On the agenda: Grand Ledge meeting — Data Center (Apr 20)
Past ⚠ Agenda Watch Grand Ledge, Michigan · Monday, April 20, 2026 — 6 months ago
About this record
The published agenda for the April 20, 2026 meeting contains: "Data Center", "Data center", "data center". The meeting has passed. The agenda stays here as a permanent public record.
Check the agenda document for the meeting time.
The agenda, word for word
Government public record — the full text of the published document, archived September 28, 2026. Gold highlighting of key terms is ours, not the original’s. Read the original document ↗
MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026
BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING AGENDA & NOTICE
6:00 PM SOUTH ROOM
12803 S. WACOUSTA RD, GRAND LEDGE, MI 48837~517-626-6593~WATERTOWNMI.GOV
Electronic packet file format: Select or click an agenda item to take you to the
corresponding page. Use RETURN TO AGENDA button to take you back to agenda
Resp
Action
Attachment
Number
Party
1.
MEETING OPENING
A. Call to Order
JM
B. Pledge of Allegiance
JM
C. Roll Call
CB
2. PUBLIC COMMENT (3 minutes per person may be enforced. If your comment is related to an agenda item, there will
be an opportunity to make comment after the board has discussed, but before a vote is taken)
3. ITEMS FROM COUNTY, STATE, FEDERAL & OTHER AGENCIES
JM
4. CONSENT AGENDA
JM
A. Board Minutes:
1. Board of Trustees – March 16, 2026 (Approval)
4A
B. Routine Bills – April 20, 2026 (Approval)
4B
C. Board Reports (Receive & Place on File):
1. Building Department, March 2026
4C-1
2. Treasurer Memo, March 2026
4C-2
3. Investment Report, March 2026
4C-3
Motion to
4. Treasurer Financial Status Report, March 2026
4C-4
approve all
5. Township Manager & Interim Planning Director, March 2026
4C-5
items on the
D. Reports (Receive & Place on File):
consent
1. Draft Planning Commission Meeting Minutes-April 7, 2026
4D-1
agenda, minus
2. Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Minutes-April 8, 2026
4D-2
items pulled
3. Clinton County Sheriff’s Office – March Report
4D-3
from consent
E. Correspondence (Receive & Place on File):
1. Response to LBWL 2-13-2026 Letter from Richard Peffley
4E-1
2. Support for Clinton County Sheriff Space in Wacousta School
4E-2
3. Maner 2025 Preliminary Governance Audit Letter
4E-3
4. ARPA (SLFRF) Closeout Letter
4E-4
5. Airport Road Construction Notice
4E-5
6. Consumers Energy EGLE Permit–Airport Road
4E-6
Additional Reports & Correspondence (external links) available on the following page
5. AGENDA APPROVAL
6. APPROVAL OF ADDITIONAL BILL LIST
7. PUBLIC HEARING (5 minute limit per person may be enforced)
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. Case No. 25-07 SLU: Solar Energy System for Utopian Power at
16492 Ingersoll Road, Watertown 1 (West)
B. Case No. 25-08 SLU: Solar Energy System for Utopian Power at
16705 Ingersoll Road, Watertown 2 (East)
9. NEW BUSINESS
A. Clark Road Heavy Maintenance–Clinton County Road Commission
B. Host Community Agreement with Granger-Negotiating Committee
C. Planning Commission Appointment to Zoning Board of Appeals
D. Data Center Zoning Discussion
Watertown Charter Township Board of Trustees Agenda - April 20, 2026
JM
CB
N/A
Motion
Motion
None
Agenda
On Table
None
JT
Motion
8A
JT
Motion
8B
JT
JT
JT
CB
Motion
Motion
Motion
Motion
9A
9B
9C
9D
Page 1 of 2
MONDAY, APRIL 20, 2026
BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING AGENDA & NOTICE
6:00 PM SOUTH ROOM
12803 S. WACOUSTA RD, GRAND LEDGE, MI 48837~517-626-6593~WATERTOWNMI.GOV
10. BOARD MEMBER AND PUBLIC COMMENT
11. CLOSED SESSION
Closed Session to discuss attorney/client privileged communication pursuant to MCL 15.268(1)(h)
12. ADJOURNMENT
Reasonable accommodation will be provided for individuals with disabilities to fully participate in any Township meeting.
Requests are encouraged at least 72 hours in advance. Contact Watertown Charter Township Clerk, Carolyn Brokob [email protected] or 517-626-6593 to request the necessary assistance.
Watertown Charter Township Board of Trustees Agenda - April 20, 2026
Page 2 of 2
Due to technology updates and the increasing size of Watertown Charter Township Board of Trustees
meeting packets, some supporting public resources, including reports, minutes, notices, and
correspondence are provided through external links.
Links to websites for committees, boards, and partner organizations can be found here:
TOWNSHIP COMMITTEES, BOARDS, COMMISSIONS PUBLISH THEIR MINUTES ON THE WEBSITE
https://www.watertownmi.gov/agendacenter
SUBSCRIBE TO GET NOTIFICATIONS https://www.watertownmi.gov/list.aspx
SOUTHERN CLINTON COUNTY MUNICIPAL AUTHORITY (Meeting Agendas, minutes, director reports)
https://sccmua.com/meeting-dates/
LOOKING GLASS REGIONAL FIRE AUTHORITY
Coming soon!
CLINTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS (Meeting agendas and minutes)
https://www.clinton-county.org/AgendaCenter/Board-of-Commissioners-2
CLINTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS VIDEO RECORDINGS
https://www.youtube.com/@ClintonCounty-MI
CLINTON COUNTY DRAIN COMMISSION (Notices, reports, etc.)
https://www.clinton-county.org/250/Drain-Commissioners-Office
CLINTON COUNTY ROAD COMMISSION
https://ccrc-roads.com/meetings/
CLINTON COUNTY SOLID WASTE COUNCIL
https://www.clinton-county.org/AgendaCenter/Solid-Waste-Council-SWC-7
CLINTON COUNTY MATERIAL MANAGEMENT PLAN COMMITTEE
https://www.clinton-county.org/1075/Materials-Management-Planning-Committee
LIBRARIES WITHIN THE TOWNSHIP: (Board minutes, events, announcements, lending, etc.)
DEWITT DISTRICT LIBRARY https://dewittlibrary.org/
GRAND LEDGE AREA DISTRICT LIBRARY https://gladl.org/
DELTA TOWNSHIP LIBRARY https://www.dtdl.org/
CLINTON TRANSIT (Board agendas and minutes)
https://www.mybluebus.com/resources/board-of-directors/past-board-meetings/
RETURN TO AGENDA
Watertown Charter Township
ATTACHMENT 4A
4-20-26 BOT MTG
March 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
1. CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM by Supervisor Maahs with the
Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America.
BOARD MEMBERS PRESENT: Supervisor John Maahs, Clerk Carolyn Brokob, Treasurer Sue
Biergans, Trustee Chad Cooley, Trustee Todd Hufnagel, Trustee Holly Madill, and Trustee Ron
Overton.
BOARD MEMBERS ABSENT: None.
STAFF PRESENT: Township Manager Jennifer Tubbs.
PUBLIC SIGNED-IN: David Bartkowiak, Ann McCulloch, Matt Tuckey, Jason Hawkins, Deb
Adams, Richard Turcotte.
2. PUBLIC COMMENT: None.
3. ITEMS FROM COUNTY, STATE, FEDERAL, & OTHER AGENCIES:
Ann McCulloch, representative to the DeWitt District Library (DDL), provided an update.
4. CONSENT AGENDA:
Motion by Trustee Hufnagel, seconded by Trustee Cooley, to approve the consent agenda as
presented. Motion carried unanimously.
5. AGENDA APPROVAL:
Motion by Trustee Hufnagel, seconded by Trustee Cooley, to approve the agenda as presented.
Motion carried unanimously.
6. APPROVAL OF ADDITIONAL BILLS:
Motion by Treasurer Biergans, seconded by Trustee Hufnagel, to approve the additional bill list on
the table dated March 16, 2026. Motion carried unanimously.
7. PUBLIC HEARING: None.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
March 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 1 of 3
RETURN TO AGENDA
Watertown Charter Township
March 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
9. NEW BUSINESS:
A. Reappointment of Planning Commissioners Beth Ball and Joe Davis
Motion by Clerk Brokob, seconded by Treasurer Biergans, to concur with the Supervisor’s
recommendation and reappoint Beth Ball to serve on the Watertown Charter Township Planning
Commission with a term of April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2029. Motion carried unanimously.
Motion by Clerk Brokob, seconded by Treasurer Biergans, to concur with the Supervisor’s
recommendation and reappoint Joe Davis to serve on the Watertown Charter Township Planning
Commission with a term of April 1, 2026 – March 31, 2029.
Trustee Overton spoke in opposition to the reappointment of Joe Davis to the Planning
Commission.
Planning Commission Chairperson Richard Turcotte spoke in opposition to the reappointment of
Joe Davis to the Planning Commission.
Deb Adams spoke in support of Joe Davis’ reappointment to the Planning Commission.
Roll Call Vote: Those voting AYE were Hufnagel, Cooley, Biergans, Maahs, Brokob, Madill. NAY
Overton. Six AYES, One NAY. Motion carried.
Clerk Brokob raised a point of order regarding decorum. The Supervisor ruled the point well
taken.
B. Clinton County Road Commission 2026 Road Contracts
Manager Tubbs provided information on the table on estimates for repaving Clark Road. This
item will be brought to the April meeting for action.
Motion by Clerk Brokob, seconded by Trustee Hufnagel, to approve the road contracts for Chip
Seal, Overband, Gravel, and Chloriding the township roads as presented. Motion carried
unanimously.
C. Resolution 3-16-2026-1 Planning & Zoning Fee Schedule
Motion by Trustee Cooley, seconded by Trustee Madill, to waive the reading of Resolution No. 316-2026-1. Motion carried unanimously.
March 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 2 of 3
RETURN TO AGENDA
Watertown Charter Township
March 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Motion by Clerk Brokob, seconded by Trustee Cooley, to adopt Resolution No. 3-16-2026-1, which
revises Planning and Zoning Fee Schedule, as presented.
Roll Call Vote: Those voting AYE were Cooley, Brokob, Hufnagel, Biergans, Overton, Maahs,
Madill. Absent: None. Seven AYES, zero NAYS. Resolution Adopted.
D. Planning Commission 2025 Annual Report
An amended 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report was placed on the table.
Motion by Trustee Cooley, seconded by Trustee Hufnagel, that the Watertown Charter Township
Board of Trustees receive and place on file the 2025 Annual Report of the Planning Commission.
Motion carried unanimously.
10. BOARD MEMBER AND PUBLIC COMMENT:
Mary Lou Elsenheimer requested the reinstatement of the Watertown Township drop-off recycling
site.
Matt Tuckey provided public comment and asked questions regarding Watertown Township
recycling.
David Bartkowiak spoke in favor of the current curbside single stream recycling.
Various Board of Trustees members and the Township Manager discussed the history, transition,
and current recycling options. Information was shared in an attempt to provide clarification.
ADJOURNMENT: Moved to adjourn by Trustee Cooley, seconded by Treasurer Biergans, at
6:53PM.
March 16, 2026, Board of Trustees Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 3 of 3
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4B
4-20-26 BOT MTG
WATERTOWN CHARTER TOWNSHIP
BILL LIST FOR MEETING
APRIL 20, 2026
VENDOR
PURPOSE
AMOUNT
***PAYROLL PAID 03-31-26 ***
ELECTRONIC FEDERAL DEPOSIT
PAYROLL
MERS
GF
GF
GF
TWP SHARE SOCIAL SECURITY & MEDICARE
PAYROLL FOR STAFF, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
TWP SHARE PENSION COSTS
TOTAL
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
$2,923.01
$37,656.36
$6,541.85
$47,121.22
$47,121.22
***BILLS PAID 04-01-26***
ACTIVE RIVER COMPUTER SERVICES, LLC
BUSINESS CREDIT CARD
CAROLYN BROKOB
CHRISTY SOCHAY
DELAU FIRE & SAFETY, INC.
