Oshtemo Township - Township Board - February 10, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 4 hours ago

In the Oshtemo Charter Township Board Meeting, significant discussions include the approval of budget amendments for phase one and phase two sanitary sewer projects, including a new communication strategy via SMS. The board also considers a moratorium on the establishment of data centers within the township to proactively address potential infrastructure and environmental impacts. The board addresses vehicle purchasing strategies, focusing on the potential transition to electric vehicles, and plans for improvements to the Township Hall's flagpole area. Public comments express concerns about battery energy storage systems and the potential for data centers, highlighting community interest in environmental safety and infrastructure planning. The board is committed to transparency and engaging with residents on these issues.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:24)
The meeting of the Asmo Charter Township regular meeting was called to order.

The meeting of the Asmo Charter Township regular meeting was officially called to order by the presiding officer.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:33)
Participants were invited to join in the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America.

The Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America was recited, reaffirming the nation's values of liberty and justice for all.
Roll Call (00:00:58)
All members of the board were present, negating the need for remote location identification.

A roll call confirmed that all members of the board were present in person, eliminating the necessity for identifying remote locations for attendance.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:25)
The agenda was amended to remove item D from the consent agenda and to allow for board discussion on a moratorium on data centers.

The agenda was reviewed and amended to remove the memo regarding a budget amendment for an IT website update from the consent agenda. Additionally, a draft memo regarding a moratorium on data centers was provided for board discussion, with no action to be taken.
Public Officials and Community Partner Updates (00:02:32)
Updates from state representative and county commissioner on budget, sports complex, sewer project financing, and police service contract.

State Representative Matt Long John provided an update on the upcoming state budget process, highlighting the challenges due to reduced revenue estimates and potential priorities for Oshtemo Township. County Commissioner Dale Dilu updated on the Youth Sports Complex planning, sewer project financing assistance, and the extension of the police service contract.
Work Session: Neighborhood Sanitary Sewer Expansion Project (00:11:11)
Presentation on the status, lessons learned, and future plans for the neighborhood sanitary sewer expansion project.

Public Works Director Anna Horner and Project Manager Zach Pearson presented an update on the neighborhood sanitary sewer expansion project. They discussed the current status of phase one, lessons learned, especially in communication and stakeholder coordination, and plans for phase two, including improvements in communication strategy and construction logistics.
Discussion on Door-to-Door Communication Efforts (00:31:21)
Discussion on the effectiveness and challenges of door-to-door communication efforts during a construction project, including methods used and areas for improvement.

The discussion focused on the door-to-door communication efforts undertaken during a construction project. It was noted that while the face-to-face interactions were beneficial, the overall method had several challenges. These included difficulty in ensuring that letters were received, as they could not be placed in mailboxes or reliably left at doors without risk of blowing away. The conversation highlighted the importance of building relationships with residents during these interactions, which helped in spreading information through community networks like Facebook. There was also a recognition of the need to improve the timeliness of communication, as construction updates could quickly become outdated.
Proposal for Website Updates Portal (00:35:33)
Suggestion to create a specific portal on the town's website for daily construction updates to address the issue of outdated printed communications.

A question was raised about the possibility of creating a dedicated portal on the town's website for residents to check for daily updates regarding construction projects. This was in response to the challenges experienced with printed communications becoming outdated due to changes in construction schedules, such as equipment breakdowns. It was noted that a news and updates section had been added to the website partway through the project, allowing residents to receive more current information.
Phase Two Communication Tactics (00:36:14)
Discussion of new communication tactics for phase two, including the introduction of SMS text messaging to improve communication with residents.

The discussion shifted to the plans for communication tactics in phase two of the project. It was proposed that SMS text messaging could be paired with door-to-door efforts to enhance communication effectiveness. The text messaging programs being considered would allow for geotargeted alerts, enabling messages to be sent to residents in specific areas affected by construction activities. This method was identified as more effective than direct mail or flyers, and would be elective, with residents opting in to receive updates.
Phase Two Community Meetings (00:39:03)
Plan to increase the number of community meetings for phase two to ensure effective presentations and allow for resident questions.

The plan for phase two includes increasing the number of community meetings, particularly in large neighborhoods like Westport, to avoid overcrowding and allow residents the opportunity to ask questions. It was noted that having multiple meetings would facilitate more effective presentations and follow-up Q&A sessions, improving the overall communication process with residents.
Discussion on Text Messaging Program Funding (00:41:07)
Clarification that funding for the SMS text messaging program was not included in the budget pending more information, which has now been provided.

