Oshtemo Township - September 22, 2026 Oshtemo Township Regular Board

Updated about 4 hours ago

The Board considers a detailed review of budget allocations, with discussions about current and future financial strategies involving the township's general and road funds. The board deliberated on a moratorium concerning energy ordinances, specifically addressing solar and battery energy storage systems, while also considering the implications of ongoing projects. The session involved updates on public works concerning street lighting and other community initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to fiscal responsibility and community development. The meeting underscored the township's proactive steps in managing resources and infrastructure, ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:00:51)
The meeting was called to order and participants were welcomed to the Oshtemo Charter Township board meeting.

The chair welcomed everyone to the Oshtemo Charter Township regular board meeting and officially called the meeting to order.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:00)
The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by the board members and attendees.

The attendees were invited to join in the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Remote Location Identification (00:01:29)
It was noted that all board members were present, so remote location identification was not necessary.

The chair noted that all seven members of the board were present, eliminating the need for remote location identification, and the item was closed.
Township Mission, Vision, and Core Value (00:01:44)
A trustee shared the core value of fiscal stewardship, emphasizing wise, effective, and efficient spending of taxpayer investments.

A member of the board shared the core value focused on ensuring that taxpayer investments are spent wisely, effectively, and efficiently, highlighting the importance of fiscal stewardship.
Approval of Agenda (00:02:02)
The agenda was approved as presented after a motion and a second, with a unanimous vote in favor.

The chair asked if there were any changes to the agenda. Hearing none, a motion to approve the agenda as presented was made, seconded, and carried with a unanimous vote of seven to zero.
Public Official and Community Partner Updates (00:02:24)
No updates were provided due to the absence of the Road Commission representative and other officials.

The item for updates from public officials and community partners was closed as there were no representatives present, allowing the meeting to proceed to the work session.
Budget Work Session (00:02:50)
A detailed budget discussion was held, covering current financial status, projections, and potential amendments to address budget challenges.

The board engaged in an extensive discussion about the budget, including an overview of revenues and expenses, the impact of proposed amendments, and strategies to address financial challenges. Considerations included cutting capital projects, using fund balances, and reviewing millage rates to balance the budget.
Budget and Financial Reports (00:37:22)
Discussion on budget predictions showing general fund revenue shortfalls due to decreased state income and its impact on township operations.

The meeting covered concerns about budget predictions where general fund revenue is not expected to cover operating costs due to decreased income from the state. Property values are increasing, but the income from the state is decreasing, which is affecting predictions. The discussion included allocations and restrictions on funds such as parks, roads, fire, and police funds. The conversation also touched on the need for a clearer understanding of fund restrictions and potential borrowings from the water fund. The impact of reduced state funding on future budgets and capital projects was also discussed.
Consent Agenda (00:59:00)
Approval of the consent agenda including meeting minutes, improvement authority agreement, retirement plan amendment, and employee recognition summary.

The consent agenda was presented, including the approval of the regular meeting minutes, an updated South Drake Corridor Improvement Authority Pathway Payback Agreement, a retirement plan amendment, and an employee recognition certificate summary. A motion to approve the consent agenda was made and carried unanimously.
Public Comment (01:00:03)
Opportunity for public comment on non-regular session items. No comments were made.

The floor was opened for public comments on consent agenda or non-regular session items. No members of the public came forward to comment.
Presentation by Kalamazoo County Sheriff (01:10:25)
Kalamazoo County Sheriff Fuller presented on automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) and their use in the township, emphasizing privacy concerns and operational protocols.

Kalamazoo County Sheriff Fuller provided a presentation on the use of automatic license plate readers (ALPRs) in the township. The sheriff explained the technology's benefits in solving crimes, such as kidnappings and homicides, and its limitations, including that it cannot pan, tilt, or zoom. The sheriff emphasized the importance of privacy and the strict protocols in place for accessing the data, such as requiring a case number and reason for search. The sheriff also discussed partnerships with other agencies and the measures taken to prevent misuse of the system.
Discussion on License Plate Readers and Contract with Flock (01:19:50)
The sheriff discussed the use of ALPRs, their contract with Flock, and concerns about data privacy and regulation.

The sheriff discussed the current contract with Flock for Automatic License Plate Readers (ALPRs), which expires in February. The possibility of a one-year extension is under review. The sheriff expressed concerns about the lack of answers regarding data privacy and the need for regulation, as businesses and private entities also use ALPRs without the same restrictions. The sheriff shared an example of using technology to catch a kidnapping suspect and discussed the importance of ensuring proper use of these systems. Questions about where data goes and how long it is retained were raised, and the sheriff emphasized the need for regulatory oversight. The discussion also covered how ALPR locations are determined, the transparency of their use, and concerns about potential misuse by private companies.
Discussion on Data Ownership and Privacy Concerns (01:47:22)
Trustees and officials discuss the ownership and privacy of data collected by the township. Concerns about data retention, privacy, and legal accountability are addressed.

Trustees, including Trustee Chapman, engage in a discussion about who owns the data collected by the township and how long it is retained. Concerns are raised about data privacy and the potential for data to be misused or kept for longer than necessary. The discussion also touches on the legal implications and accountability of both the township and the companies involved in data collection. The sheriff shares his views on the importance of data in solving crimes but acknowledges the need for clear policies and legislation to manage data use responsibly. The board acknowledges the need for transparency and the possibility of pausing or revising data contracts.
Streetlight Projects Consideration (02:00:48)
The board considers new streetlight projects for several areas, discussing costs and funding sources. The projects aim to improve safety and lighting in underlit areas.

