Comstock Charter Township - October 21, 2024 Joint Board Meeting

Updated about 12 hours ago

The Comstock Township and DDA Joint Meeting on October 21, 2024, covers several important topics. The meeting begins with public comments highlighting concerns about homelessness and safety in the community. The primary focus is on the presentation of a proposed riverfront development project by the DDA, which aims to revitalize the area and attract new businesses and residents. The project is still in the conceptual phase, and the DDA seeks support from the Township Board to continue exploring the development. The meeting also addresses the current police budget and the possibility of increasing police presence in response to public safety concerns. Overall, the meeting reflects community engagement and the Township's efforts to address both development opportunities and social issues.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:33)
The meeting is called to order for both the Township board and the DDA board.

The joint meeting between the charter Township of Comstock and the DDA board is called to order.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:03)
Participants stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Members of the meeting stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:30)
The agenda for the meeting is approved without any corrections or additions.

The meeting agenda is presented, and a motion to approve the agenda is made by Clerk Bamp and seconded by Trustee Amos. The motion is carried.
Public Comments (00:01:54)
Members of the public express concerns about community issues such as homelessness, safety, and development.

The first portion of public comment allows individuals to speak for three minutes. Several community members express concerns regarding police safety, homelessness, development projects, and community priorities.
Department and Commission Announcements (00:13:45)
Updates and announcements are provided from departments, boards, and commissions.

Various departments, boards, and commissions provide announcements and updates. Commissioner Gissler speaks about county building plans and the appointment of a new D E I director.
Budget and Financial Reports (00:16:18)
County Commissioner Gissler discusses budget-related topics, including potential new county buildings.

Commissioner Gissler discusses the possibility of a new county building due to the need for renovations on the current one, as well as the county's exploration of properties.
Committee Reports (00:16:38)
Information on committee activities is shared, including the appointment of a new D E I director.

The county now has a D E I director, Dell Darnell, and meetings have started to ensure progress on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.
Public Safety Discussion (00:18:02)
Discussion on public safety concerns, including police presence and crime prevention strategies.

A discussion takes place about the adequacy of police coverage in the Township, with questions from the public about response times and strategies for dealing with homelessness and crime.
Announcements of New Business (00:18:02)
New business includes discussion on upcoming police strategies and community safety plans.

New business covers upcoming strategies for addressing community issues, with an emphasis on enhancing police visibility and response.
Call to Order (00:38:52)
The meeting was called to order, setting the stage for the discussion of the agenda items.

The meeting was officially called to order, marking the beginning of the discussions and deliberations on the agenda items for the session.
Approval of Agenda (00:38:54)
The agenda for the meeting was presented and approved by a motion, ensuring a structured discussion.

The agenda for the meeting was laid out in front of the participants. A motion to approve the agenda was made and seconded, followed by a vote where all were in favor, ensuring that the meeting would proceed according to the planned schedule.
Public Comments (00:41:00)
Public comments were invited to gather input and concerns from the community regarding the agenda items.

The floor was opened for public comments, allowing members of the community to voice their opinions, concerns, and suggestions related to the discussed topics. This session is crucial for engaging with the public and considering their input in decision-making.
Review of Revenue and Expenditure Report (00:42:40)
The revenue and expenditure report was reviewed to assess financial status and plan future actions.

A detailed review of the monthly revenue and expenditure report was conducted. Comments were made on various line items, particularly staffing costs and event expenses. The board was invited to ask questions or make comments before a motion was made to accept the report.
Presentations for Downtown Development Project (00:44:18)
Presentations were made regarding the downtown development project, providing insights into plans and analyses.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) presented updates on the downtown development project. Consultants shared market analyses and conceptual plans, highlighting potential economic impacts and development strategies. The presentation aimed to build excitement and inform the community about the project's progress.
Presentation on Market Potential and Site Plan (01:06:27)
Discussion on the market potential for new businesses and housing on the site, including economic growth strategies.

The meeting began with a presentation on the market potential of the site, discussing possible attractions like a meat market, pub, small pharmacy, and other stores. The focus was on catalyzing economic growth and bringing new vitality to the community's heart. The presentation also included ideas for addressing business retention and potential uses of the space, such as furniture restoration shops and thrift stores.
Presentation on Site Analysis and Development Constraints (01:08:11)
Analysis of site constraints for development, including floodplain issues and environmental considerations.

The site analysis presentation covered the constraints for development on the property, including floodplain issues and environmental concerns. The assets of the property were highlighted, such as its walkable neighborhood, proximity to moderate density residential areas, and its location at a major intersection with good traffic count. The presentation discussed how these factors can support a small retail center.
Discussion on Proposed Site Development Plan (01:10:34)
Presentation of a conceptual site development plan with mixed-use buildings and townhouses.

A conceptual development plan for the site was presented, including mixed-use buildings with retail and residential spaces. The plan proposed two buildings along King Highway and five townhouses along the river. The development would include parking, bike paths, pedestrian ways, and a kayak launch. The presentation highlighted the potential for improved security and economic benefits to the community.
Public Comments on Development Concerns (01:23:00)
Community members express concerns about the development plans, including housing affordability and homelessness.

During the public comments section, community members voiced concerns about the proposed development, including fears of being displaced, issues with homelessness, and the need for affordable housing. Suggestions were made to consider the needs of low-income residents and to include state-funded facilities to support mental health and homelessness.
Response to Public Feedback and Clarification (01:26:00)
Officials respond to public concerns, emphasizing that the development plan is a concept open to feedback.