During the budgeting process, the board did not allocate funds for an SMS text messaging program pending further information. The current presentation provided the necessary details and proposal for the program. Questions were raised about differentiating communication between property owners and residents, and it was clarified that notices are sent to both the property owner and the physical property address to reach renters and owners.
Feedback on Previous Community Meetings (00:43:45)
Board members provided positive feedback on the handling of previous community meetings, highlighting improvements and adaptability.

Board members provided feedback on the handling of previous community meetings, noting that the presenters effectively incorporated feedback from initial meetings into subsequent ones, improving the experience for attendees. One board member specifically complimented the presenters for their adaptability during a meeting when technical issues occurred, which was appreciated by those in attendance.
Overview of Phase Two Sewer Project Scope (00:45:24)
Presentation of the scope and scheduling of the phase two sewer project, focusing on neighborhood priorities and coordination with road reconstruction.

The presentation covered the scope of the phase two sewer project, emphasizing the prioritization of neighborhoods with the most residents needing long-term solutions and coordinating with road reconstruction efforts. The project is divided into three contracts, each focusing on different areas, with plans to repave roads as part of the project. Challenges related to access and project scheduling were discussed, and the aim is to be efficient while minimizing disruption to residents. It was noted that the project would accommodate future development connections as well.
Engineering Agreement Update and Approval Request (00:51:34)
Request for board approval to update the engineering agreement and authorize the supervisor to sign, with emphasis on lessons learned and contract terms.

The engineering agreement for the project needs to be updated to reflect industry standards and incorporate lessons learned. The updated agreement includes provisions for time and materials contracts, ensuring a focus on efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The board was requested to authorize the supervisor to sign the new agreement upon approval from the USDA. The discussion emphasized protecting the township's interests and ensuring the quality of the project through careful contract management.
Utility Fund Management and Revenue Sources (00:57:57)
Explanation of how the utility fund is managed, its revenue sources, and the financial strategy to ensure a resilient and self-sustaining system.

The meeting included a detailed explanation of the utility fund's management, emphasizing the need for it to be self-sustaining. The fund's revenue sources include a surcharge on usage bills, connection fees, road fund contributions, and general fund contributions. The presentation highlighted the importance of maintaining a healthy fund balance to address unforeseen challenges and ensure timely responses to issues. The financial strategy aims to support a resilient system capable of handling maintenance and operational needs.
Infographic for Resident Communication (01:02:28)
Introduction of a new infographic to help residents understand public and private sewer connection costs and impacts.

To improve communication with residents, a new infographic was introduced to help explain the costs and impacts associated with public and private sewer connections. The visual aid is intended to make the information more digestible and assist residents in understanding their responsibilities and the overall project impact. The infographic is part of broader efforts to enhance communication through various methods, including face-to-face interactions and digital updates.
Public Works Update (01:02:41)
Anna provided an update on public works including the phase two tab and schedule updates. Encouraged residents to contact the department for specific issues.

Anna discussed the start of phase two tab for public works updates, which is available on the website. She encouraged residents to call the public works department to set up meetings for discussing specific landscaping or other issues.
Public Comment Section (01:08:03)
Residents expressed concerns about a proposed battery energy storage system and its potential environmental and health impacts.

During the public comment section, several residents voiced their opposition to a proposed battery energy storage system. Concerns included potential environmental hazards, health risks, and impact on property values. Residents urged the board to consider these issues seriously.
Consent Agenda (01:23:00)
The consent agenda, including meeting minutes and a memo regarding a vehicle purchase, was approved unanimously by the board.

The board reviewed the consent agenda, which included meeting minutes of the regular meeting, receipts and disbursements report, and a memo regarding a rescue vehicle purchase by the Oshtemo Fire Department. The agenda was approved with a motion by Trustee Kora, seconded by Clerk Farmer, and passed 7-0.
Black History Month Resolution (01:24:19)
A resolution recognizing February as Black History Month was read and adopted unanimously by the board.

Clerk Farmer read a resolution into the record recognizing February as Black History Month, commemorating the contributions of African Americans and urging reflection on the nation's history. The resolution was adopted unanimously with a roll call vote.
Building Department Report (01:27:43)
Building official Ted Hansen presented a report on the building department's activities, showing significant growth in permits and construction value.

Building official Ted Hansen presented a report showing the building department's activities, with figures indicating a significant increase in construction value and permits. The report highlighted the healthy state of the community's economy and the efficient processing of permits.
Discussion on Traffic Enforcement and Legal Counsel (01:34:17)
Attorney Porter discusses the challenges and costs of current traffic enforcement practices and proposes contracting a legal firm to handle prosecutions.

