Comstock Township - Township Board - June 1, 2026 Meeting

Updated about 1 hour ago

Significant topics at the June 1st Comstock Board Meeting included the termination of Superintendent Scott Hess's contract without cause, which was a contentious decision involving financial considerations and public comments. The board also addressed budget adjustments, specifically concerning the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) funds, and discussed ordinance updates related to temporary sales permits and mobile vendors. Public comments were varied, reflecting community concerns and reactions to board decisions.

Chapters

Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:00)
The meeting commenced with a welcome message followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Charter Township of Comstock board meeting began with a welcome message. Attendees were then asked to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:35)
The agenda was amended to include a discussion on temporary sales and service permits and approved.

Supervisor Martin proposed adding a discussion on temporary sales and service permits to the agenda. The board agreed to place it under the treasurer's report for possible action. The amended agenda was then moved for approval by Clerk Beauchamp and seconded by Trustee MacGyver, with all members in favor.
Public Comments on Agenda Items (00:01:31)
Residents expressed concerns over agenda items, including ordinances and budget adjustments.

The public was invited to comment on agenda items. Several residents voiced concerns about unclear ordinances and significant budget adjustments, particularly related to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and emergency sirens. They also addressed the board's decision to limit public comment to agenda items only during the first comment period.
Department Announcements (00:10:05)
Commissioner Benac provided updates on various community issues and upcoming meetings.

Commissioner Benac discussed the upcoming childcare millage on the August ballot, expressed opposition to additional millages, and commented on past issues like the Ebola situation in Kalamazoo County. He also mentioned an algae bloom in Austin Lake and announced an upcoming meeting on scams and frauds, inviting interested parties to attend.
Approval of Consent Agenda (00:13:36)
The consent agenda was amended to include a discussion on budget adjustments and approved.

Trustee Cherry requested to pull the budget adjustments for discussion under the supervisor's report. The consent agenda, as amended, was moved for approval by Clerk Beauchamp and supported by Trustee Amos. All members voted in favor.
Fire and Rescue Report (00:14:15)
Chief Bochamp updated the board on departmental activities and grant applications.

Chief Bochamp provided updates on the fire department's recent activities, including community engagement and response to calls. He mentioned the department's application for various grants, such as the mobile barrier traffic system and a staffing grant for the traffic unit. He also highlighted the challenges faced with the FEMA BRIC grant for a fire station storm shelter.
Fire Department Grant Requests (00:16:02)
The board approved requests to submit two regional grant applications for fire department needs.

Chief Bochamp requested approval to submit two grant applications: one for a regional Department of Homeland Security grant to acquire self-contained breathing apparatus and related equipment, and another for a fire prevention and safety grant to obtain a firefighter extinguisher trainer system. Both requests were approved unanimously.
Planning and Zoning Report (00:23:11)
Khayci presented ordinance changes aimed at easing landscaping requirements for developers.

Khayci presented proposed changes to the landscaping ordinance, which aim to reduce the burden on developers by minimizing the number of required canopy trees and allowing for lesser plantings where appropriate. These updates are intended to promote development while maintaining public safety and visual appeal.
Mobile Food Vendor Ordinance (00:28:03)
The board discussed amendments to the mobile food vendor ordinance, introducing seasonal and annual permits.

Khayci outlined revisions to the mobile food vendor ordinance, including the introduction of seasonal permits and the requirement for administrative site plan review for annual permits. The board also discussed setting a price for seasonal permits, which will be decided at the next meeting.
Motion Amendment Discussion (00:31:21)
Trustee Amos and Treasurer Bloomfield discuss amending a motion to change wording from 'annual' to 'seasonal'.

Trustee Amos initially forgot to include a change in wording from 'annual' to 'seasonal' in his motion. Attorney Paul advises that the motion can simply be amended. The amendment is supported by Treasurer Bloomfield and Trustee Amos.
Vote on Amended Motion (00:31:59)
The board votes on the amended motion; motion carried with a majority yes vote.

The board conducts a roll call vote on the amended motion. Trustee Cherry, Trustee Pratt, Trustee Amos, Treasurer Bloomfield, Clerk Beauchamp, and Trustee MacGyver all vote yes. Supervisor Martin is unable to vote. The motion is carried.
Employee Farewell and Thanks (00:32:18)
An employee expresses gratitude for working with the board for the past two years, announcing their departure.

An employee, Khayci, thanks the board for the opportunity to work together for the past two years. They express that it has been a pleasure and a great learning experience, but announce their departure.
Superintendent Contract Discussion (00:32:42)
Discussion regarding the deterioration of the relationship with the superintendent and a suggestion to terminate the contract.

Clerk Beauchamp discusses the deteriorating relationship between the superintendent and the board. It is suggested that to restore stability and reduce risk, the superintendent's contract should be terminated without cause. There is a need for a motion and discussion about this proposal.
Motion to Terminate Superintendent's Contract (00:33:35)
A motion is made to terminate the superintendent's contract without cause, with a resolution prepared for the board.

Clerk Beauchamp prepares a motion to terminate the superintendent's contract without cause. The motion is seconded by Trustee Cherry. The board begins the discussion phase regarding the motion.
Board Discussion on Superintendent's Contract Termination (00:34:48)
The board discusses the process and implications of terminating the superintendent's contract, including legal advice and potential costs.

