Oshtemo Township - September 23, 2026 Oshtemo Township Budget Meeting

Updated about 7 hours ago

The Oshtemo Charter Township Board holds a budget meeting on September 23, 2026, to discuss the 2027 fiscal year budget. Key topics include the funding and scheduling of non-motorized projects such as paths and sidewalks, the potential adjustment of public safety special assessments, and capital improvements for township facilities. The board evaluates grant opportunities for infrastructure projects and considers the prioritization of various capital improvements, including park equipment and community center repairs. The meeting also addresses the allocation of funds to the Kalamazoo Community Foundation and the potential need for a facilities management plan.

Chapters

Welcome and Pledge of Allegiance (00:05:18)
The meeting was called to order with a welcome from the chair and the Pledge of Allegiance was recited.

The meeting began with a welcome from the chairperson, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Roll Call and Remote Participation (00:06:00)
Roll call was conducted, noting remote participation of Trustees

The roll call was conducted, and it was noted that some trustees were participating remotely. It was mentioned that no official action items were on the agenda except for the approval of the agenda itself.
Approval of Agenda (00:06:32)
The agenda was presented and approved with a motion by Trustee Sikora and seconded by Trustee Ford.

The agenda for the meeting was presented to the board. Trustee Sikora motioned to approve the agenda as presented, and Trustee Ford seconded the motion. The motion was carried with five in favor and two absent.
Discussion on Board Budget (00:07:09)
The board engaged in a detailed discussion about the budget, including fund balances and expenditure percentages.

The discussion on the board budget focused on reviewing fund balances as a percentage of expenditures, following a request from the board to see such calculations rather than as a percentage of revenue. Accountant Ben Wakeley presented the figures and explained the policy on fund balances. The conversation touched on parks, fund transfers, and the implications of operating expenditures surpassing revenues.
Revenue and Millage Rate Discussion (00:19:59)
The board discussed options for handling revenue through millage rates and other financial strategies.

The discussion moved to revenue, particularly the millage rates. The board considered the implications of maintaining current rates versus making adjustments. The conversation included a review of various revenue sources, the impact on the fund balance, and the necessity of planning for future budget cycles to avoid deficits. The board weighed the risks of status quo versus making proactive changes.
Budget and Financial Discussion (00:41:19)
Discussion on the township's budget, focusing on the police fund, expenses, and potential tax adjustments.

The meeting began with a discussion about the township's fund balance and expected expenses. The board members debated whether to adjust the millage rates to increase revenue or to maintain the current rates and use the existing fund balance. There was a consensus to keep the current rates for another year despite the increased operating expenses, and focus on trimming unnecessary projects to manage the budget.
Police Fund and Millage Rate Consideration (00:53:00)
Detailed consideration of the police fund, millage rates, and their impact on the township budget.

Board members discussed the police fund's status and the implications of changing millage rates. The conversation focused on whether to maintain the current tax rates for the police fund or increase them to cover rising expenses. Board members expressed a preference for maintaining current rates, considering the economic impact on citizens, and using the fund balance as necessary.
Public Works and Capital Projects (01:00:00)
Review of current and upcoming public works projects, including non-motorized paths and infrastructure improvements.

The discussion shifted to public works projects, highlighting the need for non-motorized paths and infrastructure maintenance. Specific projects on Drake Road, KL Avenue, and Parkview Avenue were mentioned, with emphasis on securing grant funding to minimize township expenses. The board considered the importance of these projects for safety and community improvement, despite budget constraints.
Discussion on Drake Road Project (01:14:55)
Discussion about the Drake Road project, including logical termination, capital planning, and road descriptions.

The meeting discussed the logical termination of Drake Road, the description and changes needed, and the capital plan for the rest of Drake Road improvements.
Bridge and Asylum Lake Preserve (01:15:50)
Discussion on the bridge project at Asylum Lake Preserve and its impact on biking routes.

The bridge at Asylum Lake Preserve was a significant project and favored by the biking community. It addressed issues with crossing and is part of the bike routes.
Street and Stadium Projects (01:17:05)
Discussion on Ninth Street and Stadium projects, including design and maintenance aspects.

The Ninth Street stadium project has been completed with some punchlist items remaining. Discussion included design for sidewalks along Stadium to Ninth Street.
Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) (01:18:20)
Overview of the transportation improvement plan and the importance of meeting deadlines to avoid loss of funds.

The TIP is a three-year plan with fixed funding. If deadlines are not met, the organization could lose allocated money, highlighting the critical nature of completing projects on time.
Budget and Financial Management (01:27:27)
Discussion on budget management, fund allocations, and financial strategies for road maintenance.