DONNA C. MINTON
E.H. WARD COMPANY
FRONTIER
JACOB SCHAEFER
JEFFREY S. MACKENZIE
JOHN E. MAAHS
KENT COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
LANSING BOARD OF WATER & LIGHT
LANSING ICE & FUEL
LOOKING GLASS REGIONAL FIRE
MANER COSTERISAN
MENARD'S
NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LIFE
POORNA VEMULAKONDA
S.C.C.M.U.A.
SPICER GROUP
STANDARD INSURANCE COMPANY
SUE BIERGANS
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
WF
GF
FF
GF
GF
GF
GF
SF
GF
GF
GF
BALLOT BOX CAMERA INSTALL
TUBBS - MEETING, BOR, SUBSCRIPTION
MINTON - MEMBERSHIP, MONITOR, SUPPLIES
BIERGANS - ENVELOPES
BROKOB - IIMC AND MAMC EDUCATION
MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT
MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT
ANNUAL INSPECTION
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
FURNACE MAINTENANCE
BROADBAND
GRAVE OPENINGS (2)
ASSESSOR 03/16-31/2026
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
ASSESSMENT NOTICES
ANNUAL HYDRANT BILLING
FUEL
APRIL PAYMENT
AUDIT 2025
TOOLS, SINK REPAIR
DISABILITY INSURANCE
MILEAGE REIMBURSEMENT
APRIL PAYMENT
SEWER EASEMENT SURVEY, SITE PLAN REVIEW
LIFE INSURANCE
MILEAGE & MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
TOTAL
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
$30,144.05
SEWER FUND TOTAL
$55,041.40
WATER FUND
$125,265.00
FIRE FUND
$53,706.78
Printed 4/14/2026
479.90
211.39
1,019.90
963.25
125.00
145.73
74.65
50.00
367.66
332.00
85.48
550.00
3,960.00
114.82
2,358.81
125,265.00
347.72
53,706.78
11,621.40
220.26
921.66
33.35
55,041.40
5,183.00
221.93
756.14
$264,157.23
1:03 PM
RETURN TO AGENDA
WATERTOWN CHARTER TOWNSHIP
BILL LIST FOR MEETING
APRIL 20, 2026
VENDOR
PURPOSE
AMOUNT
***PAYROLL PAID 04-15-26 ***
ELECTRONIC FEDERAL DEPOSIT
PAYROLL
MERS
GF
GF
GF
TWP SHARE SOCIAL SECURITY & MEDICARE
PAYROLL FOR STAFF, BOARDS AND COMMITTEES
TWP SHARE PENSION COSTS
TOTAL
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
$2,723.45
$35,600.91
$6,469.16
$44,793.52
$44,793.52
***BILLS PAID 04-15-26***
ACD.NET
ANDREW CASE
CHRISTY SOCHAY
CONSUMERS ENERGY
CULLIGAN OF LANSING MICHIGAN
CYGNUS SYSTEMS, INC
DONNA C. MINTON
FRONTIER
GRANGER
JEFFREY S. MACKENZIE
MCGINTY, HITCH, ET AL.
MELANIE WRIGHT
MI DEPT OF ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
MICHIGAN FLEET FUELING
MUNICIPAL INSPECTION SERVICES
PONTEM SOFTWARE
ROSE PEST SOLUTIONS
TODD HUFNAGEL
USA TODAY NETWORK
VERIZON WIRELESS
WOW! BUSINESS
TOTAL
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
GF
TELEPHONE EQUIPMENT
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
MILEAGE AND EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT
STREETLIGHTS
WATERTOWN CHARTER TOWNSHIP
PARK AND RIDE LOT
TOWNSHIP OFFICE AND GYM
LOOKING GLASS PARK
HERITAGE PARK
CEMETERY
BOTTLED WATER
APRIL PAYMENT
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
BROADBAND
TRASH REMOVAL
ASSESSOR 04/01-15/2026
FEBRUARY LEGAL FEES
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
WATER SAMPLE
FUEL
PERMITS
ANNUAL SUPPORT SUBSCRIPTION
PEST CONTROL
MEDICAL REIMBURSEMENT
LEGAL POSTINGS
CELL PHONES
INTERNET
234.91
1,216.86
26.82
699.30
1,927.07
45.69
1,547.25
37.73
44.46
61.59
63.00
1,911.17
150.00
85.48
37.01
3,960.00
1,720.00
2,615.94
33.00
197.46
7,512.00
800.00
72.00
1,298.30
805.90
214.97
206.60
$27,524.51
$27,524.51
SEWER FUND TOTAL
TAX FUND TOTAL
Printed 4/14/2026
1:03 PM
RETURN TO AGENDA
WATERTOWN CHARTER TOWNSHIP
BILL LIST FOR MEETING
APRIL 20, 2026
VENDOR
PURPOSE
AMOUNT
***BILLS TO BE PAID 05-01-26***
JEFFREY S. MACKENZIE
LOOKING GLASS REGIONAL FIRE
S.C.C.M.U.A.
TOTAL
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
SEWER FUND TOTAL
FIRE FUND
GF
FF
SF
ASSESSING SERVICES
MONTHLY PAYMENT
MONTHLY SEWER
$3,960.00
$53,706.78
$55,041.40
$112,708.18
$3,960.00
$55,041.40
$53,706.78
***BILLS TO BE PAID AFTER BOARD APPROVAL***
TOTAL
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
Printed 4/14/2026
$0.00
$0.00
1:03 PM
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4C-1
4-20-26 BOT MTG
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4C-2
4-20-26 BOT MTG
TREASURER’S INVESTMENT MEMO
To: Supervisor Maahs, Clerk Brokob, Trustees Cooley, Overton, Madill, and Hufnagel
From: Sue Biergans, Treasurer
RE: March Investment Activity
Date: April 3, 2026
During the month of March 2026, the following interest was received:
MI-Class
Total Interest added
$10,008.54
MI-Class Edge
Total Interest added
$ 3,127.34
Multi-Bank Securities
Total Interest added
$21,643.75
Horizon Bank
Total Interest added
$
Mercantile Bank
Total Interest added
$ 4,227.55
Dart Bank
Total Interest added
$ 1,908.08
612.83
Percent of investment portfolio per financial institution is:
CIBC
$150,000.00
$156,300.21
Consumers CU Dart
Flagstar
Horizon
Independent MI CLASS
MI CLASS EDGE MBS
Mercantile
$250,000.00 $100,977.26 $107,239.14 $103,449.83 $250,000.00 $1,358,475.56
$374,827.93
$143,128.50 $100,000.00
$250,000.00 $122,500.00
$128,834.37
$14,237.02
$1,067,547.93
$687.50 $250,000.00
$123,760.89
$37,753.74
$11,861.68
$1,614.00 $100,000.00
$522,289.39
$1,067,547.93
$251,712.50
$60,351.23
$251,260.92
$226,172.12
$252,602.50
$5,999.15
$258,640.00
$928,206.28
$254,067.50
$254,507.52
$252,772.35
$248,708.67
$247,232.18
$10,810.29
$250,000.00
$776.24
$250,000.00
$249,248.50
$199,818.00
$250,000.00
$249,438.40
$250,000.00
$145,195.50
$250,000.00
$249,809.25
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$240,000.00
$240,000.00
$239,432.50
$94,623.00
$250,437.50
$253,095.00
$248,357.50
$248,785.00
-$312.50
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$99,880.00
$250,000.00
$250,142.50
$191,420.00
$192,398.00
$306,300.21
$16,288,620.48
1.88%
$500,000.00 $347,238.15 $107,239.14 $232,284.20 $250,000.00
3.07%
2.13%
0.66%
1.43%
$3,153,484.49
$2,521,785.47
19.36%
15.48%
$8,420,288.82 $450,000.00
51.69%
2.76%
RETURN TO AGENDA
ITEM
Item #
Year
24
11
19
1
4
8
10
11
16
19
20
22
3
4
1
2
5
7
9
11
12
13
14
15
16
18
19
20
22
24
25
26
27
29
30
31
32
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
2001
2021
2021
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
2023
2024
2024
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2026
2026
2026
2026
2026
2026
2026
2026
24
2001
24
2
18
19
1
7
17
20
21
3
4
6
8
17
21
23
28
2001
2021
2021
2021
2024
2024
2024
2024
2024
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
2025
Fund or Investment
Description
ATTACHMENT 4C-3
4-20-26 BOT MTG
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS FOR MARCH 2026
Purchase
Amount
Purchase
Date
Maturity
Date
Interest
%
$1,822,821.68
$150,000.00
$900,000.00
$250,000.00
$200,000.00
$250,000.00
$249,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$248,000.00
$249,000.00
$249,000.00
$247,000.00
$200,000.00
$250,000.00
$128,834.37
$150,000.00
$101,699.93
$250,000.00
$248,000.00
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$248,000.00
$250,000.00
$150,000.00
$122,500.00
$250,000.00
$249,000.00
$122,500.00
$103,449.83
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$249,000.00
$250,000.00
$240,000.00
$240,000.00
$100,000.00
$3,821,821.68
1-Oct-07
18-Aug-21
23-Dec-21
20-Jan-23
2-Mar-23
16-May-23
30-Jun-23
27-Jul-23
27-Sep-23
14-Nov-23
14-Nov-23
12-Dec-23
21-Feb-24
16-Feb-24
3-Jan-25
7-Mar-25
18-Apr-25
5-May-25
13-May-25
30-May-25
24-Jun-25
1-Aug-25
12-Aug-25
4-Sep-25
5-Sep-25
16-Sep-25
18-Sep-25
29-Sep-25
29-Sep-25
6-Nov-25
3-Dec-25
28-Nov-25
21-Nov-25
8-Dec-25
17-Dec-25
2-Dec-25
8-Dec-25
23-Dec-25
12-Feb-26
27-Feb-26
3-Mar-26
13-Mar-26
24-Mar-26
25-Mar-26
17-Mar-26
PMMA
18-May-26
PMMA
20-Jan-28
23-Mar-26
15-May-26
30-Jun-26
27-Jul-26
27-Sep-28
14-Aug-26
14-Feb-28
12-Dec-27
23-Feb-26
16-Feb-27
2-Jan-26
7-Mar-28
18-Apr-26
5-May-26
13-Oct-26
30-May-28
26-Jun-28
20-Aug-30
8-Feb-26
28-Aug-26
5-Sep-27
16-Mar-26
18-Sep-30
27-Sep-30
26-Sep-30
8-May-28
3-Dec-30
27-Nov-30
21-May-26
8-Jun-27
17-Dec-30
2-Jun-26
8-Dec-26
23-Dec-28
12-Feb-27
27-Feb-29
3-Sep-26
13-Mar-31
24-Mar-27
25-Mar-27
17-Sep-26
3.74%
0.88%
3.82%
4.75%
4.80%
4.60%
4.70%
4.75%
5.00%
5.10%
4.90%
4.55%
4.00%
4.55%
4.10%
4.00%
3.83%
4.00%
3.90%
4.40%
4.40%
4.20%
3.94%
3.50%
3.75%
3.75%
4.10%
3.95%
3.90%
3.60%
4.00%
4.00%
3.75%
3.80%
4.00%
3.75%
2.96%
3.70%
3.60%
3.65%
3.75%
3.75%
3.75%
3.75%
3.50%
8.44%
Dec 2010
PMMA
3.74%
$115,000.00
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$900,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$156,300.21
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$4,071,300.21
1-Oct-07
28-Apr-21
17-Dec-21
23-Dec-21
17-Jan-24
19-Mar-24
10-Sep-24
11-Oct-24
11-Oct-24
23-Apr-25
25-Apr-25
1-May-25
8-May-25
5-Sep-25
24-Sep-25
8-Oct-25
11-Dec-25
PMMA
28-Apr-26
17-Dec-26
PMMA
17-Jan-29
19-Mar-27
10-Sep-27
13-Apr-26
11-Mar-26
23-Apr-27
28-Apr-27
1-May-26
8-May-26
5-Dec-25
24-Mar-27
8-Apr-27
11-Dec-30
$237,776.20
$316,000.00
$200,000.00
$753,776.20
3-Apr-06
23-Dec-21
21-Apr-21
$102,000.00
$10,000.00
$200,000.00
$200,000.00
$512,000.00
Bond paid in full 2021
$528,136.10
Bond paid in full 2021
$410,483.63
Bond paid in full 2021
$1,942,691.91
Interest
Earned
Value at
Maturity
Market
Value
GENERAL FUND
24
19
1
2001
2021
2021
24
19
13
1
2001
2021
2021
2026
24
2001
MI-Class
MBS 5 yr Gov Bond
MI-Class EDGE
MBS 5 yr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 5 yr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 5 yr.
