Comstock Township - December 15, 2025 Township Board Meeting

Updated 4 minutes ago

The Charter Township of Comstock Board Meeting covers several key topics. The board discusses a proposed new fire station, addressing its necessity and budget implications. Public comments express concerns about increased taxes and the need for more police protection. A recent court ruling involving Treasurer Bloomfield is mentioned, with calls for further board review. The board approves the battery energy storage system ordinance, acknowledging its importance for public safety, especially near the new STEM Academy. Other discussions include the township's budget resolutions and potential road funding challenges. The meeting highlights community concerns about governance, fiscal responsibility, and public safety.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:00)
The meeting is called to order by the chair.

The meeting officially begins as the chair calls it to order, establishing the start of the proceedings.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:30)
Participants recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

The attendees stand and recite the Pledge of Allegiance as a formal opening to the meeting.
Approval of Minutes (00:01:00)
The minutes from the previous meeting are reviewed and approved.

The minutes from the last meeting are presented, and after review, they are approved by the board.
Welcome and Call to Order (00:01:16)
The meeting of the Charter Township of Comstock was called to order, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.

The meeting began with a welcome to the attendees, followed by the official call to order. Participants were then asked to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:53)
The agenda was discussed, amended to include two new items, and approved by vote.

A motion was made to approve the agenda. A board member requested to add two items: a recent circuit court ruling involving the Township and a response to comments made at the last meeting. The agenda was amended accordingly and approved.
Public Comments (00:03:20)
Citizens expressed concerns about board conduct, zoning issues, and the proposed battery energy storage system.

During public comments, citizens were given three minutes each to voice their concerns. Topics included accusations against board members, zoning changes, traffic studies, and the safety of the proposed battery energy storage system near schools.
Announcements from Departments, Boards, and Commissions (00:17:46)
County Commissioner John Gissler spoke on housing, battery storage, and childcare issues.

Commissioner Gissler discussed the housing public health crisis, updates on battery energy storage systems, and mentioned ongoing discussions about childcare. He encouraged staying informed on these issues.
Consent Agenda (00:21:19)
The consent agenda items, including the Everbridge renewal, were approved by the board.

The board reviewed and approved the consent agenda, which included the renewal of the Everbridge system and the DDA budget. The motion was made and seconded by Trustees Pratt and Cherry, respectively.
Fire and Rescue Presentation (00:22:20)
The fire department presented plans for a new station, highlighting the need for updated facilities.

The fire department outlined the necessity for a new fire station to meet the operational, safety, and staffing needs of the growing township. The presentation covered the history of current stations, the proposed new station's features, and the anticipated benefits of the new facilities.
Fire Station Issues and Proposed Solutions (00:34:14)
Detailed discussion on the limitations of current fire stations and proposed new stations to address these issues.

A presentation highlights the problems with current fire station facilities, including overcrowding, lack of training space, and inadequate living conditions for staff. Proposed solutions include building a new station with improved facilities to enhance firefighter wellness, reduce liabilities, and improve community coverage.
Budget and Financial Reports (00:52:00)
Discussion on budget options for funding the new fire station, including bond issuance.

The board discusses different budgetary options to fund the new fire station construction, focusing on the possibility of issuing bonds. Various financial projections and potential interest rates are considered to ensure fiscal responsibility.
Public Comments (00:58:00)
Opportunity for public to comment on agenda items and other concerns.

Members of the public are invited to share their thoughts and concerns regarding the issues discussed in the meeting, providing input on the agenda items and other relevant community matters.
Second Reading of Ordinance on Accessory Structures and Chickens (01:01:10)
Second reading of an ordinance regarding accessory structures and keeping chickens in the township.

The board conducts the second reading of an ordinance that addresses regulations for residential accessory structures and the allowance of chickens within the township. The ordinance was recommended by the Planning Commission and has undergone public hearings.
Second Reading of Ordinance on Battery Energy Storage Systems (01:02:57)
Second reading of an ordinance concerning battery energy storage systems with enhanced safety provisions.

The ordinance on battery energy storage systems is read for the second time, emphasizing improvements for health, safety, and welfare. The ordinance includes restrictions on proximity to sensitive areas like schools and was developed through Planning Commission input and public hearings.
Adjournment (01:04:00)
The meeting is officially adjourned.

