Comstock Township - July 21, 2025 Township Board Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The Board continues the discussion on ordinance enforcement and who should have the authority to enforce them, leading to a proposal for a new resolution. The board also deliberates on who should have access to consult with the Township's attorney, following concerns about legal expenses. Additionally, Supervisor Benjamin Martin asserts his intent to assume his statutory duties, sparking debate about the role of the Township supervisor versus the superintendent. Other agenda items include updates on local projects such as the Neal Street Park development and the ML Avenue waterline project. Public comments address concerns about Township leadership and specific incidents involving Township personnel.

Chapters

Welcome (00:00:50)
The meeting begins with a welcome to the Charter Township of Comstock, initiating the session

The meeting is officially started with a welcome to all attendees, marking the commencement of the session for the Charter Township of Comstock.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:58)
Attendees are asked to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States of America.

In a traditional gesture of patriotism, the meeting participants stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance, showing respect and loyalty to the nation.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:27)
The agenda is reviewed for any changes and approved as amended after some discussion.

During this segment, the board checks for any additions or changes to the agenda. Specific reports are moved under different headings, and a resolution discussion is added. A motion to approve the amended agenda is made, seconded, and passed by a voice vote.
Public Comments (00:02:53)
Residents express concerns on various issues like EMS response and ordinance enforcement, with no board discussion during this period.

Public comments are made by several residents addressing issues such as the adequacy of emergency medical services, ordinance enforcement rights, and environmental concerns about local activities. A representative from the state office also attends to listen to concerns. The session allows citizens to voice their issues directly to the board.
Department Announcements (00:16:12)
Department and board announcements are made, including a call for weather spotters and job openings at the Road Commission.

Announcements from departments and commissions involve updates on ongoing projects and calls for volunteer weather spotters, as well as job vacancies at the Kalamazoo Road Commission. Commissioner Gissler provides updates on community projects and opportunities for residents to engage with local government efforts.
Consent Agenda (00:21:00)
The consent agenda, including bills payable, is presented and approved unanimously.

The consent agenda, which includes financial aspects like bills payable for July, is introduced for approval. A motion is made and seconded to approve the consent agenda, which is then passed with unanimous consent from the board members.
Ordinance Readings (00:21:43)
First readings of two ordinances are conducted, involving mobile vendor regulations and a rezoning request.

First readings of ordinance proposals are undertaken. The mobile vendor ordinance, focused on regulatory changes, is presented with highlights of changes like permit durations. A rezoning ordinance discussion follows, where a property is proposed to change from residential to agricultural zoning, aligning with the master land use plan. Both ordinances receive thorough review and are approved for first reading.
Farmland Development Rights Application (00:31:03)
An application to preserve farmland under a development rights program is considered for approval.

The board reviews an application from a landowner to enter their property into the farmland development rights program. Supporting documents from conservation and planning commissions recommend approval. The board discusses potential approval to submit the application to the state, evaluating its alignment with local master plans and agricultural use criteria.
Farmland Development Rights Application Approval (00:34:03)
Trustees discuss and approve the farmland development rights application, including a roll call vote.

The board discusses the process and implications of approving the farmland development rights application. After a motion by Trustee Pratt, supported by Trustee Cherry, a roll call vote is conducted, and the motion is carried unanimously.
Treasurer's Update on Recent Meetings (00:36:32)
Deputy Knight provides updates on joint moratorium and planning commission meetings.

Deputy Knight reports on two recent meetings: a joint moratorium and planning commission meeting and a regular planning commission meeting. Key updates include amendments proposed to strengthen the township's battery storage ordinance, discussions on decommissioning agreements, and a special use land permit approval for a home-based clinic.
Discussion on Property Tax Administrative Fees (00:39:37)
A resident questions the fairness of percentage-based administrative fees on property tax bills.

A resident raised concerns about the percentage-based administrative fee on property tax bills, arguing it is unfair as it makes those with higher property values pay more. The finance director responded, explaining the legal basis and use of these fees for tax administration.
Weather Siren Proposal Discussion (00:43:00)
The board discusses proposals for weather siren installations and a sound study proposal.