MBS 4 yr.
MBS 2 yr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 1 yr.
Consumers Credit Union
Horizon 1 yr.
CIBC 1 yr
FlagStar 17 months
MBS 3 year
MBS 3 year
MBS 5 year
Mercantile 6 months
Independent Bank
Mercantile 2 yr
Dart Bank 6 Month
MBS 5 yr
MSB 5 yr
MBS 5 yr
MBS 3 year
MBS 5 yr
MBS 5 yr
Dart Bank 6 Month
MBS 18 Month
MBS 5 yr
Dart Bank 6 Month
Horizon 1 yr.
MBS 3yr
Mercantile 1 yr
Consumers Credit Union 3 yr
MBS 6 month
MBS 5 yr
MBS 1 yr.
MBS 1 yr.
Dart Bank 6 Month
GENERAL FUND TOTAL
CURRENT TAX
MI-Class
CURRENT TAX TOTAL
SEWER RECEIVING FUND
MI-Class
MBS 5 yr Gov Bond
MBS 5 yr
MI-Class EDGE
MBS 5 yr.
MBS 3 Yyr.
MBS 3 yr.
MBS 1.5 yr.
MBS 1.4 yr.
MBS 2 yr.
MBS 2 yr.
CIBC 1 yr
MBS 1 yr.
MBS 3 month
MBS 18 month
Mercantile 18 month
MBS 5 yr.
SEWER REC TOTAL
WATER FUND
MI-Class
MI-Class EDGE
MBS 5 yr GOV BOND
WATER FUND TOTAL
T.I.R.F.
MI-Class
MI-Class EDGE
MBS 4 yr.
MBS 5yr
T.I.R.F TOTAL
STOLL ROAD PAVING
MI-Class
STOLL RD WATER
24
2001
MI-Class
STOLL RD SEWER
24
2001
MI-Class
$352,696.93
$1,358,475.56
$5,580.83
$133,324.50
$168,398.71
$1,067,547.93
$35,662.07 Called
$25,748.98 Matured
$28,838.18
$247,685.00
$30,299.49
$249,000.00
$30,777.39
$250,000.00
$30,273.93
$250,000.00
$28,748.72
$250,000.00
$27,446.59
$248,000.00
$24,614.46
$249,000.00
$20,001.88 Matured
$24,853.13
$247,000.00
$8,177.53 Matured
$250,000.00
$4,512.91
$128,834.37
$150,000.00
$101,699.93
$7,383.58
$250,000.00
$6,397.72 Called
$4,430.13
$250,000.00
$2,011.35 Matured
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$1,908.08 Matured
$4,337.45
$250,000.00
$3,300.68
$250,000.00
$3,258.90
$250,000.00
$2,250.35
$248,000.00
$1,698.64
$250,000.00
$150,000.00
$122,500.00
$250,000.00
$1,691.84
$249,000.00
$122,500.00
$753.77
$103,449.83
$1,013.70
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$249,000.00
$250,000.00
$240,000.00
$240,000.00
$100,000.00
$846,631.73
$10,105,017.12
$6,463.72
$6,463.72
$1,358,475.56
$143,128.50
$1,067,547.93
$687.50
$1,614.00
$251,712.50
$251,260.92
$252,602.50
$258,640.00
$254,067.50
$254,507.52
$252,772.35
$248,708.67
$247,232.18
$10,810.29
$250,000.00
$128,834.37
$150,000.00
$107,239.14
$250,000.00
$776.24
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$977.26
$249,248.50
$199,818.00
$250,000.00
$249,438.40
$250,000.00
$145,195.50
$123,760.89
$250,000.00
$249,809.25
$122,500.00
$103,449.83
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$250,000.00
$240,000.00
$240,000.00
$100,000.00
$10,114,815.30
$37,683.33
$37,683.33
37753.74
37753.74
3.74%
1.00%
1.15%
3.82%
4.05%
4.60%
3.75%
3.70%
4.00%
3.85%
3.75%
4.00%
3.90%
4.15%
3.80%
3.55%
4.00%
9.71%
$222,713.49
$928,206.28
$11,250.00
$223,510.00
$4,026.59
$87,661.00
$168,398.69
$1,067,547.93
$21,355.96
$250,415.00
$21,211.88
$250,000.00
$9,375.00
$250,000.00
$12,367.14
$250,000.00
$13,369.92 Matured
$3,227.70
$100,000.00
$7,859.58
$250,000.00
$156,300.21
$100,000.00
$2,586.64
$250,000.00
$2,576.71
$250,000.00
$100,000.00
$1,698.64
$250,000.00
$495,155.95
$4,763,640.42
$928,206.28
$239,432.50
$94,623.00
$1,067,547.93
$250,437.50
$253,095.00
$248,357.50
$248,785.00
-$312.50
$100,000.00
$250,000.00
$156,300.21
$99,880.00
$250,000.00
$250,142.50
$100,000.00
PMMA
PMMA
21-Apr-26
3.74%
3.82%
0.90%
8.46%
$110,267.46
$59,126.61
$8,100.00
$177,494.07
$522,289.39
$373,696.93
$178,314.00
$1,074,300.32
$522,289.39
$374,827.93
$191,420.00
$1,088,537.32
21-May-01
23-Dec-21
28-Jan-21
30-Jan-26
PMMA
PMMA
26-Jan-26
30-Jan-30
3.74%
3.82%
50.00%
3.60%
61.16%
$28,094.89
$1,901.70
$5,612.63 Matured
$1,163.83
$36,773.05
$14,237.02
$11,892.26
$14,237.02
$11,861.68
$200,000.00
$226,129.28
$192,398.00
$218,496.70
29-Nov-06
PMMA
3.74%
$81,611.18
$226,172.12
$226,172.12
29-Nov-06
PMMA
3.74%
$13,235.42
$5,999.15
$5,999.15
29-Nov-06
PMMA
3.74%
$72,892.13
$60,351.23
$16,288,620.48
$4,536,494.92
$60,351.23
Total of principal
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4C-4
4-20-26 BOT MTG
Financial Status Report
MARCH 2026
ACCOUNTS
BEGINNING
BALANCE
FUNDS
RECEIVED
GENERAL FUND
CHECKING
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
297,754.29
$ 2,546,442.64
$ 9,827,179.86
$ 12,671,376.79
TAX
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
$
1,350,405.80 $
37,753.74 $
1,388,159.54 $
TIRF
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
$
WATER DISTRICT #1
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
$
$
131,146.59
898,061.02
735,635.44
1,764,843.05
FUNDS
DISBURSED
ENDING
BALANCE
$ 376,177.16
$ 848,175.46
$ 448,000.00
$ 1,672,352.62
$
52,723.72
$ 2,596,328.20
$ 10,114,815.30
$ 12,763,867.22
127,375.04 $ 1,467,064.54 $
119.83 $
$
127,494.87 $ 1,467,064.54 $
10,716.30
37,873.57
48,589.87
115,504.91 $
218,496.70 $
334,001.61 $
15,114.93
59.88
15,174.81 $
-
$
$
$
130,619.84
218,556.58
349,176.42
$
$
$
275,980.28 $
1,086,414.83 $
1,362,395.11 $
20,456.52
2,122.49
22,579.01 $
-
$
$
$
296,436.80
1,088,537.32
1,384,974.12
SEWER RECEIVING FUND
SAVINGS ACCOUNT
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
$
74,610.83 $
4,782,225.09 $
4,856,835.92 $
469,407.31
4,269.83 $
473,677.14 $
$
250,000.00 $
250,000.00 $
544,018.14
4,536,494.92
5,080,513.06
STOLL ROAD PAVING
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
225,454.28 $
225,454.28 $
717.84
717.84 $
-
$
$
226,172.12
226,172.12
STOLL ROAD WATER
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
5,980.13 $
5,980.13 $
19.02
19.02 $
-
$
$
5,999.15
5,999.15
STOLL ROAD SEWER
INVESTMENTS
TOTAL
$
$
60,159.68 $
60,159.68 $
191.55
191.55 $
-
$
$
60,351.23
60,351.23
GRAND TOTAL
$ 20,904,363.06 $
2,404,697.29 $ 3,389,417.16 $ 19,919,643.19
ATTACHMENT 4C-5
4-20-26 BOT MTG
RETURN TO AGENDA
John Maahs, Supervisor
Carolyn Brokob, Clerk
Sue Biergans, Treasurer
Jennifer Tubbs, Manager
Chad Cooley, Trustee
Todd Hufnagel, Trustee
Holly Madill, Trustee
Ron Overton, Trustee
MEMORANDUM
To:
Watertown Township Board
From: Jennifer Tubbs, Watertown Township Manager
Date: April 15, 2026
RE:
Township Manager’s monthly report
Committees/Meetings:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Attended Planning Commission Meetings
Met with township attorney
Met with House of Promise
Attended the committee meeting to rename the original Wacousta School
Attended Southern Clinton County Municipal Utility Authority board meeting
Attended Looking Glass Regional Fire Authority Meeting
Attended the Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting
Planning Commission:
The Zoning Board of Appeals granted a variance for the number of students for the House of
Promise. The Planning Commission will consider the site plan approval and special land uses for
the House of Promise and TZone Trucking at their May 6th meeting.
Economic Development:
•
•
•
Site Searches – four
Related Correspondence – fifteen
Meetings – two
Office Operation:
•
Staff related assistance – thirty
The office has been extremely busy. There is an increased number of zoning complaints and
the building season is beginning to pick up. Mr. Poorna Vemulakonda has accepted the
Planner Position and will begin fulltime with the township on May 11.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Resident Relations:
•
•
Road complaints – nine
Resident questions/interactions/meetings – forty-one.
The nonstop rain, immediately following the freeze/thaw cycle, has wreaked havoc on both
the gravel and paved roads. The CCRC is doing all the maintenance they can as weather
permits.
Township Board Relations:
•
•
Board member related assistance – six
Board member meetings – eight
Miscellaneous:
Wacousta Commons is the proposed name for the former Wacousta Elementary School that is
being repurposed into a Community Center. The Grand Ledge School District pursued the vision
Watertown Township had been working on for the building. The building is proposed to contain
a substation of the Clinton County Sheriff, the Grand Ledge library, space for clubs and
professional development of Grand Ledge Schools, a new culinary arts program and the
Wacousta Cooperative Preschool.
