Oshtemo Township - Planning Commission - November 13, 2025 Meeting

Updated about 12 hours ago

The Commission reviews the Oshtemo 2045 and Safe Streets plan as traffic safety concerns are raised, particularly regarding the high crash rates on West Main Street. The proposed development plans for Maple Hill Pavilion Mall and other areas are discussed, with emphasis on connectivity and safety improvements. The meeting also delves into community concerns about a proposed industrial-scale battery storage facility near residential areas, highlighting the need for careful ordinance planning and public safety measures. The commission considers the development of an ordinance to manage battery storage facilities and emphasizes the importance of community input and expert consultation. Additionally, the commission discusses potential changes to meeting schedules and the importance of public involvement in planning processes.

Chapters

Pledge of Allegiance (00:00:32)
The meeting began with everyone standing to recite the Pledge of Allegiance.

Attendees were asked to stand and join in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag.
Approval of Agenda (00:01:00)
The agenda was approved with an addition for commissioner comments between items eight and nine.

A motion was made to approve the agenda as amended, adding a comment period for commissioners. The motion passed unanimously.
Public Comment on Non-Agenda Items (00:01:38)
Residents expressed concerns about a proposed battery storage facility, focusing on safety, environmental impacts, and transparency.

Several residents spoke during the public comment period, voicing concerns about the potential installation of an industrial-scale battery storage facility in the area. The issues raised included the safety of lithium-ion batteries, potential environmental hazards, and the need for transparency and public input in the decision-making process. Some speakers also shared personal stories and urged the commission to consider the long-term impact on the community and environment. Concerns were also raised about the adequacy of the local fire department's resources to handle potential incidents related to the facility.
Public Comment on Fire Suppression and Battery Safety (00:33:03)
Discussion on the challenges of fire suppression for lithium batteries, community concerns on safety, and the need for proper emergency protocols.

The meeting opened with a public comment regarding the difficulties of fire suppression for large-scale lithium batteries. At Moss Landing, the strategy involved letting parts burn due to the risk of incorrect suppression. The configuration, building structure, spacing, ventilation, and emergency protocols make a real difference, and some communities suggest older battery crises and indoor large halls. Neighbors expressed feeling misled about safety assurances, highlighting the importance of communication and environmental monitoring.
Approval of Minutes (00:34:38)
The minutes from the previous meeting were discussed, with no additions or corrections. A motion was made and approved to accept them as presented.

Following the public comment, the chair moved on to the approval of the minutes. There were no additions or corrections proposed for the minutes of the previous meeting. A motion to approve the minutes as presented was made and supported. The motion was passed unanimously with all members in favor.
Presentation on Master Streets Plan (00:35:10)
Ms. Schultz presented the Master Streets Plan, focusing on safety, connectivity, and economic vitality. Strategies for reducing crashes and enhancing networks were discussed.

Ms. Schultz presented the Master Streets Plan to the commission, detailing the importance of integrating safety, connectivity, and economic vitality in street planning. The plan is a first for a township in Michigan, aiming to address the jurisdictional challenges of road maintenance and the need for public over private roads. The presentation highlighted the importance of complete streets, crash data, non-motorized transportation options, and the economic implications of vehicle ownership. Ms. Schultz also emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to land use and transportation, aligning with the goals of the comprehensive plan.
Discussion on Land Consumption and Development (01:04:19)
Discussion on size, land consumption, and road construction for neighborhood development, and balancing city and rural living in Oshtemo.

The meeting discussed the implications of different types of neighborhood developments on land consumption and infrastructure, such as roads and water lines. The focus was on balancing city and rural living in Oshtemo and concentrating development on the Eastern side to preserve the Western side.
Master Plan and Street Connectivity (01:06:33)
Focus on street connectivity and master plan recommendations, including planning for future development and the importance of precise plats.

The discussion involved planning for street connectivity, with emphasis on precise plats and intentional policy actions for future development. The meeting highlighted the need for a resilient network and the incorporation of precise plats in zoning ordinances.
Street Design and Typology (01:12:22)
Street design and typology discussion, focusing on neighborhood connectors, street types, and accommodating various users.

The agenda covered street design and typology, focusing on neighborhood connector streets, prioritizing different users such as pedestrians and cyclists, and how these streets align with land use patterns. The meeting discussed the inclusion of sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and the importance of context in street design.
Multimodal Toolkit and Non-Motorized Network (01:21:00)
Discussion on the multimodal toolkit, non-motorized network connection, and access management to improve safety and connectivity.

The meeting discussed the proposed non-motorized network and the importance of connecting it to existing facilities like the Cal Haven trail. It emphasized the need for intersection improvements and managing access on major roads to protect pedestrians and cyclists.
Safety Countermeasures and Implementation (01:27:02)
Discussion on safety countermeasures, the role of federal guidelines, and implementation strategies for road safety improvements.

The agenda included a discussion on safety countermeasures as per federal highway guidelines, including pedestrian hybrid beacons and roundabouts to improve safety. The focus was on using these guidelines to influence road design and prioritize safety improvements.
Recommendations and Goals Alignment (01:31:00)
Aligning recommendations with Township goals, focusing on connectivity, safety, and collaboration with MDOT for infrastructure improvements.

