[2:06] The Clinton Township Board of Trustees to order. We’ll ask everyone to rise for the Pledge of Allegiance. Pledge allegiance. The flag of the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands. One nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Thank you very much. Roll call please. Miss Meltzer. Here.

[2:45] Sorry about that. Trustee Matuzak. Here. Trustee Kress. Present. Supervisor. Gieleghem here. Trustee King is absent. Excused. Uh Treasurer Aiello. President Clerk Meltzer here. Okay. Uh, next item is, uh, the approval of the agenda. A total of nine items, uh, with one having consent agenda with five items. I’ll make that motion to approve.

[3:14] Um, can we move six up to item four was requested due to a, um, conflict? Yes. So we’ll make item number six for a. So. All right. So does that mean for a is going to be heard before for. No, for and then for a. No I’m asking that to go to four then.

[3:42] Oh okay. We’ll make that three a. Okay. Okay. Without objection. Uh Treasurer Aiello. No objection. Yes. And the supporter support. Okay. Wait. Uh Trustee Wade. In support. Roll call please. Miss Nelson. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor Gieleghem. Yes. Trustee. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Motion passes.

[4:20] Okay. So that brings us to public service announcements regarding elections requested by. Uh Clerk Meltzer. Thank you, Mr. Supervisor. Just a reminder, we’re, um. Not. I’m not even sure we’re under 50 days before the election on November 30th is our election.

[4:44] And 90 days of early voting begins October 24th, which includes two Saturdays and two Sundays that you can vote in person leading up to Election Day. And that experience is very much just like voting on Election Day. And so we encourage you to do that. And, um, we have four locations for this election. Um, Kensington Church on M59 and 94.

[5:05] Uh, Victory Church, which is located off of Hayes and Canal just south of Canal. Um, this location here in Clinton Township and then at 15 mile Faith Baptist Church. So I’m just, um, ballots are going to be mailed out on the 24th. That’s this Thursday.

[5:24] So if you haven’t gotten your ballot and you’re on the permanent ballot list, you will automatically get that ballot in the mail through the United States Postal Service. If it doesn’t arrive by the end of the first week in October.

[5:39] Please contact our office and we will have to reissue you a new ballot and spoil the other one that was originally issued. So any questions, please don’t hesitate to call the clerk’s office. We’re very busy, but not too busy to answer questions. Thank you. Great. Thank you miss. I thank you. Clerk Meltzer. Uh, that brings us to item number one, the consent agenda. Move. Adoption of the consent agenda as printed. I’ll second that.

[5:59] Moved and supported any discussion on any of the items. Seeing none. Roll call please. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Motion passes. Okay. Item number two. Appointment of applicant to the Clinton Macomb Public Library Board.

[6:27] Um, so there are three applicants, board members, uh, all three of them were introduced, had an opportunity to introduce themselves to you at the last meeting. Um, because there are three applicants and only one spot. Um, the process, we are going to do a poll.

[6:50] Um, we will call on the trustees and the members of the board, and they will state the last name of one of the candidates. If one person gets the four, we will then call for a motion to approve, uh, the appointment of that person.

[7:15] If no one gets the four on the first round, the person with the least amount of mentions will be removed from the list, and we will have a second round. So with that, uh Clerk Meltzer. Uh, the last name of the person that you wish to see appointed. Kress Kress Treasurer Aiello. Kress. Trustee Wade. Kress. Trustee Matuzak. Shackelford. Trustee Kress. Kress. And myself. Uh, Ken. Kress. I’ll entertain a motion, uh, for the appointment of Ken Kress as our appointee to the library board.

[8:04] So moved. Second, that. Moved by Clerk Meltzer, supported by Treasurer Aiello. Um. And need further discussion. Roll call, please, miss Meltzer. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Motion passes.

[8:28] I just want to say, before we close out this item, we had three very, very quality qualified applicants. We appreciate their public service. And if there’s another role that we can work with you to identify. Um, for service in the township on a committee. We would be honored to have you in another role helping us and helping your community.

[8:51] So thank you. Um, that brings us to, uh, item number three, uh, approved designation of Clinton Township as a POW. A city, uh Clerk Meltzer. This is the resolution I’d like to read into the minutes at the regular meeting of the Board of trustees for the charter township of Clinton, held in the board chambers at 4700

[9:12] Romeo Plank Road, Clinton Township, Michigan, on the 21st day of September, 2026, commencing at 6:30 p.m.. Whereas the Jefferson Barracks POW Mia museum honors American prisoners of war and those missing in action. The museum is located in old 1898 Officers Quarters building in the historic Jefferson Barracks Park, Saint Louis, Missouri.

[9:33] Whereas the old 1898 Officers Quarters Building was built within the historic Jefferson Barracks military post, which was established in 1826 as the first permanent infantry post west of the Mississippi River. The Jefferson Barracks POW Mia museum established their permanent home there in 2011. Their promise is no one left behind, no one forgotten.

[9:57] And whereas the mission of the Jefferson Barracks POW Mia museum is to reverently honor all who served our country and any branch of the United States military who were captured by enemies of the United States or who were missing in action from from any year and from any conflict.

[10:15] And whereas the Jefferson Barracks POW POW Mia museum established the POW pow mia city program in an effort to raise POW mia awareness and education across the nation. The program is designed to help institutions across the United States to join this program and help ensure their national promise. No one left behind, no one forgotten is kept.

[10:35] And where is the Vietnam Veterans of America? VVA chapter 154. Located in Clinton Township, Michigan, works diligently honoring veterans and serving our heroes by providing dignity, care, and community for those who served our nation.

[10:56] The VVA chapter 154 is dedicated to raising community awareness by continuously advocating for the more than 83,000 POW Mia from across the nation. And whereas VVA chapter 154 speaks locally at schools and events to shed light on the plight of our pow pow Mia since 1986, they have maintained a vigil every year for their missing brothers and sisters yet to be returned home.

[11:18] This takes place on the third Friday of every September at the Veterans Memorial, located in the Resurrection Cemetery in Clinton Township, Michigan. Whereas VVA chapter 154 has respectfully requested the charter Township of Clinton support their efforts in advocating for forgotten heroes, prisoners of war, and missing in action through designation as a POW. Mia community.

[11:42] And Whereas as a community, Clinton Township asserts, we support VVA chapter 154 to meet the criteria established by the Jefferson Barracks POW POW Mia city program to further educate our community and younger generations. Of the more than 83,000 pow pow Mia from across the nation. Well done Clerk Meltzer. That’s a lot. Um, that was a pretty long resolution. It’s that’s cool.

[12:06] Um, uh, first of all, I want to thank everyone in the audience today. Um, we pass a lot of resolutions around here, but the fact that you all took time to come to this meeting shows how passionate you are about this.

[12:30] Um, while we, um, are discussing this topic, Clinton Township has a long history of supporting not just your organization, Vietnam Veterans of America. 154 but all of our veterans with the ceremonies that we do at Resurrection Cemetery, uh, we have a memorial day, um, vigil. We have a Veterans Day event, and we have a Patriot Day event that was first started by former supervisor Bob cannon.

[12:56] And we see that the supervisor is here tonight. I think we can always call him supervisor, even though I’m I’m sitting in the chair. I think Bob’s kind of been the eternal supervisor for Clinton Township. So what I want to do is offer him the opportunity to speak on this issue if he’d like to.

[13:18] Uh, I know I have a couple other gentlemen that first approached me on this issue to bring it forward. There was a lot of criteria that we had to meet in order to receive this designation. We still haven’t received it.

[13:34] Even if we pass this tonight, it has to be submitted to the Jefferson Barracks. However, um, we work very closely with you all, and I think it’s pretty safe to say that our efforts are pretty far up there in terms of meeting the criteria. So thank you, supervisor. This is just another feather in the cap of the township board as well as the township.

[13:56] And we have the the wall that heals has been here several times. We have the Gold Star Monument, one of only two in the state of Michigan. Anytime we had the opportunity.

