Sam Peterson

Key discussions included the approval of financial reports for December 2025, involving a budget amendment for the Zoning Department and approval of General Fund and Scram Lake Expenditures. The Fire Department reported on December calls and yearly statistics, noting the implementation of new federal reporting software. The Planning Commission addressed a commercial rezone application, the Short-Term Rental ordinance, and tabled the application process to February. Old Business resulted in the approval to rezone property at 13790 Old 14 Mile Road from rural residential to commercial and multi-family residential. New Business included presentations regarding sewer system maintenance proposals for Scram Lake and the approval of renewals for Fire Chief health insurance and Township property insurance. The Consumers Energy Franchise Ordinance was also approved, and preliminary discussions were held regarding Kent County road updates and scheduling 2026-2027 budget hearings.

This Master Plan Addendum updates the existing Master Plan for Oakfield Township, serving as a guide for future growth, development, and land use decisions over a 20-year planning horizon. The plan's overall vision is to create a vibrant and sustainable rural community that balances economic development, environmental protection, and a high quality of life for residents. Key strategic goals include preserving the township's rural character and natural features, planning for an appropriate mixture of land uses with an emphasis on agricultural uses and rural homes, protecting surface water and groundwater resources, and providing public services and recreational opportunities suitable for a rural and agricultural community. The plan outlines objectives for farmland preservation, sustainable recreation, economic growth, housing diversity, and natural feature protection.

The meeting covered financial reports, including revenue sharing and transfers of funds for fire millage new equipment and general fund expenditures. Committee reports were given by the Fire Department, PCI, and Planning Commission, covering topics such as call statistics, permit issuances, and planning matters. Old business included updates on direct deposit for township payroll and a house fire. New business included the adoption of an ESTA Resolution and a request from the Fire Department for fundraising events. The board also discussed short-term rentals, with citizens expressing concerns and support. Additionally, the purchase of an ARC GIS online locator for assessment use was authorized.

The meeting addressed several key items, including the approval of a project related to Angel Woods Private Drive, contingent on MDOT permit requirements and fire department considerations. Discussions were held regarding Short Term Rentals, with suggested changes to be incorporated and reviewed by the Township attorney, followed by a public meeting. Language adjustments were proposed for Large Animal Acreage regulations, including annotations for commercial and hobby farms, and the consideration of an acreage table from the MSU Agricultural center. The Energy Systems Storage Ordinance was slated for submission to the township attorney for comments. Additionally, the Planning Commission discussed revamping the current review checklist for Township documents to develop separate checklists for different issues.

The Oakfield Township Planning Commission held a meeting to discuss several key issues. The commission addressed the Angel Woods Private Drive, focusing on compliance with MDOT and KCRC requirements, culvert adequacy, and engineering evaluations for the roadbed. They also considered an Energy Storage Systems Ordinance, short-term rentals, and minimum acreage for large animals, gathering information from various sources for future discussion. Public comments were heard regarding the short term rentals, and the board discussed large signage issues within the community.