Comstock Township - May 28, 2025 Downtown Development Authority Meeting

Updated 3 days ago

The DDA has a confrontational meeting regarding the introduction of Larry Rabbit as a new member. The meeting features a heated debate between board members and Township Supervisor Ben Martin regarding the appointment process for a new DDA member, which some felt lacked transparency. The meeting also covers updates on financial reports, development projects, and beautification efforts in the downtown area.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:45)
The meeting is called to order for the Comstock Center Downtown Development Authority Board.

The chair calls the meeting to order, beginning the session for the Comstock Center Downtown Development Authority Board.
Welcome New Member (00:00:52)
Mr. Larry Rabbit is welcomed as the new DDA member.

The chair welcomes Mr. Larry Rabbit as the new member of the Downtown Development Authority, expressing openness and anticipation for his contributions.
Approval of the Agenda (00:01:04)
Discussion about changes to the agenda, moving an item up.

The agenda is reviewed for any changes or corrections. The executive committee requests moving an item up in the agenda, which is agreed upon and motioned for approval.
Approval of Meeting Minutes (00:01:47)
The meeting minutes are approved without any changes.

The chair asks if there are any changes or corrections to the previous meeting's minutes. With no objections, a motion is made to approve the minutes as submitted, which passes unanimously.
Public Comment (00:02:18)
Discussion on recent cleanup event and committee transparency.

A member of the public, William, comments on a recent cleanup event, noting the low turnout due to a storm and suggesting rescheduling. He also raises concerns about the transparency of committee meetings and his exclusion from them.
Executive Committee Report (00:03:39)
Discussion on the executive committee's role in appointments.

The executive committee's recommendation to appoint a new DDA member is discussed. There is a contentious discussion about the process, with accusations of undermining the DDA process and a lack of transparency in the appointment of Mr. Larry Rabbit.
Revenue and Expenditure Report (00:22:02)
The financial report is reviewed and approved.

The board reviews the revenue and expenditure reports for the month. Expenditures include flowers for the mural gateway sign and security camera purchase. The board is within budget and approves the financial report.
Committee Updates - Comstock Redevelopment Project (00:26:18)
Negotiations continue for the Comstock redevelopment project.

The board discusses ongoing negotiations for the Comstock redevelopment project. Although previous discussions seemed stalled, contact was made again, and negotiations have resumed. The board remains hopeful but cautious.
Fundraising Efforts Discussion (00:31:07)
Discussion about strategic connections with businesses for fundraising related to housing benefits and grant funding.

The meeting discussed efforts to strategically connect with businesses and individuals for fundraising, particularly focusing on the residential portion of projects that could benefit from donations. Different approaches were considered, including events and direct outreach to businesses.
Motion for ISG Grant Fundraising Extension (00:32:32)
Motion to request an extension on the ISG grant fundraising was passed unanimously.

A motion was presented and discussed to request an extension on the fundraising deadline for the ISG grant. The motion was put to a vote and passed with unanimous support from the board members present.
Facade Improvement Program Update (00:35:45)
Update on facade improvements, including successful projects and new efforts for damaged signs.

Discussion on the progress of facade improvement projects, including successful updates to existing facades and efforts to address damage caused by recent storms. The meeting highlighted ongoing communication with business owners regarding necessary repairs and improvements.
Comstock Center Inventory Overview (00:36:14)
Presentation of the latest inventory of available spaces for sale or lease in the district.

An overview of the current inventory of available commercial spaces for sale or lease within the district was presented. Members were encouraged to update the list with any new information about potential sales or leases. The inventory helps in facilitating business development and attracting tenants.
Social Media and Website Engagement Report (00:37:58)
Report on social media engagement and website traffic, indicating higher than expected views.

A report was provided on the engagement levels of the township's social media and website. The data showed higher than expected views, although comments and direct inquiries were limited. There was a discussion on strategies to increase interaction and content ideas for improving online presence.
Beautification Projects Update (00:40:12)
Update on beautification efforts, including planter coordination and solar camera installation plans.

The beautification efforts were discussed, focusing on planter projects and the installation of a solar-powered security camera. A local volunteer has agreed to coordinate the planter project, ensuring proper setup and maintenance. Plans for installing the security camera include finding a suitable location and ensuring it has necessary connectivity.
Gateway Signs and Banner Replacement (00:42:42)
Discussion on the installation of new gateway signs and the replacement of damaged banners.

The meeting addressed the successful installation of new gateway signs and the ongoing efforts to replace damaged banners and hardware. Coordination with local companies for installation and maintenance was also mentioned as part of the effort to enhance community aesthetics.
New Business: Michigan Main Street Grant and Ordinance (00:44:36)
Discussion on the Michigan Main Street grant application and related food truck ordinance.

An update was provided on a grant application submitted for a potential new food truck and restaurant at a local site. The grant announcement is expected in mid-July. A related ordinance for food trucks is under review, with concerns about permitting and licensing being addressed.
Board Member Comments and Adjournment (00:46:22)
Final comments from board members and formal adjournment of the meeting.

The meeting concluded with final comments from board members, followed by a motion to adjourn. The motion was passed, and the meeting was formally adjourned after all agenda items were addressed.