Comstock Township - September 23, 2026 Downtown Development Authority Meeting

Updated about 8 hours ago

Members extensively discuss the potential dissolution of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) due to concerns about its current effectiveness and alignment with community needs. The meeting highlights a motion to dissolve the DDA, pending legal review and contract obligations. Members express frustration over the board's inability to fulfill its purpose as outlined in its master plan and the challenges in aligning with the community's development expectations. The conversation also touches on the possibility of forming a less formal citizen advisory committee as an alternative to the DDA. The meeting concludes with a decision to pursue legal counsel before finalizing any actions on dissolution. This meeting is pivotal for those interested in the future of Comstock Township's downtown development and governance.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:07)
The meeting was officially called to order by the chair, signaling the start of the session.

The chair called the board meeting to order, officially commencing the proceedings.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:11)
Board members and attendees stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance, reaffirming their commitment to the nation.

The members and attendees stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, acknowledging their unity and commitment to national values.
Roll Call (00:00:36)
A roll call was conducted to verify the presence of board members, with all members except one accounted for.

The roll call was conducted, listing out the names of board members to confirm their presence. Jeffrey Townsend, Keith Wilcher, Ben Martin, William Knight, John Gisler, Larry Rabbitt, Matt Elliot, John Scholly were present, while Jaspreet Nannan called in due to an emergency.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:59)
The agenda was reviewed and amended to include a discussion on dissolving the DDA, which was approved by vote.

The agenda for the meeting was presented for approval. A motion was made to amend the agenda to include a discussion and possible action on dissolving the DDA. The motion was seconded and approved by a vote, finalizing the agenda as amended.
Approval of Minutes (00:02:25)
The minutes from the previous meeting were approved without any corrections by unanimous vote.

The minutes from the previous meeting were presented to the board. A motion was made and seconded to approve the minutes as presented, with no corrections needed. The motion passed unanimously.
Public Comment (00:02:48)
Public comments were made, including concerns about the legality of the DDA board and a request for extended comment time.

During the public comment section, individuals expressed concerns regarding the legal status of the DDA board under MCO law, and requested an extension of time to present their comments. The board was informed of potential litigation if issues were not addressed.
Discussion on DDA Board Legality (00:05:22)
A discussion ensued about the legality of the DDA board and the need for legal counsel due to potential litigation.

The board discussed the allegations of illegality concerning the DDA board's composition and actions. It was suggested that legal counsel be involved to address these concerns, especially due to the mention of potential litigation.
Discussion on Board Functionality and Dissolution (00:10:13)
Board members discussed the functionality of the board, the workload distribution, and the possibility of dissolving the DDA.

Board members expressed concerns about the heavy workload on certain individuals and the board's overall functionality. The discussion included the potential dissolution of the DDA, with some members suggesting a shift to a citizen-led advisory committee.
Discussion on DDA Projects and Future Direction (00:19:01)
The board debated the status of ongoing DDA projects and the feasibility of continuing under current conditions.

The conversation shifted to the status of DDA projects, particularly the redevelopment of a downtown area. Members debated the feasibility of continuing these projects given financial constraints and the lack of clear direction. Some suggested transitioning to an advisory committee format to simplify operations and focus efforts.
Discussion on DDA and Liaison Activities (00:28:36)
Discussion about the DDA board's existence prior to the current liaison's involvement and previous county commissioner's absence.

The meeting included remarks about the DDA board's existence before the current liaison was involved. It was noted that the previous county commissioner never attended meetings, leaving the liaison to figure things out independently. The current liaison expressed pleasure in working with the current board and recognized the efforts of former members to do what's right for Comstock.
Consideration of a DDA or Committee (00:31:01)
Debate on whether a DDA or a committee works better and mention of other towns' experiences with DDAs.

Discussion focused on whether establishing a DDA immediately is the best approach or if starting with a less formal committee might be more advisable. Comparisons were made with Vicksburg's situation, noting their prosperity and informal beginnings before establishing a DDA.
Plan Adherence and Board Accomplishments (00:33:00)
Concerns raised about sticking to the plan and the board's accomplishments being minimal over the past year.

