Comstock Township - November 17, 2025 Township Board Meeting

Updated about 5 hours ago

The Charter Township of Comstock Board discussions centered around extending the moratorium on the battery energy storage project due to concerns about community safety and benefits. The board debated the implementation of tornado sirens and faced public pressure for their reinstatement, especially after recent tornado incidents. Public comment focused on transparency and allegations of board misconduct, with demands for the release of the Clark Hill report and concerns about conflicts of interest. Additionally, the board evaluated budgetary constraints, including the possibility of reducing rubbish pickups and the financial implications of installing tornado sirens. The meeting highlighted community concerns about safety, transparency, and the management of local resources. A special joint meeting of the Moratorium Committee and Planning Commission has been scheduled for Thursday, Novmember 20th at 6.

Chapters

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:01:28)
The Charter Township of Comstock board meeting is called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting was officially called to order, and attendees stood to recite the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America.
Appointment of Temporary Clerk (00:02:00)
A motion is made to appoint Sherry as the temporary clerk for the meeting, which is unanimously approved.

A motion was made by Trustee Pratt and supported by Trustee Amos to appoint Sherry as the temporary clerk for the meeting. The motion was put to a vote and was unanimously approved by the board members present.
Approval of the Agenda (00:03:08)
The agenda is reviewed, with changes including striking the November election report and keeping farmland development rights. The amended agenda is approved.

The board discussed potential changes to the agenda, deciding to strike the November election report while keeping the farmland development rights discussion. Superintendent Hess will address the complaints section. A motion was made to approve the agenda as amended, which was supported and passed unanimously.
Public Comments (00:03:31)
Citizens express concerns about transparency, conduct of officials, and the handling of township matters, particularly involving legal issues and reports.

Several citizens voiced their opinions during the public comment session. Concerns were raised about the conduct of Trustee Robert Pratt regarding private emails and pressures on the former attorney Catherine Kaufman. There was criticism of the handling of the Clark Hill report and calls for transparency. Another citizen questioned the appointment of an attorney without public explanation and demanded accountability due to taxpayer funding.
Concerns About Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) (00:14:14)
Residents and neighboring township representatives express safety concerns about the proposed BESS near Comstock and its impacts.

Multiple comments were made regarding the proposed battery energy storage system (BESS) near Comstock. Residents expressed concerns about potential environmental hazards, safety risks, and the proximity of the BESS to schools and residential areas. They urged the board to consider stringent safety measures and thorough evaluations before proceeding. Representatives from neighboring townships shared similar worries, emphasizing the need for transparency and resident involvement.
Public Comments (00:34:05)
Citizens expressed concerns, including law enforcement for a new homeless committee and issues with homeless encampments.

Emily Murphy, a Comstock resident, raised concerns about the need for more law enforcement support for addressing homelessness in Comstock Township. She highlighted the establishment of encampments in various areas and emphasized the need for coordination with neighboring communities to effectively address these issues.
Announcements for Departments, Boards, and Commissions (00:37:02)
Commissioner Gissler provided updates on health services, equalization, and upcoming meetings.

Commissioner Gissler discussed upcoming interviews for health and community services positions, a recent presentation on equalization by Matt Hansen, and announced an upcoming meeting of the Kazoo Citizens for Responsible Government featuring a representative from Enbridge.
Consent Agenda (00:40:30)
The board approved the consent agenda with corrections to previous meeting minutes.

An error was identified in the minutes regarding a vote, which was then corrected. The board approved the consent agenda, which included these corrections, by a roll call vote.
Fire Department: Deputy Chief Recommendation (00:43:34)
The board approved the promotion of Kevin Thompson to Deputy Fire Chief.

Chief Boche recommended promoting Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Thompson to the vacant Deputy Fire Chief position. The board approved the promotion unanimously.
Fire Department: MABAS Agreement (00:45:19)
The board authorized the superintendent to sign an updated MABAS agreement regarding mutual aid.

Chief Boche presented updates to the Michigan Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) agreement, specifically changes regarding costs for special teams. The board authorized Superintendent Hess to sign the updated agreement.
Fire Department: Proposed Budget Discussion (00:49:03)
Discussion on the fire department's proposed budget for next year, with no assessment rate increases.

Chief Boche outlined the fire department's proposed budget, emphasizing maintaining current assessment rates and addressing issues like grant management, insurance claims, and personnel costs.
Planning and Zoning: Rezoning Request (00:53:48)
The board approved a rezoning request from single-family to agricultural residential.

Attorney Thal presented a rezoning request for a parcel from R-1 single-family to AGR agricultural residential, which had been recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. The board approved the request after Treasurer Bloomfield recused herself due to a conflict of interest.
Farmland Development Rights Application (00:56:38)
The board approved a farmland development rights agreement application to be sent to the state.

Superintendent Hess presented an application from Priscilla Smith for a farmland development rights agreement. The application had been reviewed by county planning with no comments and was approved by the board to be forwarded to the state.
Discussion on Handling Complaints (00:59:19)
Discussion on developing a policy for handling complaints with a proposed ethics workshop.