Extreme Rain Events:
In the last 20 years there have been 8 major extreme rain events in Watertown Township. 6 of
the 8 events have been in the last 6 years, starting with 2019 which was the wettest year on
record in Michigan history. The township has been averaging a major rain event (over 3inches)
per year. The latest one, which was two weeks ago the township received 3 to 6 inches of rain.
The Gloria Miller Looking Glass Valley Park has been underwater for weeks and is the highest
flood stage I have seen in over 20 years.
The good news, so far, the ditching work that has been done in the Wacousta area has worked.
The water has been able to move through the ditches and away from structures as intended.
RETURN TO AGENDA
12803 S. Wacousta Rd., Grand Ledge, MI 48837
517-626-6593
517-626-6405 (Fax)
www.watertownmi.gov
ATTACHMENT 4D-1
4-20-26 BOT MTG
PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
Tuesday, April 7, 2026, | 7:00 pm
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Chair Richard Turcotte with the Pledge
of Allegiance.
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Overton, Bartkowiak, Ball, Felzke, Openlander, Lonier,
Davis, Adams, and Turcotte.
STAFF PRESENT: Township Manager Jennifer Tubbs present as well as Poorna Vemulakonda,
Planning Intern.
COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED: None
AGENDA APPROVAL:
Turcotte wants to add a discussion about changing the time of the meetings to the agenda. Motion by
Lonier, seconded by Openlander, to approve April 7, 2026, regular meeting agenda as amended. Motion
carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT, NON-AGENDA ITEMS: None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. March 3, 2026, Planning Commission Regular Meeting
Motion by Bartkowiak seconded by Felzke to approve March 3, 2026, minutes as presented. Motion
passed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS: None
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Election of Officers-Bartkowiak nominated Joe Davis for Planning Commission Chair. The
nomination was seconded by Lonier. There were no other nominations for Chair. Roll Call VoteTurcotte-no, Lonier-yes, Felzke-yes, Bartkowiak-yes, Openlander-yes, Davis-yes, Overton-no, Ballyes, Adams-yes. Motion passed. Davis nominated David Bartkowiak for Planning Commission
Vice-Chair. The nomination was seconded by Ball. There were no other nominations for Vice-Chair.
Motion passed. Felzke nominated Lonier for Planning Commission Secretary. The nomination
was seconded by Bartkowiak. There were no other nominations for secretary. Motion passed.
April 7, 2026, Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes
Page 1 of 2
RETURN TO AGENDA
Bartkowiak nominated Rick Adams to remain on the Zoning Board of Appeals as the Planning
Commission representative to that board. This is a recommendation from the Planning
Commission to the Township Board. The nomination was seconded by Davis. Motion passed.
2. Planning Commission meeting times discussion-The commissioners discussed changing the times of
the meetings. Tubbs stated the township board did switch their monthly board meeting time to 6pm
from 7pm. Ball stated it would be a hardship for her to be here by 6pm. Lonier stated he prefers a
later time. It may be a good idea to modify the by-laws to allow for time change flexibility as needed.
Tubbs will draft a by law memo that states the Planning Commission shall not meet before 6pm and
will remain at 7pm through the end of 2026. The time may be changed at the December
organizational meeting.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS: Bylaw Review-Turcotte stated again that the bylaw revisions are important
but not urgent-hence why they are ongoing. There was discussion and suggested changes to the bylaws.
COMMITTEE AND STAFF REPORTS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Executive Committee Report – None
Ordinance Review Committee Report – None
Site Plan Review Committee Report – None
Board of Trustees Report – Minutes 3/16/2026 draft
Zoning Board of Appeals Report – None
Capital Improvements Committee Report – None
Staff Reports: Assistant & Director’s Reports – April 2026 Tubbs commented about active
enforcements on Grand River and Herbison. Poorna sent out six violation letters.
COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS FROM AUDIENCE, STAFF, AND COMMISSIONERS: None
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion by Openlander, seconded by Ball, to adjourn the meeting at 8:10 pm. Motion carried.
Date approved: _______________________________
Richard Turcotte, Chair
________________________________
Steve Lonier, Secretary
April 7, 2026, Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 2 of 2
ATTACHMENT 4D-2
4-20-26 BOT MTG
RETURN TO AGENDA
12803 S. Wacousta Rd., Grand Ledge, MI 48837
517-626-6593
517-626-6405 (Fax)
www.watertownmi.gov
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS REGULAR MEETING MINUTES - DRAFT
Wednesday, April 8, 2026, | 7:00pm
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:02pm by Chair Lyle Heaton with the Pledge of
Allegiance.
ZBA MEMBERS PRESENT: Chair Lyle Heaton, Steve Ayotte, Chad Cooley, Tyler Pangle and Richard
Adams present.
STAFF PRESENT: Township Manager Jennifer Tubbs
COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED: Tubbs stated that there was one piece of communication received and
it was a letter of support from the property immediately south of the House of Promise.
AGENDA APPROVAL:
Motion by Cooley, seconded by Adams, to approve the agenda as presented. Motion passed.
PUBLIC COMMENT, NON-AGENDA ITEMS: Chuck Openlander stated that he was on the ZBA when
the House of Promise started and he was attending to see how it was proceeding.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1. September 10, 2025, Regular Meeting
Motion by Pangle, seconded by Ayotte, to approve the minutes of September 10, 2025, as presented. Motion
passed.
ADVERTISED PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. Case No. 26-004 ZBA-15275 Francis Road-House of Promise
Tubbs stated that this request is a result of a previous variance that was granted for the House of Promise.
Originally there were three variances granted-the road setback, driveway, and changing zoning from
commercial. On January 9, 2018, the ZBA granted several variances for the House of Promise located at
15275 Francis Road. At the time, the only building that existed was the original building. The House of
Promise was granted approval for an additional four buildings. The condition at the time of approval for
the variance request of the initial building was only twelve students. An additional building has been
constructed which met the limit of twelve students. The House of Promise is in the process of the third
building being built and is asking for the condition of the twelve students be removed. It is a private
boarding school in an agricultural zoning district. The packet includes all of the previously approved
information.
Chair Heaton opened the public hearing at 7:11pm. The public hearing procedure was summarized.
April 8, 2026, Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 1 of 7
RETURN TO AGENDA
Shari Montgomery, House of Promise stated that House of Promise was originally approved for the big
house with twelve beds, but she has found over time and learning that each of the three houses will have
seven bedrooms for twenty-one girls. She has a donor building the third house and she wants to get
everything right and in order.
Public Hearing Closed at 7:14 pm.
UNFINSIHED BUSINESS: None
NEW BUSINESS:
1. Case No. 26-004 ZBA-15275 Francis Road-House of Promise
Shari Montgomery discussed the House of Promise. The House of Promise has been there for 8 years now
and has evolved so much from the beginning. She thought it was going to be a house for sex trafficked
victims, but it has evolved to be an adult, faith-based school, and a model for other locations. The girls have
gone through such horrific things with 44% of the perpetrators being a mom, dad, or other adult relative.
It is different than when she thought it would be more for taken girls. These girls have severe trauma,
severe ptsd, multiple personalities, etc. because probably 40% of the girls that come in, the trafficking
started between the ages of 3-5 and they arrive there about 30 so they’ve gone their entire lives as shelled
human beings trying to figure out who they even are. They are now considered a trauma informed care
facility which means kinder and gentler walking with these girls. They offer classes, programs, and
recovery. The House of Promise keeps these girls until they are healed.
Shari talked about her amazing and supportive Board as well.
Tubbs provided the members with pages from the zoning ordinance that discusses going through the
review standards. Granting the variance will not be contrary to the public interest and will ensure that the
spirit of this ordinance is observed. Option A is granting the variance will be contrary and Option B, the
requested variance, is unlikely to be contrary to the public interest, and the spirit of the ordinance can be
observed.
Motion by Cooley, seconded by Adams that the application by Shari Montgomery on behalf of the House
of Promise for property located at 15275 Francis Road, parcel number 19-150-027-200-043-00 and issued
case number 26-004 ZBA requesting a modification to the conditions of approval associated with variance
case number 17-09-ZBA to increase the maximum number of students from 12-24 for private school use in
the AG-agricultural zoning district be approved based on finding of the facts which indicate a practical
difficulty in accordance with Section 28-7.6 of the Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance and
pursuant to the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act. Motion passed.
COMMITTEE AND STAFF REPORTS: None
COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS FROM AUDIENCE, STAFF, AND BOARD MEMBERS: Openlander
asked about the septic system. Montgomery state that each house will have its own septic system.
ADJOURNMENT:
The meeting was adjourned at 7:33 pm.
Date approved: ______________________________________________________________
Chair
Secretary
April 8, 2026, Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 2 of 2
ATTACHMENT 4D-3
4-20-26 BOT MTG
RETURN TO AGENDA
CLINTON COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE
1347 E. Townsend Rd
St. Johns, MI 48879
SEAN DUSH
Sheriff
TO:
CLINTON COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS,
TOWNSHIP SUPERVISORS AND VILLAGE MAYORS
FROM:
SEAN DUSH, SHERIFF
DATE:
April 8, 2026
SUBJECT:
MARCH 2026 JAIL BILLING
Phone (989) 224-5200
Fax (989) 224-1382
The average daily population of inmates for the month of March 2026
was 84 inmates. This total includes a daily average of 81 County
Inmates and a daily average of 3 Inmates Housed for Other
Jurisdictions.
