By Sterling McGinn
The Columbus Township Board is faced once again with resignations—this time the board supervisor Roger Auble, whose departure is effective immediately, and the Columbus Township Fire Department Chief, with his resignation taking effect later this year. Both resignations took place at separate meetings—the regular July meeting and the special meeting held on Wednesday, July 29.
“The reasons are many—varied and professional—for my resignation,” said Auble.
The board is looking for a candidate for the position.
The board did find an individual to fill the vacant treasurer’s position. Robert Crawford, who had served as treasurer several years ago, was appointed on July 29.
Former board Treasurer Laura Stielstra announced her intention to resign earlier this summer, and her resignation was accepted at the July 14 meeting. Stielstra was appointed to fill the vacancy of Dan Schultz, who had run in 2024 as treasurer but left earlier this year.
Columbus Township Fire Chief Jon Pope also submitted a letter of resignation at the July 14 meeting. His resignation will take effect on September 30.
“He is resigning for personal reasons,” Auble said in an interview prior to his resignation. A replacement fire chief has not been named.
In other news, rumors have been circulating that the township closing the cemetery, which is in McMillan.
“There is no truth to us closing down the cemetery,” said Auble. Closing the cemetery would violate statutory laws, he said.
The township has discussed turning off several streetlights in McMillan to cut down on expenses.
“There has been some discussion regarding eliminating some streetlights, but that may not be necessary,” he said. “We will have a tour of the streetlights later this month.”
The Columbus Township Fire Department has received their new (used) fire truck which was recently purchased. Three Columbus firefighters traveled to Pennsylvania to get the unit—a tandem axle truck. It was driven in the Newberry and Curtis July Fourth parades.