The chair officially adjourns the meeting, marking the end of the session and the conclusion of the agenda items.
Ordinance Adoption (01:04:00)
The board discussed the adoption of an ordinance, with no questions from trustees, and a motion was made and passed to approve the second reading.

Revisions to the ordinance were accepted for first reading at the last meeting and are up for adoption tonight. Trustee Cherry made a motion to approve the second reading, supported by Trustee MacGyver. The motion carried after a roll call vote with all trustees voting in favor.
Fee Schedule Update (01:05:11)
The board reviewed changes to the fee schedule, including removal of burial services before holidays and costs for text amendments.

Rob Stafford, the cemetery excavator, has not changed rates but removed the option of providing burials a day before a holiday. Casey was to present a text amendment, but since absent, it was noted changes require payment due to new system formatting. Costs for text amendments are covered by applicants unless initiated by the board. Discussion continued about covering township costs and ensuring fees are included in the schedule.
Trial and Treasurer's Conduct (01:08:52)
Trustee Pratt discussed attending a trial involving the treasurer, urging the board to review the issue, but agreed it should be discussed when the treasurer is present.

Trustee Pratt attended a trial involving Treasurer Sandra Bloomfield regarding property issues. He believes the board should review the matter as it pertains to board duties. Pratt plans to share information from the trial with the board once available, and suggests discussing it at the first meeting in January.
Deputy Treasurer's Behavior (01:12:15)
Trustee Pratt commented on the deputy treasurer's behavior, citing various incidents and expressing concerns over judgment and professionalism.

Pratt observed what he considered inappropriate behavior from the deputy treasurer, including disruptive actions during meetings and inappropriate attire. He emphasized that his concerns are based on behavior rather than personal attacks, and noted the importance of professionalism in public service.
Planning Commission Appointments (01:15:09)
The board discussed reappointments to the Planning Commission, with a decision to table the appointments until the first meeting in January.

Three planning commission members were up for reappointment: Larry Nichols, Amber Lawrence, and Joseph Wayne Andro. After discussion on their recent training and the importance of continuity, it was decided to table the appointments to allow further consideration.
Public Hearing: General Fund Budget (01:21:33)
Public hearing for the general fund budget was held, with comments about tornado sirens and a resolution passed to adopt the budget.

During the public hearing, residents expressed concerns about the need for tornado sirens. After closing the hearing, the board discussed the possibility of amending the budget later and then adopted the general fund budget resolution with a roll call vote.
Public Hearing: Fire Operating Budget (01:31:34)
Public hearing for the fire operating budget was held, with comments opposing a new facility due to tax increases and budget concerns.

Residents voiced opposition to a new fire facility, citing recent tax increases and the sufficiency of current facilities. The hearing was part of the process to adopt the fire operating budget.
Citizen Comments on Fire Department Funding (01:36:31)
A citizen discusses the importance of supporting the fire department and suggests alternative funding methods such as state grants or millage.

A citizen expressed respect for the fire department and suggested that instead of relying solely on bonds to fund a new fire station, the township could consider state grants or moving the funding to a millage to allow for more public input and support.
Motion to Close Public Hearing on Fire Operating Budget (01:37:42)
The board moved to close the public hearing on the fire operating budget after no further citizen comments were made.

After a citizen commented on the fire department's funding, the board asked if there were any further comments. With no further comments, a motion was made and supported to close the public hearing on the fire operating budget.
Opening of Public Hearing on Fire Capital Budget (01:38:03)
The board opened a public hearing on the fire capital budget, which will be funded by bonds if approved.

Following the closure of the fire operating budget hearing, the board opened a public hearing on the fire capital budget. It was clarified that the new fire station is not included in the current budget as it is not yet approved, and would be funded by bonds if it proceeds.
Public Hearing on Municipal Street Fund Budget (01:41:00)
The board opened and closed a public hearing on the municipal street fund budget, with a brief explanation of the funds involved.

The board held a public hearing on the municipal street fund budget, explaining that the budget represents the village levy for roads and includes matching funds from the road commission. The public hearing was opened and closed with no citizen comments.
Citizen Comments on Police Protection (01:44:54)
Citizens expressed concerns about the need for more police protection in the town, citing issues with crime and safety.