Revenue for the month of March was $5,555.00
RETURN TO AGENDA
MONTHLY JAIL COUNT
MARCH 2026
DATE
MALE
FEMALE
TOTALS
70
69
70
73
71
71
70
73
69
69
73
73
70
69
70
70
69
70
71
75
77
76
70
74
72
69
68
69
68
70
2128
18
16
16
16
17
15
16
14
16
17
15
17
17
17
16
16
16
18
18
16
16
15
14
14
17
18
18
18
18
19
439
0
88
85
86
89
88
86
86
87
85
86
88
90
87
86
86
86
85
88
89
91
93
91
84
88
89
87
86
87
86
89
2567
71
16
84
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
DAILY
AVERAGE
TOTAL
BOARDER
CCSO
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
4
3
3
3
3
3
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
83
0
84
81
82
85
84
82
82
83
81
82
84
86
84
83
83
83
82
86
87
89
91
89
82
86
87
85
84
85
84
87
2484
3
81
RECEIVABLES TOTALS AND PAYMENTS RECEIVED 2026
RETURN TO AGENDA
JANUARY BILLING
DAYS
DATE
BILLED
AMOUNT
BILLED
DATE
RECEIVED
AMOUNT
RECEIVED
CJRP - GROUP I
63
2/3/2026 $
3,780.00
2/17/2026 $
3,780.00
CJRP - GROUP II
82
2/3/2026 $
3,690.00
2/17/2026 $
3,690.00
MDOC-DETAINERS
25
2/3/2025 $
875.00
2/18/2026 $
875.00
US FED MARSHALS - WEST
COMBINED PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
$
7,952.40
CANTEEN
$
2,192.27
$
18,489.67
Totals
FEBRUARY BILLING
170
DAYS
$
DATE
BILLED
8,345.00
AMOUNT
BILLED
DATE
RECEIVED
AMOUNT
RECEIVED
CJRP - GROUP I
56
3/9/2026 $
3,360.00
3/23/2026 $
3,360.00
CJRP - GROUP II
82
3/9/2026 $
3,690.00
3/23/2026 $
3,690.00
MDOC-DETAINERS
29
3/9/2026 $
1,015.00
3/19/2026 $
1,015.00
COMBINED PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
4/6/2026 $
7,952.40
CANTEEN
4/6/2026 $
2,116.62
US FED MARSHALS - WEST
Totals
MARCH BILLING
167
DAYS
$
DATE
BILLED
8,065.00
AMOUNT
BILLED
CJRP - GROUP I
31
4/7/2026 $
1,860.00
CJRP - GROUP II
58
4/7/2025 $
2,610.00
MDOC-DETAINERS
31
4/7/2026 $
1,085.00
120
$
5,555.00
$
DATE
RECEIVED
18,134.02
AMOUNT
RECEIVED
US FED MARSHALS - WEST
COMBINED PUBLIC COMMUNICATIONS
CANTEEN
Totals
$
-
RETURN TO AGENDA
JAIL REVENUE COMPARISONS
2021-2026
JANUARY - DECEMBER
MONTH
2021
2022
2023
2024
2025
2026
JANUARY
$
3,255.00
$
-
$
6,440.00
$
17,642.23
$
14,591.74
$
18,489.67
FEBRUARY
$
1,435.00
$
-
$
4,888.00
$
15,990.48
$
13,506.61
$
18,134.02
MARCH
$
1,730.00
$
-
$
9,780.00
$
20,241.63
$
14,575.78
$
-
APRIL
$
215.00
$
-
$
8,505.00
$
15,921.43
$
15,623.31
$
-
MAY
$
175.00
$
1,050.00
$
7,465.00
$
14,753.62
$
14,783.18
$
-
JUNE
$
105.00
$
665.00
$
8,475.00
$
13,231.51
$
13,616.75
$
-
JULY
$
525.00
$
2,900.00
$
6,970.00
$
12,359.30
$
15,320.72
$
-
AUGUST
$
1,365.00
$
4,715.00
$
11,935.00
$
16,956.28
$
15,934.75
$
-
SEPTEMBER
$
2,450.00
$
7,567.00
$
10,850.00
$
18,467.92
$
20,156.64
$
-
OCTOBER
$
1,505.00
$
9,703.00
$
9,855.00
$
20,938.50
$
17,552.91
$
-
NOVEMBER
TOTAL
$
$
$
1,225.00
1,085.00
15,070.00
$
$
$
8,347.00
7,356.00
42,303.00
$
$
$
9,830.00
8,895.00
103,888.00
$ 17,540.81
$ 20,704.42
$ 193,907.62
$
$
$
36,623.69
AVERAGE
$
1,255.83
$
3,525.25
$
8,657.33
$
16,158.97
$
3,051.97
ACTUAL
$
15,070.00
$
42,303.00
$
103,888.00
$ 193,907.62
$
36,623.69
DECEMBER
Captain Tim McGuckin
Page 1
$
20,622.28
$
20,289.01
$ 207,414.19
$
17,284.52
$ 207,414.19
RETURN TO AGENDA
2026
OUT OF COUNTY REVENUES
BILLED AND RECEIVED
Average
Boarded
Inmate
Average
Local
Inmate
January
5
86
$
8,345.00
$
8,345.00
February
5
85
$
8,065.00
$
8,065.00
March
3
81
$
5,555.00
April
$
-
May
$
-
June
$
-
July
$
-
August
$
-
September
$
-
October
$
-
November
$
-
December
$
-
$
16,410.00
Month
Y-T-D
4
84
Out County
Revenues
Billed
$
Captain McGuckin
Page 1
Out County
Revenues
Received
21,965.00
RETURN TO AGENDA
CLINTON COUNTY
SHERIFF'S OFFICE
MONTH:
March of 2026
TRAFFIC CRASHES
Fatal Crashes
Deaths
Personal Injury
Property Damage
Crash
Car/Deer
TOTAL
March 2026
0
0
7
36
YEAR TO DATE
1
2
27
173
2025
5
5
105
472
50
190
1099
92
390
1681
TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT
OUIL
Seatbelt
Total Traffic
Citations
VCSA(Drugs)
Self-Initiated Calls
Calls for Service
Total Calls
Written Reports
March 2026
YEAR TO DATE
2025
0
6
COMPLAINT ACTIVITY
23
5
1
486
March 2026
1700
580
2280
266
24
7
1246
YEAR TO DATE
4830
1847
6677
867
119
25
5738
2025
19572
8301
27873
3746
RETURN TO AGENDA
MARCH 2026
TICKET TOTALS
Township, City,
Village
TOTAL
In Car
Tickets
Handwritten
Tickets
TICKETS
BATH
0
8
8
BENGAL
0
9
9
BINGHAM
0
50
50
DALLAS
0
21
21
DEWITT
0
49
49
DUPLAIN
0
9
9
EAGLE
0
69
69
ESSEX
0
6
6
GREENBUSH
0
54
54
LEBANON
0
2
2
MAPLE RAPIDS
0
0
0
OLIVE
0
82
82
OVID
0
21
21
RILEY
0
8
8
VICTOR
0
11
11
WATERTOWN
0
85
85
WESTPHALIA
0
2
2
VILLAGE OF ELSIE
0
1
1
VILLAGE OF MAPLE RAPIDS
0
0
0
VILLAGE OF WESTPHALIA
0
0
0
VILLAGE OF FOWLER
0
0
0
CITY OF ST. JOHNS
0
3
3
CITY OF DEWITT
CITY OF OVID
DECEMBER TOTAL
0
0
0
1
1
492
1
1
492
RETURN TO AGENDA
COMMUNICATIONS
Number of Events by Nature
WATERTOWN TWP - 03/2026
Nature
# Events
9-1-1 HANG UP/OPEN LINE
2
ABANDONED VEHICLE
4
ALARM
9
ANIMAL COMPLAINTS/BITES
16
ASSIST OTHER AGENCY
5
BREAKING & ENTERING
1
BUSINESS CONTACT/CHECK
12
CAR/DEER ACCIDENT
7
CHECK SUBJECT(S)
2
CIVIL /NEIGHBOR DISPUTE
12
COMMUNITY POLICING
3
DNR/HUNTING TYPE
1
DOMESTIC SITUATION
6
DRIVERS LICENSE VIOLATION
2
FOLLOW UP
8
FRAUD AND FRAUDULENT ACTIVITY
3
HARASSMENT AND THREATS
1
HIT AND RUN PDA
5
JUVENILE RUNAWAY
1
LARCENY
1
MALICIOUS DESTRUCTION OF PROPE
1
MESSAGE DELIVERY
1
MOTORIST ASSIST
3
NEGLECT CHILD/CHILD ABUSE
1
PERSONAL INJURY ACCIDENT
4
PROPERTY CHECK
58
PROPERTY DAMAGE ACCIDENT
12
PSYCHIATRIC PERSON
4
PSYCHIATRIC PERSON 2
3
Report Generated: 04/06/2026 13:20:39 | User ID: 1900
EventHistory_NumberOfEventsByNature
Page 1 of 2
RETURN TO AGENDA
Nature
# Events
REQUEST FOR SERVICE
10
SHOTS FIRED
4
SUICIDE/ATTEMPT/SUICIDAL SUBJ
1
SUSPICIOUS SITUATION
7
TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT
3
TRAFFIC HAZARD
3
TRAFFIC STOP
106
TRESPASSING
1
UNKNOWN ACCIDENT
2
VEHICLE IN DITCH
4
WARRANT ARREST/PICKUP
9
WELFARE CHECK
8
Total
Number of Events by Nature
346
Page 2 of 2
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4E-1
4-20-26 BOT MTG
To:
Watertown Township Board of Trustees
From Jennifer Tubbs, Township Manager
Date: March 25, 2026
RE:
Response to letter from Board of Water and Light
I am writing this memo in response to the February 13, 2026, letter you received from Mr. Peffley,
General Manager of the Lansing Board of Water and Light (BWL).
Mr. Peffley’s letter claims that the moratorium was adopted and the ordinance was changed at the
last minute in an effort to block BWL’s solar project. That is simply not the case. At the time BWL
made applications for solar projects through a separate entity, Utopian Power, Watertown
Township Zoning did not allow solar projects in the Industrial District. A 2021 amendment to the
Zoning Code removed solar projects as a permitted use in the Light Industrial district. The Planning
Commission’s approval of the site plan and recommendation that the Board issue a special use
permit may have been the result of the Commission working with an outdated ordinance. The
updated ordinance was, however, published on the Township’s website for all to see since 2021.
While it has been recently communicated to the township board that the BWL would like to put
solar panels on this land as a part of its clean energy strategy, as you are aware, this was not
something that was ever discussed with the Watertown Township Board, nor was the Township
Board aware of any such strategy.
Township representatives have been attempting to work with BWL representatives on alternate
solutions, including an offer of land that is not zoned industrial so that the projects could move
forward. It seems BWL has lost any interest in proceeding in the direction of a resolution.
I think it is important everyone understands BWL’s actual service area within Watertown Township.
I have included a map for your review.
For comparisons:
BWL total electric customers according to your website is 100,000
BWL total electric customers in Watertown Township are 78 of which 14 are residential
BWL annual revenue from electricity is $341,976,264.
Watertown Township’s annual revenue from its tax base is $1,851,180
BWL total revenue is $417,434,841
Watertown Township’s total general fund revenue is $3,138,313
It is unfortunate that we are in this situation, but it is important to work from the facts.
A goal in the Watertown Township Master Plan refers to “Encouraging Alternative Energy
Opportunities” (3.22). It specifically states, “Under the Township’s new Zoning Ordinance
RETURN TO AGENDA
requirements, larger, commercial-scale solar energy facilities are permitted in some agricultural
districts zoning districts, and as an accessory use in the LI – Light Industrial District.” This outlines
the township’s intent for solar energy as it relates to the LI district. It also references the “new
Zoning Ordinance.” As stated previously, the Zoning Ordinance that was in effect at the time of the
adoption of the Master Plan was adopted on March 28, 2021, and did not permit solar energy at all
in the LI district. Ordinance 62 was created and adopted to add solar energy as an accessory use to
the light industrial district to conform it to the Master Plan. It was not an effort to block BWL’s
project. To the contrary, it was an effort to accommodate them. We altered the definition of an
accessory use in the LI District specifically so excess energy could be shipped off site and sold.
In summary, the moratorium was put into place because the township board received the special
land use permit from the BWL and when reviewing the request found that what the Board of Water
and Light was requesting was not allowed in the Light Industrial District. Ordinance 62 was drafted
during the moratorium to allow solar installations in the Light Industrial District as an accessory use
as intended in the Master Plan. Ordinance 62 has been passed and is in effect, the moratorium has
lifted and the Township Board will place the request for a special land use on the next meeting,
which is April 20, 2026, at 7:00pm.
It is unfortunate that the Board of Water and Light risked so much of rate payer funds to purchase
property and equipment, to do a project in Watertown Township before they had even applied for a
permit and in an area where the specific use they wanted was not permitted. Often times, those
type of funds are expended after a project has already been approved. Had the Board of Water and
Light sought approval for their project prior to the purchase of property or equipment or had a
discussion with the those in the authority to grant approval of the BWL request, the situation would
likely be different. Even if BWL was also working with the old ordinance, it still would have required
approval of a special land use permit. BWL should understand that no permit applications are preguaranteed, especially a special land use.
Based on Mr. Peffley’s letter to the Watertown Township Board on February 13, 2026, it appears that
the intent is to place blame on Watertown Township for the lack of due diligence on the part of the
BWL. BWL’s statement that “considering and pursuing all available options to provide the essential
public services associated with the project through is something the BWL must do” might be
considered as a threat but I have been advised that the Township is on solid ground on this from a
legal perspective.
While I do understand the desire of the BWL to protect their rate payers, Watertown Township has
the same obligation to its residents. I do not understand, however, why the BWL is so determined to
ask the residents of Watertown Township to sacrifice it’s zoning and zoning plan for the BWL’s clean
energy plan, especially when Watertown Township is significantly less than 1% (.073%) of the
100,000 electric customers of BWL It makes more sense to me that BWL locate the solar energy in
the communities in which the BWL is providing service for more than only 78 customers. The larger
communities that BWL serve seem better situated to support BWL’s goals.
