Comstock Charter Township - July 13, 2026 Parks and Recreation Commission Special Joint Meeting

Updated about 7 hours ago

During the Comstock Township Parks and Recreation meeting, board members addressed public concerns regarding the disc golf league at Robert Morris Park, discussing violations and threats that led to the league's trespass. Park safety was a prominent topic, with discussions on security measures, such as hiring private security and the potential for additional ordinance officers to enforce park rules. Public comments highlighted issues with park maintenance, safety, and community involvement. The board emphasized the need for clear communication of park rules and the importance of ensuring a safe environment for all visitors.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:02:04)
The regular meeting of the Charter Township of Comstock Parks and Recreation is called to order.

The meeting is officially started by the presiding officer, marking the beginning of the township's Parks and Recreation meeting.
Approval of Agenda (00:02:49)
The agenda for the meeting is approved without any objections.

A motion is made to approve the agenda as presented, and there are no objections. The agenda is thus approved and the meeting proceeds according to the outlined schedule.
Public Comments (00:03:07)
Community members express concerns about park safety, disc golf, and park maintenance.

During the public comment section, citizens voiced various concerns primarily about the management and safety of parks. Issues raised included the perceived overreaction to isolated incidents in parks affecting family activities, the role of the disc golf community in park maintenance, the enforcement of rules regarding alcohol and drug use, and the safety and effectiveness of park staff. Specific complaints were made about drug use in parks, the removal of amenities, and the lack of communication between the township and the disc golf league. Concerns about safety were linked to both the presence of homeless individuals and the enforcement practices aimed at the disc golf community.
Joint Meeting with Township Board (00:25:20)
The meeting transitions to a special joint session with the Township board.

The Parks and Recreation meeting is paused to commence a joint meeting with the Township board, allowing for collaborative discussion and decision-making on issues affecting both entities.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:25:29)
Attendees stand to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Participants of the joint meeting with the Township board observe the Pledge of Allegiance as a customary opening to the meeting, showing respect and unity.
Approval of Joint Meeting Agenda (00:25:47)
The agenda for the joint meeting is approved with no opposition.

A motion is made and supported to approve the agenda for the joint session. The motion passes with all in favor, allowing the meeting to proceed with the planned discussions.
Parks Emergency Funding Discussion (00:26:22)
Discussion on the need for emergency funding to enhance park safety and address ongoing issues.

The Parks Director and board members discuss previous emergency funding used for park security over a weekend. They evaluate current safety issues in the parks, including threats to staff and the presence of substances, and consider the need for continued funding to hire security or implement other safety measures. The discussion also covers the role of temporary security, the effectiveness of enforcement officers, and the need for clearer communication of park rules and ordinances. The board acknowledges the ongoing challenges and the necessity of finding a sustainable solution to ensure park safety and security for both staff and visitors.
Discussion on Park Security Measures (00:33:19)
The meeting discussed the need for increased security at parks, including the possibility of hiring private security to patrol during peak hours.

The discussion focused on the need for increased security at local parks due to recent incidents. There was a proposal to hire private security to patrol the parks from 5 to 9 PM during busy times like the farmer's market. Concerns were raised about the cost, the need for additional quotes, and the reliability of local law enforcement. The possibility of reallocating budget funds was also discussed, as was the potential perception of safety created by having security present.
Ordinance Officer and Enforcement Discussion (00:44:02)
The council considered hiring an additional ordinance officer to help with enforcement, discussing the hiring process and equipment needs.

There was a detailed discussion about the need for an additional ordinance officer to help with enforcement duties in the parks. The hiring process was outlined, including the need for a written exam and a panel interview to ensure the candidate is qualified. Equipment needs for the officer were also discussed, such as a body cam, body armor, and other necessary tools. The discussion included the challenges of finding a qualified candidate and the costs associated with equipping the officer. There was also mention of the possibility of sharing the officer between departments to help with budget concerns.
Budget Discussion (01:02:30)
Discussion on budget considerations, including expenses for equipment and potential savings through deals.

The meeting discussed budgeting for equipment, with a focus on acquiring items from companies like Stream Light, which offers lifetime warranties and replacement guarantees. The clerk mentioned the importance of timing purchases to take advantage of deals and closeout sales to maximize savings.
Narcan Administration (01:03:32)
Training on administering Narcan for public safety and emergency response situations, particularly involving the homeless.

