Residents packed the public comment period at Oshtemo Charter Township’s June 23rd board meeting to raise concerns about a proposed industrial-scale battery storage facility, and the board discussed whether it has the legal tools to do anything about it.
Multiple residents spoke during public comment sessions throughout the nearly four-hour meeting, raising concerns about potential impacts on local wetlands and the aquifer, lithium-ion battery fire and safety risks, effects on property values, and what they described as inadequate communication from the Township about the proposed development. Several urged the board to adopt stronger local ordinances proactively and to mobilize community opposition to the project.
The board’s discussion turned quickly to a question that goes beyond Oshtemo’s borders: how much authority does a township actually have over industrial energy projects?
That question is currently before the Michigan Supreme Court. In Almer Charter Township v. Michigan Public Service Commission, a case that originated when Almer Charter Township sought to enforce its local zoning ordinance against an industrial energy project, the Court of Appeals issued a partial ruling on the township’s authority. The Michigan Supreme Court has agreed to take up the case. The outcome could have significant implications for townships across the state, including Oshtemo, that are trying to regulate where industrial energy facilities — including battery storage — can be located.
Supervisor Cheri Bell noted at the meeting that the Township’s legal counsel would advise on whether Oshtemo could file an amicus brief in support of Almer Charter Township’s position, and at what cost. No formal vote was taken on that question.
The board also discussed its ongoing work on an energy system ordinance, which is being developed in coordination with consultants and integrated with the Township’s existing solar ordinance. That work was already underway before the June 23rd meeting.
Residents who want to weigh in on the Township’s energy ordinance development or the battery storage proposal can contact the Township by calling (269) 375-4260.
