Oshtemo Township - Planning Commission

Oshtemo Township - Planning Commission - April 9, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 9 hours ago

The Commission devotes the meeting to battery energy storage systems with expert presentations from University of Michigan Graham Institute of Sustainability, EGLE, and the Michigan Public Service Commission. They discussed zoning considerations, safety standards, and the potential impacts of BESS projects. The meeting also included a public comment session where residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed South VanKal BESS project, citing concerns about safety, environmental impact, and the appropriateness of locating such projects in residential areas. The meeting underscored the tension between renewable energy development and community interests, highlighting the need for careful zoning and planning in Oshtemo Township.

Chapters

Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:25)
The meeting began with the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting started with participants rising for the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:52)
Agenda for the meeting was reviewed and approved by the members.

The agenda for the meeting was circulated and reviewed. Members were asked if there were any additions or deletions to be made. A motion was made and seconded for approval of the agenda, and it was unanimously approved.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:29)
Minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved.

The minutes from the previous meeting had been circulated. Members were asked if there were any changes or corrections needed. A motion and second to approve the minutes as prepared was made, and the minutes were approved with unanimous consent.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:02:06)
Opportunity for public comment on non-agenda items was provided.

The floor was opened for public comment on any non-agenda items, with a four-minute time limit for each speaker. No members of the public came forward to speak.
Educational Presentations on Regulatory Topics (00:02:28)
Guest speakers presented educational information on regulatory topics.

The main focus of the meeting was an educational session with guest speakers who are public sector and academic experts. They provided neutral, educational information on regulatory topics. The speakers were not from wind, solar, or battery storage industries and were not invited to advocate for or against specific projects. Their presentations were followed by questions from the planning commission and an opportunity for public comment.
Draft Ordinance on Energy Systems (00:03:55)
Discussion on a draft ordinance regulating energy systems.

Internally, a draft ordinance regulating energy systems is being prepared. The township is seeking outside scientific input to strengthen the ordinance to best protect the township and its residents. A draft of the ordinance will be reviewed by the planning commission later this year, and it is expected to take several meetings to finalize.
Introduction to Battery Energy Storage Systems (00:04:29)
Introduction to battery energy storage systems and their impact.

Madeline Kroll from the University of Michigan Graham Institute of Sustainability provided an introduction to battery energy storage systems. She explained the basics of battery energy storage, the technology used, and the impact on local communities. The presentation covered the types of battery chemistries available, the scalability of storage systems, and the considerations for local governments in planning and zoning for these types of projects.
Presentation on Renewable Energy Development (00:07:07)
Presentation on renewable energy and energy storage development in Michigan.

Ian Lanigan O'Leary from EGLE presented an overview of renewable energy development in Michigan. He discussed the current state laws affecting renewable energy projects, the renewable portfolio standard, and how these influence the development of wind, solar, and battery storage projects. He also touched on the local impacts and considerations for communities hosting these projects.
Sound Ordinance and Environmental Impact Discussion (00:31:03)
Discussion about noise emissions from systems and environmental impacts like fire safety and air quality concerns.

The meeting discussed how systems emit noise, typically addressed through a sound ordinance, and environmental impacts, including fire safety incidents and air quality concerns. The conversation highlighted the difficulty in quantifying air quality impacts ahead of time, as it depends on factors like battery charge and weather conditions. Concerns about groundwater were also discussed, along with standard fire response practices to avoid water mixing with battery chemistry.
Fire and Explosion Risk in Battery Energy Systems (00:32:04)
Exploration of fire and explosion risks, being the primary local concern, and the trend of increasing safety in battery systems.

The primary local concern with battery energy systems is the risk of fire and explosion. The discussion noted that although such systems present these risks, they are becoming increasingly safe, reducing the likelihood of injury. The meeting also touched on the decommissioning of large land-use projects, emphasizing the need for decommissioning bonds and agreements to ensure proper removal and restoration of infrastructure.
Economic Development and Taxation of Renewable Energy Projects (00:33:29)
Detailed discussion on economic benefits, focusing on tax revenue from wind, solar, and battery projects in Michigan.

The meeting explored the economic benefits of renewable energy projects, particularly focusing on property taxation issues in Michigan. There was a detailed discussion on the difficulty of calculating tax revenues from battery energy storage projects. The team has developed policy explainers and tools for wind and solar but is still working on similar resources for battery projects. The conversation included the comparison of tax revenues from maintaining current land use versus implementing renewable energy projects.
Fire Safety Standards and Incident Response (00:35:31)
Discussion on the evolution of fire safety standards for battery energy storage systems and collaborative planning for incident response.

The meeting covered the development of fire safety standards by the National Fire Protection Association for stationary energy storage systems. It was noted that these standards are now part of the process for ensuring battery energy storage systems' safety. The importance of collaborative planning between developers and local fire responders was emphasized to ensure proper response in case of an incident, with developers often providing annual training to first responders.
Zoning and Permitting for Battery Energy Storage Systems (00:39:41)
Overview of zoning and permitting processes for battery energy systems, including state and local pathways.

