Charter Township of Plainfield

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the minutes from the January 27th meeting. Public comments were opened, followed by discussions on agenda items. A key discussion centered on the preliminary approval for the Winding Trail Private Road extension proposed by Daniel Dick/Highline Homes, which involves creating four to five splits on the 23.59-acre site. Concerns were raised regarding potential Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) contamination plumes, though staff indicated the property is outside the control area and current data suggests the plume is moving away from the property towards Rogue River. The approval was granted subject to several conditions, including providing sanitary sewer and public water easements and obtaining county road commission permits. A significant portion of the meeting involved discussing updates to the zoning ordinance, funded by an MISTA grant. These updates include introducing Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and potentially duplexes in certain R1 areas, increasing density in neighborhood residential zones, and streamlining commercial overlay districts. The commission also addressed the high-profile topic of recreational vehicles (RVs), with one commissioner requesting stricter rules regarding RV storage, particularly in winter. Finally, it was confirmed that the Rushi application for a PUD amendment and soil erosion permit was officially withdrawn.

The meeting commenced with the call to order, noting that one member was absent, which required a motion for a president pro tempore. A firefighter badge pinning ceremony was held, recognizing an individual for his dedication and transition into a career in the fire service, followed by his formal swearing-in ceremony as an equipment operator. Public comments focused on several contentious issues. One resident expressed deep concern and offense regarding public Facebook comments made by a Trustee, questioning the board's accountability for conduct that undermines stated township values like integrity and respect. Other commenters vehemently objected to proposed amendments to the private road ordinance, arguing the changes were specifically intended to facilitate Verizon's cell tower construction by circumventing requirements for unanimous landowner consent on maintenance and use of privately funded gravel roads. Residents argued this negatively impacts existing property owners. Another speaker raised concerns about noise violations stemming from permitted outdoor music at local businesses (a distillery and Third Nature), requesting enforcement against excessive noise levels. Finally, a resident suggested reverting the meeting start time from 6:00 p.m. back to 7:00 p.m. to increase public engagement, and commented on an absent board member's attendance record.

The meeting commenced with the call to order and the appointment of a temporary President due to the Supervisor's absence. Following the invocation and pledge of allegiance, the board addressed public comments. Key topics included a resident's concern regarding increased sand in well water after nearby new construction, and inquiries about the release status and findings of prior Public Importance Network Act (PINA) records related to township water issues. A community member announced the passing of David Ryal and George Meek, both respected former township servants. New business centered on the Fire Department's need to replace a 32-year-old ladder truck, which is currently out of service for its ladder function and incurring high maintenance costs. A committee recommended a new single-axle ladder truck designed for current staffing levels, maneuverability in the township's building stock, and doubling water capacity compared to the old unit, resulting in a proposed cost of $1.5 million versus $2.5 million for an equivalent replacement of the old model. The board also approved the agenda, consent agenda, and accounts payable.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda and the election of officers for 2026, noting that two officers were absent. The primary focus of the meeting was a public hearing regarding a variance request for Hall Sports Center located at 4020 West River Drive. The applicant sought variances for the placement of a 50 square foot, 8-foot tall ground sign, requesting adjustments to height, size, and setback distance from the front property line. Discussion involved the topographical changes necessitating increased height and the removal of an existing pole sign located in the DNR right-of-way. Following deliberation, a motion to grant the variances passed with a 3-2 vote, which was later determined to be an invalid outcome due to insufficient quorum support for the decision, leading to a postponement of the decision to a subsequent meeting with adequate board member attendance.

The regular meeting commenced with the invocation and pledge of allegiance. Public comments addressed concerns regarding the $4 million expenditure on the Plainfield Avenue reimagining project, citing resulting vehicle damage and poor plowing practices. Other public concerns included the need for transparent reporting on water usage issues and easier public access to meeting agendas via social media, in addition to expressing reservations about a proposed merit raise for the township supervisor. The board reviewed and approved the consent agenda and accounts payable. New business centered on considering changes to the township cemetery ordinance to allow for environmentally friendly options such as green burials, involving a discussion about operational considerations like soil stability versus the cost and environmental impact of traditional burials involving concrete vaults.