Oshtemo Township - December 3, 2024 Township Board Meeting

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Oshtemo Township - December 3, 2024 Township Board Meeting

Updated about 18 hours ago

The Oshtemo Charter Township Board Meeting on December 3, 2024 hosted a detailed discussion on the 2025 capital improvement plan (CIP) focusing on fire safety, parks, public works and non-motorized projects. The board reviewed updates on sewer fund projects and finances, highlighting the importance of future planning for infrastructure improvements. The meeting also addressed a budget amendment for the Fruit Belt Trail Development and acknowledged outgoing planning commission liaison Zack Ford, appointing Trustee Michael Chapman as his successor. Board members discussed future plans and community engagement initiatives, emphasizing the township's commitment to sustainable development and resident involvement.

Chapters

Call to Order (00:00:10)
The meeting of the Oshtemo Charter Township board is officially started.

The meeting is called to order by the chair, marking the official start of the Oshtemo Charter Township board meeting.
Roll Call (00:00:29)
Trustees present are identified to ensure quorum for the meeting.

The roll call is conducted by Clerk Farmer, who verifies the presence of the trustees. All trustees are present, confirming that there is no need for remote location identification.
Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:52)
The board members and attendees recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

The chair invites everyone to join in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, emphasizing unity and justice for all.
Township Mission, Vision, and Core Values (00:01:27)
The core value of sustainability is highlighted as part of the Township's mission and vision.

Trustee Chapman shares the Township's mission, vision, and core values, focusing on sustainability, which involves meeting present needs without compromising future generations.
Public Official and Community Partner Updates (00:01:52)
No updates are provided by public officials or community partners at this time.

The chair invites any updates from public officials and community partners. However, no updates are presented, and the meeting proceeds to the next agenda item.
Work Session (00:02:09)
Discussion on the work session format and public comment scheduling.

The chair explains the intention of the work session and the inclusion of public comment time. The session will focus on gathering feedback and ensuring public engagement, with a scheduled break for public comments.
Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Discussion (00:03:00)
An overview of the Capital Improvement Plan and its significance for the Township.

Attorney Porter explains the importance of the CIP, which is a state-required document that helps with long-term planning for capital improvements. The board discusses the plan, its components, and the need for formal adoption.
Fire Department Capital Improvement Presentation (00:07:52)
The Fire Chief presents the fire department's capital improvement plans.

The Fire Chief discusses the capital improvement plans for the fire department, covering topics such as a new fire station, maintenance, equipment needs, and technology enhancements. The discussion includes budget considerations and alignment with the Township's strategic plan.
Discussion on New Fire Station (00:33:06)
The discussion centered around potential locations and funding for a new fire station, including parcel sizes and facility needs.

There was a detailed discussion about the requirements for a new fire station, including the size of the land needed and the square footage of the facility. Various locations were considered, but funding and community feedback were highlighted as crucial next steps.
Parks and Recreation Budget Discussion (00:36:00)
Budget considerations for various park projects including maintenance, renovations, and new developments were discussed.

The board discussed the budget allocations for park maintenance and development, including the Drake Farmstead Park and Fletcher Field Park. They talked about specific projects such as nature play areas, playground equipment replacements, and invasive species management. There was also mention of grant opportunities and strategic planning for future parks.
Community Safety and Park Location Concerns (00:57:00)
Concerns about safety in proposed park locations were raised, with emphasis on strategic planning and community policing.

Board members expressed concerns about the safety of potential park locations, especially in high-density areas with previous safety issues. They discussed the importance of strategic placement of parks and the possibility of improving safety through community policing.
Call to Order (01:09:29)
The meeting was called to order at 6:46 PM after the work session.

The meeting was called back to order at 6:46 PM after the work session. This marked the beginning of the regular session of the government meeting.
Public Comment (01:09:51)
Time was allocated for public comment on non-regular session items, but no public comments were made.

After the meeting was called to order, time was allocated for public comment on items not on the regular session agenda. However, there were no members of the public present to comment, and no raised hands on the Zoom call, so public comment was closed.
Consent Agenda (01:10:06)
The consent agenda, including minutes and other items, was discussed and approved with amendments.

The consent agenda was presented, which included the minutes from the regular meeting and Township board meeting dates. There was a discussion about amending the consent agenda to correct a scribner's error related to disbursements. After pulling item B for correction and ensuring no other changes were needed, a motion was made and seconded to approve the consent agenda.
Resolution and Budget Amendment for Fruit Belt Trail Development (01:12:29)
The Parks Director presented a resolution for the Fruit Belt Trail Development and a budget amendment request.

The Parks Director, Vanessa Street, presented a resolution to accept three project agreements for the Fruit Belt Trail Development. She provided a history of the project, including previous funding applications and the recent acceptance of grants. Vanessa explained the project's segmentation and funding details, including in-kind donations and construction plans. A budget amendment was also requested for soil exploration and geotechnical services as part of the design phase. The resolution and budget amendment were both adopted following discussion.
Resolution Establishing Poverty Exemption Guidelines (01:19:50)
The board reviewed and adopted updated poverty exemption guidelines, offering more favorable terms than state minimums.