Several citizens spoke during the public comment period expressing concerns about crime in the town and the need for increased police presence. They suggested establishing a local police department to provide better protection and ensure community safety.
Discussion on Police Millage and Future Funding (01:46:44)
The board discussed the history and future of the police millage, including the need to renew or adjust it next year.

The board discussed the police millage, explaining its history and the adjustments made over the years. It was noted that this is the last year the current millage can be collected without putting it on the ballot again, and the board will need to decide on future police funding.
Approval of Senior Services Budget Resolution (01:50:17)
The board approved the senior services budget resolution, which involves a pass-through millage managed by the Comstock Community Center.

The board discussed and approved the senior services budget resolution, explaining that it is a pass-through millage collected by the township and passed on to the Comstock Community Center. This is separate from the county's senior services millage.
Public Hearing on Library Budget and Citizen Comments (01:53:00)
The board held a public hearing on the library budget, during which a citizen questioned the high cost of the library millage.

During the public hearing on the library budget, a citizen expressed concern about the high cost of the library millage compared to other townships. The board clarified that the library's budget consists of two voter-approved millages.
Superintendent's Report and Budget Discussions (01:56:44)
The superintendent provided updates on road funding, police contracts, and budget planning.

The superintendent reported on several budget-related topics, including road funding and matching funds from the county, the status of the police contract, and the process for the next millage vote. He also thanked the finance director for his work on the budget.
Public Comments on Governance and Board Conduct (02:01:54)
Citizens voiced opinions on the board's conduct, transparency, and decisions, with some expressing dissatisfaction and others showing support.

During public comments, citizens expressed a range of opinions about the board's conduct and decision-making. Some criticized specific board members and decisions, while others commended the board for their efforts and governance.
Public Comments (02:10:25)
Various citizens comment on issues including board member actions, court trials, and community involvement. Concerns about Facebook discussions and harassment are raised.

During the public comments section, several citizens voiced their opinions and concerns. One citizen expressed disappointment over the treatment of a board member, Sandy, who had volunteered significantly for the township yet faced criticism. Another citizen mentioned the presence of community members at a trial, which they viewed as harassment rather than a personal matter involving Trustee Pratt. There were comments about the negativity on Facebook and how it affects the community and board members. The importance of being civil and respectful was emphasized.
Discussion on Fire Station Grant and Funding Efforts (02:13:43)
A community member discusses past efforts to secure funding for a fire station, the challenges faced, and the importance of reaching out to state representatives for support.

A community member addressed the board about previous attempts to secure a grant or funding for a new fire station. They highlighted past efforts, including trying to obtain a traffic attenuator trailer after the line of duty death of Chief Wolski. Despite these attempts, they faced challenges in navigating the state budget process. The speaker encouraged the board and community to engage with state representatives to advocate for necessary funding, emphasizing that the board has tried various avenues without success but remains open to new ideas.
Members Comments (02:15:18)
Board members share their perspectives on public comments, the role of elected officials, and the impact of social media. Calls for kindness and reflection within the community are made.

During the members comments section, several board members responded to public comments and shared their thoughts. Trustee MacGyver had no comments to add. Clerk Brochamp spoke about the responsibility of elected officials to represent their roles at all times and the impact of their statements. Trustee Pratt mentioned having a judgment document related to a trial but chose not to discuss it in detail until the treasurer's return. Trustee Amos explained their decision not to read a specific report due to discrepancies between its purpose and content. Trustee Cherry echoed previous sentiments about the challenges of public scrutiny and the importance of empathy and understanding.
Discussion on Battery Energy Storage Ordinance (02:20:19)
The board discusses the adoption of a battery energy storage ordinance and its potential benefits for the community, including financial contributions and safety measures.

A board member highlighted the successful passage of a battery energy storage ordinance. They discussed the significance of the ordinance in terms of its potential to bring financial and safety benefits to the community. By allowing for the construction and operation of energy storage facilities, the board believes it can leverage the project to secure necessary resources for the community, including support for the fire department. The ordinance is seen as a way to turn potential burdens into public benefits through careful planning and negotiation.
Adjournment (02:23:00)
The meeting is adjourned after board members have no further comments. The focus on Township business and community improvement is reiterated.

After ensuring there were no further comments from the board members, the meeting was adjourned. The chairperson reiterated the importance of focusing on Township business and setting a positive tone for community improvement. The meeting concluded with a reminder of the board's role in serving the community efficiently and effectively.