Comstock Charter Township - April 23, 2025 Comstock Downtown Development Authority

Updated about 5 hours ago

The board reviews legal expenses related to a land acquisition project with Miller Johnson and discusses beautification initiatives, including flower baskets on the bridge and planter maintenance. The meeting also covers a new food truck ordinance and a grant application to support a new soul food truck business in the district. The board decides to proceed with applying for a state grant on behalf of Rooney's Soul Food Wagon.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:11)
The Downtown Development Authority meeting is officially called to order.

The meeting of the Downtown Development Authority is officially called to order. The chair begins the session and welcomes all present.
Approval of Agenda (00:00:19)
The agenda is reviewed and an additional item is added for approval.

The agenda for the meeting is reviewed. An additional item concerning an invoice from Miller Johnson for legal work on a redevelopment project is added and approved by the board.
Public Comment (00:01:46)
Community member gives feedback and suggestions on township projects and spending.

A community member thanks the DDA for recent improvements and provides feedback on the flower pots project, suggesting more cost-effective maintenance methods. The comment is made in a personal capacity and includes an offer to volunteer.
Revenue and Expenditure Monthly Report (00:04:09)
Review of the monthly financial activities and updates on current expenses.

The board reviews the revenue and expenditure report for the past month. Key expenses are highlighted, and an update on budget adjustments is discussed, including the new digital gateway sign and other financial activities.
Miller Johnson Expense Discussion (00:06:27)
Discussion about a legal invoice from Miller Johnson and budget considerations.

The board discusses a legal invoice from Miller Johnson regarding land negotiations. There is a debate on contacting the attorney for possible adjustments to the invoice. The board considers options for handling the expense within the budget.
Old Business (00:11:18)
Review of ongoing projects and status of previous board actions.

The board reviews ongoing projects, including the Comstock Riverfront redevelopment. Updates are given on negotiations with property owners and the status of related grants and fundraising efforts.
Economic Development and Marketing (00:11:36)
Discussion on economic development projects and marketing strategies.

The board discusses economic development efforts, including the Comstock Riverfront redevelopment and related fundraising. Updates on grants and committee actions are provided, along with potential strategies for property acquisition.
Beautification and Maintenance (00:14:14)
Discussion on beautification projects, including flower baskets and maintenance plans.

The board discusses the annual flower basket project, including costs and logistics for planting and maintaining the baskets. Concerns about vandalism and maintenance are addressed, and new security measures are considered.
Social Media and Communication (00:18:31)
Plans for improving communication through social media and newsletters.

The board discusses the use of social media and newsletters for communication. Current processes are reviewed, and it is decided to continue using the township's existing platforms for updates and engagement with the community.
Discussion on Bridge Flowers (00:31:45)
Discussion on maintenance and watering of bridge flowers, including cost concerns and volunteer involvement.

The meeting began with a discussion about the bridge flowers, focusing on the contract with MoCo for installation and watering. Concerns were raised about the cost and condition of the flowers, with suggestions for involving volunteers and possibly acquiring a truck for watering. The conversation highlighted the importance of maintaining the flowers despite the costs, as they are part of the budget and contribute to the community's appearance.
Vote on Bridge Flowers Maintenance (00:41:01)
Vote on whether to proceed with the bridge flowers maintenance and watering plan as part of the budget.

A motion was made to move forward with the maintenance of the bridge flowers as included in the budget. The motion was discussed, considering the importance of the flowers and their impact on the community's aesthetics. The motion passed with a vote, despite some opposition, emphasizing the community's commitment to beautification.
Security Camera Installation Update (00:42:11)
Update on the acquisition and installation of a new solar-powered security camera.

An update was provided on the new security camera, which is solar-powered and will be installed at a height to prevent tampering. The camera choice was influenced by Evan's recommendation, highlighting the need for better equipment to enhance community security.
Flower Planters Prep and Planting Update (00:43:14)
Discussion on the preparation and planting of flower planters, including volunteer involvement and contractor options.

The committee discussed the preparation and planting of flower planters, considering whether to use volunteers or contract services. Discussions included the quality of plant care, soil donation, and the involvement of River Street Flower Land. The decision was to continue using the contractor for the year while planning for future improvements.
Replacement of Damaged Gateway (00:48:00)
Update on the replacement of a damaged gateway, including insurance coverage and installation timeline.

The committee received an update on the replacement of a damaged gateway, which is covered by insurance. The installation is expected within two or three weeks, ensuring the community infrastructure is maintained.
Banners Replacement Discussion (00:50:00)
Discussion on replacing damaged banners, considering costs and locations for new banners.

The committee discussed replacing two damaged banners, considering whether to purchase new ones or utilize existing stock. The importance of maintaining visible and welcoming signage was emphasized, leading to a decision to purchase new banners and negotiate installation costs.
Special Programs Committee Update (00:53:27)
Planning for a community cleanup event in coordination with local organizations.

The committee is planning a community cleanup event, aiming to gather volunteers to clean up the park and assist with a river cleanup organized by the local rotary. The event is designed to engage the community in beautifying and maintaining public spaces.
Executive Admin Committee - New Board Member Appointment (00:55:00)
Discussion on appointing a new board member, reviewing applications and scheduling interviews.

The process for appointing a new board member was discussed, with four applications under consideration. The committee decided to proceed with interviews and make a recommendation for appointment to the township board, focusing on candidates with relevant skills and community ties.
New Business - MEDC Match on Main Grant (00:57:00)
Presentation on a grant application for a new food truck business, including location and development plans.

The committee heard a presentation from Jackie and Jerome Harden, who are seeking a grant to support their new food truck business in the district. They are working through regulatory processes and plan to establish a permanent restaurant location in the future. The grant application is facilitated by the DDA on their behalf, highlighting the community's support for new business initiatives.
Public Comment: Food Truck Business (01:02:18)
A discussion about a new food truck business in the community, its licensing, and the support from the Kalamazoo County Health Department.

The meeting included a discussion with a local business owner about their food truck business, its operations on Market Street, and the support they received from the Kalamazoo County Health Department. The business was seen as a valuable addition to the community, offering unique food choices and opportunities for growth.
Motion and Vote on Grant Support (01:06:12)
A motion was made and passed to support a Match on Main grant application for a local business with DDA as the official applicant.

The board discussed the need for DDA support to apply for a Match on Main grant to assist a local business. The grant would help with building improvements, such as HVAC and electrical upgrades. A motion was made and passed unanimously to support this application.
New Business: DDA Director's Workshop Attendance (01:06:35)
Discussion on the DDA Director's request to attend the MDA summer workshop in Traverse City, focusing on housing and DDA-related topics.

The DDA Director requested permission to attend the MDA summer workshop on June 5 in Traverse City. The workshop would cover various topics, including housing and lofts in DDA areas. The board approved the request, including budget considerations for travel, lodging, and registration costs.
Adjournment (01:08:08)
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was passed unanimously by the board members.

After board member comments were invited, the meeting was adjourned following a motion and a unanimous vote by those present.