[14:13] And tonight’s another one of those to honor our veterans, we take it and we look good, and the veterans look good, and they appreciate it. My name came from my uncle who died about four months before the war ended in a Liberator airplane in Germany, and I was named after him. And my grandmother always took a special note of that. And whenever there was a holiday honoring veterans, of course we were always there.

[14:33] But she would say, when I first got the message that he was gone, he was a P.O.W.. And am I a and she said that was worse than being told that he was killed in action because there was finality to the second part.

[14:53] So for all these people that you’re honoring tonight, if you so vote that way, and I hope you do, your honoring past mother’s past aunts, past brothers, past nephews, and all the rest of these gentlemen and ladies who came out tonight to speak. I wasn’t planning to be a speaker. The boss made me. Thank you. And I hope you.

[15:18] Again. It would be a feather in the cap of putting township in this board to be the first. I’m going to direct you to the mic, Mr. supervisor, you have to speak into the mic. He knows it. All right? No. I deserve that. After 40. Years. What’s your address? Yeah. Just for the record, sir.

[15:41] Well, nobody wants my address. Yes. No. We just wanted to harass you. In the. Way out. Okay? As long as you vote. Yes, you can do whatever. You want. Thank you, Mr. Cannon. Mr. supervisor. Uh Trustee Kress.

[16:01] I’d like to make a motion to adopt and approve the designation of Clinton Township as a P.O.W.. Am I a city? I’ll second that motion. Okay. Moved and supported. Uh, further discussion from the board. Uh Trustee Matuzak. Just a question. Assuming we get this designation, and I see no reason why we shouldn’t.

[16:21] How many signs would we be able to get? And where would we place them? Any thoughts on this? We start off with eight signs. You have to come up to the mic. Yep. And have you come on up, sir. Because if we’re going to do this, I want to make sure people know the community. Yeah.

[16:38] Good evening. My name is David Rocco. I am chairman of the WME committee for our chapter. Thank you for bringing this up. Uh, this is really great. Appreciated. And thank all the veterans for coming out tonight. Uh, we’re going to start off with eight signs, and, uh, we’re going to purchase them.

[16:56] Our chapter will purchase the signs. And now I don’t know what I probably use. Guys have to order them and then we’ll reimburse you. I don’t know how that’s going to work, but, uh, whatever it is. But we’ll take care of the cost on the signs.

[17:12] And I understand that your township will do the placement of the signs, and that’s correct. That’s correct. Okay. And then as far as boundaries go, well, we can just use that in, you know, when the time comes up, uh, and perhaps the main streets like Gratiot and, uh, Groesbeck and 15 Mile Road or whatever, we can put those, those eight

[17:26] signs are, uh, I can’t thank you enough for doing this. Um, at the vigil every year, we read the names of the 48 that are missing from Michigan. Uh, if you don’t mind, I would like to do that. Now, if if that’s okay. This is why we’re here tonight. Okay.

[17:49] Uh, if you’re able to stand, I would appreciate. It. The 48 names are as follows. Richard M Allard, Warren L Anderson, Ellis E Austin, Harry M Beckwith. The third Bruce E Boltz Lewis Buckley Jr, Patrick H. Carroll, Rodney M Chapman, Curtis R Klein, Gregory J. Crossman, Charles Kudla, Douglas V daily, Craig M dicks, Francis J.

[18:32] Finley, Dean L Gauthier, Larry E green, David S Greeley, Wade L growth, Robert L Hill, Gerald L Holman, Jeremy M Jarvis, Stanley M, Jerome, Bruce, G. Johnson, Donald L King, James R Clement, Joseph R Klug, James W coy, Marvin M Leonard, Robert C Marvin, Martin M Marcucci, Michael F may, James R Nelson, James L, Paul Oath, Ali.

[19:07] Perry, Thomas F Riggs, Donald D Roberts, Earl F, C Baum, William H. Govan, Jean P Steven Bergen, William M Tromp, George E Tyler, Kenneth E Walker, Michael J. Wallace, Robert J. Welch, Donald J. Woolfolk, John B Westchester, Frederick J. Wozniak, and Arthur. Right. Thank you for letting me do that. And thank you.

[19:36] Thank you again for the science, I appreciate it. Any other questions? Did you say well done because there were some tough names in there. So I guess this is not the first time you’ve done that. We’ve done it many years. Thank you. Thank you.

[19:56] Um, uh, any further questions or comments from the board? Okay. We’re going to open this up to public participation. Anybody else wishing to speak? Mr.. Uh, e2 Carl. My name is Carl E2. I’m the Clinton Township resident and a member of chapter 154. Just shine a little light on the totality of the missing in action names. And there’s over 80,000. And I’ll give you that.

[20:19] The the wars that they’re associated with. There’s 71,711 associated with the Second World War. There are 7362 associated with Korea. There’s 1565 associated with Vietnam. There’s 126 associated with the Cold War in the Gulf and Libya.

[20:52] Six now, I’d like to just read a little something that I plagiarized from somebody, but I thought it was completely appropriate for what we’re doing here today. The military members of any generation need to know that someone was to continue to look for them if they are captured or go missing.

[21:10] As a nation, we cannot forget our responsibilities to those who serve as an individuals, we must pledge our commitment to. We must. Wait a minute. I lost my place. We must be tireless in our work. Celebrate small victories and act with integrity and dedication to our common cause until they all come home. Now, to put it in a little context, with all of you, picture your mother, your father, your brother, your sister.

[21:32] Go to work in the morning and you never see him again. They’re just gone. You have no idea what happened to him. They’re just gone. The sorrow and the feeling that you must have. So I think that we can never. I like to leave you with that thought as to what this is really all about. Thank you.

[21:50] Thank you. Carl. Any others wishing to speak on this issue? Seeing none any further comments from the board? Roll call please. Miss Meltzer. Thank you. Trustee Kress. Yes. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Treasurer Aiello. It’s an honor to vote yes for this.. Motion passes.

[22:19] Okay. Thank you all for being here. You really underscored the importance of this issue for. Us. You all are welcome to stay for the remainder of the meeting. And the rest of the agenda items.

[22:42] But I also want to give you the opportunity to, you know, head on out, uh, in a peaceful manner, if you so choose. So, um, moving on. Uh, item number three, a formerly item number six resolution in support of Michigan Senate Bill 1156. Did you want me to read that letter to the board as well or start with that? Or would you. Just like. The resolution? Okay. Makes most amount of sense.

[23:04] All right. Resolution urging the Michigan Legislature to enact legislation providing safe and operational requirements for electric bike bicycles at a regular meeting of the Township board of the Charter Township of Clinton. County of Macomb, State of Michigan, um.

[23:27] Whereas the use of electric bicycles, commonly referred to as e-bikes, has increased substantially in Michigan communities, including within the charter township of Clinton. Did you want me to wait until it clears out? I don’t know if the sound of everybody moving is going to make it hard for. I’m sorry, Kim, I. Came here, right? Exactly. Okay, exactly. Yeah.

[23:44] We’re gonna we’re gonna pause here for a quick moment, give people time. Uh, uh, in the audience to, uh, uh, file out and, uh, we we know that this resolution is important. We want to make sure that it’s heard by all the members and the public is as well. Gary must be married. He knows somebody left behind a purse.

[24:25] Miss Meltzer, if you could resume where you left off. Okay. Where is the use of electric bicycles? Commonly referred to as e-bikes, has increased substantially in Michigan communities, including within the charter township of Clinton.

[24:49] And Whereas advances in electric bicycle technology have resulted in e-bikes capable of traveling at speeds substantially greater than conventional bicycles with some electric bicycles capable of providing motor assistance at speeds over 25mph. And whereas Michigan law generally affords an individual operating an electric bicycle the same rights and subjects that individual to the same requirements as an individual operating a conventional bicycle.