While I believe it would still be beneficial to pursue an amicable path forward, BWL needs to
recognize that their “$9.2M in tax credits and dollars already invested in the projects” was a risk
BWL chose to take with their rate payer funds. The consequence of that choice should not be the
burden on the residents of Watertown Township. Watertown Township has an obligation to protect
the health, safety and welfare of the residents.
RETURN TO AGENDA
±
Ri ve
r Av
e
EI9
6 /E I
Le v
69
W I 6 9/ W
I9
6
Thunder Ln
Roll ing H
er e
tt
ill D r
69
Watertown Townshp
Mu ra
no
Ln
Ivy
S Airpor t Rd
BWL Electric Service Area
-Watertown Township-
Hardtke Dr
W State Rd
W
No r
0
0.25
Po
rt
th S
SI
BWL Service Territory
W Stoll Rd
Ele ni
Rd
Eaton Hwy
9
S Lowell Rd
r an d
W
I6
Idylcrest
W Stoll Rd
W I 96
WG
H id
eA
E I 69
E I 96
S Bauer Rd
W Clark Rd
S Grove Rd
r
Jeff Ct
S Bauer Rd
Rive r s i d e D
Corrison Rd
Felton Rd
B
e r Ln
Ingersoll Rd
lass
m
S Forest Hill Rd
k ing G
S Wacousta Rd
L oo
ok
ro
Francis Rd
S
um
w a y Ln
W Herbison Rd
Rd
Dr
Durham Way
W Howe Rd
S Grove Rd
S Bauer Rd
S Forest Hill Rd
S Lowell Rd
W Cutler Rd
0.5
Date: 2/20/2026
t
La
n s in g
1 Miles
Rd
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4E-2
4-20-26 BOT MTG
John Maahs
Supervisor
Carolyn Brokob
Clerk
Sue Biergans
Treasurer
Chad Cooley
Trustee
TO:
Clinton County Ways and Means Committee
FROM: Jennifer Tubbs, Watertown Township Manager
DATE: April 2026
SUBJECT: Letter of Support for Iten 4A – Sheriff’s Office Space Use Agreement (Wacousta Elementary)
To the Members of the Ways and Means Committee,
On behalf of the Watertown Township community, I am writing to express support for the proposed
Space Use Agreement between Clinton County and Grand Ledge Public Schools. As some of you may be
aware, Watertown Township was in a 3-year process of negotiating a purchase with Grand Ledge Schools
Todd Hufnagel
Trustee
Holly Madill
Trustee
Ronald Overton
Trustee
Jennifer Tubbs
Manager
to relocate the township hall to this site and discussions were ongoing to have space for the Clinton
County Sherriff’s Department in the building. These discussions hit a stronger tone after the two very
public tragedy’s that happened in the township less than a year apart. Did you know that it is
approximately 27 miles from the Clinton County Sherriff’s Office to the southwest border of the county?
After experiencing the lack of space for the Sherriff to operate in the southern portion of the county
during those horrific events, the township strongly urges the Committee to authorize the lease of
classroom space at the former Wacousta Elementary School to establish a satellite workspace for the
Clinton County Sheriff’s Office road patrol personnel.
As a community that values both safety and fiscal responsibility, we believe this proposal is an ideal
solution for our not only the township residents but would provide service space to the southern portion
of the county. This satellite office will provide several key benefits to Watertown Township and the
southern municipalities.
•
Local Security Presence: Placing a dedicated sub-station within the Wacousta building ensures
that deputies remain embedded in the southern communities, fostering stronger relationships
between law enforcement and the residents they protect.
•
Operational Efficiency: This workspace allows road patrol personnel to remain in the field more
effectively, reducing the need for long trips back to the main office for administrative tasks and
ensuring more patrol time is spent on our local roads.
•
Fiscally Sound Partnership: At an annual cost of $6,000, this agreement is a remarkably costeffective way to enhance public safety services without the burden of new construction or high
overhead costs.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Due to the sheer size of the building, the township was unable to afford the renovation of
the former Wacousta Community School. The Grand Ledge School District moving forward
with this Community Center project is an asset for Clinton County.
This as a "win-win" for all parties involved. It revitalizes the use of a local landmark; while
providing our deputies with the resources they need to serve the southwest side of the
county efficiently.
We appreciate the leadership of the County Administrator and the Sheriff’s Office in
bringing this forward. The township respectfully request that the Ways and Means
Committee support this lease agreement.
Sincerely,
Jennifer Tubbs
Watertown Township Manager
12803 S. Wacousta Road, Grand Ledge, MI 48837 | Phone (517) 626-6593 | www.watertownmi.gov
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4E-3
4-20-26 BOT MTG
March 17, 2026
To the Board of Trustees
Watertown Charter Township
Grand Ledge, Michigan
We are engaged to audit the financial statements of the governmental activities, the business-type activities,
each major fund, and the aggregate remaining fund information of Watertown Charter Township for the year
ended December 31, 2025. Professional standards require that we provide you with the following information
related to our audit. We would also appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss this information
further since a two-way dialogue can provide valuable information for the audit process.
Our Responsibility under U.S. Generally Accepted Auditing Standards
As stated in our engagement letter dated February 5, 2025, our responsibility, as described by professional
standards, is to express opinions about whether the financial statements prepared by management with your
oversight are fairly presented, in all material respects, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting
principles. Our audit of the financial statements does not relieve you or management of your responsibilities.
Our responsibility is to plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable, but not absolute, assurance that the
financial statements are free from material misstatement. As part of our audit, we will consider the internal
control of Watertown Charter Township. Such considerations will be solely for the purpose of determining our
audit procedures and not to provide any assurance concerning such internal control.
We are responsible for communicating significant matters related to the audit that are, in our professional
judgment, relevant to your responsibilities in overseeing the financial reporting process. However, we are not
required to design procedures specifically to identify such matters.
Generally accepted accounting principles provide for certain required supplementary information (RSI) to
supplement the basic financial statements. Our responsibility with respect to the management’s discussion and
analysis, budgetary comparison information, and historical retirement information, which supplement the basic
financial statements, is to apply certain limited procedures in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. However, the RSI will not be audited and, because the limited procedures do not provide us with
sufficient evidence to express an opinion or provide any assurance, we will not express an opinion or provide
any assurance on the RSI.
We have been engaged to report on other supplementary information, which accompany the financial
statements but are not RSI. Our responsibility for this supplementary information, as described by professional
standards, is to evaluate the presentation of the supplementary information in relation to the financial
statements as a whole and to report on whether the supplementary information is fairly stated, in all material
respects, in relation to the financial statements as a whole.
RETURN TO AGENDA
Planned Scope, Timing of the Audit, and Other
An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements; therefore, our audit will involve judgment about the number of transactions to be examined and the
areas to be tested.
Our audit will include obtaining an understanding of the entity and its environment, including internal control,
sufficient to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements and to design the nature,
timing, and extent of further audit procedures. Material misstatements may result from (1) errors, (2)
fraudulent financial reporting, (3) misappropriation of assets, or (4) violations of laws or governmental
regulations that are attributable to the entity or to acts by management or employees acting on behalf of the
entity. We will communicate our significant findings at the conclusion of the audit. However, some matters
could be communicated sooner, particularly if significant difficulties are encountered during the audit where
assistance is needed to overcome the difficulties or if the difficulties may lead to a modified opinion. We will
also communicate any internal control related matters that are required to be communicated under professional
standards.
We have identified the following significant risk(s) of material misstatement as part of our auditing planning:
According to GAAS, significant risks include management override of controls, and GAAS presumes that revenue
recognition is a significant risk. Accordingly, we have considered these as significant risks.
We expect to begin our year-end audit procedures the week of March 16, 2026 and issue our report on or before
May 31, 2026. Aaron M. Stevens, CPA, CGFM, is the engagement partner and is responsible for supervising the
engagement and signing the report or authorizing another individual to sign it.
This information is intended solely for the use of management and the Board of Trustees of Watertown Charter
Township and is not intended to be, and should not be, used by anyone other than these specified parties.
Very truly yours,
Lansing, Michigan
2
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4E-4
4-20-26 BOT MTG
U.S. Department of the Treasury, State and Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF): Notification of
Compliance with Award Closeout Process
Watertown Charter Township, MI
SLFRF Recipient ID: RCP-004265
March 12, 2026
Dear SLFRF Recipient:
We are writing regarding Watertown Charter Township, MI’s participation in the Coronavirus State and
Local Fiscal Recovery Funds (SLFRF) program authorized by Sections 602 and 603 of the Social Security
Act, as added by section 9901 of the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, Pub. L. No. 117-2 (Mar. 11, 2021),
codified at 42 U.S.C. 802 and 803, as amended.
Based on our review, Watertown Charter Township, MI has successfully completed the following:
1. Submitted a fully compliant final report, including certification of the accuracy and completion of the
final report.
2. Submitted a fully compliant Federal Financial Report (SF-425).
Following the recipient’s completion of the above tasks, Treasury has completed all actions pertaining to the
close out of Watertown Charter Township, MI’s SLFRF award.
However, after closeout, Watertown Charter Township, MI’s responsibility to Treasury for post-closeout
adjustments to your SLFRF awards and other post-closeout requirements continues:
1. Treasury has the right to disallow costs and recover funds on the basis of a later audit or other review
of Watertown Charter Township, MI’s SLFRF award.
2. Watertown Charter Township, MI is required to return any funds due as a result of later refunds,
corrections, or other transactions.
3. Watertown Charter Township, MI remains subject to the SLFRF Award Terms, including paragraph 6
regarding record retention and access to such SLFRF award records.
For more information
If you have questions or need additional information, please send us an email via [email protected].
Treasury appreciates your participation in the SLFRF program.
ATTACHMENT 4E-5
4-20-26 BOT MTG
RETURN TO AGENDA
CLINTON COUNTY
ROAD COMMISSION
Managing Director: Douglas Steffen
Board Members: Gail A. Watkins
Michael J. Frederick
Kevin P. Holt
Construction Notice
Airport Road Reconstruction
Where: Airport Road – Grand River Avenue to north of Clark Road
When:
Phase 1 – Grand River Avenue to Stoll Road – March 23, 2026 through June 2026
Phase 2 - Stoll Road to north of Clark Road – July 2026 through August 2026
What is being done: The Clinton County Road Commission (CCRC) will be reconstructing Airport Road, including traffic
signal upgrades at Clark and Stoll intersections, widened paved shoulders and roadside drainage improvements
throughout the project.
Why is this being done: The improvements are necessary to ensure safe, reliable, and efficient travel for all roadway
users in the Airport Rd corridor. The existing roadway is deteriorated and does not meet current design guidelines based
on current and future traffic volumes.
How will this impact the community: Motorists should anticipate traffic congestion and delays within the project vicinity
during construction. Local traffic with a destination within the construction limits will be maintained, however it may be
periodically restricted due to construction activities. Residential access will vary depending on the timing and location
as the work progresses throughout the project. Please plan your travel routes and times carefully to account for
probable traffic delays.
Your patience with the road construction project will be greatly appreciated, CCRC understands the work is disruptive to
the community, businesses, schools, property owners, and township services. However, the disruption is temporary, and
every effort will be made to construct the project in an efficient manner to reduce impacts to the community.
Anticipated work areas and dates:
Phase 1: Airport Rd – Grand River Ave. to Stoll Road – March 23, 2026 through June 2026
Airport Road will be closed to through traffic between Grand River Ave. and Stoll Road during Phase 1 construction. The
Stoll Road intersection will remain open until late in Phase 1. The intersection is expected to be closed for approximately
the final three weeks of Phase 1 to complete storm sewer upgrades and reconstruction of the intersection.
The posted detour route will be Stoll Road to Dewitt Road to Grand River Ave.
