Oshtemo Township - Township Board - November 10, 2025 Meeting
At the Oshtemo Township Regular Board Meeting, the board members deliberated on the approval of a moratorium concerning battery energy storage systems (BESS) within the community. The meeting addressed the potential safety and environmental risks associated with BESS, such as fire hazards and water contamination. During the session, board members also discussed the importance of a well-considered ordinance to manage these facilities, while community members expressed strong opposition to the presence of such facilities, citing concerns over safety, property values, and environmental impacts. The board also considered public input on snow removal policies and other community issues. The session highlights the community’s involvement in local governance and the board’s effort to balance technological advancement with public welfare.
00:00 Introduction
00:52 Welcome and Call to Order
01:02 Pledge of Allegiance
01:30 Remote Attendance Identification
01:51 Township Mission, Vision, and Core Values
02:17 Approval of the Agenda
03:17 Moment of Silence for Firefighter Charlie Sullivan
04:44 Public Official and Community Partner Updates
05:08 Discussion on Employee Benefit Package
33:12 Public Comment on Consent Agenda Items
35:41 Public Comments
50:55 Consent Agenda Approval
51:41 Consideration of Hardship Advisory Committee Report
70:03 Discussion on Digital Presentation Policy
80:47 Discussion on Public TV Policy
82:03 Public Comments
85:40 Motion to Table Policy Discussion
86:41 Discussion on Sidewalk Ordinance Amendments
95:41 Public Comment on Sidewalk Ordinance
96:59 Motion to Approve Sidewalk Ordinance Amendments
101:00 Consideration of Moratorium on Battery Energy Storage Systems
112:11 Discussion on Renewable Energy: Solar and Wind Systems
118:00 Board Comments on Energy Storage Moratorium
121:13 Public Comments on Energy Storage Moratorium
139:03 Public Comments Continued and Board Response
143:48 Public Comments on Battery Energy Storage System
157:30 Discussion on Moratorium Concerning Battery Energy Storage System
174:01 Discussion on Community Concerns
177:04 Motion and Vote on Moratorium
177:46 Public Comment Period
201:16 Board Member Comments and Committee Updates
203:32 Welcome and Acknowledgment of Veterans
204:44 Discussion on Renewable Energy and Lithium-Ion Storage
205:40 Clarification on Road Maintenance Responsibilities
206:06 Trustee Seora’s Community Involvement Report
207:17 Treasurer’s Remarks on Community Commitment and Financial Transparency
210:01 Clerk’s Update on Community Projects and Education
211:27 Supervisor’s Office Report and Committee Formation Plan
