Comstock Township - Township Board - March 16, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 10 hours ago

The board discusses the urgency of appointing members to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to ensure a quorum for upcoming meetings. They deliberate on public comment procedures, deciding to maintain two public comment periods with the first restricted to agenda items. A significant portion of the meeting focuses on a partnership with the Kalamazoo County Land Bank to convert the Lombard property into housing for veterans, reflecting the board's commitment to addressing affordable housing needs. Additionally, the board considers the renewal of the College Hunks clean-up contract and other community matters, illustrating the township's efforts to enhance local services and community welfare.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:01:32)
The board meeting for the Charter Township of Comstock is officially opened and called to order.

The Charter Township of Comstock board meeting is officially called to order, signaling the start of the meeting's proceedings.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:39)
Members of the meeting are asked to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.

Attendees of the meeting are requested to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, a customary practice to begin the meeting.
Approval of the Agenda (00:02:05)
Proposal to approve the meeting agenda with an amendment to discuss ZBA appointments due to quorum concerns.

The agenda for the meeting is presented for approval. An amendment is proposed to include discussion and possible appointments for the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) to ensure quorum for an upcoming meeting.
Public Comments on Agenda and Non-Agenda Items (00:04:24)
Citizens are invited to provide comments on agenda or non-agenda items, with a time limit for each speaker.

Citizens are given the opportunity to state their name and address, and provide comments on both agenda and non-agenda items. Each speaker is limited to three minutes, and comments are directed to the board without discussion.
Reports from Departments, Boards, and Commissions (00:24:40)
Updates and reports from various departments, boards, and commissions are presented to the board.

Representatives from different departments, boards, and commissions provide updates and report on their activities, initiatives, and upcoming plans to the board.
Approval of the Consent Agenda (00:29:35)
The consent agenda, which includes routine items, is approved with a noted addition of Trustee Pratt.

The consent agenda is presented for approval. It is noted that Trustee Pratt was not included in the approval of the agenda, and a motion is made to approve the consent agenda with this addition.
Fire and Rescue Requests for Funding (00:30:31)
Fire department seeks approval to apply for congressionally directed spending and state funding for equipment and a new station.

The fire department presents two requests for board approval: one to apply for congressionally directed spending and another for state funding. These requests aim to secure funding for critical equipment and a new fire station.
Motion for State Funding (00:35:20)
The board discusses a motion to seek state funding for a new fire station and traffic management unit.

The meeting begins with a discussion about a motion for state funding, similar to a previous request, through Senator Sean McCann's office. The funding is intended for a new fire station and a traffic management unit. Trustee MacGyver makes a motion, supported by Treasurer Bloomfield, and the motion passes unanimously.
New Fire Station Plans (00:36:26)
The board discusses ongoing plans for a new fire station and a potential open house for community engagement.

Following the state funding motion, the board discusses plans for the new fire station. They are working on a plan to hold an open house for community engagement, as previous board meetings have not always addressed citizens' questions effectively. Discussions are ongoing with architects, and more details will be announced once plans are finalized.
Fire Department Training Presentation (00:37:34)
Deputy Chief Thompson presents on fire department training, emphasizing the need for a new station and training facilities.

Deputy Chief Thompson presents a detailed overview of the fire department's training programs. The presentation covers initial and ongoing training requirements, facilities used for training, and plans for a new training station. The presentation highlights the need for improved facilities, including a new training tower and classroom space, to maintain and enhance firefighter skills.
Discussion on Fire Department Staffing and Training Needs (00:53:18)
The board discusses staffing challenges and training needs for the fire department.

Board members discuss the challenges of retaining trained firefighters due to competitive job offers from other departments. They note the importance of maintaining a strong training program to attract and retain firefighters. The discussion includes the impact of pay and benefits on staffing decisions.
PFAS Well Testing Update (00:55:18)
Trustee Pratt discusses concerns about PFAS contamination in well water and seeks board support for state intervention.

Trustee Pratt raises concerns about PFAS contamination in local wells, noting the health risks and lack of communication from the state. He proposes a motion for the board to authorize Superintendent Hess to write to the state for updates and action. The board discusses and supports the motion to seek further information and assistance from the state.
Public Comment Policy Discussion (01:00:02)
Trustee Pratt proposes limiting public comment sessions to address increasing hostility and improve meeting efficiency.

Trustee Pratt raises concerns about the tone and content of recent public comments, suggesting that the board consider reducing public comment periods from two sessions to one per meeting. He notes the increase in hostility and personal attacks and seeks to improve the meeting environment. The board discusses the proposal, considering its impact on public engagement.
Public Comment Discussion (01:04:38)
The board discussed whether to limit public comments to one session, covering both agenda and non-agenda items, or to have two sessions with the first limited to agenda items.

The board debated the structure of public comment sessions. Trustee Pratt proposed limiting public comments to one session for all topics. Trustee Cherry and others voiced concerns about abusive comments. The board considered allowing two sessions: one for agenda items and another for general comments. Attorney Thall advised on legal requirements. Ultimately, a motion was passed to have two public comment sessions, with the first limited to agenda items and the second open to any topic.
Ordinance Moratoriums: Data Centers and Solar (01:16:56)
The board approved temporary moratoriums on data centers and solar energy facilities to allow time for the planning commission to study regulations.