Attorney Porter explains that traffic enforcement was previously outsourced due to practicalities and economic downturns. With changes in prosecution practices, handling these in-house has become cost prohibitive. Porter suggests contracting Baum Seaver Kaufman and Chulos for traffic enforcement to be more cost-effective. Discussion follows on the implications of not prosecuting, revenue considerations, and the cost-effectiveness of the proposed contract. The board discusses the benefits and costs associated with contracting out traffic enforcement, including potential revenue losses and efficiency improvements.
Motion to Contract Legal Counsel for Traffic Enforcement (01:45:10)
The board moves to authorize a contract with Baum Seaver Kaufman and Chulos for traffic enforcement.

After discussion, a motion is made by Trustee Ford and seconded by Trustee Cole to authorize the supervisor to enter into an agreement with Baum Seaver Kaufman and Chulos for contracted legal counsel for traffic enforcement. The motion is passed unanimously with a vote of seven to zero.
Consideration of Engineering Agreement for Public Works (01:45:56)
The board discusses and approves budget amendments and an engineering agreement for public works projects.

The board considers budget amendments and an engineering agreement related to public works. They approve reallocating unspent funds from the phase one sanitary sewer project and authorize the supervisor to sign an engineering agreement with Fleis and VandenBrink. The board also discusses a budget amendment for a public education and SMS text message service for phase two of the sanitary sewer project. Trustee Chapman raises concerns about cell coverage in the area, and the board discusses the effectiveness and implementation of the SMS system as a pilot program for community communication during the project.
Discussion on Vehicle Needs and Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (02:07:02)
The board discussed the end-of-life status of vehicles and the need for a budget amendment to support electric and hybrid vehicle purchases.

The board discussed the status of township vehicles, the need for replacements, and the possibility of moving towards electric or hybrid vehicles. They considered the infrastructure needed to support electric vehicles, such as installing charging ports. There was a consensus on bringing in an electrician to evaluate the costs of installing level two EV chargers and to consider the investment in infrastructure needed for this transition. The discussion also touched on the need for vehicles by department heads and the importance of making informed decisions based on costs and vehicle usage.
Township Hall North Side Flag Presentation and Landscaping (02:18:21)
A proposal was made for a budget amendment to address tree removal and landscaping around the flagpoles to make the area more presentable.

The board discussed the issue of trees obscuring flagpoles at the Township Hall. It was noted that the trees, planted as part of an Eagle Scout project, had grown too large and needed to be removed to make the flags visible. A budget amendment was proposed to allocate funds for tree removal and to hire a landscape architect to ensure the area is appropriately landscaped. The discussion included the importance of visibility for the flagpoles and the need to prepare the area for community events. Public comments were invited, and there was a suggestion to consider moving the flagpoles instead of removing trees.
Discussion on Moratorium for Data Centers (02:30:04)
The board considered enacting a moratorium on data centers to prevent unregulated development while zoning regulations are updated.

The board discussed the potential for a moratorium on data centers in the township. This was brought up as a proactive measure to prevent any unregulated development of data centers while the township updates its zoning regulations. It was noted that there are currently no data center projects proposed, but a moratorium would help the township avoid surprises. The discussion included concerns about infrastructure impacts and the need to collaborate with other jurisdictions. There was a general consensus in favor of the moratorium, although some board members expressed a desire for more time to study the issue.
Welcome (02:36:52)
Meeting begins with a warm welcome and proactive stance towards the agenda.

The meeting is called to order with a welcome message, emphasizing a proactive approach to the topics to be discussed.
Discussion on BESS and Legal Preparations (02:36:55)
Board members discuss the need for legal preparations regarding BESS and reaching a consensus.

The board discusses the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), the need for legal preparations, and ensuring the system is renewable. There is a consensus to have the legal department prepare a memo for future discussions.
Public Comments (02:38:16)
Public comments focus on the impact of data centers and the need for community involvement.

During the public comment section, citizens express concerns about the impact of future data centers on the environment, particularly water and energy usage. They urge the board to consider the health and safety implications and involve the community in discussions.
Board Member Comments and Committee Updates (02:47:02)
Board members provide updates on various committees and discuss collaboration efforts.

Board members provide updates on committee work, including the police committee, cemetery and grounds, music events, and election preparations. Discussions highlight the need for collaboration with local jurisdictions on environmental and development issues.
Supervisor's Announcements (02:55:05)
Supervisor shares updates on upcoming reviews, meetings, and redevelopment projects.

The supervisor announces upcoming board reviews, improvements along Drake Road, ongoing negotiations with the Kalamazoo Regional Water and Wastewater Commission, and efforts to secure funding for local projects. The meeting is adjourned with a reminder of the next session.