Comstock Township - May 22, 2025 Moratorium Committee

Updated 4 days ago

The Moratorium Committee focuses on the community's response to a proposed Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) near a school. Key points of discussion include the safety concerns related to BESS, as highlighted by a presentation from Dr. Hathaway, and the potential risks and benefits of the project. The meeting also reviews the township's master plan, emphasizing the need for public input and adherence to zoning guidelines. The discussion extends to the continuation of the moratorium on BESS projects, with community members expressing strong opposition to the proposed location near a school. The meeting includes a presentation by the Michigan Public Service Commission, addressing regulatory frameworks and safety standards for BESS, and a review of brownfield sites as potential alternative locations for such projects.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:52)
The meeting was formally called to order by the chairperson, marking the official start of the proceedings.

The chairperson officially called the meeting to order, signaling the start of the agenda items and proceedings.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:54)
Participants stood and recited the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America as a sign of respect and patriotism.

The meeting attendees were asked to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, affirming their loyalty and respect to the flag and the nation.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:22)
The agenda was reviewed for changes, with an addition for a discussion on a moratorium. The amended agenda was approved unanimously.

Attendees were asked if there were any corrections or additions to the agenda. A proposal was made to add a discussion on a continued moratorium and the support of a moratorium committee, which was accepted. The agenda was then approved with these amendments.
Approval of Minutes (00:02:20)
The minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved without opposition, marking them as an official record.

A motion was made to approve the minutes of the previous meeting. The motion received support and was approved unanimously by those present, finalizing the minutes as an official record of that meeting.
Presentation by Michigan Public Service Commission (00:02:35)
The Michigan Public Service Commission presented information about the renewable energy siting process, including state and local pathways, safety requirements, and stakeholder engagement.

Sarah Moff, manager at the Michigan Public Service Commission, presented an overview of the renewable energy siting process in Michigan. The presentation covered the different pathways for siting utility-scale projects, the role of the state and local governments, and specific safety and compliance requirements for energy storage facilities. Moff emphasized the importance of local unit engagement and the voluntary nature of the state process. The presentation also detailed the filing requirements, public engagement opportunities, and the role of the commission in approving or denying siting applications.
Fire Safety and Emergency Response Coordination (00:33:40)
Discussion on requiring annual training for local fire departments and ongoing coordination with emergency services for new projects.

The meeting discussed the importance of requiring project developers to coordinate with local fire departments and emergency responders. This includes providing annual training and developing comprehensive fire response plans that are updated every three years.
Compliance and Permitting Requirements (00:36:08)
Outline of compliance requirements for developers, including obtaining all necessary permits before operation and ongoing sound monitoring.

Developers must obtain all environmental and road use permits before commencing operations. Sound monitoring is required throughout the first year of operation to ensure compliance with decibel limits. The state holds financial assurance for decommissioning.
Decommissioning and Financial Assurance (00:40:01)
Discussion on decommissioning plans and financial assurance requirements for the lifetime of projects.

Developers must provide decommissioning plans and update them regularly. The state holds financial assurance to ensure projects can be safely decommissioned at the end of their life. Updates are required every three years initially, and more frequently as projects near end-of-life.
Public Engagement and Resources (00:41:15)
Information on public engagement opportunities and resources available for local governments and the public.

The commission will host a town hall in Detroit to gather public input on commission matters. Resources are available from the Graham Sustainability Institute and the American Clean Power Association for local governments and best planning practices.
Discussion on Brownfield Development (00:56:29)
Discussion on brownfield sites and incentives for developers to use them for renewable energy projects.

Brownfield sites, which may be underutilized due to contamination, can be used for renewable energy projects. The meeting discussed incentives and the potential benefits of using these sites for solar energy, with examples from local projects.
Discussion on Brownfield Sites (01:08:00)
Discussion on Brownfield sites in Comstock and the role of the county's Brownfield authority.

Participants discussed the potential for Brownfield sites in Comstock, the role of the Kalamazoo County Brownfield authority, and how these sites could be declared and developed. The discussion included mentioning key personnel such as Rachel Grover and Macy Walters, and how the process works in the city of Portage. The township's relationship with the county's authority was also clarified.
Discussion of the Master Plan for the Northeast Quadrant (01:11:03)
Review and discussion of the master plan for the northeast quadrant, including zoning and land use.