The officer discussed their role in administering Narcan in emergency situations, particularly when encountering individuals who may have overdosed. They emphasized the importance of being prepared to assist, especially when working with the homeless population, and the benefits of knowing how to use Narcan, which is considered safe at the layperson level.
Homelessness in Comstock (01:05:58)
A discussion on the increasing homelessness in Comstock, addressing challenges and interactions with the homeless.

The officer reported on the increasing homelessness in Comstock, noting that many individuals are from outside the area. They described their interactions with the homeless, emphasizing the need for understanding and communication, while also addressing safety concerns when dealing with individuals who might be aggressive or involved in illegal activities.
Equipment Needs for Ordinance Officers (01:09:09)
Discussion on the equipment needs for ordinance officers, including safety gear and tools for enforcement.

The meeting covered the various equipment needs for ordinance officers, such as traffic vests, vehicle lights, first aid kits, and body cams. The officer shared experiences of near accidents and emphasized the importance of safety gear to prevent such incidents. There was also a discussion on the durability and reliability of current equipment, particularly body cams and citation booklets.
Issues with Axon Body Cams (01:11:56)
Concerns over the performance and cost of Axon body cams, exploring alternatives for better service.

The officer reported issues with Axon body cams, including recording malfunctions and high costs. They explained that the equipment often requires replacement or repairs after two years, and the current units are beyond their intended lifespan. The officer expressed the need for exploring other options due to the recurring issues and costs associated with Axon.
Hiring of Additional Ordinance Officer (01:14:57)
Proposal to hire an additional ordinance officer to cover parks and township needs, discussing budget implications.

The meeting proposed hiring an additional ordinance officer to address the growing needs of the parks and township. There was discussion on the budget implications and the potential for reallocating funds from other areas to cover the costs. The new officer would help with enforcement and safety, particularly in maintaining park order.
Panel for Hiring Process (01:32:14)
Formation of a panel to oversee the hiring of a new ordinance officer, including key personnel from the township.

A motion was made to form a panel consisting of the parks director, township supervisor, and current ordinance officer to manage the hiring process for the new position. This panel will be responsible for drafting the job description, posting the position, and conducting interviews to find a suitable candidate.
General Joint Board Member Discussion (01:34:41)
Discussion on hiring costs, job posting timelines, and addressing issues with a trespassed group at the park.

The board discussed the costs associated with hiring, specifically salaries, payroll, taxes, and benefits, and the timeline for job postings. They also addressed concerns from a previous township board meeting about a group being trespassed from a park, including questions about the formal process and potential for future dialogue.
Consent Agenda Approval (01:56:09)
A motion was made and approved to pass the consent agenda with one abstention noted.

The board moved to approve the consent agenda items, which included meeting minutes, distribution reports, and mercantile bills. There was one abstention noted, but no objections were raised, and the motion passed.
Security Report Presentation (01:57:00)
Presentation by Adams Risk Management Group on security issues at park, including cannabis use and verbal threats.

Tyler from Adams Risk Management Group presented a report on security issues encountered at the park. These included incidents of cannabis use, cigarette smoking, hidden alcohol, and a verbal threat to the township. The security team comprised former law enforcement and EMTs, and they addressed each issue promptly, sometimes involving the sheriff's department for further action.
Closed Session for Performance Evaluation (02:04:14)
The board entered a closed session for a performance evaluation discussion of the Parks Director.

The board went into a closed session to discuss the performance evaluation of Parks Director Katie Bush. All commissioners and the director were present for this session, which lasted over an hour.
Vote of Confidence for Parks Director (03:11:13)
The board issued a vote of confidence for Parks Director Katie Bush following the closed session.

Following the closed session, the board moved to issue a vote of confidence for Parks Director Katie Bush. This motion was made and passed without any objections, reaffirming their support for her leadership.
Comments or Announcements (03:14:02)
The chair asked if there were any comments or announcements, but there were none.

During this agenda item, the chair opened the floor to any comments or announcements from the members present. However, there were no comments or announcements made.
Motion to Adjourn (03:14:13)
A motion to adjourn the meeting was made and carried without objections.

Following the call for comments or announcements, a motion was made to adjourn the meeting. The motion was put forward and, with no objections from the members, it was carried. This marked the conclusion of the meeting.