Oshtemo Township - October 8, 2026 Oshtemo Township Planning Commission

Updated about 10 hours ago

The Commission reviewed a request to establish an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Frie Avenue. The property owner requested relief from certain zoning requirements to convert an existing structure into an ADU. The commission approved the request after discussing potential impacts and compliance with the zoning ordinance. Additionally, the commission continued its deliberations on the draft energy storage ordinance, addressing public safety, insurance, and environmental concerns. The ordinance aims to ensure safe and compliant installation and operation of energy storage systems. Public comments highlighted the need for expert consultation in drafting the ordinance, particularly regarding noise, fire safety, and insurance. The commission plans to reconvene to further refine the ordinance.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:00:34)
Meeting of the Oshtemo Charter Township planning commission is called to order.

The meeting is officially called to order as attendees are welcomed and the meeting of the Oshtemo Charter Township planning commission begins.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:49)
Recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.

Attendees collectively recite the Pledge of Allegiance, pledging loyalty to the flag of the United States of America and the Republic for which it stands.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:12)
The agenda is reviewed and approved without changes.

The agenda packet has been distributed and no changes are suggested. A motion is made and seconded to approve the agenda as presented. The motion is carried with all in favor.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:48)
Minutes from the previous meeting are reviewed and approved.

The minutes attached to the agenda are reviewed by the attendees. No corrections are needed, and a motion is made and seconded to approve the minutes as presented. The motion carries with all in favor.
Public Hearing on Frie Avenue ADU (00:02:47)
Discussion on a request to establish an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Frie Avenue.

The planning commission reviews a request to establish an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) on Frie Avenue. The property currently contains two buildings, and a deviation from zoning ordinance requirements is sought to allow the ADU. The commission discusses setbacks, building modifications, and compliance with the zoning ordinance.
Applicant Presentation and Public Comments (00:09:32)
The applicant presents their case for the ADU, followed by public comments.

The applicant presents their case for establishing the ADU, detailing the property's history, improvements made, and compliance efforts. Public comments are received, including a commendation for the Township's proactive approach to ADUs and considerations regarding property division and value.
Planning Commission Deliberation on ADU Request (00:16:22)
Commissioners deliberate on the ADU request, considering setbacks, precedents, and recommendations.

The planning commission deliberates on the ADU request, discussing the implications of approving setback deviations, potential precedents, and the applicant's ability to meet building inspection requirements. The commission considers the uniqueness of the existing structure and its impact on future ADU requests.
Motion to Approve ADU Request (00:24:00)
A motion to approve the ADU request with conditions is made and passed.

A motion is made to approve the ADU request with conditions as outlined in the planning staff's report. The motion is seconded and approved by the commission, with all in favor.
Discussion on Energy Systems Ordinance (00:25:11)
Review and discussion of the Energy Systems Ordinance, focusing on annual report requirements.

The commission reviews the Energy Systems Ordinance, specifically the requirements for annual reports on energy storage systems (ESS). The discussion includes the need for detailed operational performance summaries, safety incidents, maintenance records, and complaint resolutions.
Complaint Resolution Process (00:37:05)
Discussion on the complaint resolution process involving acknowledgment within two business days and inclusion in the annual report.

The meeting addressed how the Township would handle complaints, emphasizing that complaints must be acknowledged within two business days and be included in the annual report. A dedicated phone number, email, and website information are required to inform the public about the complaint resolution process. Both construction and post-construction complaints should be addressed.
Insurance and Financial Assurance (00:39:32)
Confirmation of liability insurance and financial assurance for decommissioning is required in the annual report.

The annual report must confirm that liability insurance coverage is in effect, including insurer details and policy numbers. It should also confirm that financial assurance for decommissioning remains in full force and that any material changes in insurance or financial assurance status during the reporting period are noted.
Emergency Response Plan Status (00:40:14)
Annual report must confirm accuracy of the emergency response plan and document training offers to first responders.

The report should confirm that the Emergency Response Plan (ERP) is accurate and current. It must also include whether first responder training was offered, along with the date, attendees, and any declines by the fire department. Any changes to the ERP during the reporting period must be submitted to the Oshtemo Fire Department and Township Clerk.
Personnel and Contact Updates (00:43:06)
Annual report to confirm or update operator and emergency contact information along with any changes in ownership.

The report must confirm or update the identity and qualifications of the operator and designated emergency contacts, as well as any changes in ownership or operational responsibility during the reporting period.
Approval Compliance Certification (00:44:45)
Certification that the ESS is compliant with all regulations and any issues are identified with corrective actions.

The annual report should include a signed certification by the owner or operator attesting that the ESS has been in compliance with the special land use approval and all regulations. It should also confirm the accuracy of the report and identify any known violations or non-compliance issues with a corrective action schedule provided.
Environmental Compliance (00:46:14)
Report on compliance with environmental regulations, highlighting any non-compliance issues.

