Oshtemo Township - Township Board - January 13, 2026 Meeting

Updated 1 day ago

In the Oshtemo Township Board meeting, the board discusses several key topics, including the potential development of a battery energy storage system and the township's approach to ordinance creation. The board also talks about collaboration with the Kalamazoo County Road Commission, furnace replacements at Grange Hall, and updates to the burn ordinance. The meeting features public comments expressing concerns about the battery storage project and its impact on the community. The board also reviews committee appointments and discusses the purchase of real estate in closed session.

Chapters

Call to Order and Pledge of Allegiance (00:06:50)
The meeting was called to order and attendees were invited to join in the Pledge of Allegiance.

The Omo Charter Township regular meeting was officially called to order. The attendees were invited to stand and join in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the United States flag, emphasizing national unity and justice for all.
Roll Call and Remote Attendance (00:07:39)
Roll call was conducted, noting Trustee Cole's virtual attendance though not permissible for her absence.

A roll call was conducted to determine the presence of board members. It was noted that Trustee Cole was joining virtually, although her remote attendance was not considered permissible for absence under the current statute. The rest of the board members were physically present.
Township Mission, Vision, and Core Values (00:08:07)
Trustee Kora read the Township's mission, vision, and core values emphasizing decision-making for the benefit of residents.

The meeting moved to a reading of the Township's mission, vision, and core values. Trustee Kora was invited to read the statement, which highlighted that all decisions are made with the township's and residents' best interests in mind, focusing on value-driven governance.
Approval of Agenda (00:08:34)
The agenda for the meeting was presented and accepted after a motion by Clerk Farmer, supported by Trustee Kora.

The board members were asked if there were any changes to the agenda for the evening. Seeing no objections, a motion was made by Clerk Farmer to accept the agenda, which was seconded by Trustee Kora. The motion carried with six in favor and one absent.
Public Officials and Community Partner Updates (00:09:12)
Larry Stower from the Road Commission provided updates on road funding and future meetings with the township.

Larry Stower, liaison from the Kalamazoo County Road Commission, addressed the board. He looked forward to working with the township and mentioned arranging a joint meeting. He discussed road funding issues, including cutbacks from last year and uncertainty about new funds. He appreciated resident patience during a heavy winter affecting road maintenance.
Fire Department Strategic Plan Update (00:11:01)
Chief McComb presented a quarterly update on the fire department's strategic plan focusing on response times, training, and community engagement.

Chief McComb and Deputy Chief provided a comprehensive update on the fire department's strategic plan. The update covered response times, emphasizing turnout times improvements, training enhancements, and community risk reduction efforts. They highlighted increased documentation and the development of internal protocols for better data management and public engagement tracking.
Discussion on Zoom Platform Issues (00:36:49)
Issues with the Zoom platform were discussed, affecting public participation and board member attendance.

It was noted that there were technical issues with the Zoom platform, which was affecting the ability of the public and board members like Kristen to participate remotely. The broadcasting was still functioning, but there were hurdles in logging into the meeting. The board considered how to address this to ensure full participation.
Technical Break (00:38:16)
A break was taken due to technical issues with streaming services. The meeting was adjourned for a brief period to address these problems.

The meeting experienced technical difficulties with the Zoom platform and streaming services. It was announced that the meeting was being streamed on PMN's and TMO's Facebook pages, but PMN's broadcast server was down, preventing live streaming on PMN. Consequently, the meeting was adjourned for a five-minute break, which extended to seven minutes.
Discussion on Ordinance Options (00:47:18)
Extensive discussion on ordinance options for township planning, including no ordinance, compatible renewable energy ordinance, and workable incompatible ordinance.

The board discussed various options regarding ordinances related to township planning and development. The discussion included the option of having no ordinance, which would lead to state-level approval processes, and the implications of such a decision. The consideration of a Compatible Renewable Energy Ordinance (CREO) and a Workable Incompatible Ordinance (WIO) was also debated. The board members discussed the benefits and drawbacks of each approach, including intervener funds, community benefits, and the potential for state-level intervention. There was a detailed conversation about the mechanics of how these ordinances would interact with state processes and the preferences of developers. The board aimed to decide on a direction that balances local control with developer requirements and state regulations.
Call to Order (01:39:45)
The meeting was called back to order after a break.

The meeting resumed with the calling to order by the chair, indicating the transition to the next agenda item.
Public Comment on Consent Agenda or Non-Regular Session Items (01:39:48)
Public comments were invited on consent agenda and non-regular session items, with guidelines on conduct provided.

The chair referred attendees to the public comment policy outlined in the meeting packet, emphasizing guidelines to maintain order. The floor was opened for public comments, focusing on issues such as battery energy storage systems, potential environmental impacts, and the need for further research and public involvement. Several residents expressed concerns about safety, property values, and the decision-making process regarding local developments. The possibility of deferring decisions until more information is gathered was also discussed.
Public Comment (02:06:25)
Residents expressed concerns about noise, property taxes, and lack of action from officials, urging them to fulfill commitments and seek expert opinions.

Various residents voiced their frustrations regarding noise pollution near their homes, increased property taxes, and the perceived inaction of the city officials. They urged the officials to stick to their commitments and to seek expert opinions before making hasty decisions. The public comments reflected a deep concern for transparency and accountability from the local government.
Response to Public Comment (02:08:27)
Officials clarified that the closed session land purchase is unrelated to energy projects and addressed questions about non-disclosure agreements.

Township officials responded to public comments by clarifying that the closed session regarding land purchase had nothing to do with wind, solar, or other energy projects. They also addressed questions about non-disclosure agreements, stating that no such agreements had been signed and explaining the legal concerns surrounding NDAs.
Consent Agenda Approval (02:09:59)
The board approved the consent agenda, which included meeting minutes, disbursements, and several department reports, without any items removed for separate consideration.