[25:12] Notwithstanding the substantially greater speed, weight, and motorized capability of many e-bikes, and whereas Michigan law expressly excludes electric bicycles from the statutory definition of a moped, resulting in materially different regulatory requirements for vehicles that may be operated at similar speeds and in similar locations, and where is the charter township of Clinton has experienced increasing concerns regarding the operation of e-bikes on public roads, sidewalks, pathways and other

[25:35] areas where e-bikes interact with motor vehicles. Pedestrians and conventional bicycles. And Whereas, township officials and law enforcement have observed circumstances in which e-bikes are operated at significant speeds by young or inexperienced riders, including in areas of substantial motor vehicle and pedestrian traffic.

[26:02] And Whereas the combination of motorized propulsion, increased speed, limited rider experience and interaction with pedestrians and motor vehicles create safety concerns not presented to the same degree by conventional bicycles, and whereas these concerns are particularly significant when e-bikes are operated by minors who may lack knowledge of traffic laws, experienced judging vehicle speeds and stopping distances, or sufficient training regarding the safe operation of a motorized device in traffic.

[26:24] And Whereas Michigan law currently imposes additional requirements upon the operation of mopeds, reflecting the legislature’s recognition that motorized two wheeled transportation presents safety concerns warranting regulation beyond those applicable to conventional bicycles.

[26:48] And whereas the charter township of Clinton has experienced increasing public safety concerns involving high powered electric bicycles and electric cycles, including an August 25th, 2026 incident in which approximately 20 unlit electric motorcycles were reported creating traffic hazards near Romeo Plank and Canal roads, and a related disturbance at the Mall at Partridge Creek, ultimately resulting in citations to five adult riders and the impoundment of five high powered electric motorcycles, some capable of speeds of approximately 70mph.

[27:12] And whereas the Clinton Township Police Department has also warned residents of a significant increase in the use of high power electric cycles and difficulty in distinguishing between legally classified electric bicycles and electric motorcycles, demonstrating the need for clearer, uniform statewide standards governing the classification, safe operation, and enforcement of these increasingly prevalent vehicles.

[27:36] And Whereas the Township board recognizes that e-bikes provide significant benefits, including affordable transportation, recreation, mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and an alternative to motor vehicles, and the township does not seek to prohibit or unnecessarily restrict the responsible use.

[28:03] And whereas the township board nevertheless believes that Michigan’s statutory framework should be updated to reflect the increased prevalence, speed and capabilities of modern e-bikes and provide clear and uniform rules that can be readily understood by riders, parents, motorists and law enforcement officers. And whereas reasonable statewide requirements could include age appropriate restrictions, operator education, helmet requirements for minors, licensure identification or registration requirements where appropriate, and other safety provisions comparable to those applicable to mopeds.

[28:29] While recognizing legitimate distinctions between e-bikes and other motorized vehicles. And Whereas uniform statewide legislation would provide greater consistency than requiring individual municipalities to address to attempt to address these issues through a patchwork of local regulations and would provide clear standards for enforcement throughout the state of Michigan.

[28:50] Now, therefore, be it resolved that the charter Township of Clinton Board of Trustees hereby urges the Michigan Legislature to review and amend the Michigan Vehicle Code to establish reasonable safety and operational requirements for electric bikes that are similar to requirements presently applicable to mopeds.

[29:10] Be it further resolved that the Township specifically urges the legislature to consider reasonable requirements concerning minimum operator age helmet use by minors. Operator education and knowledge of traffic laws, licensing, identification or registration of electric bikes and such other measures as may be reasonably, reasonably enhanced. The safety of e-bike riders, pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists.

[29:34] We have further resolved that any legislation should preserve the availability and legitimate use of electric bicycles, while providing law enforcement agencies with clear, practical and enforceable standards, addressing unsafe operation, be it further resolved that the Township clerk is directed to transmit a copy of the resolution to the governor of the State of Michigan.

[29:54] The members of the Michigan Senate and Michigan House of Representatives, representing the charter township of Clinton and such other state officials and organization as the township determines appropriate be it further resolved, that our resolution resolutions in conflict herewith are repealed only to the extent necessary to give full force and effect to these provisions, be it further resolved, that this resolution is deemed favorable should any provision, clause, or word or

[30:14] sentence be deemed unenforceable, the remainder shall remain in full force and effect. That is a lot of legalese language. Thank you, Miss Meltzer. That was a lot. Thank you. Attorney McGrail. Will recognize and turn things over to, uh Trustee Wade.

[30:34] But before I do that, I do want to recognize that, uh, State Representative Aragona is with us tonight. He’s in the audience and, uh, indicated that he’s been working with our trustee on the issue. We appreciate that. And, uh, since this is calling for the state to act, uh, we we look forward to hearing from you. Representative Aragona.

[30:56] And, uh, what you see as the prospects on this, uh, turn things over to, uh, Trustee Wade. Thank you. Um. About a year ago. Is really when this topic came up and we had problems with some of our parks, with the e-bikes. And I think that really started a conversation.

[31:21] And since then, I’ve talked to many people in the community, and it’s really become a very dangerous situation. You’re constantly reading about it in the newspaper with young people getting hit. And the thing that is really concerning to me is that you’re 13, 14 years old.

[31:44] It looks like a lot of fun to jump on one of these e-bikes and buzz around the neighborhood, but all you have to do is fall one time and it’s a life altering event. And, you know, with my time with the police department, I seen kids on mopeds who had horrific injuries and it was just a lack of judgment.

[32:03] When you’re that age and you don’t know what the laws are of the roads and stop signs and yield signs, so bad decisions are made. I don’t think they’re intentional, but, uh, in fact, I was at the Chippewa Valley School board meeting last week, and that was the first thing they brought up is at their football game.

[32:24] It totally created chaos with all these e-bikes showing up, and they were happy they were going to come up with some type of administrative rule for their football games, that these bikes can’t be allowed. They were a total disruption. So this this problem has grown.

[32:42] Uh, I did contact our state representative, Joe Aragona, a while back, and he’s been more than helpful because I had a conversation with, uh, the Supervisor Gieleghem a while back and kind of agreed that the state had to do something would be hard for us to do something on an individual level.

[33:00] So I’ve been working with, uh, State Representative Aragona. He’s been more than helpful. And I think with this legislation, it’s going to make parents responsible, because that’s really where the problem is. Uh, if I was 13 or 14 and somebody offered me one of these bikes, I’d be off and running.

[33:20] So I think the parents have to really take responsibility, and they have to be held accountable. So I think this is a good first step in that direction. So thank you. Thank you. Any other board members? Uh Treasurer Aiello. Yes.

[33:42] I’d like to just add to that as far as safety is, um, not only these young, young kids are putting themselves in danger, but, you know, when they drive down, I just experienced this myself. My wife and I about two Friday nights ago, about 830 at night. We’re going down, uh, headed westbound on 80 Mile Road between Garfield and Hayes.

[33:57] And all of a sudden, before I know, I said my wife. What is that in front of me? And also hit my brakes. And it’s two of those e-bikes, no lights or anything. Luckily, I spot them at a time, but so these, these, these young people are not only putting themselves in danger, but they’re putting the motorists in danger as well.

[34:11] And I personally had the experience and I don’t want to get into it, but I personally had an experience where someone used my vehicle at one time in my younger life as as my vehicle, as a method of suicide. And that traumatized you for life as a motorist. So I just like to add that. Representative Aragona.

[34:36] Thank you, Mr. Supervisor. Um, I. Thank you for. The kind words for, uh, I just want to say thank you to, uh, Trustee Wade as well. We’ve been having a number of conversations over the last couple of months, uh, regarding this, this type of legislation. Um, there are a couple of House bills.

[34:50] Sorry, there are a couple of bills in Lansing right now. They’re both in first chamber bills, which means where they originated, either the Senate or the House. Um, uh, one bill is by Senator Rustad. So that has to do with kind of the age at which one of these types of, of, uh, electric type vehicles can be obtained.

[35:08] Another one is actually across the aisle by Representative Skag. So he’s he was taking a look. Uh, um, mainly at the registration portion. Right. Uh, unfortunately, it’s not as easy as saying, okay, all EV bikes. Right, because some of these are very low powered. They’re only really going as fast as a normal bicycle or maybe less.