The meeting discussed how recommendations align with Township goals, emphasizing east-west connectivity and using the plan to support discussions with MDOT for infrastructure improvements. The plan prioritizes projects based on connectivity and safety, aiming to enhance the overall transportation network.
Discussion on Road Standards and Safety (01:34:43)
Discussion on road standards, safety priorities, and comprehensive planning for the Township.

The committee discussed the different contexts of the Township's road standards, emphasizing the importance of addressing areas with high crash rates, especially on the east side. They highlighted the need to align road standards with the Township's priorities and comprehensive plan. The discussion included the challenges of negotiating with the road commission and MDOT for better safety measures and the potential of a master streets plan to influence public safety improvements.
Break and Recess (01:42:45)
The meeting recessed for an eight-minute break.

The chair called for an eight-minute recess, and the meeting paused for a break.
Appendix to Comprehensive Plan - Special Projects (01:52:58)
Presentation and discussion of special projects related to the comprehensive plan and infill development opportunities.

The committee reviewed several special studies and projects, focusing on the redevelopment of west main street, maple hill south, and the maple hill pavilion mall. The discussion covered the integration of these projects with the comprehensive plan, emphasizing infill development, street connectivity, and ordinance updates. The presentation highlighted strategies for suburban retrofitting, creating shared spaces, prioritizing housing, and improving transportation systems. The committee also discussed potential redevelopment scenarios and tools to support these projects.
Discussion on Affordable Housing and Special Study (02:14:34)
Discussion focused on affordable housing, a special study of Walmart area, and future development scenarios.

The meeting discussed affordable housing and a special study focusing on the Walmart area, including future development scenarios. The study explored various scenarios for affordable housing, illustrated by the Walmart example, and considered infrastructure access, transit options, and potential recreational facilities in the area.
Infrastructure and Environmental Constraints (02:19:00)
Exploration of site topography, soil conditions, and regional stormwater opportunities for development.

The meeting explored the topography, soil conditions, and regional stormwater opportunities for development. The discussion included how soil types and steep slopes affect development, and the importance of considering natural environment in design. Strategies for traffic calming and street connectivity were also discussed.
Residential Design and Neighborhood Connectivity (02:25:00)
Discussion on residential design for density, neighborhood connectivity, and green space integration.

Discussion centered on residential design for density without compromising the feel of the neighborhood. Consideration was given to connecting street networks, integrating green spaces, and providing for emergency responder access. The importance of building community and sense of belonging through design was emphasized.
Public Comments and Concerns (02:40:01)
Public expressed concerns about traffic safety, environmental impact, and community growth.

The public expressed concerns about traffic safety, especially in areas with high accident rates, and questioned the impact of new residential developments on traffic. There were also concerns about the environmental impact of a proposed battery farm and the need for community engagement in decision-making.
Public Comment on New Edge Proposal (02:46:14)
Residents express concerns about the safety and impact of the New Edge proposal near Oshtemo.

A resident expresses strong opposition to the New Edge proposal, questioning the safety and urging the commission not to approve it. The speaker highlights personal achievements as a sales representative to emphasize their credibility and warns about the potential dangers associated with the proposal, urging the commission to consider the impact on the community, particularly in Oshtemo.
Blindsided by Energy Ordinance Draft (02:48:01)
A resident feels blindsided by a draft energy ordinance and discusses concerns over its implications.

Jennifer Bros Tuscany speaks about being blindsided by the announcement of a draft energy ordinance. She notes that there was no prior indication of such a draft being in place and questions what the ordinance entails. Concerns are raised about the ordinance potentially having less stringent requirements than state regulations, and the speaker asks for more transparency and involvement in the drafting process.
Safety Concerns on Proposed Road Developments (02:54:28)
Residents voice safety concerns regarding proposed road developments and their potential impact on the community.

Multiple residents, including Andrew Lapin and Brittany Nearing Lapin, express concerns about the proposed road developments, specifically a connector road between GH Avenue and North Sixth Street. They describe the dangerous topography of the area, potential for accidents, and the impact on their property and local environment. The residents urge the commission to reconsider these plans due to safety risks.
Speeding and Traffic Safety on West Main Street (03:01:30)
A resident highlights traffic safety issues on West Main Street, suggesting cameras to monitor speed.

Dan, a new resident, raises concerns about the dangerous situation on West Main Street due to speeding and lack of law enforcement. He suggests installing cameras to monitor speed and issue tickets, similar to turnpike systems. He shares personal experiences of family members involved in accidents and emphasizes the need for better traffic law enforcement.
Public Comment and Planning Commission Response (03:06:08)
The Planning Commission acknowledges public comments and discusses forming an ad hoc committee for better ordinance drafting.

Commissioner Chapman thanks the public for their involvement and suggests forming an ad hoc committee to include citizens, public safety officials, and commission members to address the New Edge proposal. The goal is to draft effective ordinances with input from subject matter experts, ensuring the community's interests are protected.
Discussion on Meeting Schedule Change (03:10:01)
The commission discusses potentially moving regular meeting days from Thursdays to Wednesdays to accommodate schedules.

The planning commission discusses the possibility of changing regular meeting days from Thursdays to Wednesdays to accommodate scheduling conflicts. Some members express a preference to keep meetings on Thursdays due to existing commitments. A motion is made to maintain Thursday meetings, but further discussion is suggested to reach a consensus.

Oshtemo Charter Township (34 Episodes)

Updated about 12 hours ago

Gavel to Gavel coverage of the Board meetings for Oshtemo Charter Township