News photo by Josh Jambor This is a photo of the Alpena Township office building.

ALPENA – With Alpena Township Treasurer Laura Ellery-Somers set to retire effective May 31, the Alpena Township Board of Trustees has been actively searching for her replacement.

The trustees could vote on an appointment, possibly as soon as next week during a special meeting.

Whoever is appointed into the position will finish Somer’s term until an election is held in November of 2028.

The position requires the appointee to be a registered voter residing in the township.

By Michigan statute, the township treasurer serves as the official custodian of all funds belonging to the township or required by law to be paid into the township treasury. The treasurer must receive, safely manage, and account for funds, paying them out only according to the direction of the township board or as authorized by law (MCL 41.76).

Alpena Township Supervisor Abbi Kaszubowski discussed the importance of the treasurer’s position in properly maintaining funds for the township.

“Key duties involve tax collection, maintaining accurate financial records, and ensuring compliance with the General Property Tax,” Kaszubowski said. “They also hold a voting seat at the board table.”

“Making an intelligent and informed decision at the board table is invaluable as a representative of Alpena township constituents,” Kaszubowski added.

The treasurer is the township’s chief fiscal officer and the primary safeguard of taxpayer dollars. Property taxes collected by the office provide the bulk of funding for essential local services, including road maintenance, fire protection, parks and administrative operations.

Accurate record-keeping ensures the township remains financially stable, compliant with state law, and transparent to the public.

Mismanagement could lead to overdrawn funds, lost investment income, or even legal issues, while strong stewardship builds public trust and helps keep property taxes as low as possible.

In a township like Alpena with approximately 9,100 residents, the treasurer’s careful handling of millions in annual revenue and expenditures plays a vital role in delivering reliable government services without waste.

Kaszubowski provided an update on where they are currently with the search for a new treasurer.

“We’ve conducted interviews and expect to have a special meeting next week to appoint a new treasurer,” Kaszubowski said. “The new appointee will not start until June 1.”

If the appointed treasurer decides to run for reelection in 2028, they will need to participate in the primary that year, along with the remainder of the current board, who will be up for reelection at that time as well.

“The appointed treasurer will complete the current treasurer’s term, which ends November 20, 2028,” Kaszubowski said. “If they choose to, they will need to run for reelection for the August 2028 primary.”

Kaszubowski offered some advice to whomever is appointed as the new Treasurer.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask for help,” Kaszubowski said. “We want you to succeed; that’s what being part of a community-minded team is all about.”