Comstock Township - June 25, 2025 Downtown Development Authority Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The DDA considers their exclusion in recent township board decisions, the use of fund balances to cover budget shortfalls, and the impact of CIP fund allocations on DDA projects. Public comments include complaints about board member behavior affecting community members with disabilities. The board discusses ongoing projects such as the riverfront redevelopment and facade improvement program. An update on the ISG grant and its extension is provided, along with discussions on future funding strategies. The meeting concludes with plans for community events like the Fall Fest and potential changes to the DDA's bylaws.

Chapters

Call to Order and Opening Remarks (00:01:05)
The meeting of the Downtown Development Authority of Comstock Township was called to order.

The Downtown Development Authority of Comstock Township board meeting was called to order on Wednesday.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:12)
The agenda was approved without changes after a motion and second by board members.

The first item was the approval of the agenda. There were no changes or corrections, and a motion to approve the agenda was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:34)
Minutes from the previous meeting were reviewed and approved by the board.

Board members had the opportunity to review the minutes that were emailed out by Steve. After reviewing, a motion to approve the minutes was made, seconded, and passed unanimously.
Public Comments (00:02:05)
Public comments were made addressing board behavior and inclusion issues, with concerns about the treatment of students with disabilities.

Two members of the public made comments. The first addressed disappointing behavior by a board member towards students with developmental disabilities, describing a specific incident with a director. The second speaker criticized the board's exclusionary practices and raised concerns about fairness and transparency in board operations.
Approval of Revenue and Expenditure Monthly Report (00:06:57)
The board reviewed and approved the monthly revenue and expenditure report, discussing budget issues.

The board discussed the monthly revenue and expenditure report, noting a previous concern about not having a balanced budget. The shortfall was covered by a fund balance allocation. The board approved the report after a motion and second.
Old Business - Review of DDA Budget Information Request (00:11:06)
Discussion on budget information request from Supervisor Martin, with no response received yet.

Supervisor Martin had requested budget information, including background on contracts and outstanding debt. The board's response was sent, but no feedback has been received from Martin, leaving the discussion open-ended.
Committee Updates and Reports (00:25:10)
Updates from various committees, including economic development and beautification projects.

Committee updates were provided, focusing on economic development and the ISG grant request. Discussion included attempts to secure additional funding and recent achievements in beautification projects.
Adjournment (00:29:05)
The meeting was adjourned after discussing upcoming projects and grant applications.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on future projects, including riverfront redevelopment and facade improvements. The board continues to seek grants and support for various initiatives.
Welcome and Introduction (00:33:13)
The meeting begins with a welcome and introduction of the agenda and participants.

The meeting is called to order, introducing the agenda and participants. Initial discussions on the procedures and expectations for the meeting.
Property Inventory Discussion (00:33:36)
Discussion on property inventory with assistance from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

The board discusses the property inventory, with assistance from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The focus is on target projects like redevelopment sites.
Beautification and Maintenance Update (00:33:49)
Updates on beautification projects, including new gateway sign installation and security camera setup.

The committee discusses recent beautification efforts, such as the installation of a new gateway sign and a security camera in collaboration with Metro Transit to monitor and deter vandalism.
New Banners and Maintenance (00:35:48)
Discussion on installing new banners and maintenance of existing infrastructure.

There is a discussion about the installation of new welcome banners and whether to wait until the next scheduled maintenance to install brackets. Considerations include cost and timing.
Weed Control on Bridge Areas (00:38:04)
Deliberation on hiring MoCo for weed control around bridge areas.

The committee discusses whether to hire MoCo again for weed control on the bridge areas, considering the aesthetic impact and the budget constraints. Alternatives and responsibilities are debated.
Events and Special Programs (00:47:39)
Discussion on continued partnership in the Fall Fest and budget allocation for events.

The board discusses continuing partnership with Parks and Recreation for the Fall Fest, budgeting $1000 for participation in events such as providing music and ice cream.
Executive Administration Committee (00:51:20)
Review and potential update of DDA bylaws by the Executive Committee.

The Executive Administration Committee is tasked with reviewing and potentially updating the DDA bylaws to address issues related to contracts, spending, and appointments. Involvement of the supervisor and clerk is suggested.
MEDC Match on Main Grant Update (00:55:12)
Update on the status of the Match on Main Grant application and related ordinance.

An update on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's Match on Main Grant application process. The related mobile vendor ordinance is still under review by the Planning Commission.
Board Member Comments and Public Comments (00:56:42)
Board and public comments on various topics including fundraising and community engagement.

Board members and the public discuss various topics, including recognition for contributors to projects and positive community feedback on recent DDA initiatives. Concerns and suggestions are also shared.
Adjournment (01:03:17)
The meeting is formally adjourned after all discussions are completed.

After all agenda items have been discussed, the meeting is formally adjourned with a motion and a second. The next steps and follow-ups are briefly mentioned.