The discussion covered the master plan for the northeast quadrant of the township, including agricultural, residential, and industrial zoning. Key points included promoting renewable energy, protecting green space, and ensuring the provision of park and open space facilities. The importance of collaboration with educational institutions was highlighted.
Zoning and Rezoning Concerns (01:15:15)
Concerns about property rezoning and the notification process for owners.

There was a discussion about complaints regarding property being rezoned without the owners' knowledge. It was clarified that rezoning requires the property owner's consent, either directly or through authorization. The distinction between the master plan's future land use map and current zoning was also explained.
Continuation of the Moratorium Discussion (01:18:39)
Discussion on the continuation of the moratorium and the role of the moratorium committee.

The meeting discussed the continuation of the moratorium, with support for further information gathering and educational sessions. Some members emphasized the importance of compiling a comprehensive binder of learned information. Opinions varied on whether the moratorium should continue.
Public Hearing on Moratorium Concerns (01:21:05)
Public hearing on concerns related to the moratorium and its impact on planning.

The public hearing addressed concerns regarding the moratorium, with some members feeling blindsided by its implementation. The need for more public engagement and communication was emphasized, and the benefits of having educational sessions were debated.
Battery Storage and Safety Concerns Presentation (01:25:00)
Presentation on battery storage systems, their necessity, and safety concerns.

A presentation was given on the need for battery storage systems in the context of renewable energy. The presenter discussed types of battery systems, safety concerns, and local benefits. The presentation also covered technical aspects like thermal runaway and the importance of using safe battery technologies like LFP cells.
Discussion on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) (01:46:41)
The discussion focused on the challenges and risks associated with BESS, including temperature management, redundancy, and noise concerns.

The presenter discussed the rapid rise in the use of battery energy storage systems (BESS) and the challenges that have come with it. The presentation highlighted the lack of current technology application to manage temperatures effectively within BESS. Concerns about redundancy in critical systems were raised, drawing parallels to the redundancy in airplane systems. The presenter also discussed noise issues associated with electrical components such as inverters and transformers, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of noise ordinances. The discussion included examples of incidents and risks involved with BESS, such as cascading failures and the release of heavy metals during fires.
Public Comments on BESS Near Schools (02:01:02)
Residents expressed strong opposition to the proposed BESS near schools, citing safety concerns and lack of transparency.

Several residents voiced their opposition to the proposed location of a battery energy storage system near a school. Tammy Keeler strongly opposed the project, expressing concerns about the safety of children and accusing the board of keeping plans hidden from the public. Another resident echoed these concerns, highlighting that the area is designated for residential development and lacks industrial zoning. There were calls for transparency and further public input. Concerns were also raised about potential conflicts of interest involving board members.
Discussion on Fire Safety and Emergency Response (02:05:32)
Concerns were raised about the ability to handle fires involving lithium batteries, with suggestions to re-evaluate safety measures.

During the meeting, a discussion took place regarding the challenges of extinguishing fires involving lithium batteries. A resident mentioned that fire officials had previously stated that such fires are difficult to put out and typically need to burn out completely. This prompted further concerns about the safety and preparedness of the local fire department to handle potential incidents involving the BESS.
Citizen Input on Risks vs. Benefits of BESS (02:06:27)
A resident questioned the risks compared to the benefits of BESS, urging caution and consideration of stakeholder input.

A resident of Comstock Township addressed the board, emphasizing the need to weigh the risks of the proposed BESS against its benefits. They referenced ongoing risk assessments and urged the board to wait for a comprehensive report before lifting any moratorium on the project. The resident also mentioned potential funding cuts to community readiness grants, questioning whether the benefits justify the risks if financial incentives are withdrawn.
Adjournment of Meeting (02:09:45)
The meeting was formally adjourned after closing remarks and no further citizen questions.

The meeting concluded with closing remarks, acknowledging the discussions that took place. There were no further questions from citizens, and the meeting was formally adjourned.