Board members expressed frustration over the lack of adherence to the original plan and minimal accomplishments, such as placing garbage cans and flowers. It was noted that the previous board did not follow through with the plan, and current discussions about the plan often lead to inaction.
Exploring Property Acquisition (00:36:02)
Discussion on purchasing property for development and the availability of certain properties for sale.

The board discussed the need to focus on acquiring property as part of their plan. Several properties were identified as for sale, including an auto mechanic's property and the Speedway. The need for grant writing and leadership in pursuing these opportunities was also highlighted.
Agenda Creation and Leadership Challenges (00:40:03)
Debate over who should be leading and creating the meeting agendas and the challenges faced by the current chair.

There were discussions about the challenges faced by the current chair in leading the board and setting agendas. The chair expressed feeling sidelined and having their authority undermined, leading to a lack of effective leadership. The secretary addressed the process of agenda creation and sought input from the chair and vice-chair.
Motion to Dissolve the DDA (00:47:03)
Motion proposed to dissolve the DDA pending legal review, with concerns about the legality of disbanding it without a lawyer present.

A motion was made to dissolve the DDA, contingent upon legal confirmation and ending contract support. Concerns were raised about the legality of such a decision without a lawyer present, and the need for a special meeting with legal counsel was suggested.
General Frustrations and Future Directions (00:49:49)
Expressions of frustration with the current board's operations and suggestions for a more informal and effective approach.

Board members expressed general frustration with the current operations, noting the lack of progress and the repetitive nature of discussions. Suggestions were made for a more informal approach to board activities, such as meeting over coffee, to facilitate progress and develop the downtown area more effectively.
Discussion on Supporting Business Owners (00:54:09)
Discussion on how to support business owners and clean up the town, including a motion to proceed with efforts.

The meeting continues with a discussion about helping business owners and cleaning up the town. A participant expresses frustration with talking in circles and emphasizes the need for action. A motion is made to support efforts to get together on this issue.
Roll Call Vote (00:54:29)
Roll call vote conducted with results of the motion being passed despite two dissenters and one absence.

A roll call vote is conducted with Chair Johnson voting no, Vice Chair Wheelchair voting yes, and other members casting votes. The motion passes with two dissenters and one member absent.
Weather Siren Update (00:56:36)
Update on parts acquisition and installation timeline for the weather siren project, expected completion by end of October.

An update is provided on the weather siren project. Work is occuring on getting the necessary parts, and the installation is on track for completion by the end of October. The siren is already in possession, but some parts are missing for installation.
Trash Receptacle Replacement Discussion (00:57:17)
Discussion around the replacement of trash receptacle lids, including funding and a motion to purchase one lid.

The board discusses the purchase and replacement of trash receptacle lids, which are DDA funded. A motion is made to buy one lid rather than two, emphasizing the need to resolve the issue quickly without extended discussion. The motion is passed with two dissenters.
Fall Festival Planning Updates (01:00:21)
Updates on the planning and organization of the upcoming Fall Festival, including vendors and activities planned.

Updates are provided on the upcoming Fall Festival at Merrill Park. Chair Townsend has organized the band, Vice Chair Wil is handling the food, and other members are coordinating various activities and vendor participation, including barbecue and lemonade stalls.
Public Comment and Board Member Discussion (01:02:22)
Public comment addressing DDA's purpose and legal responsibilities, with additional board member comments on the same.

Public comments are made criticizing the DDA for misunderstanding its role and responsibilities, focusing on historic preservation rather than real estate. The board discusses these comments, and members express their views and frustrations regarding the DDA's direction and actions.
Adjournment and Board Member Resignations (01:09:05)
The meeting concludes with motions to adjourn and announcements of resignations by board members if the board continues.

The meeting concludes with a motion to adjourn. Board members express their intentions to resign if the board continues, citing frustrations with the current situation and a desire to help businesses more effectively. The motion to adjourn is passed unanimously.