The board moved to approve the consent agenda, which encompassed the minutes from the last meeting, a disbursements report, department request recap, and annual reports from various departments including the Downtown Development Authority. No items were removed for separate consideration, and the consent agenda was approved unanimously.
Committee and Board Appointments (02:11:05)
Discussion on filling committee positions and the importance of public involvement. The board approved statutory board appointments.

The board discussed the current committee and board appointments, emphasizing the importance of public involvement and the process of filling committee positions. The discussion highlighted the challenges in recruiting members for certain committees. A motion was made and passed to approve appointments to statutory boards such as the Planning Commission and the Downtown Development Authority.
Budget Amendments (02:13:53)
The board considered budget amendments for unforeseen expenditures related to furnace replacements and generator installations.

The board reviewed several budget amendments to address unforeseen expenditures, including furnace replacements at the Grange Hall and the completion of generator installation at the Drake Farmstead. These amendments were brought forward due to unexpected failures and the necessity to carry over funds from the previous fiscal year.
Discussion on Committee Reports (02:15:00)
Board members discussed the frequency and content of committee reports and the need for more consistent updates.

Board members engaged in a discussion about the frequency and content of committee reports, noting that not all members regularly report on committee activities. There was a call for more consistent updates to keep the board informed about the work being done by various committees, highlighting the importance of transparency and accountability in committee operations.
Public Comment on Appointments and Transparency (02:19:00)
Residents raised concerns about lack of transparency in board appointments and the need for better communication about openings.

During the public comment period, residents expressed concerns about the lack of transparency in the process of appointing members to boards and committees. They questioned how openings were communicated and why certain positions were not publicly advertised. The discussion underscored a need for improved communication and transparency regarding how appointments are made.
Budget Amendments for Public Works Projects (02:26:01)
Approval of budget amendments for public works projects delayed due to unforeseen circumstances and weather conditions.

The board considered and approved budget amendments related to public works projects, which had been delayed due to unforeseen circumstances such as weather conditions. The amendments were necessary to ensure the continuation and completion of important infrastructure projects, reflecting the board's commitment to maintaining and improving public services.
Job Descriptions and Title Changes (02:32:01)
The board reviewed and approved new job descriptions and a title change for the ordinance enforcement department.

The board reviewed new job descriptions for positions such as the building department administrative assistant and the parks public engagement specialist. Additionally, they approved a title change to 'Ordinance Enforcement Manager' to reflect additional responsibilities. This change aligned with the board's goal of accurately representing roles and responsibilities within the township.
Discussion on No Camping Ordinance (02:39:01)
Preliminary discussion on a proposed ordinance to prohibit overnight camping in township parks.

The board held a preliminary discussion on a proposed ordinance that would prohibit overnight camping in township parks. This discussion was part of an ongoing effort to address community concerns and ensure the safety and proper use of public spaces. The ordinance was not yet scheduled for a vote, as it was still under review.
Discussion on Park Ordinance Amendment (02:40:34)
Board discusses revisions to the park ordinance, addressing concerns about unhoused individuals using parks during the day, and the implications of enforcement.

Before bringing the ordinance back for a first reading, board members discuss feedback and questions on the park ordinance. Concerns about unhoused individuals using parks and enforcement challenges are highlighted. The ordinance is meant to address safety and maintenance concerns in parks. Board members express the need for compassion and understanding in enforcement, emphasizing that punitive measures aren't the first course of action. The discussion also touches on the role of various committees and departments in shaping the ordinance.
Resolution to Enter Closed Session (02:49:00)
Board resolves to enter closed session to discuss real estate purchase, as allowed under the Open Meetings Act.

A resolution is introduced and supported to enter a closed session for the purpose of discussing the purchase of real estate. The motion is carried with a roll call vote, and the board proceeds to the closed session.
Public Comments and Responses (02:52:03)
Public comments are received, addressing issues like the hiring process and police coverage. Board members respond to comments and provide clarification.

During the second opportunity for public comment, residents ask questions about the hiring process for board positions, police coverage related to special assessments, and other local concerns. Board members and the township attorney provide responses and clarifications to the public's questions.
Board and Committee Updates (03:03:29)
Board members provide updates on committee activities, discuss public feedback, and address misinformation.

Board members provide updates on various committees and activities. Discussions include planning commission activities, police and strategic fire meetings, and misinformation about board salaries. There is also discussion about the potential joint meeting with the Kalamazoo County Road Commission and updates on the burn ordinance review.
Return to Open Session and Authorization Motion (03:11:12)
Board returns to open session and authorizes the supervisor to proceed as discussed in closed session.

After returning to open session, a motion is made to authorize the supervisor to proceed with actions discussed during the closed session. The motion is supported and carried with a vote.
Public Apology and Technical Issues (03:15:44)
Kristin Cole apologizes for technical difficulties during the meeting, explaining issues with Zoom and public media network server, affecting the live broadcast.

Kristin Cole offers an apology to the public due to the technical problems experienced during the meeting. She acknowledges the difficulties they faced with Zoom and the server of the public media network. These issues impacted the live broadcast of the meeting, but she notes that the server eventually came back online. As a result, the meeting was recorded on Facebook, and parts of it were broadcasted on the public media network. She hopes that the entire meeting will be available in one place on the public media network.
Meeting Adjournment (03:16:33)
The meeting is adjourned with final remarks to drive safely. Kristin Cole concludes the session thanking attendees.

Kristin Cole concludes her remarks and officially adjourns the meeting. She thanks everyone for their attendance and participation, wishing them a great night and advising them to drive carefully.