Washington Township

The update covered a Board of Trustee meeting held on July 12th, which included a public hearing regarding ZF property located at 45505 and 4585 26 Mile Road. The discussions centered on ensuring ZF Corporation remains in the Township and expands with a 60,000 sq ft addition for airbag testing, representing over $100 million in investment and adding over 200 jobs. Public hearings also addressed a potential tax reduction for ZF, pending state approval. Additionally, the board conducted the local review and approval for liquor licenses for 'and' Bistro and Big Red Orchards. Board approval was granted for the reconstruction of the intersection of Campground and Van Dyke, which includes new culverts, asphalt overlay, and a new roundabout, coming in significantly under budget. Furthermore, the board approved a new contract for copiers and scanners for municipal offices and authorized upgrading cameras in the Municipal Hall and Senior Center for $19,000. Separately, on July 27th, Washington Township hosted the Mome County Board of Older Adult Commission, where presentations were given on local infrastructure projects.

The update includes honoring the Washington Township Fire and EMS department as the 2021 EMS provider of the year and renewing Fire Chief Brian Tyrell's contract. The board authorized engineering firm Gifles Webster to create new welcome and wayfinding signs. An interconnect emergency water line with Romeo was approved, and water and sewer lines will be engineered for an extension line north from 31 Mile. A youth advisory committee was formed at Romeo High School. The board approved participation in the spongy moth program. Full Circle Meals was welcomed to Washington Township. The Romeo Washington Chamber of Commerce held their annual community luncheon. There were continued discussions of the Romeo Washington Bruce parks and recreation.

The update includes the opening of Veto Bakery and Detroit Wing Company, a tour of the municipal hall for Boy Scout troop 259, and the board's approval of a traffic study on the corner of 30 Mile and M53 and the design of sidewalk gaps. The update also mentions a financial budget presentation with the need for a new DPW building, an afternoon dedicated traffic enforcement officer, and a new township hall.

The Washington Township Master Plan is a guiding document for the community's future development, outlining a vision for planned growth that respects the Township's history, natural environment, and rural character, while fostering a strong, diverse economy, varied housing opportunities, and a high quality of life. Key strategic areas include Economic Development, Access to Services, Housing, Environmental Quality, Transportation, Community Facilities and Services, Unique Places, and Harmonious Development. The plan aims to absorb new growth thoughtfully, preserve the existing community's identity, address traffic concerns, concentrate commercial development, and support the development of a cohesive village center over a 20-year timeframe.

The workshop centered on the allocation of ARPA funds, with discussions covering potential uses such as fire department needs (ambulances, self-contained breathing apparatus), improvements to Station 2, and a possible joint building with the DPW. Additional topics included upgrading security systems, election equipment, Comcast services, and the server room, as well as addressing broadband access issues and assisting residents affected by Hidden Valley's SAD.