Oshtemo Township - May 19, 2026 Oshtemo Township Special Board Meeting

Updated 14 minutes ago

The board holds a special meeting and approves the 2045 Comprehensive Plan and Master Streets Plan, discussing updates and public feedback on these documents. They also consider applying for the Safe Streets for All federal grant, which requires a 20% match and focuses on improving traffic safety in key areas like the DDA district. The meeting includes public comments on non-motorized transportation and concerns about construction impacts in the Westport neighborhood.

Chapters

Welcome (00:00:01)
The meeting begins with a welcome to attendees at the Oshtemo Charter.

The meeting is called to order with a warm welcome to everyone present at the Oshtemo Charter gathering.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:12)
Attendees participate in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting continues with participants standing and reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, affirming their commitment to liberty and justice.
Roll Call (00:00:38)
Trustee Cole and Trustee Chapman are noted as absent, with details on remote participation.

A roll call is conducted to identify present and absent members. Trustee Cole is absent but indicated she would join virtually without voting rights. Trustee Chapman might join later due to personal matters.
Approval of Agenda (00:02:23)
The agenda for the special meeting is approved by the board members present.

The agenda for the special meeting is presented for approval. A motion is made and seconded, with all present members voting in favor. The motion carries with five votes in favor and two members absent.
Purpose of Special Meeting (00:03:05)
Discussion on the comprehensive plan and master streets plan.

The special meeting is called to discuss and review the comprehensive plan and the master streets plan. Thanks are extended to planning directors and partners involved in the process.
Presentation on Comprehensive Plan and Master Streets Plan (00:04:01)
Detailed presentation on the comprehensive plan and master streets plan by planning directors.

The planning directors present a comprehensive overview of the updated comprehensive plan and master streets plan. The presentation includes changes made after public comments and highlights the six big ideas and goals, place types, implementation strategies, and special studies.
Public Comment (00:29:08)
Public comments are invited on the comprehensive plan and master streets plan.

The floor is opened for public comment on the comprehensive plan and master streets plan. Members of the public are invited to share their feedback within a four-minute time limit.
Public Comments on Non-Motorized Planning (00:30:06)
Concern raised about the omission of important roads in non-motorized planning, urging the township to include safe routes for bicyclists between Oshtemo and Kalamazoo.

A resident highlighted serious omissions in the non-motorized planning, specifically referencing two one-mile sections of roads between N avenue and Parkview. These roads are crucial for non-motorized transportation between Oshtemo and Kalamazoo but are not listed for any improvement. The resident urged the township to consider these roads for safe bicycling pathways.
Public Comments on Master Streets Plan (00:33:00)
Residents expressed concerns over the lack of transparency and communication regarding the master streets plan, requesting clarity and input opportunities.

Several residents from the Westport neighborhood voiced their concerns about the lack of transparency and proactive communication regarding the master streets plan. They were under the impression that certain street extensions were part of the plan, but could not find documentation supporting this. They requested more input opportunities and clarity on the plan's specifics.
Discussion on Non-Motorized and Streets Plan (00:42:06)
Board members discussed the integration of non-motorized facilities and the master streets plan, emphasizing the importance of context-sensitive solutions and partnerships.

The board deliberated on how non-motorized facilities and the master streets plan are integrated. They discussed the challenges of incorporating specific routes within the plan and the importance of context-sensitive solutions. The discussion also covered the role of the Road Commission and potential partnerships to enhance non-motorized pathways.
Resolution Adoption for Master Streets Plan (01:01:09)
The board adopted the resolution for the master streets plan, with a vote of 6 to 0, enabling the township to pursue new grant opportunities.

The resolution for the master streets plan was adopted by the board with a unanimous 6 to 0 vote. This adoption allows the township to pursue grant opportunities, such as the Safe Streets for All grant, to improve local infrastructure.
Discussion on Beautifying Transportation Infrastructure (01:01:13)
Trustees discuss enhancements to transportation infrastructure, focusing on safety and aesthetics in downtown areas.

The trustees discuss various projects to enhance the transportation infrastructure, focusing on safety and aesthetics. This includes beautifying streetscapes, adding streetlights, and improving accessibility for visually impaired individuals. The discussion also touches on the importance of making the area around Fletcher Field more walkable and accessible due to the opening of the Fruit Bell Trail. Trustee Ford expresses support for the project, aligning with the goals of improving safety and expanding services.
Safe Streets for All Grant Opportunity (01:02:01)
The board discussed applying for the Safe Streets for All grant, which requires a 20% match and focuses on improving road safety in the DDA area.

The board explored the opportunity to apply for the Safe Streets for All grant, aimed at enhancing road safety, particularly in the DDA area. The grant requires a 20% match from the township, and discussions included potential projects such as roundabouts and pedestrian safety improvements. The grant application is due soon, and staff are working to finalize it.
Application to US Federal Department of Transportation Grant Opportunity (01:05:09)
Board discusses the opportunity to apply for a federal grant to fund transportation infrastructure projects.

The board discusses the opportunity to apply for a federal grant from the US Department of Transportation. The grant is competitive and may not be available next year. The discussion includes the need for staff to work on the application and the potential for leveraging community money to expand services without additional expense to residents. Public comments are invited on this item.
Public Comment on Transportation Grant Application (01:10:03)
Public comments support the grant application, citing safety improvements needed in specific intersections.

Members of the public express support for the transportation grant application, emphasizing the need for improvements in specific intersections that require attention for safety. Regan Fader and Jean Jennings provide input on the necessity of addressing safety and infrastructure issues in their neighborhoods.
General Public Comment (01:11:00)
Residents express concerns about construction noise, road conditions, and communication regarding township projects.

Residents from various neighborhoods express concerns about ongoing construction noise, the impact of heavy equipment on road conditions, and the need for better communication about township projects. Specific issues include the condition of roads like Sugarbush Trail and the lack of notification about construction activities.
Board Member Comments and Committee Reports (01:15:59)
Board members provide updates on committee meetings, projects, and upcoming events related to parks and elections.

Board members provide updates on recent committee meetings and projects. Trustee Sikora reports on the parks committee and Friends of the Park meetings, highlighting volunteer opportunities and upcoming events. Clerk Farmer discusses improvements in absentee voter counting processes and the potential for hiring election experts. Treasurer Buszka has no comments.
Adjournment (01:23:20)
The meeting is adjourned after all agenda items are addressed and board member comments are concluded.

The meeting is adjourned after addressing all agenda items and concluding board member comments. The board thanks the staff and partners for their hard work and emphasizes the importance of upcoming discussions on organizational structure and staffing recommendations.