QUINNESEC — Utility customers in Breitung Township will see a $10 monthly increase in fixed water charges under rate adjustments the township board approved Monday.

The township’s water-sewer board had recommended the increase as the township moves to replace water services to comply with standards. The township recently qualified for a $3.585 million loan and grant through the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy for an East Kingsford project.

Across Michigan, communities are required to replace all lead service lines — and galvanized lines previously connected to lead — by 2041. In many cases, the service lines replaced are galvanized pipes connected to water mains through a “gooseneck” that contains lead.

In addition to the township’s fixed charge adjustment, customers will see an increase in water usage fees tied to the Consumer Price Index — likely in the range of 3%.

At Monday’s meeting, Township Supervisor Denny Olson said the water-sewer board should also consider an increase in the township’s fee for thawing water lines on private property. It’s currently $80 per hour during regular hours and $120 per hour after hours.

Olson said the charge should more accurately reflect the cost.

In other action, the township board:

— Will proceed with a 2026 budget that keeps the township millage rate at 4.2 mills, or $4.20 per $1,000 of taxable value. The township and the Dickinson County Road Commission are planning work on South Van Buren Street and Hydraulic Falls Road next year. Improvements were completed this year on E-Bar-D Road and Breen Avenue. A pickleball court and other projects are planned for East Kingsford Park in 2026.

— Anticipates general fund revenues of $3.35 million for 2026, compared with $3.27 million in the 2025 budget. General property tax revenues are projected at $1.12 million, up from $1.09 million in 2025. Community stabilization revenues — a component of Michigan personal property tax reforms enacted in 2014 — are projected at $839,360, down from $930,000. State revenue sharing is projected at $507,590 in 2026, down from $625,000 budgeted for 2025.

— Learned that premiums for employee health insurance will rise by 9.7% for 2026.

— Welcomed Dan Hammerberg as the township’s interim fire chief. Hammerberg, a regional coordinator for Michigan’s Fire Fighter Training Division, serves as fire chief in Spalding Township.

— Approved replacement of the water system’s supervisory control and data acquisition software and hardware through B&M Technical Services Inc. of Coloma, Wis. The cost is $14,232.

— Will adjust its request for proposals for a backup power system at the Township Hall and schedule a pre-bid meeting with interested contractors. Clarification is needed on the size of the generator needed, Superintendent Steve Mulka said. Two bids that were received will go unopened with a chance to rebid.

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Jim Anderson can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 85226, or janderson@ironmountaindailynews.com.