Drummond Island in 2009, Ray served in the U.S. Army and went on to a successful career in college athletics. Over the years, he held administrative leadership roles at seven universities including the University of Cincinnati, Dartmouth College, and The Citadel. His work included overseeing ticketing, budgets, team travel, facilities, and managing a university-run golf course. Ray and his wife Pam, a fiber artist and owner of Miller Lake Studio and Gift Shoppe, enjoy the peaceful pace of island life and are proud to be part of the Drummond Island community. The Drummond Island Township Golf Course is open to the public seven days a week throughout the season. We offer a driving range, golf cart rentals, memberships, cart storage, and event hosting. To learn more, visit www.drummondislandtownship.org/golfcourse . Krystal Truax Krystal (Bosley) Truax was elected Drummond Island Township Supervisor in 2024 and is proud to serve the community she has called home her entire life. A third-generation islander, Krystal graduated from DeTour High School before earning degrees from Lake Superior State University and the University of Denver. Her professional background includes experience in mining, environmental compliance in the oil and gas industry, and leadership in environmental software. She currently serves as Vice President of Product Management for a U.K.-based technology firm. Krystal and her husband, Andrew, returned to Drummond Island in 2017 to raise their growing family in the community that shaped her. Together with their three daughters, Rozlyn, Adelaide, and Anna, and their dog Cedar, the Truax family enjoys participating in local events and staying active outdoors. Krystal brings both hometown perspective and global experience to her role and is honored to support the township and its residents. Amanda Fairchild Amanda Fairchild was elected Drummond Island Township Clerk in 2024 and brings more than 20 years of local experience to the role. Originally from Pickford, Michigan, Amanda made Drummond Island her home in 2000. She and her husband Michael, known to many as "Seed," are raising their family here, including sons Michael and Augustus, both graduates of DeTour Area Schools. Amanda is well known for her community involvement. She organizes the annual Easter Egg Hunt for the Drummond Island Tourism Association, serves on the board for the local sports boosters, and supports the Sportsman’s Club. She also volunteers her time calling numbers at Baked Goods Bingo, helping raise funds for local causes. In addition to her township responsibilities, Amanda works at Drummond Island Yacht Haven and The Northwood. She balances her professional roles with a strong commitment to township service and is always happy to connect with residents. Justin Bailey Justin Bailey was elected Drummond Island Township Trustee in 2024 and brings a lifelong connection to the island along with professional experience in engineering and energy. A fifth-generation Bailey and fourth-generation Laakso, Justin spent his early years on Drummond before moving to Houghton Lake, always returning in the summers to visit his grandparents. In 2010, he made the island his permanent home, settling into the house once owned by his great-grandparents. Justin holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Michigan Technological University. He began his career in the paper industry and has worked for more than 15 years as a consultant and Petroleum Engineer in the oil and gas sector. He currently works remotely for Consumers Energy. His schedule allows him to stay active in the Drummond Island community he cares deeply about. Justin lives on the island with his son Logan, his partner Beth, and their two dogs, McGee and Luna. In his free time, he enjoys snowmobiling, boating the North Channel, Jeeping, and maintaining trails. He looks forward to helping guide township decisions with a focus on both progress and preservation. Kevin Kruzel Kevin Kruzel is currently serving his second term as a Drummond Island Township Trustee and is the only returning member of the current township board. Kevin brings valuable experience and a strong commitment to the island community, shaped by both his professional background and his family’s deep roots on Drummond Island. Originally from Cross Village, Kevin graduated from Michigan State University in 1985 and went on to a long career in restaurant and beverage management. He and his wife Jennifer, a recently retired registered nurse, owned and operated Moose Jaw Junction in Larks Lake for 20 years before moving full-time to Drummond Island in 2019. Today, they run Camp Osprey Stone Works, a small business specializing in pudding stone gifts. Kevin is active in island life and serves on several township committees, including the Golf Course Committee, Township Hall Committee, Recreation Plan Steering Committee, and Bike Path Committee. He enjoys hunting, fishing, genealogy, and rock hunting and cutting. His family history on the island dates back to 1818, and he is proud to continue that legacy through community service. Jeanette Alguire Jeanette Alguire was elected Drummond Island Township Treasurer in 2024 and brings strong financial expertise and a deep commitment to the community. Her professional background includes years of experience as a Senior Vice President, where she managed budgets and oversaw financial operations for a successful company. Her knowledge of fiscal management and attention to detail make her well-suited for the role of Treasurer. Jeanette and her husband became full-time residents of Drummond Island after inheriting his father’s home. They had visited the island for years and always felt a strong connection to its quiet beauty and close-knit community. Together, they now own and operate Drummond Island Outfitters, formerly known as Johnson’s Sports Shop, a local business that continues to serve residents and visitors alike. In addition to her township responsibilities and business involvement, Jeanette enjoys spending time with family and friends. She looks forward to contributing to the community and supporting the township’s future while honoring the values that make island life so special. More to come More of our team members will be shared soon! Drummond Island Township 906-493-5321

Township Supervisor Krystal Truax was elected Township Supervisor in November 2024. She can be reached at 906/322-0609 or supervisor@drummondislandtownship.org The Drummond Township Supervisor moderates all meetings of the Township Board of Trustees. Working with other Board members, the Supervisor develops the annual budget, including capital improvement and maintenance projects.