New Griffin Facility Gets Township OK
By Paul Gingras

Griffin Beverage's site plan for a 20,000-square-foot warehouse near US-2 in Moran Township was approved by the township board at the recommendation of the local planning commission Wednesday, July 2. The $700,000 facility will replace the company's St. Ignace beverage distribution operation.

The company hopes to break ground by fall at the latest, said Mike Kamyszek, general manager for Griffin in St. Ignace.

"It is looking good. As far as we know, we are moving forward on beginning construction of the facility," he said. "I am really looking forward to getting that facility up and running and filled with product."

"We are happy that they are coming into Moran Township," said Township Supervisor Jim Durm.

The business will improve the township's tax base, however, full tax benefits may not be received for several years, owing to a tax-abatement approved by the board.

Tax breaks for the project are allowed under a state program called the Industrial Facilities Tax Abatement Process, which was designed to encourage industrial development. Under the program, for a maximum of 12 years, the local government will waive 50% of Griffin's real and personal property taxes, Mr. Durm said.

The length of time Griffin will receive the tax abatement has not yet been determined, said Township Clerk Kris Vallier.

The main recipient of the tax base increase will be Gros Cap School.

Concerns about road improvements and water drainage have been met.

Griffin Beverage will pay $7,100 for 460 feet of road improvements to handle heavy-truck traffic on Old Portage Trail, from US-2 to the facility's driveway. This project brings the road up to specifications required for allseason status, said Mrs. Vallier.

Road improvements, to by done by fall, were the township's main concern after the site plan, Mr. Durm said.

Water drainage has been assessed by engineers and will handle run-off. Area residents voiced opinions and concerns on the matter at a planning commission public hearing Wednesday, June 11.

"I think everybody went away satisfied," Mr. Durm said.

The board approved $38,000 to improve East Martin Lake Road with a new gravel surface. The board plans to pave the road next year.

To provide a suitable road for new residents, the board will also improve 2,200 feet of Wildwood Drive, for $12,100.

The board approved Gary Revord's request for a special-use permit for signage on US-2, to advertise a store on Schoolhouse Road. The permit was recommended by planning commission.

Moran Township has hired election inspectors for the August 5 primary and established new burial fees at Gros Cap and Western cemeteries. Local taxpayers now pay $100 for burials. The cost is $200 for non-residents.