0:28The proposed ordinance aimed to regulate the raising and keeping of chickens within the township, structuring the number of chickens based on property lot size. A council member, representing the planning board, stressed the importance of including a minimum lot size to prevent confusion among residents and administrative difficulties. This sentiment was echoed by other council members who highlighted enforcement challenges and potential health implications. The ongoing bird flu situation added urgency to the discussion, with the health officer providing statistics on national cases and emphasizing the potential risks of mutations. Consequently, the council decided to table the ordinance until more detailed information could be gathered, including a health memo.

21:31The council also deliberated over a multi-family residential overlay district ordinance related to land use and development. This ordinance passed unanimously and was referred to the planning board. Moreover, a new lease agreement for Norway Field, involving a Ukrainian soccer organization, was discussed, with the mayor commending the negotiations that secured continued use for local soccer programs.

38:26Public comments were particularly heated, with a resident voicing multiple complaints about local governance. Allegations included a plumbing subcode official’s resignation, an investigation into the police chief for alleged sexual harassment, and concerns over the town attorney’s legal fees. The resident criticized the council’s handling of Open Public Records Act (OPRA) requests, urging for greater transparency. The comments section also featured a request from the zoning board for a completeness subcommittee to streamline application processes, and a call for the council to prioritize the planning board’s recommendations over the chicken ordinance.

1:12:54The mayor provided updates on several local initiatives, such as the Meals on Wheels program and a task force assessing mine-related risks. A letter from a resident praised the Dial-A-Ride service. Upcoming events, including a veteran ID outreach program, were announced, and the township was recognized for its efforts in safe routes to school, which earned a grant and certification.