Access to Capital Region International Airport will be maintained from Dewitt Road and Grand River Ave during Phase 1
construction.
3536 S. US Highway 27 / St. Johns, MI 48879 / Ph (989)224-3274 / Fax (989)224-4003
Website: www.ccrc-roads.com
Email: [email protected]
RETURN TO AGENDA
CLINTON COUNTY
ROAD COMMISSION
Managing Director: Douglas Steffen
Board Members: Gail A. Watkins
Michael J. Frederick
Kevin P. Holt
Anticipated work areas and dates (continued):
Phase 2: Airport Rd Stoll Road to north of Clark Road – July 2026 through August 2026
Phase 2 will be split into two subsections. Phase 2A will be from the north side of Stoll Road to I-69 overpass, phase 2B
will be from the I-69 overpass to north of Clark Road. Final top course paving will be completed in one operation for both
Phase 2A and Phase 2B. The Clark Road intersection will be closed for approximately the final two weeks of Phase 2 to
complete reconstruction of the intersection.
Airport Road will remain closed to through traffic during the individual phasing, along with I-69 ramp closures.
The posted detour route will be Stoll Road to Dewitt Road to Clark Road.
Accommodations: CCRC will coordinate with local schools if any bus routes or stops need to be temporarily adjusted
during construction, residents will be notified directly in advance of any changes. USPS mail service will be maintained
throughout the project, mailbox locations may be temporarily relocated to accommodate USPS driver access. Trash
services will be maintained throughout the project, CCRC and the contractor will coordinate with local providers to
maintain access. CCRC and the contractor will coordinate directly with police and fire to ensure emergency services are
maintained.
Driveways may be inaccessible for limited periods during construction, but accommodations will be made for residents to
park within the ROW as close to their property as possible. Please contact project staff if you need special accommodation
or have other accessibility concerns during construction.
Any items within the road right-of-way, in the construction limits, including trees, landscaping, fences, underground dog
fences, irrigation systems, etc., are subject to removal. CCRC is requesting residents relocate any such appurtenances
before construction begins, please contact project staff if you have questions on items that may be impacted on your
property. CCRC is not responsible for the salvage or replacement of these items.
Who to contact for more information:
Jake Perkins – CCRC Project Manager – (989)668-0032, [email protected]
3536 S. US Highway 27 / St. Johns, MI 48879 / Ph (989)224-3274 / Fax (989)224-4003
Website: www.ccrc-roads.com
Email: [email protected]
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 4E-6
4-20-26 BOT MTG
NOTICE OF AUTHORIZATION
Date Issued: April 1, 2026
Expiration Date: April 1, 2031
Permit Number: WRP048387 v. 1
Site Name: 19-Consumers Airport Road - Line 1022-Dewitt
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), Water Resources
Division, P.O. Box 30458, Lansing, Michigan 48909-7958, under provisions of the Natural
Resources and Environmental Protection Act, 1994 PA 451, as amended; specifically:
Part 301, Inland Lakes and Streams.
Part 303, Wetlands Protection.
Authorized activity:
Install 142 linear feet of 1.3-foot diameter sanitary force main at a minimum of 10 feet below
wetland via directional drill methods. Bore entry and exit holes will be in upland.
Install 8.5 linear foot of 1.3-foot diameter sanitary force main 5 feet below Summers Drain via
directional drill methods. Bore entry and exit holes will be in upland.
Temporally impact 0.31 acre of emergent and scrub shrub wetland for use as workspace.
Temporary timber matting will be used to access the utility line in wetland for the entire
duration of the project. Disturbed areas will be reseeded with native wetland vegetation for
emergent and scrub shrub wetlands and restored to original contour elevation.
To be conducted at property located in: Clinton County, Waterbody: Summers Drain
Section 18, Town 05N, Range 02W, Watertown Township
Permittee:
Emily MacQueen
1945 W. Parnall Road, P22-327
Jackson, Michigan 49201
Claire Watts
Lansing District Office
Water Resources Division
517-388-6686
This notice must be displayed at the site of work.
Laminating this notice or utilizing sheet protectors is recommended.
Please refer to the above permit number with any questions or concerns.
EGLE
WRP048387 v1.0
Approved
Issued On:04/01/2026
Expires On:04/01/2031
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 8A
4-20-26 BOT MTG
MEMORANDUM
TO:
WATERTOWN TOWNSHIP BOARD OF TRUSTEES
FROM:
SUBJECT:
DATE:
ANDREA Z. POLVERENTO, PLANNING DIRECTOR
CASE NO. 25-07 SLU – UTOPIAN POWER – WATERTOWN 1 (WEST)
SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY: 16492 INGERSOLL ROAD
8/12/2025
GENERAL INFORMATION
Applicant:
Utopian Power
Existing Zoning:
LI – Light Industrial
Status of Applicant:
Property Address/Location:
Parcel Size:
Present Land Use:
Adjacent Uses:
Adjacent Zoning:
Design/Builder
16492 Ingersoll Road
No. 19-150-034-100-025-00 (North)
No. 19-150-034-300-005-00 (Main)
No. 19-150-034-300-070-00 (South)
North: 5.7 +/- acres
Main: 44.8 +/- acres
South: 15.0 +/- acres
Total: 65.5 +/- acres
Vacant
N
S
E
W
N
S
E
W
-
Big Fireworks/Vacant Challenge property
Various residential
Various residential/agricultural
Vacant industrial
LI
AG (South of Railroad)
RR/LI
LI
The applicant is requesting a special land use permit and final site plan approval for a 10
megawatt DC commercial solar photovoltaic energy generation system. This is a special land
use in the LI Zoning District. The parcels in question are not served by public sanitary sewer
or a public water supply and they are not in the GRO-Grand River Overlay Zoning District,
therefore a principal use is permitted by the Zoning Ordinance. The project is being referred
to as “Watertown 1.”
RETURN TO AGENDA
Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
PUBLIC HEARING
A public hearing was held on this matter at the Planning Commission regular meeting on August 6,
2025. Public notice was provided as required by law to all properties with a property line within 300’
of the subject property. This included 16 parcels, who received a copy of the hearing notice by mail.
The hearing was advertised in the Lansing State Journal on July 13, 2025, which meets the
requirements for at least a 15-day notice prior to the hearing. Additionally, the public hearing notice
was posted on the township’s website and on the outside bulletin board.
No written public comments were received prior to the public hearing and there were no members of
the public in attendance at the public hearing. A comment was received on August 7, 2025, after the
hearing, and that has been included for your review as an attachment to this report.
STAFF OBSERVATIONS
The LI zoning district allows solar energy systems as a special land use. The subject properties are
not located in the GRO-Grand River Overlay district, and the properties are not served by public
sanitary sewer or water. A principal use solar energy system is permitted under these conditions.
The scope of the application meets the definition of a solar energy system:
Solar energy system means a utility-scale commercial facility that converts sunlight to electricity,
whether by photovoltaics, concentrating solar thermal devices or any other various and similar
solar technologies, and including solar collectors, controls, energy storage devices, heat pumps,
heat exchangers, and other materials, hardware, or equipment necessary to the process by which
solar radiation is collected, converted into another form of energy, stored, protected from
unnecessary dissipation and distributed for the primary purpose of wholesale or retail sales of
generated electricity offsite.
The applicant has provided a decommissioning plan as required by the zoning ordinance which was
prepared by a licensed engineer. Staff is working with the township’s engineer and Treasurer, and will
have a verbal report related to the decommissioning plan and required financial guarantees at the
meeting.
AGENCY REVIEW
Agency review responses were solicited on July 8, with a requested response date of July 25. At the
time of this report, the following review responses have been received:
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy: Suggests the applicant schedule
a pre-application meeting with EGLE. A copy of the wetland delineation for this site was provided to
EGLE upon receipt, and staff answered other questions regarding the property. Staff discussed the
project with EGLE’s local water resources manager, and the applicant has indicated they are working
with the Board of Water and Light to submit the permit applications to EGLE within the next week.
The EGLE Part 301 permit must be issued prior to any construction activities commencing. A
condition to this effect has been included.
SCCMUA: The opportunity for comment was offered, but SCCMUA declined due to the facility not
being served by public sanitary sewer.
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Case No. 25-07- SLU
Lansing Board of Water and Light: Comments are not expected, as the facility is not served by
public water. The opportunity for comment was provided, as this is a LBWL project.
Soil Erosion/Sedimentation Control: The Lansing Board of Water and Light is an Authorized Public
Agency (APA) for the purposes of soil erosion and sedimentation control. They have the authority to
govern their earth change activities under their procedures approved by EGLE. They are not required
to get a permit from the County.
Municipal Inspection Services: The Building Official suggested that the construction hours of
operation permitted by the Township (Sec. 28-7.11 of the Zoning Ordinance) which allow
construction Monday-Friday from 7am-9pm, and weekends from 8am-9pm may, for noise abatement
purposes, wish to be reviewed, particularly for the post-driving component of construction activities.
The Planning Commission made the following recommendation in the form of a motion:
Motion by Overton, seconded by Turcotte, that the Planning Commission recommends to the Board of
Trustees that construction hours of operation for the post-driving component of construction only, be
reduced to the same hours allowed for gravel mining operations, those being 8am-5pm Monday-Saturday,
and that all other regular construction activities may take place during the stated construction hours of
operation. Motion carried.
The DRAFT minutes of the Planning Commission meeting are included as an attachment to this
report. Staff has included this recommendation as a condition of special land use permit approval.
The applicant indicated that the post-driving component of construction activities is expected to
take 6-8 weeks. Limiting the hours of construction may lengthen this time period by a few days.
Clinton County Drain Commission: Drainage direction and proposed stormwater management
configuration is generally acceptable, however the Drain office is looking for additional detail on
runoff impacts and mitigation measures. They are also seeking additional detail on drainage swales
on the site. The Drain office also indicates that the applicant will need to ensure positive drainage to
the culvert under Ingersoll Road, and seeks to confirm that the presence/function of the upper end
of the Lora intercounty drain at the railroad grade. This may affect the state EGLE permit, as there
are wetlands in the area of the Lora drain. Staff has connected EGLE and the Drain office, but does
not have a resolution to this issue at the time of this report. The applicant’s engineer, and the
applicant have committed to whatever solution meets the needs of both EGLE and the Drain office.
Clinton County Road Commission: Ingersoll Road is a county primary road. The Road Commission
has verified site distances for safe site access, but will require upgrades to accommodate commercial
vehicles during the construction activities, including an offset entrance with turn tapers and the
requisite drainage improvements. Within the right-of-way, the approach areas are required to be
paved, but can be gravel within the confines of the project. A right-of-way permit is required.
Spicer Group (Township Engineer): Spicer Group’s main concerns include the site maintenance
during construction activities, specifically where the dirt will be stored during site work, and how
drainage will be handled during that time, and once the site work/construction is complete. Their
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Case No. 25-07- SLU
office would like to see more detailed stormwater plans. The Drain office visited the site and had
additional comments, which address the engineer’s comments.
Capital Region Airport Authority: When this development was previously proposed in 2023, no
FAA permitting was required.
Wolverine Pipeline Group: The applicant has provided a release of easement from the Wolverine
Pipeline Company as part of the project proposal. Wolverine was offered the opportunity to
comment in the event there were any outstanding issues related to the easement. No comments have
been received.
Planning Commission Comments:
Please see the attached DRAFT minutes of the Planning Commission meeting. Three members of the
Planning Commission expressed their belief that the final site plan should not be approved because the
plan did not comply with the spirit of the master plan. Five members of the Planning Commission
agreed that it did comply with the spirit of the master plan, and the final site plan was approved on a
5-3 vote.
