Comstock Township - Township Board - February 2, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 8 hours ago

The Comstock Township Board convened to discuss several issues, including the proposal for a new fire station and the associated bond issuance. Chief Beauchamp and the finance director address concerns about the need for a new station and how the bond will be financed without raising taxes. Residents voice concerns about tax impacts and the need for the project. A proposal for a partial release of farmland development rights is approved. The board also discusses the possibility of early voting agreements and updates on the homeless committee's efforts.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:01:22)
The meeting of the Charter Township of Comstock is called to order with a welcome.

The meeting begins with a formal welcome to attendees and a call to order, marking the official start of the proceedings for the Charter Township of Comstock.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:30)
Attendees are asked to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting participants are requested to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance as a sign of respect and patriotism, a customary practice in formal meetings.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:58)
A motion is made and approved to accept the meeting agenda.

A motion is presented to approve the agenda for the meeting. The motion is made by Clerk Boche and supported by Trustee Pratt. It is carried with all in favor, formalizing the agenda for the session.
Public Comments (00:02:15)
Residents express concerns about the fire department, new building proposals, and governance issues.

Several residents provide comments on various issues, including the need for a new fire station, governance and transparency concerns, budget allocations, and specific community needs such as tornado sirens. Concerns are raised about the decision-making process and the lack of community involvement in certain decisions.
Committee and Department Reports (00:18:18)
Reports from various departments and committees are presented, with updates on planning and development.

Reports are provided from different committees and departments. Updates include planning commission activities, appointments, and future goals such as addressing data centers and planned unit developments. These reports aim to keep the board informed about ongoing projects and future plans.
Consent Agenda (00:32:03)
Approval of minutes and discussion on employee door entry system.

The consent agenda includes the approval of previous meeting minutes and a discussion on the replacement of the employee door entry system and lockdown by EPS. A correction in the minutes is noted regarding a vote on page nine.
Approval of Agenda Modifications (00:33:27)
The board made a motion to amend the agenda to move certain items under Superintendent Scott Hess.

A motion was made to amend the agenda by moving the assessing renewal contracts, the engineering service letter, and the replacement for the entry door system under Superintendent Scott Hess. The motion was supported and passed.
Consent Agenda Approval (00:34:32)
The consent agenda was approved by the board.

After the motion to amend the agenda, the consent agenda was approved without opposition.
Informational Report by DDA Director (00:34:38)
Steve Desler provided an update on the Economic Development efforts, focusing on community redevelopment and job creation.

Steve Deisler, the Downtown Development Director, gave a detailed report on the efforts to redevelop the Comstock center, focusing on public improvements, business investment, and job creation. The report included updates on various projects, grants, and community engagement efforts.
Fire and Rescue: Assistant Chief Recommendation (00:56:56)
Chief Boche recommended promoting Captain Mike Neman to Assistant Fire Chief, which was approved by the board.

Chief Beauchamp recommended the promotion of Captain Mike Neman to the position of Assistant Fire Chief. The board approved the promotion following a motion and support from board members.
Fire Department Grant Application Request (00:58:28)
The fire department requested approval to apply for a grant from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning.

The fire department sought approval to apply for a grant from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning to support the Traffic Safety Unit. The board approved the request following a motion and support.
New Fire Station Proposal Discussion (00:59:49)
The board discussed the proposal for a new fire station, including bond process and community feedback.

The board discussed the proposal for a new fire station, emphasizing the financial strategy, including the use of bonds and existing capital assessment. Community feedback and the importance of transparency were also discussed.
Discussion on Capital Improvement and Bonds (01:08:37)
The board discusses the implications of waiting to make purchases for capital improvements due to rising costs, the impact of bonds, and the financial strategy involved.

There was a detailed discussion about the rising costs of building and construction, and how waiting to make purchases might result in higher expenses. The board considered the capital improvement plan and the timeline for replacing apparatus, vehicles, and other equipment. Questions were raised about the bond process, prepayment penalties, and the allocation of funds from the bond. The board members expressed concerns about the financial strain on the community, including property taxes and foreclosures.
Vote on Motion to Issue Bonds for Capital Improvements (01:22:22)
A motion was made and passed to publish a notice of intent to issue bonds for capital improvements, with a roll call vote showing mixed support.

The board voted on a motion to publish a notice of intent to issue bonds for acquiring, purchasing, and constructing capital improvements. The motion was supported by some members while others expressed concerns. The roll call vote was conducted, and the motion passed with some dissenting votes.
Early Voting Agreement Discussion and Approval (01:22:52)
The board discussed and approved an early voting agreement with a nearby jurisdiction to conduct early voting for state and federal elections.

Clerk Boche presented the early voting agreement, explaining the partnership with Galesburg to conduct early voting. The agreement outlines each jurisdiction's roles and cost-sharing for early voting in state and federal elections. The board members asked questions and subsequently approved the agreement with a roll call vote.
Farmland Development Rights Release Request (01:24:58)
The board considered a request for partial release of farmland development rights to carve out two acres for a home, which was then approved.