Officials responded to public feedback by clarifying that the development plan is a concept and not finalized. They acknowledged the concerns about affordability and security and committed to considering these issues as the plan evolves. They emphasized the importance of public input and the intention to hold more meetings to gather feedback.
Discussion on Housing Development (01:38:33)
The board discussed the potential for housing development south of the river, considering infill opportunities and neighborhood values.

The discussion focused on the potential for building houses to draw people into neighborhoods south of the river. There was a debate about whether new houses would fit into the existing neighborhoods or if it would require leveling existing areas. The idea was to look at infill opportunities, especially those with views overlooking the river bluffs.
Riverfront Development Project (01:52:01)
The board reviewed the riverfront development project, emphasizing the importance of community involvement and the potential impact.

The discussion covered the riverfront development project's potential, including the challenges of acquiring land and the importance of community involvement. There was a focus on ensuring that any development does not displace current residents without their consent.
Zoning Ordinance and Rezoning Request (02:13:00)
The board considered a rezoning request from residential to light manufacturing to align with surrounding areas.

The board reviewed a request to rezone a piece of land from residential to light manufacturing. The planning commission had recommended approval, and the discussion included considerations of compatibility with surrounding land use and the impact on public services.
Cremation-Only Cemetery Ordinance Amendment (02:19:30)
The board considered an amendment to cemetery ordinances to include a pre-poured foundation for cremation-only plots.

The proposal involved amending the cemetery ordinances to include a pre-poured ribbon foundation for cremation-only plots. This change aims to reduce costs for residents and improve maintenance.
Superintendent Report on End-of-Year Projects (02:21:48)
The superintendent provided an update on key projects being worked on for the end of the year, including grants and staffing changes.

The superintendent reported on several ongoing projects, including a brownfield grant application, efforts to secure additional funding for housing projects, and staffing changes due to recent departures. The board was updated on these matters to ensure transparency and alignment with township goals.
Parks and Recreation Update (02:23:20)
Discussion on ongoing projects in parks, including a gas main project in Merrill Park and a five-year master plan draft by McKenna.

The parks department shared updates on several projects. A gas main project by Consumers Energy will involve construction vehicles in Merrill Park. They are also working on a five-year master plan draft with McKenna, expected in mid-November. Additionally, there is a grant received to help replace park amenities.
Public Hearing on Industrial Development District (02:24:21)
Public hearing for the creation of an industrial development district, with a representative from Midlink explaining the details.

A public hearing was held for the creation of an industrial development district. Riley Clumsky from Southwest Michigan First presented a map and explained the district's formation. The district does not grant tax abatements but makes applications eligible for prospective businesses.
Opening and Closing of Public Hearings for Various Budgets (02:29:47)
A series of public hearings were opened and closed for various budgets, including the general fund, fire fund, police fund, and others.

The board opened and closed public hearings for several budgets, including the general fund, fire operating and capital budgets, police fund, municipal street fund, senior services fund, and library fund. This involved motions and roll call votes to facilitate the approval process.
Approval of Budget Resolutions (02:33:39)
The board approved various budget resolutions following public hearings, including resolutions for the fire fund and police fund budgets.

Following the public hearings, the board approved budget resolutions for various funds. These included the fire fund budget resolution, which was approved with a roll call vote, and the police fund budget resolution, among others.
Discussion on DDA Redevelopment Project Resolution (02:46:05)
Discussion on a resolution of support for the DDA redevelopment project, with concerns about the vagueness of the resolution's language.

There was a discussion on a resolution of support for the DDA redevelopment project. Some members expressed concerns about the vagueness of the language, particularly regarding financial commitments. It was clarified that the resolution was for general support, not a financial commitment.
Public Comments (02:55:23)
Public comments were made, with a call for civility and involvement in meetings, acknowledging the DDA's efforts.

During the public comment period, individuals expressed appreciation for the DDA's work and encouraged others to become involved in meetings to stay informed. There was also a call for civility in discussions and recognition of the long process involved in planning projects.
Public Comments (02:56:45)
Members of the community express concerns about the need for civility in discussions and support for the DDA's project.

Various members of the public expressed their views on the need for civility during meetings, emphasizing the importance of coming together as a community. There was also discussion about the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) project, with some members of the public expressing strong support for allowing the DDA to proceed with their plans.
Member Comments (03:00:23)
Board members share their thoughts on community engagement and the importance of voting in upcoming elections.

Board members took turns sharing their comments. Director Sherwood encouraged everyone to vote in the upcoming elections and mentioned the busy schedule of the Planning Commission. Trustee Amos and others expressed appreciation for public participation and the importance of community involvement in meetings.
Discussion on Homelessness and Mental Health (03:01:53)
Discussion on the challenges of addressing homelessness and mental health issues within the community and the role of state policies.

A discussion took place regarding the challenges faced by the community in addressing issues related to homelessness and mental health. The conversation touched on historical shifts in state policies from institutional care to community-based care and the resulting challenges. The need for increased political support and funding for mental health services was highlighted.
Water Hookup Discussion (03:06:02)
The board will discuss the mandatory water hookup issue at the next meeting due to concerns raised by citizens.

The issue of mandatory water hookups was raised, with a letter received from a citizen opposing it. The board plans to discuss this issue further in the next meeting and aims to reach a decision regarding mandatory hookups.
Adjournment (03:06:42)
The meeting was adjourned after all agenda items were discussed and no further comments were made.

The meeting was officially adjourned after all topics on the agenda were covered and no additional comments or issues were raised by board members or the public.