The board discussed the need for a policy to handle complaints, differentiating between employee and elected official complaints. Attorney Thal suggested an ethics presentation as a preliminary step before creating a policy.
Discussion on Scheduling a Special Meeting (01:05:51)
The board discussed the possibility of scheduling a special meeting to address certain issues, with all members agreeing to coordinate on a suitable time.

During the meeting, there was a discussion about the need for a special meeting. Treasurer Bloomfield and Trustee McGyver agreed it was a good idea. The board decided that a motion might be needed to schedule it, but coordination on timing would be done first.
Waving Attorney-Client Privilege on Clark Hill Report (01:06:39)
The board revisited the issue of waiving the attorney-client privilege on the Clark Hill report, considering transparency versus potential liability.

The board discussed whether to waive the attorney-client privilege on the Clark Hill report. This report involves public expenditure and transparency issues but also potential liabilities. Attorney Thul advised caution, and some board members expressed concerns about retaliation against witnesses. Ultimately, a motion was made to deny waiving the privilege, and the vote passed.
Homeless Committee Appointments (01:14:02)
The board appointed members to a newly formed Homeless Committee to address the growing issue of homelessness in the community.

The board discussed the formation of a Homeless Committee to address the increasing homelessness problem. Ordinance Officer Dakota shared his experiences and the challenges faced. The committee aims to help homeless individuals access resources while enforcing ordinances to prevent encampments in parks. The board approved the appointments of several members, including community representatives and law enforcement.
Moratorium Discussion (01:21:50)
The board discussed the current moratorium on battery energy storage projects and the progress towards developing a workable ordinance.

The board reviewed the progress of the moratorium on battery energy storage projects. A committee was formed to study the issue, including hearing from experts and the public, and working on ordinance language. The possibility of extending the moratorium was considered to ensure thorough development of the ordinance, with an emphasis on balancing Township control and state regulations. Attorney Thul explained the implications of the state process and the concept of a Compatible Renewable Energy Ordinance (Creole).
Discussion on Moratorium and Ordinance Issues (01:36:55)
Board members and legal counsel discuss the implications and processes around the current moratorium on battery energy storage.

The board discusses the current moratorium on large-scale renewable battery energy storage, with attorney Thul providing insights. There is a discussion on litigation regarding Michigan public service commission's rules, and the need for a workable ordinance to protect the township. Concerns are raised about the potential for developers to bypass local control by going to the state.
Motion to Extend Moratorium (01:48:10)
A motion is made to extend the moratorium on battery energy storage for six months, sparking debate among board members.

Supervisor Martin makes a motion, supported by Trustee Pratt, to extend the battery energy storage moratorium. Trustee Brat expresses opposition to further extensions, feeling that a decision should be made instead of prolonging the process. Trustee Amos and others discuss the safety and community implications of the project.
Board Member Comments on Moratorium (01:49:02)
Board members continue discussing the battery storage ordinance, expressing concerns about safety, financial implications, and interactions with the state.

Board members, including Trustee Amos, MacGyver, and Cherry, express their opinions on the need for a workable ordinance and the risks of relying on state decisions. The discussion covers the importance of local control, potential financial negotiations, and the unique situation of the township. Treasurer Bloomfield and others share insights from visiting similar projects in other locations.
Public Discussion on Battery Energy Storage Moratorium (02:09:00)
Board members discuss concerns about extending the moratorium on large-scale renewable battery energy storage.

The discussion highlighted the need for extending the moratorium on large-scale renewable battery energy storage. Concerns about the industry's direction and the importance of getting accurate information were voiced. It was suggested that members visit facilities like Coldwater to learn more. The board acknowledged the need for further protection if the moratorium were extended and ended by emphasizing the urgency of moving the project forward.
Vote on Extending Battery Energy Storage Moratorium (02:10:09)
The board votes on whether to extend the moratorium on battery storage, resulting in a tie vote.

A motion was presented to extend the moratorium on large-scale renewable battery energy storage by six months, pushing the deadline to June of next year. Supervisor Martin clarified that a 'yes' vote would extend the moratorium, while a 'no' vote would end it at the year's conclusion. The roll call vote resulted in a tie, with three votes for and three against, meaning the motion did not pass.
Discussion on Budget and Weather Sirens (02:14:09)
The board reviews budget proposals and discusses the inclusion of weather sirens, debating their cost-effectiveness and impact on safety.

The finance director presented three budget scenarios concerning the installation of weather sirens. The scenarios ranged from no sirens to a full implementation of weather sirens. The board discussed the financial implications, including potential cuts to services and payroll if all sirens were installed. Some members advocated for a phased approach or seeking public input through a community survey or millage vote. The debate involved balancing fiscal responsibility with ensuring public safety, particularly in the context of potential emergencies like tornadoes and fires.
Motion to Include Weather Sirens in Budget (02:35:01)
A motion is made to include the cost of five weather sirens in the draft budget, but it fails to pass.