A request was made to release a portion of farmland development rights under a state program, allowing two acres to be used for residential purposes. The board discussed the implications and requirements of the release, including the potential for tax revenue clawback. The motion to approve the partial release was passed with a roll call vote.
Homeless Committee Update (01:26:20)
Trustee Cherry provided an update on the Homeless Committee's progress, including meetings with stakeholders and the development of ordinances and resources.

Trustee Cherry updated the board on the activities of the Homeless Committee, which included meetings with the Kalamazoo Police Department and other stakeholders. The committee is working on developing ordinances related to trespassing and public spaces, as well as gathering resources for addressing homelessness. The update included details about the committee's structure, partnerships, and future plans.
Discussion on Township Appraisal Services (01:39:40)
Board members discuss the renewal of contracts with Appraisal Plus, evaluating their performance and considering seeking additional bids.

Board members discuss the renewal of contracts with Appraisal Plus, evaluating their performance and considering seeking additional bids. The superintendent mentions the importance of the company's knowledge and data about the township. The board discusses the possibility of going out for bid to ensure due diligence, despite the current company not asking for a significant increase in their contract.
Engineering Services Engagement Letter (01:41:22)
Discussion on the annual engagement letter for engineering services with Prine and Newhoff, detailing rates and conditions.

The superintendent introduces the engagement letter for engineering services with Prine and Newhoff, which outlines the company's rates for the year. The board discusses the flexibility in choosing engineering services and the knowledge the company has of the township's infrastructure, especially in sewer management due to past involvement.
Replacement of Door Entry Systems (01:42:58)
Board discusses replacing old keypad systems with key fob systems for improved security and convenience.

Discussion on replacing outdated keypad door entry systems with key fob systems for better security and ease of use. The superintendent presents a bid for replacing the systems, expressing concern over the cost but emphasizing the need for the upgrade. The board considers the safety implications and the need for easier access for staff members.
Employee Handbook and Policy Updates (01:45:02)
Superintendent discusses updates to the employee handbook, separating personnel manual from policies for clarity.

The superintendent explains the updates to the employee handbook, separating the personnel manual from policies for clarity. The manual will focus on laws and basic procedures, while policies will be more adaptable to changes. The superintendent and attorney review these documents to ensure compliance with current laws. The board discusses the importance of adopting the updated handbook.
Superintendent Report (02:00:02)
Superintendent provides updates on various projects including police protection millage and property management.

The superintendent reports on several ongoing projects, including discussions with the sheriff's department about police protection millage and a potential survey to gauge community interest. There's a proposal to collaborate with the land bank for property management and updates on environmental initiatives. The superintendent highlights community engagement in hazardous waste disposal.
Public Comments (02:05:59)
Public members express concerns and ask questions about the bond issue and taxes.

Members of the public voice concerns about the proposed bond issue, questioning the impact on taxes and the need for voter approval. One citizen commends the board for setting up a warming station for the homeless during extreme weather. The discussion reflects community input on fiscal responsibility and transparency in government decisions.
Citizen Comments on Ambulance and Fire Department Land Issues (02:09:58)
Citizens expressed concerns about ambulance responses and landlocked fire stations, questioning land use and taxpayer expenses.

Multiple citizens voiced their issues with the current state of ambulance services and the location of fire stations, which are considered landlocked. Concerns were raised about the efficiency of emergency services and the financial burden on taxpayers due to land management decisions.
Taxpayer Concerns and Fire Department Expenditures (02:13:02)
Citizens criticized fire department spending and its impact on taxes, questioning recent purchases and their necessity.

Residents expressed dissatisfaction with the fire department's expenditures, particularly regarding the purchase of new trucks and the potential impact on taxpayers. They questioned the necessity of such purchases and criticized the financial management of the department.
Property and Housing Concerns (02:15:01)
Residents discussed property issues, high taxes, and the impact of new developments on local housing and education.

Citizens discussed their concerns about property values and taxes, particularly in relation to new developments such as a battery plant. They highlighted the impact on local housing markets and educational institutions, with some residents considering moving to neighboring areas.
Land Bank Property Management Issues (02:17:02)
Discussion on land bank property management and perceived mismanagement, with citizens questioning past decisions and financial oversight.

Residents criticized the township's handling of land bank properties, questioning decisions to purchase and return properties without apparent benefit. Concerns were raised about financial waste and mismanagement, with calls for better oversight and utilization of township-owned properties.
Allegations of Corruption and Mismanagement (02:18:49)
A citizen alleged corruption within the township regarding property management and past board actions, seeking accountability.

A resident accused the township of corrupt practices related to property management and criticized the actions of past board members. They shared personal experiences of losing their home due to what they perceived as corrupt dealings and called for greater accountability.
Board Member Comments and Responses (02:26:36)
Board members provided comments on citizen concerns, training opportunities, and potential town hall meetings.

The board responded to citizen concerns, discussed upcoming training opportunities for members, and considered holding town hall meetings for better community engagement. They acknowledged the need for improved communication and transparency with residents.