Charter Township of Commerce

The committee reviewed event updates and maintenance reports for various township parks, including status updates on Silo Ranch, Friends of Byers, Lakes Athletics Association, Interlakes Girls Softball, and CW3 Soccer. Key discussions involved capital improvements such as the installation of security cameras and wayfinding signage, for which the committee moved to proceed with RFPs. Additionally, the committee addressed ongoing projects like the Richardson Center restroom facility, the library pathway ADA accessibility, the establishment of an entrance fee process for the Dog Park, and future trail connectivity plans.

The Board approved multiple resolutions to undertake improvement projects and establish special assessment districts for Island Club Paving, Sidewalk Repair, and Special Projects. Contracts were awarded to Asphalt Specialist Inc. for paving and A&G Construction for the sidewalk program. Additional actions included approving the Water Service Contract 6th Amendment, the Oakland County P25 Simulcast System Interlocal Agreement, and adopting amendments to the Code of Ordinances regarding water and sewer system operations and fee structures. The Board also approved the design and bidding for Commerce Pump Generators, appointed a Cross Connection Control Program Manager, and engaged a municipal finance advisor. Furthermore, the Board entered into a closed session to discuss attorney-client privileged communications and directed legal counsel accordingly.

The Board addressed a variety of administrative and financial matters, including the reappointment of a member to the Downtown Development Authority and the approval of financial projections for water and wastewater services. Several ordinances were introduced or adopted, specifically regarding code amendments, fee schedules, and poverty exemptions. The Board also authorized several procurement actions, such as the purchase of security equipment for the wastewater plant, library furniture, power chairs, and sewer system pumps. Additionally, the Board approved employee policy updates, including a handbook and job descriptions, authorized liquor license transfers, enacted a temporary moratorium on data center land use, and established a new special assessment district.

The meeting focused heavily on a Scheduled Public Hearing for the Bogie Lake Residential Conditional Rezoning request (PCZ25-01), which involves rezoning seven parcels for 46 single-family homes. Discussion among commissioners centered on the proposed density (46 units vs. what current zoning would permit, which was estimated in the mid to high 30s, or up to 89 under straight R-1D) and lot sizes. The developer explained that the single access point and 46-unit configuration necessitated fire suppression in every home to meet International Fire Code requirements, replacing a previous concept with two access points. Trustee Weber provided an update on Township Board activities, including the implementation of a sidewalk repair SAD program and a decision giving the Fire Chief final say on emergency gates, noting the gates are often inaccessible. Planning Director Dave Campbell updated the commission on the ZBA meeting (adjourned due to lack of quorum) and developments concerning the 5 & Main project, including progress on Building G (the shopette) and finalizing arrangements for the gourmet market's real estate purchase and associated parking/library parcel control. Commissioners expressed concerns regarding the impact of increased density on traffic safety along Bogie Lake Road, particularly concerning school drop-off/pick-up times. The developer offered additional conditions for the Conditional Rezoning, including installing a right-turn acceleration/deceleration taper and building a dog park feature.

The meeting included updates on various Eagle Scout projects, notably the completion of a pathway, with ongoing discussion about directional signage. League and community service organizations reported on seasonal wrap-ups, including winterizing facilities, restoration work by scouts, and plans for installing a historical marker, potentially aligning with a June event. Lakes Athletics provided an extensive report on their busy year, noting over 1,000 registrations, expanded field usage including three satellite fields in Milford, and significant field maintenance expenditures, such as toilet replacements, sprinkler head upgrades, and infield rebalancing in 2024 and 2025. Collaboration efforts between Lakes Athletics and Commerce Little League, including a new 'Glengary Cup' competition, were highlighted. Department reports covered winterization of facilities, maintenance issues at the Dog Park requiring potential concrete solutions, and updates on well status for Wise Woods. Discussion also covered proposed future park improvements, including ADA accessibility for a bridge at Byers and pathway extension, as well as addressing unauthorized parking at Hickory Glen Park. The committee discussed two potential mural designs for the Scarlet's Playground bathroom, leaning towards an art style incorporating nature, children, and local sports themes. An update on the Victory Park missile silo site confirmed the dig was complete, voids filled, and the area would reopen in the spring after ensuring ground stability. Future event planning, including 2026 dates, was reviewed. Finally, discussions addressed the feasibility and experience associated with installing a temporary ice skating rink and obtaining cost estimates for replacing cemetery fencing.