Board members discuss the legal and financial implications of terminating the superintendent's contract without cause. Attorney Thall provides input on the process, and there is a discussion about whether to postpone the decision to allow for further consideration.
Motion to Postpone Discussion on Contract Termination (00:37:00)
A motion is made to postpone the discussion on the superintendent's contract termination to allow more time for review.

The board discusses whether to postpone the decision on the superintendent's contract termination. Some members feel more time is needed to review the documents and implications. A motion to postpone is made but ultimately fails after a vote.
Further Discussion on Superintendent's Contract and Costs (00:41:00)
The board continues to discuss the termination of the superintendent's contract, focusing on potential costs and legal advice.

Board members express concerns about the financial and legal aspects of terminating the superintendent's contract. Attorney Thall advises on the contract terms and potential costs. There is disagreement among board members about the necessity and timing of the termination.
Vote on Resolution to Terminate Superintendent's Contract (00:57:00)
The board votes on the resolution to terminate the superintendent's contract without cause, following extensive discussion.

After a lengthy discussion, the board votes on the resolution to terminate the superintendent's contract. Opinions are divided, with some members expressing concerns about the financial impact and others advocating for the termination as a necessary step.
Board Member Concerns Over Contract Validity (01:04:41)
Board members discussed concerns about contract validity and the process if the contract passes without proper review.

Board members raised questions about the validity of a contract, expressing concerns over whether all the necessary details were properly reviewed. They discussed what actions could be taken if the contract passes without all terms being properly vetted, especially in terms of protecting public funds.
Motion for Recess (01:05:52)
A motion for recess was made and passed unanimously following a discussion on the contract.

Following a discussion about the contract and the concerns raised, a motion for a recess was made by Supervisor Martin and supported by Treasurer Bloomfield. The motion passed unanimously with all in favor.
Discussion on Termination and Liability Release (01:17:23)
Attorney Thall advised on the importance of a liability release in cases of termination without cause, and board members discussed past conversations.

Attorney Thall advised the board on the importance of requiring a liability release if considering termination without cause to prevent future lawsuits. Treasurer Bloomfield inquired about board members' past conversations with the superintendent regarding his contract and payout, with various members confirming or denying such discussions.
Roll Call Vote on Termination Motion (01:20:47)
A roll call vote was conducted on the motion to terminate employment without cause, contingent on a liability waiver.

The board conducted a roll call vote on the motion to terminate the employment of Superintendent Scott Hess without cause, contingent upon a waiver of liability. The motion was supported by Clerk Beauchamp and passed with a majority.
Permits for Outdoor Sales Ordinance Discussion (01:21:22)
The board discussed an ordinance related to permits for outdoor sales, focusing on temporary sales on vacant land and paved vs. unpaved surfaces.

The discussion centered around revising the ordinance for outdoor sales permits, specifically whether to allow sales on vacant land and the requirements for paved surfaces. The planning commission's recommendations and potential changes to the ordinance were discussed, including the process for finalizing the ordinance before upcoming sales seasons.
Supervisor's Budget Adjustment Clarification (01:36:18)
The supervisor sought clarification on budget adjustments, particularly regarding the DDA budget and a large adjustment figure.

The supervisor expressed confusion over a significant budget adjustment related to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and sought clarification on whether the adjustment involved removing funds from the DDA budget. The discussion highlighted the need to understand the purpose and implications of the adjustment.
Motion to Approve Budget Adjustments (01:39:38)
A motion was made to approve budget adjustments excluding the DDA adjustment, which required further clarification.

The board made a motion to approve all budget adjustments except the one involving the DDA, pending further clarification on the matter. The motion was passed after a brief discussion to ensure the correct process was followed.
Ordinance Report by Dakota (01:41:01)
Dakota presented an ordinance report, including court appearances and enforcement issues, and requested patience due to staff shortages.

Dakota provided a report on ordinance enforcement, including details of court cases and community complaints. He highlighted challenges due to staff shortages and emphasized the importance of timely reporting of issues by residents to ensure effective enforcement.
Public Comments (01:44:09)
Public comments were invited, allowing citizens to speak for up to three minutes on agenda and non-agenda items.

The session was opened for public comments, with citizens given the opportunity to state their name and address and speak for up to three minutes on any agenda or non-agenda items. This period was designated for making statements to the board, without discussion from board members.
Public Comments (01:44:36)
Residents express concerns over the firing of Superintendent Hess and other issues, including budget concerns and board conduct.

During the public comment section, several residents voiced their opinions and concerns. Many were upset about the recent decision to terminate Superintendent Hess, questioning the financial prudence of the decision. They expressed frustration over the lack of transparency and dialogue between the board and the public. Concerns were also raised about the board's conduct during meetings and the impact of their decisions on the township's budget and public trust.
Board Member Comments (02:03:32)
Board members briefly discuss agenda packets, public participation, and express gratitude for community events.

The board members shared their comments regarding the meeting agenda and community involvement. Trustee Cherry mentioned the agenda packet and a survey on police millage, wishing for more public participation. Treasurer Bloomfield was disappointed by the low response to the survey and suggested discussing ways to increase engagement. Board members also thanked the parks and VFW for organizing the Memorial Day parade and appreciated the fire department's participation.