David McCumber

The board reviewed the current budget, the amended budget, and the proposed budget for 2026-2027. Key discussions included increasing funding for township repairs and maintenance to cover improvements to the town hall memorial and the installation of a ballot drop box. The board also addressed increasing the budget for legal counsel to support ongoing work with Data Center and Solar Ordinances. The proposed budget was accepted as amended. The meeting also included public commentary regarding IRS obligations and property tax considerations.

The board discussed and approved the hiring of the law firm Foster Swift to serve as an ordinance attorney. This appointment is intended to provide legal counsel and draft ordinances related to potential solar farm and data center developments to protect the community and taxpayers of the township.

The board discussed reports from the County Road Commissioner regarding bridge weight limits and salt procurement issues. Road maintenance and improvement plans were addressed, including purchases of limestone and road stabilization applications, along with specific projects for Lake Pleasant Road. The board also established two 180-day moratoria through resolutions regarding data centers and solar farms to allow for the development of zoning regulations and regulatory ordinances. Additionally, the treasurer's report was reviewed, and payments for bills were approved. A brief mention was made regarding an upcoming recreation meeting concerning tennis court facilities.

The Planning Commission meeting included the approval of the agenda and previous meeting minutes. Key discussions centered on the ongoing study, drafting, and development of a Solar Ordinance for Adams Township, alongside concurrent updates to the Zoning Ordinance and Master Plan. An informal discussion addressed Michigan PA 233 regarding solar siting and local authority. Actions included appointing a member as Vice Chairman, and motions were passed to support the continuation of the ordinance review process. Furthermore, one member volunteered to contact the County Equalization Office for land value and trend data for the Master Plan updates, and the Chairperson will contact a law firm for solar ordinance review services.

The agenda was approved unanimously. Key discussions in old business centered on updating the Zoning Ordinance, where the board voted to set a minimum size of 200 square feet for outbuildings before requiring a township permit, up from 100 square feet. In new business, the Planning Commission decided to recommend that the Adams Township board adopt a 180-day moratorium on any solar projects to allow time for the study, drafting, and adoption of a comprehensive solar ordinance. The commission continues its simultaneous work on the solar ordinance, Zoning Ordinance updates, and Master Plan review.