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Comstock Township - April 14, 2025 Parks and Recreation Meeting

Updated about 13 hours ago

The board reviews minor corrections to previous minutes and discusses the treasurer's report. Notably, the meeting highlights correspondence regarding potential partnerships with Albatross Aviary and Western Michigan University for park events and research studies, respectively. A significant portion of the meeting is dedicated to discussing the Merrill Park Phase II project, which involves grant applications and potential park improvements along the river's edge. Additionally, the board examines ADA upgrades at Robert Morris Park, considering accessibility improvements to pathways and playgrounds. The meeting concludes with discussions on park board bylaws and the Winky softball complex contract.

Chapters

Welcome (00:00:43)
Introduction and welcome to the meeting at the Charter Township of Comstock.

The meeting begins with a welcome to everyone attending the Charter Township of Comstock parks and recreation meeting.
Call to Order (00:00:56)
The meeting is officially called to order by the presiding officer.

The presiding officer officially calls the meeting to order, marking the formal start of the proceedings.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:24)
Discussion on approving the minutes with minor corrections noted for typos.

The minutes from the previous meeting are reviewed, and two minor typos are identified. A motion is made to approve the minutes with these corrections, and the motion is carried with no objections.
Treasurer's Report (00:02:25)
Presentation of the Treasurer's report with comments on revenue and expenditure, and approval of bills payable.

The Treasurer presents the financial report, noting that there is nothing new beyond what is in the provided packets. The board reviews revenue and expenditure reports, and a motion is made and carried to approve bills payable.
Correspondence (00:03:49)
Discussion on two letters received, one from Albatross Aviary and another from Western Michigan University.

The board discusses two letters received. The first is from Albatross Aviary regarding a potential partnership for parks programming. The second is from Western Michigan University requesting permission to conduct a study in the park, involving sampling from the river and surrounding areas.
Public Comments (00:11:41)
The floor is opened for public comments but no comments are made at this time.

The meeting opens the floor to public comments, allowing attendees to express any concerns or opinions. However, no public comments are made during this session.
Reports (00:12:00)
Reports on Merrill Park update, director's report, and program report are presented and discussed.

The board receives updates on Merrill Park, including future plans and grant processes. The director's report includes information on ongoing programs and activities, and the program report highlights recent events and participation statistics.
Old Business - Football Field (00:23:23)
Discussion on the status and future use of the old football field property.

The board discusses the status of the old football field property, including access issues and potential uses such as archery programs and skate parks. They consider the steps needed to clear paths and explore the property further.
New Business - Winky Softball Complex Contract (00:33:28)
Review and discussion of the new contract for the Winky Softball Complex.

The board reviews the new contract for the Winky Softball Complex. They discuss the terms and conditions and ensure that all members have reviewed and understood the contract before proceeding.
Discussion on Contract Changes (00:33:47)
Discussion about changes to a contract involving park maintenance and LED lights.

The discussion centered around changes suggested by the attorney and the county regarding a contract for park maintenance. The main issue was the duration of the contract and the responsibility for maintaining lights. There was a suggestion to switch to LED lights, but concerns were raised about investing in property not owned by the township.
Contract Approval Motion (00:35:50)
Motion to approve the River Oaks Winky Softball Complex contract.

A motion was made to approve the River Oaks Winky Softball Complex contract with the changes suggested by the attorney. The contract would then be sent to the Township board for approval. There was discussion about the proper signing procedure and whether the Township board needed to sign it.
Robert Morris Park ADA Upgrades Discussion (00:38:02)
Discussion on ADA upgrades at Robert Morris Park, including pathways and grill pads.

The discussion covered ongoing ADA upgrades at Robert Morris Park. There were concerns about the placement of a sway bench, the need for accessible pathways, and the type of material to use for path construction. The group debated the impact of these changes on green space and the budget allowances for these upgrades.
Park Board Commission Bylaws Revision (00:57:20)
Review and update of park board commission bylaws to align with township standards.

The main changes in the bylaws include updates to the minute structure and replacement of citizen participation instructions to conform with the township's current standards. Further discussion was held on whether to separate new business from continuing business or to group them together as 'business' or 'action items'.