Oshtemo Township - September 23, 2025 Township Board Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The board addresses amendments to the meeting agenda to include remote location identification and agenda approval. They approve a resolution recognizing September as Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month. Public comments highlight concerns over recent spending and taxation. The board discusses budget priorities, specifically focusing on maintaining current millage rates and the implications on township projects and finances. The planning commission's recommendations and ongoing issues with road commission cooperation are also discussed. The board decides to keep millage rates unchanged for the upcoming year while addressing concerns about project delays and funding allocations.

Chapters

Welcome and Call to Order (00:00:46)
The meeting began with a welcome message and was officially called to order.

The meeting began with the chairperson welcoming everyone present. Shortly afterwards, the official call to order was made, marking the start of the meeting's proceedings.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:57)
Attendees stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.

Following the call to order, attendees were invited to stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance. This ceremonial practice is a standard procedure in many governmental meetings.
Amendments to the Agenda (00:01:27)
Several amendments were proposed to the agenda, including adding new items.

The chairperson proposed several amendments to the agenda, including adding a new item 2B for remote location identification and another for the approval of the agenda and comprehensive master plan authorization.
Remote Location Identification (00:03:00)
Discussion on remote voting eligibility and participation of Trustee Cole.

This item addressed the remote participation of board members as per state statute. Trustee Cole was present remotely for discussions but was ineligible to vote.
Township Mission, Vision, and Core Values (00:03:18)
The board reviewed and shared the Township's mission, vision, and core values.

The board revisited the Township's mission, vision, and core values, inviting members to share these principles which guide their governance and operations.
Approval of the Agenda (00:03:38)
The agenda was officially approved with a motion and vote.

After discussing amendments, a motion was made to approve the agenda. The motion was seconded and passed with a unanimous 'aye' vote from all board members present.
Public Comment (00:04:01)
Time was allocated for public comments on consent and non-agenda items.

Members of the public were invited to comment on items within the consent agenda or other issues not on the regular agenda. A resident expressed concerns about fiscal management and community issues.
Consent Agenda (00:06:50)
The consent agenda was reviewed and approved by the board.

The consent agenda, which typically includes routine items, was presented for approval. A motion was made, seconded, and the agenda was approved with a 6-0 vote, with one absentee.
Resolution: Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month (00:07:18)
A resolution recognizing September as Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month was read and adopted.

Trustee Chapman read a resolution into the minutes recognizing September as Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month, emphasizing awareness, understanding, and support for those affected by suicide. The resolution was adopted unanimously.
Discussion on Millage Rates and Budget Planning (00:11:11)
The board discussed millage rates, budget planning, and financial projections.

A lengthy discussion ensued regarding the Township's millage rates and budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year. Topics included revenue projections, statutory revenue sharing, operational and capital expenses, and potential tax rate adjustments. The board considered various financial scenarios and sought to align them with community needs and fiscal responsibility.
Discussion on Stalled Design and Construction Projects (00:52:18)
The board discussed issues stalling the progress of a construction project due to unresolved issues with the road commission.

During this segment, the board addressed the ongoing delays in a construction project intended to improve safety near a mobile home park. Issues with the road commission were identified as the primary cause of the design and progress being stalled. Concerns were raised about the continuous allocation of budget funds without completion, emphasizing the urgency of resolving these issues to prevent further accidents and fatalities.
Budget Allocations and Safety Improvements (00:53:31)
Concerns about budget allocations for safety improvements were raised, emphasizing the need for action due to ongoing safety issues.

The discussion focused on the need for continued budget allocations toward a safety improvement project that has been delayed. The speaker expressed frustration over repeated budget allocations without project completion, highlighting the importance of addressing safety hazards in the community, particularly where accidents have occurred.
Design and Construction Challenges (00:55:03)
Board members discussed external challenges impacting project timelines and emphasized the need for persistence in overcoming these barriers.

Board members shared experiences and challenges faced in completing community projects, noting that external factors often delay progress. Despite having the financial means and community support, projects are frequently hindered by roadblocks outside the board's control, requiring patience and strategic problem-solving to overcome.
Special Assessment Districts (SADs) and Budget Considerations (00:59:01)
The board discussed maintaining current rates for special assessment districts (SADs) to support budget planning for police and fire services.

The discussion centered on the current rates for special assessment districts and their impact on the township's budget. It was agreed to maintain the existing rates to facilitate budget preparation, ensuring adequate funding for police and fire services. The importance of stability in these rates was emphasized to avoid issues with budget notices and billing.
Budget Amendment for Roof Replacement (01:09:02)
A budget amendment was proposed for the replacement of the Grange Hall roof, involving reallocating funds from a different project.

The board reviewed a proposal to amend the budget to fund the replacement of the Grange Hall roof, reallocating funds initially designated for a fence project. The discussion revealed significant structural issues with the roof, necessitating additional repairs to address mold and ventilation problems. The board considered this approach essential to ensuring the longevity and safety of the building.