08/21/2026
Residents of Lee Township, I want to address recent statements circulating on social media regarding concerns about Township credit cards and provide a clear, factual update.
On July 21, Treasurer Pitt issued a request to the Township Board seeking credit card documentation within 10 days of receipt. The request also stated that, if the documentation was not provided within that timeframe, all Township credit cards would be turned off until the requested documentation was received.
At that time, Clerk Dawson was away due to her husband’s surgery. Because of the seriousness of the request and the potential operational impact, I forwarded the matter to the Township Attorney for guidance. The Attorney advised Trustee List and me that closing Township credit card accounts without Board approval would not be legally authorized and could place the Township at risk. On July 30, the Attorney sent Treasurer Pitt a letter outlining the legal concerns and potential consequences of such action.
On August 10, the Lee Township Fire Department attempted to purchase two seat belt cutting tools needed for emergency response. The purchase was declined twice due to “insufficient funds.” After reviewing the account activity, it was determined that on July 31—one day after the Attorney’s letter was sent—Treasurer Pitt had reduced the monthly credit limits on all Township cards except her own. The limits for the Fire Department, DPW, and Clerk were reduced to $100. The Clerk’s card was set at $113 because a $112 transaction was pending, leaving effectively $1 available for the billing cycle.
After learning this, I again contacted the Township Attorney for guidance. The Attorney prepared a follow-up communication requesting that Treasurer Pitt restore the card limits to the amounts previously established by the Board and relinquish administrative control over the accounts.
I understand that, from the public’s perspective, situations like this can appear frustrating or unnecessary. I share that concern. However, when actions affect Township operations, public safety, or the Board’s fiduciary responsibilities, we have an obligation to seek legal guidance and respond appropriately. In this matter, legal guidance was provided, and the Township must take the steps necessary to protect its operations and the residents we serve.
To be clear, the Board does not disagree with Treasurer Pitt’s position that receipts and supporting documentation should be obtained and reviewed. Proper documentation is an important part of financial accountability. However, there are legal and appropriate ways to communicate those needs and request information. Credit card limit changes require a decision of the Township Board and cannot be unilaterally altered by one official. The method used in this situation—threatening to shut off Township credit cards and then reducing limits without Board approval—was not a lawful or appropriate method of communication or action.
I have also seen comments suggesting that the Township Attorney is working for, or siding with, certain Board members. I want to be clear: the Township Attorney represents Lee Township as an entity, not individual Board members. The Attorney’s role is to help ensure that Township decisions are legally sound, that the Township avoids unnecessary legal exposure, and that Board members receive informed guidance when legal questions arise. Several months ago, the Board implemented a practice requiring two Board members to be included in communications and phone discussions with the Attorney. This was done to promote transparency, control costs, and ensure that the purpose of legal discussions is clear. As Township Supervisor, I also have statutory responsibilities as the legal representative of the Township.
Attached are Treasurer Pitt’s original request and both communications from the Township Attorney regarding this matter. I am sharing this information to provide residents with the full context and to address recent partial or contradictory statements that have appeared on social media.
My intent is not to put anyone on the spot, but to communicate openly with residents and ensure that accurate information is available. Thank you for taking the time to review this update.
Doug Kruger
Lee Township Supervisor
