Comstock Township - Township Board - May 18, 2026 Meeting

Updated 23 minutes ago

During the Charter Township of Comstock Board Meeting, the board addresses several agenda changes, including the removal of a circuit court case discussion from the agenda involving Treasurer Bloomfield. Public comments include an ordinance enforcement complaint regarding shipping containers, and perceived conflicts of interest involving board members. The meeting also covers a presentation on SBA disaster loans and a discussion about denied funding for early warning sirens. Public comments highlight concerns about transparency, accountability, and the board’s focus on community issues.

Chapters

Welcome and Introduction (00:00:01)
The meeting of the Charter Township of Comstock board is officially opened.

The Charter Township of Comstock board meeting is welcomed. The date and time are noted.
Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:08)
The meeting is called to order and the Pledge of Allegiance is recited.

The board meeting is called to order. Attendees are asked to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:41)
The agenda for the meeting is reviewed and approved with amendments after discussion.

The board discusses changes to the agenda, including rescinding an item related to a circuit court case and amending another item to include possible action. A motion is made to approve the agenda with these amendments, and it is passed after a vote.
Public Comment on Agenda Items (00:02:31)
Residents are given the opportunity to comment on agenda items, limited to three minutes each.

Public comments are invited on agenda items. Citizens state their name and address and have up to three minutes to speak. Comments are directed to the board, and no discussion from board members occurs during this time.
Announcements for Departments, Boards, and Commissions (00:04:28)
Departments, boards, and commissions share announcements; no significant updates are reported.

The board moves to announcements from various departments and commissions. Commissioner Gisler is absent and reports no significant happenings.
Consent Agenda Approval (00:04:42)
A motion is made and passed to approve the consent agenda as presented.

The consent agenda is presented for approval. A motion is made by Clerk Beauchamp and supported by Trustee Pratt. The motion is approved unanimously.
Clerk's Report on Election (00:05:12)
Clerk Beauchamp reports on the recent election, noting smooth operations and a successful kids vote program.

Clerk Beauchamp reports on the recent election, highlighting that all ballots were returned and precincts faced no major issues. A kids vote was conducted to engage children during the election process.
Treasurer's Report on Planning Commission Letter (00:07:08)
Treasurer Bloomfield discusses a planning commission letter sent regarding a liquor license ordinance violation.

Treasurer Bloomfield discusses a letter from the planning commission to the liquor control commission about an ordinance violation involving a liquor license and a winemaking license. The importance of transparency is emphasized.
Trustee Pratt's Discussion on Letter of Interest (00:10:24)
Trustee Pratt presents an anonymous letter of interest regarding a potential conflict of interest on the zoning board.

Trustee Pratt discusses an anonymous letter sent to the planning and zoning board raising concerns about a potential conflict of interest among board members regarding soil friends. Attorney Thall provides clarification on conflict of interest policies.
SBA Disaster Loan Presentation (00:15:54)
Joyce presents information on SBA disaster loans available to businesses impacted by recent tornadoes.

Joyce from the SBA discusses available disaster loans for businesses and nonprofits, including physical and economic injury disaster loans. The loans have low interest rates and no cost to apply. Detailed application information is provided.
Early Warning Siren Discussion (00:23:19)
Discussion on the denied grant application for early warning sirens and future steps for funding.

The board discusses the denial of the BRIC grant application for early warning sirens due to eligibility issues. Future funding options are considered, including phased implementation based on financial audit outcomes.
Ordinance Report (00:26:51)
Dakota provides a report on ordinance enforcement activities, including court appearances and cleanups.

Dakota reports on ordinance enforcement, including court cases, demolitions, and cleanups conducted in April. Cooperation with other agencies and handling of specific cases are detailed.
Closed Session (00:31:08)
The board moves into a closed session to discuss material exempt from public disclosure.

A motion is made to enter a closed session under the Open Meetings Act to consider material exempt from disclosure due to attorney-client privilege. The motion is passed after a roll call vote.
Public Comments on Agenda and Non-Agenda Items (00:34:51)
Citizens are invited to comment on both agenda and non-agenda items.

Public comments are invited on all items, allowing citizens to speak for three minutes. Tammy Keeler expresses concern about ordinance enforcement related to shipping containers on private property.
Public Comments on Ordinance Enforcement (00:36:27)
Citizens express frustration over selective ordinance enforcement, alleging unfair treatment and demanding action.

During the public comment period, several citizens voiced concerns about perceived inconsistencies and favoritism in the enforcement of local ordinances. They highlighted specific instances where certain individuals appeared to receive preferential treatment, allowing them to bypass regulations that others must adhere to. The comments called for the removal of non-compliant structures and urged the board to address these issues to ensure fairness and transparency.
Public Comments on Conflicts of Interest (00:39:39)
Discussion on conflicts of interest, transparency, and ethical standards for board members and legal advisors.

Autumn Smith raised concerns about the board's handling of conflicts of interest, noting that standards seemed to be applied inconsistently. She referenced a complaint involving a liquor license and questioned the board's transparency and ethical practices. Smith also highlighted potential conflicts involving legal advisors and called for consistent application of ethical standards to maintain public trust.
Public Comments on Transparency and Closed Sessions (00:44:10)
Speakers demand more transparency, less closed-door decision-making, and criticize internal conflicts among board members.

Several speakers criticized the board for lack of transparency, particularly regarding closed sessions and decision-making processes. They emphasized the need for open governance and transparency, accusing board members of engaging in personal conflicts that detract from their duties. The comments urged the board to prioritize public interest and governance over personal disputes.
Public Comments on Meeting Agenda Restrictions (00:48:10)
Concerns about limitations on public speaking topics and agenda manipulation to restrict discussion.

Karen Height expressed frustration with the board's restrictions on public speaking, particularly on topics not listed on the agenda. She alleged that agenda items were strategically removed to prevent discussion and criticized this practice as a violation of her rights to free speech. Height called for greater openness in discussions and less manipulation of the agenda.
Public Comments on Board Governance and Community Issues (00:48:51)
Jason Tollers criticizes the board's governance and highlights pressing community issues being neglected.

Jason Tollers addressed the board, criticizing its governance as being focused on personal conflicts rather than community issues. He pointed out several pressing problems, such as housing shortages and traffic issues, that were being ignored in favor of political games. Tollers urged the board to focus on substantive issues affecting the community and to work towards improving the quality of life in Comstock.
Member Comments on Agenda and Legal Matters (00:49:47)
Board members discuss recent agenda changes and legal advice concerning township governance.

During the member comment period, Trustee Pratt explained the removal of an agenda item related to a lawsuit due to objections and legal considerations. The discussion highlighted the need for proper legal guidance and transparency in township governance. Members called for focusing on township business and adhering to legal and ethical standards.
Adjournment (00:52:45)
Meeting adjourned after final comments by board members and expressions of holiday wishes.

The meeting concluded with final comments from board members, expressing hopes for improved governance and addressing community concerns. Members wished attendees a good holiday season before officially adjourning the meeting.