[35:26] You know, I looked out my window, uh, a couple of days ago, and there was a couple of kids going by on, on just electric scooters, but they’re not going very fast, and they’re only going around the neighborhood. That’s not what we’re trying to to get after.

[35:39] Uh, if you look through the news articles over the last year, there’s been quite a few people who have been struck. I think there was even a, like a 30 year old man who was going across, I want to say, Telegraph or another major road such as that. Uh, and he was struck, um, and, uh, a few people have died and even kids.

[35:53] Right. So what we’re trying to do is, is create a solid regulatory structure around these higher powered vehicles. So I think that’s something that that obviously, as you know, we have this kind of dawn of EV, there’s more and more being produced. Right. It makes the price go down.

[36:11] It’s easier to, to get uh, you know, you’d be surprised at how cheap you can get some of these vehicles, um, and some of these e-bikes. Um, so, uh, we just want to create a, you know, kind of a regulatory structure and, you know, as Trustee Wade was saying, you know, this is definitely becoming more of a

[36:26] norm of an issue. In fact, I think the last conversation we had, I, I think it was somewhere around Partridge Creek when we were talking about this, I left and actually right at 19 and, uh, Romeo Plank, there was a bunch of them crossing, and I watched one of them kind of have a

[36:39] little bit of a close call. Right. So it’s becoming more and more of a prevalent, uh, situation and we’d rather not have the news out to, uh, Clinton Township to, to cover a disaster like this. So, um, right now there’s less session, uh, you know, as, uh, Mr.

[36:58] Supervisor, madam clerk, you both were my predecessors for Clinton Township in the house. Uh, when it gets to an election year, you tend to have less session days. The closer you get to the election itself. Um, but we’re going to see what we can do this year and then, uh, into the next session to, you know, craft a quality product for this type of regulation.

[37:12] So, I definitely see it as a step in the right direction. Um, the, uh, I don’t want to give folks the impression that there’s nothing we can do because even the resolution kind of goes through some incident, some incidences that we’ve asked our police department to enforce. Um, there is a difference.

[37:37] There are the e-bikes that have pedals so you can actually ride them as a bike. Right? Or you can engage the electric battery and actually go pretty fast. But then there’s these electric motorcycles. They’re kind of like dirt bikes. And those are the things that I think are really dangerous.

[37:59] And those are the things that obey come the real problem, uh, that we’ve been experiencing. I do think this is definitely a step in the right direction. I think some accountability on the part of parents. We want to buy these for our kids. We want our kids to be able to use them.

[38:21] But more than anything else, we want them to be safe and we want them to operate respectfully and with the safety of others in mind as well. So I applaud the effort, and I think it’s a great resolution. And, Mister Supervisor, you were kind of you were you were kind of narrowing down as to some of the differences. Right.

[38:36] Um, you know, I was watching a news article, uh, a couple of weeks ago, and they mentioned where there was an accident with one of these and that particular vehicle was an actual an E motorcycle, and that was small. Right.

[38:50] So it doesn’t look like a tower of power, but because it’s an electric vehicle, it was very high powered and it was supposed to be registered. Right. So you kind of narrowed down on, on, on kind of one big issue as to, you know, if you go by an actual vehicle, you have a responsibility to go get it registered. Some of these users aren’t getting registered.

[39:05] So is that another piece we should be looking at? Right. So, um, just kind of wanted to mention that there’s a couple of different facets to what we’re looking at, and I appreciate, um, you know, if everybody could support this because this will help me going back to Lansing to show my colleagues that biggest township in the state, uh, is

[39:20] putting their foot forward and saying, we should do something about this. So. Excellent. Thank you. Uh Clerk Meltzer. Thank you. I just want this is for Captain Coppola. If you could answer if if you were to see, for instance, hypothetically. No, this is actually not hypothetical.

[39:35] It’s a true story. Um, I was exiting off of I-94 onto Hall Road, and so I was coming from the north. Um, and I saw four young men. Young boys, I’m sorry, young boys. And one, especially the one that was always further out. Maybe he looked like he was eight years old.

[39:58] They were heading eastbound on M59 over the overpass. And, you know, through all that traffic that comes off 80 miles an hour off of 94 and is slowing down in the on the exit ramp, but not that much. And making the real quick right turn at about 40 miles an hour.

[40:12] These kids were crossing over there. Now, is there a law against that in in. Would those kids shouldn’t there. I mean there’s already books laws on the books right now for that. Correct? Correct. So this, this um, this resolution as well as um, anything this legislature does doesn’t necessarily fix that.

[40:33] Right? I mean, because how could I mean, there was no police around. So I mean, oh my goodness, I was terrified. It was literally like, stop my car. And I’m like, I’m just gonna wait for the light to turn. I’m not even gonna turn. I’m gonna wait for it to turn green.

[40:46] Am I gonna turn right on a red? I’m gonna wait until these kids are, you know, way out of my sight. And, um, it’s super, super dangerous. But what would you do in a situation like that? What can you do as a police officer? The typical response. We would initiate a traffic stop and then investigate.

[41:04] I mean, eight year olds don’t belong on public roadways, for starters, so there definitely be a call to the parents to come pick up the child. But any careless or reckless driving we have to take individually and investigate accordingly.

[41:22] Okay, so you know, my point is, I think I definitely support this resolution and I hope that, you know, the state does look at that. But stupid is it. How stupid does or whatever that same it is. It is remarkable to me that a parent would allow their child to be out there, um, on a, on a, on a 59 in, in that capacity.

[41:41] So I don’t think this is going to necessarily solve all of our problems, but it’s definitely a move in the right direction. And I appreciate the work that the legislature has done on it so far, and will continue to do so. We do want to see that not because we don’t, not because we think it’s a, you know, one bullet. This this solves all our problems, this.

[41:56] But because it is a move in the right direction, it’s about education. It’s about marketing. It’s about letting parents know they have a responsibility in this area and that there are concerned people all over, whether they have children or not.

[42:12] They don’t want to be in a position of, you know, harming somebody or being in that inner intersection of, of where a terrible accident can happen. So thanks for doing this. Yeah, absolutely. So before we go too much further, what I’d really like to do is get a motion on the floor. Um, so. I’ll make that motion. A second. It moved by. Uh Treasurer Aiello.

[42:31] Supported by Trustee Kress. Uh, any further discussion from board members? Trustee Matuzak. I just want to say that I think this is a real step in the right direction because we as a township have tried to do some things other cities and townships have tried to do some things.

[42:49] This really has to come from the state, um, so that there’s not this patchwork of rules and regulations. We need common definitions, we need common ways we can enforce this. So I really applaud the work of the state legislature to try to solve this very complicated issue, but it needs to be done at the state level. So I’m really glad to see that. Yeah. Thank you.

[43:11] For the comments from the board. Public participation. I’ll get out of the way and I can stick around for any questions. I just want to say thank you all for the support. And then and obviously Trustee Wade, thank you very much for all your work. So thank you.

[43:29] I think it’s very past due for the state to do something, but what I would like to say, the township board in the last year approved a, you know, an e-bike plan for the for the township, allowing e-bikes onto the different, uh, bike track, hike, bike trails and everything else.

[43:50] And what I think, you know, and I actually went by one to see the signs and stuff there because those were put in with a lot of federal money hike bike trails that were put in with federal money, do not allow any motor vehicle on them.

[44:07] And so I would ask the township to immediately amend the ordinance you did, and make sure that it’s clear that the hike bike trails are off limits to any bike. It’s again are there and you took federal money to even maintain it. They really don’t belong there, period. And they’re for the enjoyment and physical exercise of everybody.

[44:24] And, uh, if you do ride a bike or if you do walk, it’s pretty well when they come by you. So thank you. So. For the record, I want to state that the feds have not communicated to us that any type of e-bike, whether it has pedals or not, they have not communicated that they’re not allowed on the trails.