Deputy Knight discusses the proposals received for weather siren installations and mentions that West Shore Services offered to conduct a sound study at no cost to better assess where sirens would be most effective. The board reviews a side-by-side comparison of quotes.
Budget Discussion and Legal Fees Concerns (00:45:56)
Trustee Pratt raises concerns about the legal fees exceeding the yearly budget within the first four months.

Trustee Pratt discusses the Township's legal expenses, noting they exceeded the yearly budget in four months. He emphasizes the need for accountability in spending and questions the necessity of some legal consultations. A heated discussion follows regarding the supervisor's legal spending and responsibilities.
Resolution Discussion (01:07:55)
The board discussed a resolution to allow various officials to communicate with the attorney, emphasizing transparency and legal clarity.

The meeting involved a detailed discussion about a resolution that would allow elected, appointed, and certain hired officials to communicate directly with the township attorney. The goal was to provide transparency and legal clarity on who can seek legal advice, thereby preventing confusion and ensuring proper communication channels. The board debated the necessity and implications of this resolution, considering past practices and budget concerns.
Budget Discussions (01:15:34)
Board members debated the budget implications of legal communications and the potential increase in costs.

There was a significant discussion regarding the budgetary impact of allowing a wider range of officials to contact the attorney. Concerns were raised about potentially increasing legal costs, which could strain the township's budget. The board considered different approaches to managing these costs, such as setting specific budget allocations for different departments or roles to track legal expenses more effectively.
Ordinance Enforcement (01:28:58)
The board considered a resolution to clarify roles in ordinance enforcement, focusing on naming positions rather than individuals.

The discussion focused on clarifying the roles and responsibilities of ordinance enforcement officers. The board debated whether to designate enforcement duties by position rather than naming specific individuals, to ensure continuity and clarity as personnel changes. This was part of a broader initiative to streamline ordinance enforcement and improve accountability within the township.
Supervisor Duties (01:36:00)
The supervisor's duties and responsibilities were reviewed, emphasizing the role as chief spokesperson and statutory authority.

The meeting included a review of the township supervisor's duties and responsibilities. The supervisor serves as the township's chief spokesperson and has authority as provided by statute or delegated by the township board. This review aimed to clarify the scope of the supervisor's role and ensure alignment with statutory requirements and board expectations.
Supervisor's Role and Responsibilities (01:37:59)
Discussion on the supervisor's role, responsibilities, and a statement by the supervisor regarding their duties and election.

The supervisor elaborates on the role and responsibilities of the Township supervisor, emphasizing their statutory duties and the decision to assume all legal responsibilities of the position. The supervisor expresses concerns about relinquishing duties to other officials without consent, highlighting the importance of maintaining the elected role's integrity.
Superintendent's Report on Copier Contract (01:43:39)
The superintendent discusses the renewal of the Township's copier lease and maintenance contract.

The superintendent presents details about the Township's copier lease, recommending the continuation of leasing due to maintenance benefits and cost-effectiveness. A vote is made to renew the lease with DL Gallivan, noting the continued service quality and cost management.
Superintendent's Report on PFAS Meeting (01:45:46)
Report on a PFAS meeting and the availability of filtration systems for affected residents.

The superintendent reports on the PFAS informational meeting held with local and county officials. Residents affected by PFAS contamination are encouraged to obtain filtration systems. Information will be shared online and via email to residents, ensuring awareness and access to necessary resources.
Public Comments (01:53:00)
Residents express concerns about Township leadership and specific incidents involving Township employees.

During public comments, residents voice their dissatisfaction with the current state of Township leadership, questioning who is in charge and addressing issues related to a Township employee's conduct. Concerns about transparency, accountability, and the handling of legal matters are prominent themes in the comments.
Member Comments (02:06:01)
Board members express reflections on the meeting and address public concerns.

Board members share their perspectives on the meeting's events, acknowledging the need for improved conduct and communication. Comments include a focus on finding common ground, maintaining professional decorum, and ensuring the board's actions reflect community interests and values.