Attorney Thall presented ordinances for temporary moratoriums on data centers and solar energy facilities. These moratoriums are intended to give the planning commission time to develop appropriate regulations in response to increased interest in these developments. The board approved the moratoriums after a second reading, emphasizing the importance of establishing guidelines for these industries.
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) Appointments (01:19:15)
The board discussed appointing new members to the ZBA, with differing opinions on candidates. The need for a full board for upcoming meetings was emphasized.

The board considered appointments to fill vacancies on the ZBA. A subcommittee, including Treasurer Bloomfield, Trustee Pratt, and Supervisor Martin, interviewed candidates and made recommendations. There was disagreement among the subcommittee members, with Trustee Pratt expressing concerns about the process and the need for all board members to review all applications. Supervisor Martin and Treasurer Bloomfield recommended candidates based on professional experience. Attorney Thall advised that the full board should have access to all applications before making a decision. The discussion highlighted the need to ensure quorum and the ability to conduct ZBA meetings efficiently.
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) Membership Discussion (01:35:01)
The board discussed the current status and need for appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals. The committee's recommendations and the importance of having a full board were emphasized.

The Board discussed the process for appointing members to the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Attorney Thall explained the need to disseminate applications to all board members and to present committee recommendations at a board meeting. It was noted that a ZBA meeting requires at least three members to make decisions, and if only three are present, any decision must be unanimous. The importance of filling ZBA vacancies promptly was stressed to avoid delays in processing variances. The board considered whether to cancel an upcoming ZBA meeting due to the absence of alternate members and the potential unfairness to applicants. The option of postponing decisions until a fuller board is available was discussed.
Superintendent's Report on Budget and Financial Matters (01:38:51)
Superintendent Hess provided updates on previously discussed financial items, including participation funds and contract details. Board members asked questions about funding sources and allocations.

Superintendent Hess reported on three items previously brought before the Board, which had not been approved. The deadline for approval was the day of the meeting. One item involved a thousand-dollar participation fund from a local road contract. Board members discussed the funding source, confirming it came from the municipal street fund. Treasurer Bloomfield made a motion to approve the relevant contract with the necessary signatures, which was supported by Trustee Cherry. A roll call vote followed, with all board members voting in favor, thus approving the motion.
Discussion on Affordable Housing and Land Bank Partnership (01:40:43)
The board considered a partnership with the local land bank for affordable housing development on a Township-owned property, with a focus on housing for veterans.

The board revisited a presentation from the land bank regarding a Township property previously acquired from the county. The aim was to develop affordable housing, potentially for veterans. Superintendent Hess explained that the Township never intended to be the landlord and planned to partner with entities like the land bank, which has more funding mechanisms. Board members discussed the value of the partnership, emphasizing the benefit to the community despite the lack of direct monetary gain. Concerns included notifying potential veteran residents about a nearby gun range. The board also discussed the possibility of selling the property privately, but consensus leaned towards the partnership with the land bank to ensure the property serves the intended purpose of providing affordable housing. A motion was made to enter into the partnership and execute the property deed transfer, which was unanimously approved after being amended to specify the focus on veterans.
Proposal for Garbage Pickup Contract with College Hunks (01:54:59)
The board discussed and approved a proposal from College Hunks for garbage pickup, including considerations for offering additional waste management services.

Superintendent Hess presented a proposal from College Hunks for garbage pickup services, suggesting two pickups. The board reviewed the costs and previous tonnage of waste collected. Treasurer Bloomfield raised questions about the lack of other bidders and the possibility of offering more services like free dump days and brush pickup. Superintendent Hess explained the logistical challenges and potential costs of alternative waste management options. After discussion, a motion was made to accept College Hunks' proposal, which was supported and approved by a roll call vote.
Ordinance Report (02:05:07)
Superintendent Hess presented the ordinance report, highlighting court appearances and public property cleanups.

Superintendent Hess reported on ordinance enforcement activities, including two court appearances in the past month and nine violations found. Public property cleanups were conducted, particularly on King Highway and VO Street. Hess emphasized the importance of community cooperation to avoid illegal dumping.
Public Comment Session (02:07:19)
Citizens expressed concerns about moratoriums, fire department funding, and transparency in Township meetings.

During the public comment session, citizens addressed various issues including gratitude for the moratoriums on data centers and renewable energy projects, concerns about potential tax increases for fire department funding, and the perceived lack of transparency and fairness in Township meetings. Specific concerns were raised about special meetings and ordinance violations.
Member Comments (02:19:00)
Board members shared final comments, discussing equal application of laws and upcoming planning activities.

In the member comments section, board members reflected on the importance of equal application of the law and transparency. They discussed upcoming planning commission activities on data centers and solar projects, expressing optimism about the Township's preparedness and community initiatives such as supporting veterans.
Meeting Adjournment (02:20:46)
The meeting was officially adjourned after all comments were addressed.

The meeting was adjourned following the completion of all agenda items and public comments. The Board expressed appreciation for community participation and encouraged continued involvement in Township activities.