[44:50] We have no state law that says that they are not allowed. Um, we in fact have been told we cannot prohibit them. So we tried to regulate them. Uh, that was an interesting perspective, but unfortunately not correct. Um, further public participation. From the best. The best neighborhood in this here township.

[45:19] Uh, one thing I would like to see us maybe do is ask the state for some money to enforce this, not let it be just another unfunded mandate that puts more burden on our officers, more work for them to do. Great to have the law. Great to have it. But let the state kick back some money to help fund some enforcement.

[45:44] That would be a great thing. And expanding this, I see a lot of it. Not only the e-bikes, but the stand up scooter boards that are quite fast, possibly including that, but let the state give us some money too. Thank you. I saw a nod from Representative Aragona, so I think he’s going to take that message back..

[46:08] Come back and bring back. Further public participation. Leonello. Thank you. Leonello. Where I have my address on this. You address. We requested. We can’t require. Three, 5695. Blairmore, Clinton Township. Um, this all sounds great.

[46:37] I don’t want to be Debbie Downer, but you put it all on paper and you talk about it, and everybody’s gung ho, and then we don’t enforce it. I mean, it’s the same way with the, uh, cell phones and the district driving. I mean, you can have the parents telling the kids they gotta do what they gotta do, and the parents don’t do what they’re supposed to do. Today on, uh, Utica.

[46:54] You probably don’t have to hold the mic while speaking into it. Okay. Um, on Utica Road today, there was a car. There was construction up there, uh, between Moravian and 15 and the Congress. Like lamb chops. Most likely they smashed into the back of a pickup truck.

[47:13] They had to be going like a bat out of hell, most likely holding a cell phone. So we need to enforce the laws and not just talk about them. So thank you. Okay. Thank you. Any further discussion on this item? Seeing none. Roll call please. Miss Meltzer. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Motion passes.

[47:38] Item number four. Fire prevention. Safety week proclamation for 2026. Dear Board Members, on behalf of the citizens and visitors to our township, I am respectfully requesting that the Fire Prevention Safety Week Proclamation be placed on the September 21st, 2026 agenda. This coincides with the National Fire Protection Association’s annual program guidelines.

[48:01] They have adopted this year’s theme as charged into Fire Safety. Safe charging is a superpower with Fire Prevention Week from October 4th to the 10th, 2026. In accordance with the NFPA Safety Program, please announce that the Clinton Township Fire Department has designated Saturday, October 10th, 2026 to hold our annual open House.

[48:22] We hereby invite the public to our event. There is to be no. There is no fee to attend. It will run from 12 until 3 p.m., 12 noon until 3 p.m. at Fire Station Number four headquarters located at four two 601 Romeo Plank Road. Sincerely, Jason Croft, fire marshal.

[48:44] Would you like me to read the proclamation as well, can I? I think so, yes. Yes. Um, where is the charter? Township of Clinton is committed to ensuring the safety and security of all those living in and visiting Clinton Township, whereas fire remains a serious public safety concern both locally and nationally.

[49:02] And the presence of lithium ion batteries in many household devices introduces fire risks. And whereas most of the rechargeable electronics used in homes daily, including smartphones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, e-scooters and toys are powered by lithium ion batteries, which, if misused, damaged or improperly charged, can overheat, start a fire, or explode.

[49:27] Where is the National Fire Protection Association reports an increase in battery related fires, underscoring the need for public education on the safe use of lithium ion batteries and and devices. Whereas the lithium ion battery devices are charged can make a difference in helping prevent home fires.

[49:47] And whereas safe charging includes using the cord and charger that came with your device or one approved by the manufacturer, charging on a hard, flat surface, watching for warning signs like devices that are very hot or start to swell. Unplugging when fully charged, and charging larger devices like e-bikes outside and away from exits, whereas residents are encouraged to understand that safe charging means making smart choices every time they plug in.

[50:09] And whereas the Clinton Township first responders remain dedicated to reducing the occurrence of fires through prevention, safety, education and community outreach. And whereas the 2026 Fire Prevention Week theme charge into Fire Safety, safe charging is a superpower serves to remind all residents that safe charging can help reduce the risk of fires in homes and

[50:29] communities. Now, therefore, I, Paul Gieleghem, and Board of Trustees do hereby proclaim October 4th to October 4th to the 10th, 2026 as Fire Prevention Week throughout Clinton Township and urge all residents to learn about and practice safe charging habits. Thank you, Miss Meltzer and chief.

[50:49] Thank you for being here. Yes, sir. Uh, before I turn things over to you, I want to just State Deputy Chief McLaughlin was at staff meeting. He mentioned the theme of this event. The fact that these lithium or lithium ion batteries, when they charge, can get heated and can actually catch on fire.

[51:17] Turns out later in the day here at the township, someone was charging a battery and a small fire that was contained by the fire extinguisher, but it prompted a response from the fire department and it was pretty incredible.

[51:42] This charred battery that was on the table that started a fire here in our building on the same day that the deputy chief unveiled, this being the theme.

[52:07] So it got me to think I now have a blower and a weed whacker that are electric, and I leave that battery on that charger as soon as I’m done, and I don’t think about it. And in talking to the firefighters, they said as soon as it’s done charging, take it off, never charge it overnight. That’s one of the ways we can be safe. Chief, I’m going to turn things over to you. Hopefully you can tell us other ways that we can be safe. I understand.

[52:29] Well, thank you for the opportunity to speak this evening. Uh. The. Event as you described, uh, I think underscores the opportunity for us to speak of the super power and safe charging as our topic for this year, as well as for fire Prevention Week.

[52:45] Uh, as these conveniences that we enjoy, uh, throughout our homes and residences. Um, they do have these under these type of problems that could exist the best practice I have described unplugging those, uh, whenever charged and ready to go is is the best practice, uh, utilizing the appropriate charger for the appropriate battery.

[53:03] And these are many topics we’ll have available to us at the open house as well. The opportunity to speak to our fire marshal division, to our firefighters. We will have a National Fire Protection Association documents and able to share the education that’s required with these batteries that are out there, because as we all are aware, they’re in our homes and many more are

[53:21] being sold daily and put into residents and businesses here in the community. So it’s a it’s a great topic to, I won’t say celebrate, but certainly to be aware of and to have of knowledge that we can share with our families and friends. Right. Friday certainly brought it home for me, chief. Yeah. Uh Trustee Matuzak.

[53:41] Are we talking cell phone batteries as well? Yes. Yes, the cell phone that I charge right beside my bed every night. All night? Yeah. And buried deep in your owners manuals are instructions, such as keeping things unplugged and not in your, uh, blankets and pillows and stuff like that.

[53:59] But these are practices we can discuss at the open house. And advise of best practice as identified to us. And frankly, now we’re seeing the vehicles on the roadway as well. So these challenges do continue to compound themselves.

[54:18] We try to keep ourselves as best educated with best practice as we possibly can, reading trade journals and bringing in training. This is why it’s imperative that we have these type of opportunities, right? I’ve been very aware of the vehicle battery fires and how difficult they are to fight, but I never considered the cell phone beside my bed every night, plugged in and charging. Okay, have to make some changes at my house. Thanks. Of course.

[54:37] Any other, uh Clerk Meltzer. Just a comment. That’s why the education is so critical. Because these are things that we can all do. We can try to make things safer for, um, not only ourselves individually, but everybody around us. And you’ll sleep better at night, too, because those electronics.

[54:52] Yeah, well, no, I’m not going to sleep at all. So we’ll just unplug it and, uh, and if. Anybody then knows me, I’m up all night. Usually I don’t sleep. I sleep in little shifts, and, um. So I’m always no texting if I. The idea comes to mind. But I’m awake. But maybe you’re not, so. Yeah.

[55:10] Okay. It might ding. Uh Treasurer Aiello. Uh, chief, I’d like to direct a question at you. So just so the public can hear this. So if your cell phone is fully charged and I leave my charger still plugged in with none, with not that phone plugged into it, still fire hazard.

[55:33] Correct? Correct. Those potential is always there. As best as we discussed with the previous batteries, to unplug that and to leave it to its own device to run down the battery, but leaving charging overnight is not a best practice. Thank you. Okay. I think we need a motion. I’ll make a motion. I’ll second that.

