School supports grant, tables access issue

Brandon Twp.-The Brandon School District supports in concept allowing access to a proposed nature preserve from the Brandon High School driveway, but has some reservations.
Brandon Superintendent Bart Jenniches and school board members Karyn Milligan and Chris Yuchasz had a meeting Monday with Brandon Preservation Committee Chairperson Lois Robbins and township supervisor Ron Lapp. Jenniches agreed to write a letter supporting the committee’s and township’s efforts to obtain 80 acres of the Casselman property for environmental and recreational purposes.
The property is located adjacent to Brandon High School and easement rights are at issue.
‘They requested access through the high school area,? said Jenniches. ‘We agree with the concept, but when they get the grant we’ll have to take a look at how we can accomplish that, as well as address the issues of safety and liability.?
The township and preservation committee are reapplying for a $900,000 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund grant to purchase the $1.2 million property. The letter of support from the school district will be included in the new application, as well as a new $5,000 grant match committal from the township board. Last year’s grant application was denied.
‘The Brandon School District strongly supports the attempt to obtain the Casselman property for environmental and recreational purposes and will do what we can to resolve the access issues,? Jenniches said. ‘If they get the grant, we’ll resolve the issues then. I’m sure we can.?