Discussion and consideration regarding new streetlight projects are presented by Mr. Pearson, the project manager. The board reviews several streetlight projects aimed at improving lighting in underlit areas, particularly along South Ninth Street, Drake Road, and Stadium Parkway. The projects are in collaboration with the DDA and corridor authorities, with funding partly covered by these agencies, and the remainder from the township's capital outlay budget. The board discusses the specifics of the projects, costs, and funding allocations.
Approval of Resolutions for Streetlight Projects (02:01:19)
The board approves three resolutions to authorize changes to the township's standard lighting contract, enabling the proposed streetlight projects to proceed.

Following a presentation and discussion on the new streetlight projects, the board considers three resolutions that authorize Consumers Energy to make changes to the standard lighting contract for Oshtemo Township. These resolutions are necessary to proceed with the streetlight projects previously discussed. The board votes on the resolutions, with all members in favor, adopting the resolutions with a seven to zero vote.
Budget Amendment for Debt Service Fund Transfers (02:02:06)
The board discusses a budget amendment to authorize transfers to the debt service fund as required by township bonds. The amendment ensures compliance with bond obligations.

The board discusses a budget amendment regarding the transfer of funds to the debt service fund. These transfers are necessary to service the debt associated with the township's bond obligations for the USDA expansion project. The amendment formalizes the timing and procedure of these transfers, ensuring compliance with bond requirements. The board discusses the details and legal requirements of the transfers, with input from the township attorney and treasurer.
Consideration of Generator Purchase for Vehicle Garage (02:13:15)
The board considers reallocating budget savings to purchase a new generator for the township vehicle garage. Concerns about the generator's necessity and committee review are raised.

The board discusses a proposed budget amendment to use savings from unspent funds to purchase a replacement generator for the township's vehicle garage. The maintenance director indicates that the current generator is at the end of its life and recommends replacement. However, board members express concerns about the necessity of the purchase and suggest that it should be reviewed by the cemeteries, buildings, and grounds committee before proceeding. The discussion highlights the need for committee vetting and prioritization of township projects.
Discussion on Vehicle Garage and Budget Considerations (02:19:47)
Discussion focused on budget considerations for vehicle garage work and potential cost implications.

The board discussed the timing and budget implications of ongoing work on the vehicle garage, emphasizing the need to proceed to avoid higher costs next year. A conversation about reallocating budgeted dollars was also highlighted. Trustee Sikora suggested discussing how items are determined to be under the committee's purview, and the conversation shifted to whether there are cost savings by doing the work now, considering the ongoing construction. There was also a consideration to defer to the cemetery buildings and grounds committee for further discussion.
Public Works Annual Budget Reductions (02:23:00)
The board reviewed and approved the annual budget reductions for public works, focusing on project priorities.

The discussion involved reviewing the routine budget reductions for public works due to policies set by the Road Commission. Specific projects were prioritized, such as the Ninth Street sidewalk and stormwater agreements, with concerns about early payments and interest loss. The Road Commission's agreement to certain billing practices was also mentioned, and the board moved to approve the budget amendments.
Budget Amendment for Media and Communications (02:28:28)
A budget amendment was approved to fund a signage family design project.

Rich Blair, the media and communications director, presented a budget amendment to move funds to develop a signage family design. The funds would come from unused budgets for tax bill inserts and informational postcards. The signage project involves working with an agency to create a comprehensive design for township signs, with discussions on the cost and design process. The amendment was approved with a 6 to 1 vote.
Energy Ordinance and Moratorium Updates (02:35:07)
The board discussed updates on the energy ordinance and the need for a moratorium on solar projects until the ordinance is finalized.

Trustee Chapman reported on the planning commission's progress on the energy systems ordinance, noting the need for an extended review process. The board discussed implementing a zoning moratorium on solar projects, as solar is currently allowed under existing ordinances, to ensure no projects proceed until the ordinance is finalized. The board approved the first reading of the solar moratorium ordinance.
Public Comment on Flock Cameras (02:46:12)
Residents expressed differing views on the implementation and privacy concerns of flock cameras in the township.

During public comments, a resident spoke in favor of flock cameras, citing their effectiveness and lack of privacy violation since license plates are public. Another resident opposed the flock cameras, expressing concerns about surveillance, potential misuse, and the broader implications for privacy and personal freedom. The discussion highlighted the community's divided opinion on the use of such surveillance technology.
Public Comments (02:52:58)
Residents raise concerns about surveillance and discuss recent fires at energy facilities.

During the public comment period, residents expressed concerns over potential privacy issues due to surveillance cameras on streets and data centers. They also discussed recent fires at energy facilities, such as Moss Landing, highlighting the risks and failures of state-of-the-art fire systems. The community expressed a desire to prevent similar developments in their area.
Board Member Comments and Committee Updates (03:00:32)
Board members provide updates on various committees including parks, police, and transportation.

Board members shared updates from various committees. Mr. Sikora discussed successful park events and future committee meetings. Trustee Cole mentioned upcoming police committee meetings and cancellations of community conversations. Other trustees and the treasurer shared updates on their activities, including involvement in military duties and plans for future meetings. Discussions also included updates on public transit and election-related matters.