[55:53] Moved by Treasurer Aiello, supported by Clerk Meltzer. Any further discussion from board members? Public participation. Mr. Dugger. Chief is still here. Mr. Dugger, microphone.

[56:18] I would like to just reiterate, what are the things that, uh, and I think the chief may speak to this is when a lithium battery like you had an incident here today, when a lithium battery goes into thermal runaway, you need to run away, because if it’s of any size, the the fumes from that battery are deadly. Maybe the chief can can speak to that just for a moment. Say, yeah. Yeah.

[56:37] And we described it with any fire that it takes place inside of a residence or a place of business. Uh, if you have an extinguisher to if you’re able to safely address that, if you’re unable to safely address that fire, we advise you to leave the premises immediately, not go back in for anything. Nothing is more important than your safety. Uh, and Mr. Douglas point. That’s correct.

[56:53] In regards to the thermal runaway, uh, that takes gallons and gallons and gallons of water and a small battery and hundreds, if not thousands of gallons of larger batteries, such as vehicles. So the best practice is to get away, as these batteries do off gas. There’s concerns there for your for safety.

[57:09] So it’s best that you get away from that environment. Uh, let, uh, let the fire be addressed. Let the situation be addressed and follow the guidelines. And the information is provided to you after the event. Uh, for safely inhabiting or finding a different location until the situation is further remedied. Okay. We have a motion in support.

[57:30] Any further discussion? Roll call, please. Mr. Meltzer? Uh Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Motion passes. Thank you very much. I do appreciate the continued support of the fire department and the open house and the fire prevention Week.

[57:49] I believe this makes Is a safer community in totality with this combined effort. So thank you very much. We’re going to be engaging our communications team to heavily promote and advertise the fire department, open house, and the importance of this theme that’s been set aside. I think it’s insightful and I commend the Department for raising awareness on this issue.

[58:14] Thank you. I appreciate your support. Uh, item number five Award snow removal contract at Heritage Estates. Dear Honorable Board of Trustees, on September 15th, 2026, the Heritage Estates Committee met and discussed proposals received for snow removal during the 2020 627 winter season. The three proposals received are attached for your review.

[58:40] The committee is recommending US lawns as they are the most complete proposal at the lowest cost. A budget amendment would be required upon approval in past seasons. Township employees have been called in to provide snow removal services at heritage estates.

[58:59] Once it is determined that the sidewalks and parking lots need to be cleared, it can take more than two hours for DPS employees to report and begin snow removal operations. By contracting for the service. A snow removal contractor can respond in a timely manner, allowing sidewalks and parking areas to be cleared sooner and providing safer conditions for heritage estates residents during winter weather events.

[59:18] Formidable management has followed up with US lawns to confirm the required work is included in their proposal. Formidable has also contacted current snow removal customers of U.S. lawn. They were given positive recommendations. Formidable is satisfied with their findings and recommends awarding the US lawns to it. It should also be noted that US lawns is the current lawn service contractor at Heritage Estates.

[59:40] They are responsive and have done a great job. As such, the Heritage Estates Committee is requesting the board approve a budget amendment of of $23,885. Since DPS had already budgeted 15,000 in the senior housing operational budget, as well as awarded the snow removal contract to US lawns in the amount of $38,885.

[1:00:06] The contract terms shall commence on November 15th, 2026 and continue through April 1st, 2027. Thank you for consideration in this matter. Sincerely, Heritage Estates Committee. Snow removal proposal. So before we go into questions, Clerk Meltzer, why don’t you read the motion? Uh, that, uh, DPS department is looking for.

[1:00:28] Okay, is to receive and file the letter dated September 15th, 2026 from the Heritage Estates Committee and award the contract for snow removal at Heritage Estates for the 2627 winter season to US lawns in the amount of $38,885, and approve the requested budget amendment of $23,885. The contract term shall commence on November 15th, 2026 and continue through April 1st, 2027. I’ll make that motion.

[1:00:55] Moved by Trustee Matuzak, supported by Trustee Wade. Uh, any further discussion on the item. I question? Uh Clerk Meltzer. So how many? Um, I mean, what if we have a really slow season? We’re still going to pay $38,885. Yeah, this is to cover up to 50in of snow.

[1:01:17] Uh, so they will come out. And so, um, you know, there’s a risk there for us, but, you know, um, if it only if it only snows 20in. Um, but if it if it snows 48, you know.

[1:01:31] Um, so this is typically we typically, um, in a given year, you have anywhere like 35, I think it was like 35 to 38in is what we typically get. So I know that the breakdown let me see here the quotes were here. But, um, on average it says here the rate is 75 per hour for the labor. But then there’s other things also incorporated in that.

[1:01:54] So we’re going to pay a lump sum up to 50in. If we were to some reason have a snow macadam. Um, and have more than that, then uh, then we kick into those hourly rates. They want to make sure that they’re upfront with us and stuff. Um, but again, we don’t usually see 50in.

[1:02:10] It’s 55, actually 55in. I think the kind of. You know, one of them was 51 was 55. So if you’re looking are you looking at us? Well, maybe it’s the wrong one. Maybe. Let me. I’ll look real quick. Oh. It’s suburban. Oh, you were looking at suburban. Yes.

[1:02:25] So I believe, um, the contractor we’re recommending is US lawns, and theirs is up to 50in. Okay. So there’s there’s no way to pay as we go. Like as we need it. We have to pay a big contract based on.

[1:02:47] So typically, like, when, uh, typically like when a homeowner’s association pays for it to be done, you’re paying a lump sum and they’ll come out after, you know. So this is how it’s typically done. Um, and, you know, if you when you do pay, if you do pay an hourly, then you usually paying on a higher rate right off the bat because you’re calling it as needed type idea.

[1:03:02] This they’re monitoring and they’ll be coming out and then handling it for us. And I know that that might be seem a little more expensive. And but again we’re not going to be paying for something we’re not getting either.

[1:03:16] So um, I would guess I just think we should really and I know you will. I know you’ll look at this, analyze it, but I would like to have a report back that really how many times they came out, you know, what was the cost per event? And then if we want to maybe reevaluate doing

[1:03:33] a contract and do a pay to go kind of a thing if we if we can analyze that, I think that would be I mean, I get what we’re trying to accomplish. I think what’s important is not per event.

[1:03:47] I mean, we can keep track of the events, but we can also, it’s important to keep track of how much snow, because when you get a six inch dump, that’s a lot more work than a one inch dump that they’re going to be blowing. So we can keep track of that.

[1:04:02] And and, you know, okay, you know, the otherwise you could run into a problem though if you pay. Like if you look at suburban we did the math. And if you did up to 50in then you’d be paying more, you know. So you got to look at that as well. Okay. Okay. Thank you. Just I just wanted my concerns addressed. Thank you. Treasurer Aiello.

[1:04:17] Uh, I’d like to direct this question to Mary. Mary. Um, the current lawn service company that does the service over there is going to be the same company that’s going to provide the snow removal. Okay. Thank you.

[1:04:38] Trustee Matuzak one of the things the, uh, Heritage Estates Committee was trying to the sort of problem we needed to solve was that up to this point, the DPS, our DPS folks have been doing it. Except that if it’s a weekend, it’s a holiday. We got to get our guys in here. They get their the residents have a parking lot. They need to be able to access.

[1:04:57] And so, uh, bidding it out this time to an outside company that we’ve pretty thoroughly checked, I think will be much better service for the residents there. Also, in addition to plowing, they’re doing the salting. So sometimes they’ll come out to just do the salt and not even the plowing.

[1:05:15] So I think there’s a there were a lot of factors in trying to compare these contracts, but the committee did a pretty thorough job. I’m really happy with it.

[1:05:33] But I think more importantly, it solves an issue for our residents, which means they get plowed out sooner and they get more efficient service in terms of snow removal and, um, ice removal. So. Further discussion on the item from the board public. Roll call please. Miss Meltzer. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Kress. No. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Motion passes. Okay. Brings us two. Item number seven.

