Comstock Township - Parks and Recreation Commission

Comstock Township - Parks and Recreation Commission - November 10, 2025 Meeting

Updated 6 days ago

The Commission discussed the continuation of the program offering free park passes to veterans, in collaboration with veteran services. The Commission also reviewed improvements for Cooper Park, including plans for invasive species management and volunteer activities with the Kalamazoo Nature Center. Additionally, the Commission deliberated on the operational strategy for the concession stands at Robert Morris Park, considering staffing and product offerings. Other topics included park safety concerns and upcoming community events.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:02)
The meeting was called to order with two commissioners absent, Bret Padgett and Patrick.

The meeting of the Charter Township of Comstock Parks and Recreation was called to order. It was noted that two commissioners, Bret Padgett and Patrick, were absent.
Consent Agenda (00:00:32)
The consent agenda was approved, including meeting minutes and GL distribution report.

The consent agenda items, including the meeting minutes, GL distribution report, and mercantile bill, were presented. There were no questions or concerns, and the agenda was approved.
Veteran Park Passes Initiative (00:02:06)
Discussion on providing free park passes to veterans through a countywide initiative.

The veteran services have initiated a countywide program to provide free park passes to veterans. The process involves veterans getting verified through the veteran's office and filling out a survey. The board discussed the details and benefits of continuing this initiative.
Staff Evaluation and COLA Adjustment (00:05:08)
Discussion on the COLA adjustment and merit increase for staff based on performance and recommendations.

The board discussed the cost of living adjustment (COLA) and merit increase for staff. The recommendation is to align with the Township's COLA determination and provide a merit increase as recommended by the parks director, acknowledging exceptional performance.
Cooper Park and Kalamazoo Nature Center Review (00:07:08)
Review of Cooper Park with recommendations for invasive species management and potential cleanup projects.

The Kalamazoo Nature Center conducted a review of Cooper Park and provided recommendations for managing the park, including invasive species removal. The board discussed potential volunteer projects to improve park conditions and address community concerns.
Robert Morris Park Concessions (00:17:40)
Discussion on the viability and future of concession services at Robert Morris Park.

The board discussed the challenges of maintaining concession services at Robert Morris Park. Options included reducing service days, focusing on high-traffic days, and considering external vendors. The discussion considered weather impacts and cost efficiency.
Revenue and Expenditure Report (00:29:37)
The board reviewed the revenue and expenditure report, noting no significant concerns.

The revenue and expenditure report was presented for review. The board discussed the financial status and noted no major concerns or discrepancies in the report.
Director's Report and Green Meadow Park Cleanup (00:31:01)
Report on cleanup efforts at Green Meadow Park and associated costs.

The director reported on a cleanup operation at Green Meadow Park due to an abandoned campsite. The cleanup involved external contractors due to the volume of debris and safety concerns, such as drug paraphernalia.
Discussion on Park Property Maintenance (00:32:54)
Discussion about maintenance issues on park properties including homeless encampments and property management challenges.

The meeting discussed maintenance challenges on park properties, focusing on issues like homeless encampments at River Villa and the old football field. The need for snow to melt for proper site assessment was noted. Concerns about public safety and park enjoyment due to these issues were expressed. Efforts by officers Joe and Dakota to monitor and address these challenges were highlighted.
Neil Street Playground Update (00:36:56)
Update on the completion and condition of the Neil Street playground after recent rains.

The Neil Street playground is complete and has been filled with mulch to prevent flooding. The playground experienced some rain and construction activity, but these issues have been addressed.
Pickleball Courts Closure Announcement (00:37:33)
Announcement of the seasonal closure of pickleball courts and plans for informing the public.

The pickleball courts will be closed on Sunday, with nets taken down early next week. There are plans to notify the public via Facebook and possibly other channels about the closure and reopening dates for the next season.
Prescribed Burn Report (00:39:15)
Discussion on the completion of a prescribed burn and the expected timing of a report about its effects.

A prescribed burn was completed, and a report on its effectiveness is expected by December or January. The burn was slow-moving and did not impact public use of the park significantly.
Boo Bash Event Recap (00:40:34)
Recap of the Boo Bash event and adjustments made to improve attendee experience.

The Boo Bash was a successful event with various fun activities. Adjustments were made to the scavenger hunt to accommodate attendees arriving at different times. Additional activities were provided to enhance the experience.
Holiday Event Preparations (00:41:43)
Preparations for the upcoming holiday event, including lighting and decorations at Merrill Park.

Preparations for the holiday event are underway, with lights being set up at Merrill Park. A larger tree will be purchased for the lighting ceremony, while smaller trees will not be used this year due to limited community interest and past vandalism.
Adjournment (00:42:49)
The meeting is adjourned with no objections to the motion to adjourn.

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which passed without any objections.