Supervisor Martin made a motion to include the purchase of five weather sirens in the draft budget. The motion was supported by Treasurer Bloomfield. A roll call vote was taken, resulting in a split decision, with three members voting in favor and three against. As a result, the motion did not pass.
Request from Downtown Development Authority (02:36:26)
The board considers a funding request from the DDA for economic development, ultimately deciding not to include it in the budget.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) requested additional funding for economic development projects. The board discussed the request and ultimately voted on whether to include the funding in the proposed budget. The motion was to deny the request, and the roll call vote resulted in the request being denied. The board determined not to allocate funds to the DDA in the draft budget.
Motion to Change Rubbish Pickup Frequency (02:39:24)
A motion is proposed to reduce rubbish pickup to once a year to save costs, but the board seeks more information before deciding.

Treasurer Bloomfield proposed a motion to reduce rubbish pickup to once a year as a cost-saving measure. The board discussed the potential financial benefits of this change, but there was an interest in understanding the impact and getting more details before making a final decision. The discussion included the need for further input on how this change would affect the budget and community services.
Discussion on Trash Pick-Up Schedule (02:40:49)
The board discussed the frequency and timing of trash pick-up, considering moving it to later in the year for better weather and cost efficiency.

Trustees discussed the current trash pick-up schedule and proposed moving it to later in the year, around May or June, to avoid cold weather and improve efficiency. There was also a conversation about doing it by sections of the township to prevent items from sitting out too long. The board considered the impact of allowing trash pickers as a cost-saving measure.
Vote on Trash Pick-Up Motion (02:43:04)
A motion was made and supported to adjust the trash pick-up schedule, with all trustees voting in favor.

Following the discussion, a motion was made to adjust the trash pick-up schedule as discussed. The motion was supported and a roll call vote was conducted, resulting in unanimous approval by all trustees present.
Discussion on Budget and Weather Sirens (02:43:39)
There was a discussion about the budget, with a focus on whether to include weather sirens in the budget for public hearing.

After the vote on trash pick-up, the board discussed the proposed budget and the inclusion of weather sirens. Some members questioned whether to bring this up again during the public hearing, while others suggested posting the direction for public feedback.
Capital Improvement Program Request (02:45:31)
The DDA board's approval of a preliminary budget and capital improvement request was mentioned, seeking earmarked funds if available for future projects.

The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) board approved a preliminary budget and capital improvement request, which was presented to the board. The request was to earmark funds for potential future projects if they become available, with the option for board members to ask questions or meet one-on-one for more details.
Approval of Financial Representative Change (02:47:02)
The board discussed and approved retaining Todd Carlos as the financial representative through his new company, with no changes to current investments.

Superintendent Hass explained the changes in financial representation due to Acrisure's sale and Harbor Investments' new arrangements. Todd Carlos, the previous representative, offered to continue his services through his new company, Carlos Financials. The board approved this change unanimously after a motion was made and supported.
Superintendent's Update on Local Issues (02:51:29)
Superintendent Hass provided updates on various local issues, including road funding, traffic calming, and construction projects.

Updates were given on several local matters, including the renewal of the Sheriff's contract, additional road funding from the state, traffic calming measures on Casper Street, and a sewer repair project affecting local roads. Hass also mentioned staffing changes and ongoing policy updates.
Public Comment Session (02:56:01)
Citizens expressed concerns over tornado sirens, the proposed battery plant, and governance transparency during public comments.

During the public comment session, multiple citizens raised issues about the absence of tornado sirens and the potential dangers posed by the proposed battery plant. Concerns about governance, transparency, and conflict of interest policies were also addressed, with some citizens calling for more action and accountability from the board.
Public Comments on Tornado Sirens and Community Concerns (03:12:45)
Discussion on the impact of tornado sirens and criticism of state limits on community safety measures.

A community member shared a personal story about the effectiveness of tornado sirens during a recent tornado, where the lack of sirens was noted. They expressed frustration with state-imposed limitations on local safety measures and the impact of new developments on community well-being.
Concerns About Legal Actions and Battery Centers (03:14:46)
Confusion over legal decisions regarding moratoriums and safety concerns about battery centers.

A speaker expressed confusion about the township's decisions not to extend a moratorium due to fear of state intervention. They questioned why the township did not join a lawsuit against such interventions, emphasizing the importance of standing up for community rights and safety, particularly regarding proximity to battery centers.
Community Engagement and Board Responsiveness (03:15:59)
Citizens urged the board to be more responsive to community needs and concerns, especially regarding sirens and development.

Several community members voiced their disappointment with the board's perceived lack of responsiveness to community needs, such as the installation of tornado sirens and the impact of new industrial developments. The importance of transparency and consideration of long-term community impacts was emphasized.
Trustee Comments and Personal Statements (03:23:04)
Trustees addressed public comments, clarified positions on issues, and shared personal reflections.

Trustees responded to public concerns, clarified their positions on various issues, and shared personal experiences, including military service backgrounds. They addressed rumors of conflicts of interest and emphasized their commitment to the community. There was a call for unity and understanding among board members and the public.
Adjournment and Next Steps (03:32:12)
The meeting adjourned with a note on future planning commission collaboration.

The meeting was adjourned with a mention of a joint meeting between the planning commission and the moratorium committee to discuss compiled information and public comments. Community members were encouraged to provide input on any additional research that should be considered.