[1:06:08] Because six was moved to three, a item number seven, drainage variance request. Chapter 1470.065 Clinton Township Code of Ordinances for lot one, Little Mack Estates. Dear honorable Board members, the Department of Public Services received a request for a review of a plot plan located at lot one of the Little Mack Estates subdivision, northwest

[1:06:29] corner of South Mills Drive and Little Mack Road intersection. The applicant provided signed and sealed plans for an engineering review. Our consulting engineer, Anderson, Eckstein and Westbrook reviewed the plans and identified issues regarding the proposed rear yard drainage system design and the existing site limitations, and in storm sewer as required.

[1:06:49] In chapter 1470.065, items A, B and C, Clinton Township Drainage Chapter of the Clinton Township Ordinances, the Department of Public Services also reviewed the specific issues regarding the site drainage conditions, and agreed that a design that varies from the the drainage standards would be best suited for these specific circumstances.

[1:07:15] The proposed solution includes omitting the enclosed storm sewer system and constructing side yard swales draining from the rear yard area into the existing ditch in the south miles right of way. The applicant is obtaining a permit from the Macomb County Department of Roads for the sump lead discharge site.

[1:07:32] Specific issues that justify the need for this variance are due to number one and over, over and overland drainage route for. This site provides the most reliable means of surface drainage versus installation of a very shallow enclosed storm system, and two lack of a nearby enclosed drainage system which, with sufficient depth in the public road right of way to connect a proposed storm sewer.

[1:07:54] These conditions satisfy the following terms of granting of variances noted in chapter 12. 42.03 of Code of Ordinances. This is a special circumstance affecting the situation. Strict application of the provisions of ordinance would deprive the applicant of reasonable use of the property.

[1:08:14] Also, the variance is necessary for the preservation and enjoyment of the substantial property rights of the applicant. Granting of the variance will not be unduly detrimental to the public welfare or injurious to other property in the township, and the variance will not have the effect of nullifying the interest and purpose of the ordinance, nor violate the provision of other state or federal regulations.

[1:08:33] Chapter 1470.065, item H reverts to title six of part 12 of the Codified Ordinances, which enables the director, Public of Public Services the discretion to take variance. Request to the Clinton Township Board of Trustees for issuance is our recommendation for the Township Board to accept a variance in chapter 1470.

[1:08:54] 065 items A, B, and C of the Clinton Township Drainage Chapter for the proposed development of this property and the future development of the noted adjacent properties noted herein. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. Sincerely, Mary Bednar, Director of Public Services. If I had a microphone, I would drop it right now. I agree. It’s a.

[1:09:12] Lot. It’s been a lot of reading today. You’ve been working. Hard tonight. Miss? No, sir. I’m fine. I’m not asking. All right. Thank you. Though. I just think there’s a lot of that here. Discussion on the item. Uh Trustee Kress. Um, I don’t know if. This is directed to you or to marry her to the engineer.

[1:09:34] Um, but it makes mention in the staff meeting. This lot was on the agenda as well. Has it gone before the CVA? Yes, it has. And that. Was approved last week. Okay. All right. Thank you. Is there a motion? I’ll make that motion. Now. Supported. Motion to approve. Miss Meltzer, let’s clarify. I was Treasurer Aiello and Trustee Wade.

[1:10:02] But the motion is to. Oh, I’m. So sorry. Variances. I received filed a letter September 17th from the Director of Public Services and accept a variance to chapter 1417065 items A, B, and C of the Clinton Township Drainage chapter for the proposed development of lot one, Little Mack Estates, northwest corner South Mills Drive and Little

[1:10:22] Mack Road in the future development of the adjacent properties noted therein. Is that good? I’ll prove it. And I thought needed. But okay. Okay. Any further discussion? Roll call please. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Trustee. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Oh. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Motion passes.

[1:10:50] Item number eight 2027 Macomb County Department of Roads subdivision Pavement Preservation Program. Dear honorable Board members, the Macomb County Department of Roads is continuing their funding programs to Macomb County townships with the intent of preserving and improving the condition of local subdivision roads.

[1:11:10] The Macomb County Department of Road Subdivision Pavement Preservation program is specifically limited in scope to be an asphalt overlay of selected existing local roads. Public roads for the 2027 construction year, this program now has additional funding and provides up to $250,000 per project, with no required match from the local agency. A total of five projects can be proposed.

[1:11:34] The Clinton Township ensuring quality Roads or the ech R Subcommittee and Department of Public Services review. The SP application and requirements and established criteria to identify road segments that would meet goals of the Clinton Township Strategic Plan and the SP guidelines.

[1:11:57] Excuse me? The local roads identified for this program are subdivision road segments where a special assessment district for paving is not feasible, or a rank R, they rank highest in the objective driven subdivision. Road priorities. Scoring matrix and meet qualitative measures where an asphalt overlay is a reasonably acceptable maintenance option. The emphasis on these selections is to benefit the most residents and local institutions as possible. Under the previously noted conditions.

[1:12:20] Consequently, the following local road projects were identified using this selection criteria are as follows Kentucky Avenue Laurel Street to Queen road. South. Nunley Road from Acton Street to Farm Brook drive.

[1:12:46] Cimarron Street from Barham Street to Canal Road Way, Weybridge Street, Charter Oaks to Brentford, and finally, this is the fifth one North Nunley Road, Groesbeck Highway to Mulberry Street. The attached letter to the MC door provides additional details associated with this road. Funding submittal. This application is due September 25th, 2026. We are requesting Township board acceptance of this submittal. The attached submittal will be submitted to the Macomb County Department of Roads for consideration.

[1:13:07] Please contact me with any questions related to this submittal. Thank you. Mary Bednar, Public Services Director. Submitted for your review board. Um, so, um, this is, I think, representing tremendous progress, the amount of projects we’ve been able to get, uh, by working with the county Department of Roads on these maintenance style

[1:13:35] programs, doing more roads in an affordable way. There are roads that require a full reconstruct, roads too far gone, drainage issues means things are going to be torn up, and any work on it is going to be, you know, back to the same old conditions within a short period of time.

[1:14:01] Um, those require reconstructions. But the roads that are in decent shape, that can be ground down overlay has been a tremendous benefit to our community. And you can see that improvement throughout.

[1:14:24] And, uh, a lot of credit to our DPS department, our engineering firm, uh, but mostly the county Department of Roads working with us, asking us for our thoughts. And then us going to work and putting together a process so we’re not making arbitrary decisions here. We’re actually saying, let’s look at the condition of the road. Let’s look at the traffic counts. Let’s look at, um, the feeder road status.

[1:14:47] And let’s also then focus on those roads where we know we can never possibly get a special assessment district because there are not houses on both sides of the streets. Residents aren’t occupying.

[1:15:05] It’s either, uh, an apartment building that we know is not going to sign or, uh, vacant lots that people are speculating on that aren’t going to pay. So, um, our focus on this reconstruction is to lower the cost of an said we’re doing that. But these maintenance programs have been a tremendous benefit for our community. And so I encourage your support. I would make a motion. I’ll second.

[1:15:26] The motion. Okay. Further discussion. Um, I just had a yeah. I’m sorry, I have a question. It was kind. Of funny. Um, just. A couple of weeks ago. I heard multiple and I. Don’t know.

[1:15:42] How it all happened, but in my in earshot of people saying that 17 Mile Road is really in bad shape, and I was just going to hoping to pull it up real quick to see on what web on our website. I believe you have that on the the committee created that. So this is the pavement Preservation program, subdivision payment preservation program.

[1:16:00] Um, I’m aware these are more of the local type subdivision streets for this project. Correct. But I just. Thought there is a main road scoring matrix. Yeah. Similar to what I mentioned. And we’re working through, uh, the scoring criteria. So when the county says, hey, it’s time to submit for projects, we’re not doing so on an arbitrary basis.