The meeting discussed the zoning and permitting options for battery energy storage systems, highlighting the role of the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) in permitting processes. Different pathways were outlined, including compatible renewable energy ordinances (Creo), workable ordinances, and state-level certification. The importance of local government cooperation and the potential for state intervention were emphasized, along with the financial implications of different permitting routes.
Revenue Streams from Renewable Energy Projects (00:45:01)
Explanation of additional revenue streams for local governments from renewable energy projects, including property taxes and specific grants.

The discussion focused on the revenue streams available to local governments from renewable energy projects, covering both property taxes and additional payments through the Renewables Ready Communities Award (RRCA) for locally permitted projects and host community agreements for state-permitted projects. The nuances of each option were explained, including the conditions under which these funds are available and the potential benefits for local infrastructure and public services.
Developing Workable Ordinances for Renewable Energy (00:54:03)
Considerations for creating local ordinances that balance community preferences and developer needs.

The meeting addressed the creation of workable ordinances for renewable energy projects that fit between the permissive Creo standards and the more restrictive MPSC standards. It was emphasized that such ordinances require dialogue and iteration with developers to ensure they are not deemed unworkable, which would lead to state intervention. The discussion included how local governments can navigate this space to retain control over project permitting while accommodating renewable energy developments.
Discussion on Setbacks and Ordinance Data (01:00:09)
Discussion about the different setback requirements and sound standards from various townships. Emphasis on the importance of flexibility and the challenges of applying the most restrictive standards across different projects.

The speaker discusses the concept of setbacks and sound standards in relation to township ordinances. They highlight that what works in one township may not be applicable in another due to differences in property size, developer technology, and other factors. The importance of not automatically adopting the most restrictive standards is emphasized, as well as the value of using data as a starting point. The speaker outlines four strategies for making ordinances workable, including fine-tuning standards and mirroring MPSC requirements.
Presentation on Solar and Energy Storage Ordinances (01:09:58)
Detailed presentation on the Michigan Public Service Commission's process and regulations for renewable energy projects, including solar and battery storage. Emphasis on safety standards and the role of local and state agencies.

Sarah Malkoff from the Michigan Public Service Commission presents on the role of the MPSC in regulating renewable energy projects. She explains the two pathways for project approval: local and state. The presentation covers the requirements for projects to comply with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards, the need for emergency response and hazard mitigation plans, and the process for contested cases at the MPSC. The presentation aims to provide clarity on the regulatory framework and the procedures involved in approving energy projects.
Discussion on Post-Certificate Project Oversight (01:31:23)
Discussion on the oversight and reporting requirements for projects that receive a certificate from the commission, including post-construction and decommissioning processes.

The meeting covered the responsibilities of the commission and its staff in overseeing projects that have been granted certificates. The discussion included the need for post-certificate completion reports, annual and every-five-year filings, ensuring maintenance and operation plans are followed, and overseeing the decommissioning process at the project's end of life. The importance of financial assurances and updated decommissioning plans was also highlighted.
Contested Case Process and Questions (01:35:01)
Explanation of the contested case process for project applications and how the commission handles questions and challenges from the public and developers.

The session included an explanation of the contested case process, where projects are subject to review by the commission. Questions arose about the potential court challenges to the MPSC order and how this could impact project regulations. The commission's role in adapting to court decisions and the process for handling questions from the public and developers were discussed.
Public Engagement and Local Government Concerns (01:40:00)
Discussion on how local governments and the public can engage with the commission regarding energy projects, including the potential impacts on taxes and local infrastructure.

The meeting covered concerns from local government representatives about the impact of energy projects on tax revenues and local infrastructure. Discussions included how local governments can engage with developers and the commission to address these concerns, and the potential for changes in tax structures due to these projects. The role of local research and recommendations in influencing commission decisions was also discussed.
Public Comments and Questions (01:55:00)
Public comments session where residents expressed concerns about the proposed energy project and its impact on the community.

Residents from the community were given the opportunity to express their concerns about the proposed energy project. Issues raised included the potential environmental and health impacts, the involvement of out-of-state landowners, and the perceived lack of agency for local residents and officials in the decision-making process. The meeting provided a platform for residents to voice their opinions and seek answers from the commission.
Public Comments on BESS Project (02:02:31)
Residents express concerns about the proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near residential areas, highlighting risks to local environment and safety.

Multiple residents voiced their opposition to the proposed BESS project, emphasizing potential dangers such as environmental contamination, fire hazards, and the impact on local farms and wildlife. Concerns were raised about the project's proximity to residential areas, the adequacy of emergency response measures, and the need for better zoning practices. Speakers cited instances of similar projects causing harm in other states and questioned the project's prioritization over community safety and environmental integrity. There were calls for the project to be relocated to a more suitable, industrial area.
Planning Commissioners' Remarks (02:25:00)
Commissioners acknowledge the public's concerns about BESS and emphasize their commitment to a thorough and transparent decision-making process.

The planning commissioners responded to the public comments by acknowledging the strong emotions and concerns surrounding the BESS project. They assured the attendees that the commission is committed to following legal protocols and obtaining the best possible outcome for Oshtemo Township. Commissioners stated that they are continually receiving new information and are dedicated to making informed decisions that reflect the community's desires while adhering to legal requirements.
Meeting Adjournment (02:26:19)
The meeting concludes with no additional updates or business, and the adjournment is declared.

After addressing the public comments and the commissioners' remarks, the meeting was brought to a close. There were no further updates or business items to discuss, leading to the adjournment of the meeting.