Attorney Porter described the proposed resolution to establish poverty exemption guidelines, which offer more favorable income thresholds than the state's minimum requirements. Board members discussed the importance of these guidelines, shared experiences from the Board of Review, and highlighted the positive impact on families in need. After discussion, a motion was made to adopt the resolution, which was passed unanimously.
Quarterly Budget Amendments (01:27:01)
Department heads presented budget amendments for approval, detailing adjustments to various ledger lines.

The board reviewed quarterly budget amendments, which included adjustments to general ledger lines that were either underfunded or had excess funds. The amendments were explained, and department heads provided additional details where needed. The board discussed specific amendments, including construction projects and professional services fees. After addressing questions, a motion was made to approve all budget amendments, which was supported and passed.
Employee Appreciation Program (01:41:18)
The board discussed the holiday employee appreciation program and the selection of local businesses for gift cards.

The board discussed the employee appreciation program, intended to acknowledge employee service during the holiday season. The program involves giving gift cards to local businesses in Oshtemo. There was a brief discussion about the selection process for businesses, with a preference for small, local establishments over chain stores. Board members were invited to provide suggestions for businesses to include in the program.
Continued Discussion on Capital Improvement Program (CIP) (01:43:14)
Discussion focused on the Capital Improvement Program, specifically related to public works projects, including roads and sewer systems.

The meeting continued with a discussion on the Capital Improvement Program (CIP), with Anna providing an overview of the public works projects. Key topics included preventative maintenance for roads, budget allocations from the Road Commission, and upcoming sewer projects as outlined in the master plan. Anna emphasized the importance of maintaining the fund balance while investing in new infrastructure, and the board discussed the financial implications of these projects.
Road Fund Projects (01:46:02)
Discussion on road fund projects, preventative maintenance, and the impact of new investments on the fund balance.

Anna detailed the focus on road fund projects, highlighting preventative maintenance and the importance of completing base projects. She explained that the Township had historically matched and exceeded the allocation from the Road Commission, but this year there are no increases in par funds. Discussions included the impact of new investments and projects from the master plan on the fund balance and the need for the board to be aware of these financial implications.
Sewer Fund and Revenue Projects (01:49:07)
Overview of sewer fund projects, revenue sources, and the Township's strategy for financing sewer connections and expansions.

Anna presented an overview of the sewer fund, discussing revenue from connection fees and the strategic approach to financing sewer connections. The Township's commitment to providing two years for residents to connect to active sewers was noted, as well as the potential for capturing revenue earlier if connections pay in full. The Township is negotiating for a fair water service agreement to manage rate impacts on residents.
Discussion on Non-motorized Projects (02:01:18)
Discussion on non-motorized projects, including sidewalks and grants, and their alignment with the master plan and funding sources.

Anna highlighted non-motorized projects that are underway or planned, funded in part by TAP grants. Projects such as the Drake Road and Ninth Street sidewalks were discussed, along with future projects aimed at improving pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure. The importance of integrating these projects into the Township's master plan and securing necessary funding was emphasized.
Public Comment and Questions (02:16:46)
Open floor for public comments, addressing community inquiries about ongoing projects and plans.

The meeting opened the floor for public comments. A community member inquired about the status of a requested fence installation between Sky King and nearby apartments, with concerns about noise mitigation. Attendees were encouraged to contact Township Hall for specific project updates.
Public Comments (02:19:34)
No members of the public present on Zoom, public comment period closed.

The meeting confirms that there are no additional public comments as there are no other members of the public present on Zoom. The public comment period is then closed.
Board Member Comments and Committee Updates (02:19:40)
Board members provide updates, with Ms. Cole having no updates, and Mr. Chapman discussing election day issues.

The meeting transitions to board member comments and committee updates. Ms. Cole states she has nothing to report. Trustee Chapman provides an update regarding issues faced on election day, including a TABULATOR malfunction and how it impacted the counting process.
Election Day Update (02:20:06)
Trustee Chapman discusses election day issues, including absentee counting delays and a TABULATOR malfunction.

Trustee Chapman explains that on election day, the absentee counting board faced a malfunction with the TABULATOR, which delayed the counting process. A machine was borrowed, and this caused significant delays in reporting results. He provides a detailed explanation of the voting process in Kalamazoo County and the challenges faced.
Committee Reports (02:23:42)
Trustee Ford and Trustee Kora discuss planning commission acknowledgments and park contributions.

Trustee Ford thanks the planning commission for their work. Trustee Kora reports on contributions from the Friends of the Park and thanks the Kalamazoo County Planning Development Department for a workshop. He also announces a Victorian Christmas open house event.
Treasurer's Report (02:25:31)
Treasure Busa reports on the start of tax season and mailing schedule.

Treasure Busa reports that the tax season has started, with some issues in mailing dates causing delays. Tax bills are now being mailed, and she looks forward to updating statistics on payment methods.
Budget Meeting Clarifications (02:26:11)
Clarifications regarding the scheduling and timing of budget and joint board meetings.

The board discusses clarifications needed for the scheduling of budget meetings and joint board meetings, ensuring correct timings and addressing any confusion that was previously caused by inconsistencies in meeting notices.
Adjournment (02:28:28)
Meeting is adjourned with a note that the agenda is full and busy.

The chair concludes the meeting by noting that the agenda has been full and busy, with various policy updates and ongoing discussions about USDA and sewer topics. The meeting is then officially adjourned.

Oshtemo Charter Township (42 Episodes)

Updated about 18 hours ago

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