[1:16:25] We’re not doing so. Hey, we’ve gotten a lot of calls on this road. We’re doing so in a way to address the this in a systematic fashion. And so I can’t speak to her. 17 Mile Road is currently, uh, but it is on the list. It is on our main road list. And, um, it’s. But is it.

[1:16:49] On the getting. It is it on our website though is what I’m asking. Is it on our website that shows which roads are at a certain rating? According to the Paser study and the work that the committee.

[1:17:03] Studies are certainly on there, I’m not sure that the scoring matrix is on there. Okay. Uh, we did then recently do the dashboard, which shows you what projects are currently ongoing and gives you a sense as to when they’re going to be, uh, starting stopping. Okay. Can’t say for sure. Can’t give specific dates.

[1:17:25] Uh, Miss Bednar smiling because she always gives me a lot of disclaimers that we wind up having to put down. But, um, yeah. So I did find that, um, so it is on our website at Clinton township.com. If you go to community and then about roads and then the condition of our roads, it includes that.

[1:17:41] What is Paser what what the committee has done in the past. And it’s a good, um, you know, good study. And then I don’t know if it has 17 mile Road, but for those that are listening, I heard several people complaining about 70 mile or whatever, like. 17 Mile Road is also tough because there’s a drain.

[1:18:01] And so the drain is only as narrow as the road, which means for people riding bikes and walking in the area. Mhm. Um, it’s going to need extensive, I think, drain work to extend to allow for pedestrian. Uh that’ll be a long project then too. So it’s going to be, it’s going to be a more expensive project.

[1:18:27] And well we always try to do is focus on those main roads is to compete for, uh, federal aid eligible dollars because that’s 80% funded by the feds, 10% County, 10% US. Yeah. So good. Good planning. Thank you. Mr. Supervisor. Uh Trustee Matuzak.

[1:18:54] I just wanted to note that one of the most important changes in the subdivision preservation program is no cost. Share this time around. So the, uh, Macomb County Department of Roads is paying 100% this time, as opposed to last time where we had to come up with 25%. Um, so I really appreciate that means we get more road for our dollars. Mr.. Gieleghem. Uh, Miss Bednar.

[1:19:18] If I could add this is to give us permission. To apply for these roads. So, um, I don’t want to give, you know, this. Mr. Gieleghem says I always put these caveats on there. This is not guaranteeing that this list of five roads will be done.

[1:19:35] Um, and it’s not necessarily, you know, a list of which ones will get selected. Hopefully all five do. Um, and correct. Mrs. Matuzak this year it’s change. It’s 100% covered. Um, so fingers crossed that we can get all five. I’ll make a motion to approve the letter and the contents within it. Support further discussion. Roll call, please. Clerk. Meltzer. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes.

[1:20:03] Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor Gieleghem. Yes. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Motion passes. Item number nine. Add on Chippewa Valley homecoming parade. Request. Okay. Sorry, I’m going to a bunch of different other websites and I’ve lost my page. Oh boy. Okay. Miss Meltzer. They’re having a parade. They’re going to. They need to close the road.

[1:20:35] The police approve. It’s all good. It is good. But for public. Miss Meltzer, I do want to, um. Well, you’re. While you’re looking for that, I want to sort of address an issue here.

[1:20:53] I see two, uh, folks in the audience here that are representatives of organizations that were a part of our CDBG sub recipient agreement for the 2627 program year. Uh, that item was one e that was approved in the consent agenda. Okay. I just want to make sure that you’re aware of that. Uh, I’ll turn things back over to Miss Meltzer for item number nine.

[1:21:10] Okay. Well, it’s going to be in pieces. I know there was a letter originally. I’m just not finding it. But the date of the event is October 16th. The time is 4 to 4:45 p.m. and the location is Romeo Plank between Canal and Greenfield.

[1:21:29] And if I recall, right, they started right around Saint Paul of Tarsus and then go up to Greenfield, partially, um, heading west on Greenfield until they go into the um, school property. And they’ve done this in the past. Our police department is involved monitoring the activity. So I think it’s well organized and safe. And I’d like to make a motion to approve the request. I’ll second that.

[1:21:51] Moved in, supported any further discussion. Roll call, please. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Treasurer. Aiello. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor Gieleghem. Yes. Motion passes. That brings us to public participation. Mr.. Buschell.

[1:22:28] I submitted some questions and there again, the trustees got them ahead of time, but it’s a matter of most people in the township don’t realize that we have our illustrious attorney who was here. Every meeting is for the board members only and not the citizens. And she has made it clear in written format that she only answers questions if the board members ask her for them.

[1:22:48] We have this, uh, public comment questions that you submit in writing that are supposed to be answered by the experts in the township. Basically, the people that are responsible for them.

[1:23:07] And we had the most the supervisor sent an answer that, uh, the reason that some businesses, if they don’t have an address, they’re vacant, even if they’re an ongoing business for many, many years, fully involved, multiple acre businesses. And, uh, my questions that I had, as I was hoping, you know, I was hoping that some of the board members would ask the attorney.

[1:23:26] So I basically the questions that I asked were, did any board member actually ask the attorney if, in fact, because the property doesn’t have an address, it’s not. It’s vacant. And there again, the property in question on top of that, literally none of the fields as far as to what type of road, what type of utilities, what any of the pertinent things that are all on the state forum, no less.

[1:23:44] None of them were answered. Does that make it a valid assessment when we’re all paying big taxes on our homes and these places are getting way lower? I know one that’s, you know, the one that’s been gone that was there for many years, was vacant the entire time. It was the in court and everything else.

[1:24:03] And so I, you know, I don’t think anybody thinks that because a property does not have an address, that it’s vacant. If it’s a business ongoing, very heavily used. Right. You know, in the township there again, the fire department can say how many, you know, vehicles they have there at any given time.

[1:24:21] And I think it’s a shame if none of the board members, if we are paying several, several hundred thousand dollars a year for a law firm that’s strictly for use to keep us honest and keep, you know, keep it to where you don’t violate the citizens rights.

[1:24:39] Uh, that none of us would ask the question and you’re willing you’re there again. All these, you know, experts that you’re paying for, you have to vote on their salaries. You have to vote to pay them. You’re voting to improve their, you know, paychecks every month.

[1:24:53] And I’m a I just am shocked, if not one board member, for as long as this has been going on, has asked the attorney, and they’re because they’re again, the assessor. I talked to somebody in the assessor’s office and, uh, they didn’t think that the assessor had anything to do with answering that question. And, uh. 15 seconds. Mr.. Russo.

[1:25:13] Well, for 15 seconds there, again, if any of you you know, if you’re all spending 4 or $500,000 a year on an attorney for yourselves, that’s actually supposed to protect us by from your questions, I hope you ask them questions. Thank you. Thank you. Uh, Dana Dugger. Thank you, Mr. Supervisor.

[1:25:36] Being the squeaky wheel here for roads, uh, since your, uh, pavement preservation brought that to my attention for Union Lake Road between Crocker and the Clinton River spillway, I, uh, emailed all of you. I emailed all of the board members over in our neighbor Harrison, since half that is Harrison, half is Clinton.

[1:25:53] I did get responses from their supervisor. He is on board to try to pressure the county for that. I got responses from the county executive office. They are going to talk to the, uh, road Commission. And I implore all of you to get on because these things take time. You don’t fix roads in six months.

[1:26:12] And, uh, Union Lake Road being a shared, uh, road there that services about 400 residents. Uh, if we can, get that on your agenda and get it to where the county will step up, it would be a great thing.

[1:26:34] But I’ve gotten, as I say, response from the county level and from your counterparts, my neighbors in Harrison. So I appreciate your help. Also, have a great evening. Thank you. No further public participation. Uh, motion to adjourn is in order. So moved. Second., moved and supported. Roll call, please. Clerk Meltzer. Yes. Treasurer Aiello. Yes. Trustee Wade. Yes. Trustee Matuzak. Yes. Trustee Kress. Yes. Supervisor. Gieleghem. Yes.

Clinton Township Board of Trustees Meeting: September 21, 2026

Transcript