The report should address compliance with all relevant environmental regulations and standards, such as the Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act, and detail any non-compliance issues.
Biannual Recertification (00:47:51)
Every two years, confirm safety standards, update manuals, and certify compliance under penalty of perjury.

In addition to the annual report, a biannual recertification must be submitted every two years confirming that ESS equipment meets safety standards, updating O&M manuals, and ensuring financial assurance for decommissioning reflects current cost estimates. This recertification must be signed and certified under penalty of perjury.
Pollution Liability Insurance (00:50:54)
Maintain pollution liability insurance covering various environmental and community impacts until site decommissioning.

Pollution liability insurance must be maintained until the site is fully decommissioned and restored, covering cleanup of contamination, well replacements, public water extensions, resident evacuation expenses, and more. It is suggested to also cover non-thermal runaway events and ensure the policy is sufficient over time.
Discussion on Zoning and Property Language (01:10:43)
The board discusses the appropriate language for zoning and property implications, especially concerning bankruptcy and liability policies.

The discussion revolves around ensuring proper language in zoning and property regulations, particularly related to schools, senior facilities, and other zoned areas. Concerns are raised about the implications of bankruptcy courts claiming funds and the responsibilities of property owners versus operators. The need for proof of insurance and annual policy checks is emphasized.
Hibbard Energy Systems Principal Use (01:15:28)
Hibbard Energy Systems' principal use is discussed, including requirements for energy storage, solar, and wind systems under special land use approval.

The meeting covers the principal use of Hibbard Energy Systems, incorporating energy storage systems, solar, and wind energy systems. The systems are subject to special land use approval and must meet specific requirements based on applicable energy systems. Stricter provisions apply in case of conflicts.
Private Accessory Energy Systems Requirements (01:17:00)
Detailed requirements for private accessory energy systems, including solar, wind, and energy storage systems, are reviewed.

The board reviews requirements for private accessory energy systems, including height, setbacks, and operational safety. Discussions include solar energy system height limits, ground versus roof mounting, total area, and setback regulations. There's an emphasis on minimizing offsite impacts like glare and ensuring compliance with fire and construction codes.
Wind Energy Systems Discussion (01:19:39)
The meeting addresses wind energy systems, focusing on setbacks, height limits, and operational safety measures.

The discussion on wind energy systems covers setbacks from community buildings and property lines, height limits for both building-mounted and ground-mounted systems, and sound pressure level restrictions. The importance of adhering to construction codes and ensuring safety through proper installation and operational guidelines is highlighted.
Energy Storage Systems and Safety (01:22:45)
Exploration of safety and installation requirements for energy storage systems, focusing on battery storage and compliance with safety codes.

The board discusses the installation, maintenance, and safety requirements for energy storage systems, especially those involving battery storage. Compliance with fire codes and ensuring safe disposal of non-functional components are crucial points. The need for documentation and adherence to building and electrical codes is emphasized.
Public Comment and Expert Consultation (01:51:25)
Public comments are invited, highlighting the need for expert consultation on complex ordinance issues, particularly regarding insurance and liability.

During the public comment session, commenter expresses appreciation for the board's efforts and emphasizes the importance of consulting experts on complex issues like insurance and liability in ordinance drafting. She suggests retaining experts to assist in finalizing the ordinance, as the board members are not expected to become experts themselves.
Public Comments on Ordinance and Compliance (01:54:16)
Several residents commented on the need for expert reviews of the ordinance, expressing concerns about compliance, safety, and the impact on local environment and property values.

The public comment section featured various residents discussing the ordinance related to a construction project. They highlighted the importance of involving experts to review the ordinance, particularly in areas like noise control, fire safety, and environmental impact. Concerns were raised about compliance monitoring, the sufficiency of insurance, and the need for mandatory sound monitoring both pre- and post-construction. Residents expressed fears about the project's impact on water and air quality, noise levels, and property values, urging the board to consider these issues seriously.
Planning Commission Discussion (02:06:54)
The Planning Commission discussed the next steps for the ordinance draft, including reviewing public comments and setting timelines for future meetings.

During the planning commission discussion, members addressed the timeline for the next draft of the ordinance and the need to incorporate public comments. They apologized for previous absences and assured the community of their commitment to carefully consider all input. The commission also discussed extending the moratorium on new applications until the ordinance is finalized, reflecting their ongoing efforts to regulate developments responsibly. Plans for future meetings were mentioned, including the possibility of rezoning discussions and environmental regulation reviews.
Adjournment (02:10:00)
The meeting was adjourned after the planning commission discussion, with thanks given for attendance.

The meeting was officially adjourned following the planning commission's discussion on the ordinance and upcoming meetings. Attendees were thanked for their participation and input.