The meeting covered budget allocations for road maintenance and preventative measures, emphasizing matching funds and lifecycle cost analysis for optimal service levels.
Non-Motorized Projects and Sidewalks (01:40:58)
Focus on non-motorized projects, including sidewalk design and the impact on community connectivity.

Discussion centered on the design and implementation of non-motorized projects, such as sidewalks, to improve connectivity and meet community needs.
Project Funding and Grant Matching (01:42:20)
Discussion on securing grant matches for projects to reduce financial burdens and enhance project feasibility.

The focus was on identifying projects that could benefit from grant matches to alleviate budget constraints, with emphasis on the Vienna to Drake project.
Facilities Plan and Water Intrusion Issues (01:57:03)
Discussion on addressing water intrusion at Township Hall and considering a facilities evaluation plan.

The meeting addressed water intrusion problems at Township Hall and proposed reallocating funds for a comprehensive facilities evaluation to address these issues effectively.
Discussion on the Facilities Management Plan and Drainage Improvements (01:59:48)
The board discussed the importance of prioritizing the completion of a facilities management plan, which includes evaluating drainage improvements and maintenance issues.

Board members emphasized the need to prioritize the development of a facilities management plan. This plan should address various maintenance and improvement projects, such as drainage improvements, evaluating building conditions, and identifying cost-effective solutions. There was a consensus that having a comprehensive plan is crucial to avoid ad-hoc decisions and ensure systematic improvements. The discussion included considerations of budget allocations and the potential need to reprioritize funds to facilitate the plan's completion.
Capital Outlay for Cemeteries, Buildings, and Grounds (02:09:01)
Board members reviewed capital outlay projects for cemeteries, buildings, and grounds, including vehicle garage roof replacement and township hall roof assessment.

The board reviewed several capital projects related to cemeteries, buildings, and grounds, focusing on the need to replace the roof of the vehicle garage and assess the township hall's roof for potential replacement. Discussions included the timing of these projects, cost estimates, and the possibility of incorporating solar panels as part of the roof replacement to reduce energy costs. The board also considered how these projects fit into the broader facilities management plan.
Budget Considerations for Parks and Playgrounds (02:18:19)
The board discussed budget allocations for parks and playgrounds, addressing maintenance needs and potential replacements of playground equipment.

Board members reviewed the budgetary needs for maintaining parks and playgrounds, highlighting the importance of keeping playground equipment safe and functional. There was a discussion on the potential liability issues if equipment is not properly maintained and the community's expectations for well-kept recreational areas. The board considered options such as removing unsafe equipment versus replacing it and debated on the financial implications of these choices.
Oshtemo Community Center Roof and Ventilation Repairs (02:23:00)
The board reviewed proposals for repairs to the Oshtemo Community Center, including roof and ventilation system improvements.

The board discussed the necessary repairs for the Oshtemo Community Center. Proposals for roof and ventilation improvements were reviewed, with an emphasis on ensuring proper ventilation and preventing future issues. The board considered a tiered approach to the repairs, allowing for phased implementation based on budget constraints and prioritizing critical areas first. There was a consensus on the importance of maintaining the community center's infrastructure to support its continued use.
Budget Review and Adjustments (02:27:31)
Board members discussed potential adjustments to the budget, focusing on police funding and general fund millage.

The board reviewed the current budget and considered potential adjustments. Key points included discussions on the police funding, general fund millage rates, and how these affect the overall financial health of the township. There was a dialogue on the implications of maintaining or altering the millage rates and ensuring that essential services are adequately funded. The board explored different scenarios and options for updating the budget to reflect community priorities and fiscal responsibilities.
Budget Discussion and Millage Rates (02:31:08)
Discussion on budget adjustments and millage rates, including movement of funds and reduction of expenditures without increasing millage rates.

The Board discussed various budget adjustments, including moving funds as discussed during the meeting, reducing expenditures, and not increasing the millage rates. They talked about the importance of keeping the top line number easily adjustable with the revenue projection sheet. The only decision needed next Tuesday is to agree on the millage rates. There were discussions about distinguishing between different types of millage and taxes to avoid public confusion.
Public Comment Session (02:36:38)
Public comments were made regarding the millage rate, maintenance issues, and interest in having a local police department.

During the public comment session, a resident expressed concerns about the ability to raise the millage rate without a public vote and mentioned disappointment about maintenance garage issues. The resident also voiced interest in the discussion of establishing a local police department instead of contracting out. There was also talk about the importance of sidewalks and how their absence affects safety.
Board Member Comments (02:41:00)
Board members made comments on various topics including complaint process enhancements and leftover pizza.

Trustee Ford mentioned a submitted draft for enhancing the complaint process. Trustee Sikora had no comments. Trustee Buszka noted there was leftover pizza available for anyone interested. Other board members thanked participants for their contributions and the meeting ended with acknowledgments of the efforts of those present virtually and physically.