Further, Trustee and Planning Commissioner Overton stated that because the solar panels were
proposed at 24’ height from grade which precluded the opportunity for an agrovoltaics project, he was
opposed to the site plan and the special use permit on those grounds.
SPECIAL LAND USE SPECIFIC REVIEW STANDARDS (Sec. 28-4.65 Solar Energy Systems)
The Planning Commission reviewed the special land use specific and general review standards, Sec.
28-6.2 and Sec. 28-4.65. These standards are taken from Chapters 4 and 6 of the Zoning Ordinance,
and are the basis for review by Township staff, Planning Commission, and the Board of Trustees.
The Board of Trustees must review and determine the findings of fact, as recommended or amended,
during their review process.
(2)
Site development requirements.
B.
Minimum lot size. There is no minimum lot size. Solar energy systems are
permitted by special use permit, the process by which reviews and considers
its compatibility with the surrounding area.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this standard. The lot size is
approximately 65.5 acres.
C.
Height restrictions. All solar energy system components, including
photovoltaic panels or other collection device(s) oriented at maximum tilt,
support structures, and buildings shall not exceed 16 feet. Substation and
electrical equipment are permitted at their usual and customary heights and
are excluded from this maximum height requirement. Substation and
electrical equipment must comply with all local, state, and federal
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
requirements, including, but not limited to the Michigan Tall Structures Act
and Federal Aviation Administration requirements, as applicable.
Finding of Fact: The application indicates that the proposed solar array will utilize
a fixed-tilt mounting system with no panel tracking or movement. The front edge of
the panels will be installed 24 inches above grade, resulting in a maximum rear edge
height of just under 10 feet. This configuration complies with the applicable height
regulations.
D.
ii.
iii.
Setbacks.
In the LI-Light Industrial district, all solar energy systems, whether principal
or accessory uses, shall meet the minimum setback requirements for the
zoning district.
All solar energy system components, including perimeter fencing, shall be
set back at least to the limit of any established county drain right-of-way.
Comments: County drains (Watson & Summers and Lora Intercounty) abut the
subject property on the north and south, but there are no established county drain
rights-of-way on any of the three subject parcels. There is a culvert under the
railroad to the Lora Intercounty drain.
Finding of Fact: Setbacks for the LI-Light Industrial district are: 35’ front yard
setback; 50’ rear yard setback; 30’ side yard setback. These specific setbacks apply
when adjacent to either LI-Light Industrial, RR-Rural Residential, or AG-Agricultural
zones, as the use is under 35’ in height.
E.
Maximum lot coverage. Solar energy systems are exempt from maximum lot
coverage requirements. Any other regulated structures on the parcel are
subject to the maximum lot coverage requirements for the zoning district.
Finding of Fact: The proposed solar energy system complies with this
requirement.
F.
Safety and access. All solar energy systems shall be completely enclosed by
a perimeter security fence to restrict unauthorized access. The height and
material of the fence shall be reviewed for appropriateness and
compatibility during the special land use process. A lock box approved by
the fire department serving the township shall be required.
Comments: Sheet C-800 describes the fencing proposed. Agricultural mesh fencing
which is 8’x 6”x 6” is proposed. Compatibility should be discussed and determined
before reaching a finding of fact. Staff has proposed a condition of approval
requiring a lock box approved by the fire department.
Finding of Fact: The fencing shall be agricultural mesh fencing which is 8’x4”x4”to
comply with the Planning Commission’s recommendation.
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
G.
Glare. All solar panels shall be located or placed so that concentrated solar
glare shall not be directed toward or onto nearby properties or roadways at
any time of day.
Comments: Applicant indicates that potential glare from solar panels will be in full
compliance with this requirement. The glare is comparable to or less than water
surfaces. Additionally, vegetative screening and ordinance-compliant setbacks will
further reduce visual impacts. These measures ensure glare is minimal, aligning
with the zoning ordinance’s standards for compatibility and safeguarding
neighboring properties and rights-of-way.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
H.
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Landscaping.
When the proposed solar energy system abuts a residential district or use,
the landscaping plan shall meet the requirements of a major buffer zone, as
described in Sec. 28-5.23.2.g.
For principal or accessory uses in the LI-Light Industrial zone, a major buffer
shall only be required on any side abutting a residential zone or use.
Sec. 28-5.23.1.d shall not apply to any principal or accessory solar energy
use in the LI-Light Industrial zoning district. The minimum buffer
requirements shall apply if a public road or street separates the zoning
district.
The proposed landscape plan shall also include a revegetation plan for the
installation and maintenance of the vegetative cover on the entire site. The
planting shall control site soil erosion and maintenance of soil quality. The
primary purpose is control of erosion and maintenance of soil quality. The
plan shall include the plant species and the rate of application of planting.
Grazing, cropping, and wildlife habitat are acceptable secondary uses in the
AG-Agricultural district. Use of native plants is strongly encouraged.
Invasive species listed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great
Lakes, and Energy as restricted or that are on the watch list are prohibited.
The plan shall address the seedbed preparation, fertilization, mulching, and
irrigation, if needed. The plan shall include maintenance schedules and
methods (mowing, replanting, etc.). The site is subject to annual inspection
for maintenance of the vegetative cover and control of erosion.
Comments: Sheet C-404 describes the landscape plan. Plant species and schedule
of planting is included. All proposed plantings are verified to be native species. The
revegetation of the site will be in a low growth mowable vegetation with
considerations such as noxious weed and invasive growth resistant, and low height.
A fertilization plan, seedbed preparation, irrigation, and mowing schedule is not
included. It is expected that the proposed vegetative cover will control on-site
erosion if properly maintained. Staff has included a condition of approval that the
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
landscape plan shall be implemented as presented. Staff recommends the
requirement of a long-term landscape maintenance plan/schedule be provided.
Finding of Fact: The applicant shall submit a long-term landscape maintenance plan
to comply with this requirement.
I.
Signage. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy
systems or the perimeter fencing. This exclusion does not apply to the
entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed on the gate in a visible area
and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be weather-durable
and include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact
person for whom additional information may be obtained. Any required
emergency information signage shall be permitted.
Comments: No signage is described. Staff has included a condition of approval that
describes these requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
J.
Lighting. Solar energy systems shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18 Outdoor
lighting.
Comments: No lighting is described, none is expected. Staff has included a
condition of approval that describes these requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
K.
Transportation plan. The applicant shall provide a proposed access plan
during construction and operational phases. This shall show proposed
project service road ingress/egress locations on to adjacent roadways and
the layout of the facility service road system. Dure to infrequent access
following construction, it is not required to pave or curb solar panel access
drives, but they should be constructed as to minimize dust conditions.
Comments: Page 6 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative describes the
transportation plan. Service roads are described on the site plan. Staff has included
a condition of approval requiring dust control measures if appropriate. The Clinton
County Road Commission will require tapers and paving of approaches within the
right-of-way, and a permit shall be obtained.
Finding of Fact: The proposed transportation plan meets ordinance requirements.
The requirements of the Clinton County Road Commission shall be enforced.
L.
Distribution, transmission, and interconnection. All electrical
interconnections or distribution lines shall comply with all applicable codes
and standard commercial large-scale utility requirements. All collection
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
lines and interconnections from the solar array(s) to any electrical
substations shall be located and maintained underground inside the solar
energy system facility. This requirement shall exclude transmission
equipment meant to connect the project substation to the local transmission
system.
Comments: Specific construction documents have not yet been presented for
review. It is anticipated that the proposed use will meet these requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet these requirements.
M.
i.
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
Environmental and safety impacts.
An environmental impact statement/study shall be provided at the time of
application and shall include, but not be limited to, a review of the following
factors:
Water quality and supply.
Air quality.
Wildlife.
Floodplains and wetlands.
Identification of solid and/or hazardous waste generated.
Any other environmental factors typically evaluated for the proposed use or
as requested.
Comments: Pages 6-8 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative include responses to
these requirements. A wetland delineation study has been completed as part of this
proposal, and wetlands are described on the site plan, along with soil erosion and
sedimentation control measures to protect runoff.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet environmental safety
requirements.
ii.
I.
II.
III.
A public safety impact statement/study shall be provided at the time of
application and shall include but not be limited to, a review of the following
factors:
Identification of emergency and normal shutdown procedures.
Identify potential hazards to adjacent properties, public roadways, and to
the general public that may be created.
Identify potential hazards to aviation and indicate how state and federal
requirements will be met.
Comments: Pages 8-9 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative include responses to
these requirements. Hazards to aviation are not expected.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet public safety requirements.
N.
Abandonment and decommissioning. A solar energy system shall be
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
I.
II.
III.
IV.
decommissioned following the useful life or at which time it remains nonoperational for six months and is considered abandoned. The applicant shall
submit a decommissioning plan, prepared by a licensed professional
engineer, at the time of application for a special land use permit. The
decommissioning plan shall include, but not be limited to the following:
Steps to remove the system
Steps to dispose of or recycle system components
Restoration of land
Estimated cost schedule to meet the following requirements:
Removal of all equipment, conduit, structures, fencing, roads, building
foundations, including any equipment or materials below grade, offsite for
disposal.
Restoration of ground to original condition.
Revegetation of site to blend with existing surrounding vegetation within six
months of decommissioning.
For agricultural lands, restoration of soils to their original USDA
classification, as confirmed by a soil survey conducted in accordance with
the standards of the national cooperative soil survey.
Comments: Decommissioning plan has been provided by the applicant, and was
prepared and sealed by a licensed professional engineer. Planning Commissioner
Davis believes the cost estimate provided is low, potentially by a factor of two. Staff
is working with the engineer and Treasurer and will provide additional information
at the meeting.
Finding of Fact: At your discretion.
O.
Financial guarantees. To ensure proper removal of the project upon
decommissioning or abandonment of the solar energy system, the applicant
shall include a description of the financial security guaranteeing the removal
of the system which shall be posted with the township within 15 days after
the project is approved, or prior to the issuance of a building permit for the
project. The financial guarantee shall be in the form of a cash bond or
irrevocable bank letter of credit or a performance bond. The amount shall
be reasonably sufficient to restore the property to its previous condition as
agreed upon by the township board and the applicant. The amount may
include a provision for inflationary cost adjustments. The estimate shall be
prepared by the engineer for the applicant, and shall be subject to approval
by the township, with guidance from the township’s engineer. The financial
guarantee shall be returned when all conditions of the special land use
permit and the decommissioning/abandonment plan have been completed.
There shall be no partial release of the financial guarantee. The financial
guarantee shall be kept in full force and effect during the entire time the
solar energy system exists or is in place, and it shall be irrevocable and noncancelable.
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Case No. 25-07- SLU
Comments: Staff will work with the Township Treasurer, Engineer, and applicant
to ensure that the financial guarantee instrument is in place within 15 days after the
project is approved or prior to issuance of a building permit for the project.
Finding of Fact: At your discretion.
SPECIAL LAND USE GENERAL REVIEW STANDARDS (Sec. 28-6.2)
Each application shall be reviewed for the purpose of determining that the proposed special
land use meets all of the general standards. Each special land use will:
1.
2.
Be designed, constructed, operated and maintained so as to be harmonious and
appropriate in appearance, with the existing or intended character of the general
vicinity and that such a use will not change the essential character of the area in
which it is proposed.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
Be served adequately by essential public facilities and services such as
highways, streets, police, fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water
and sewer facilities.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval requiring compliance with all
highway, street, police, fire protection, drainage structures, and refuse disposal.
Water and sewer facilities do not serve this use. All items under the purview of
other agencies shall meet the requirements of those agencies to the satisfaction of
the Zoning Administrator.
3.
Finding of Fact: The proposed is expected to meet this standard.
4.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this standard.
Not create excessive additional requirements at public cost for public
facilities and services.
Not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and equipment or
conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive effects of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare or
odors affecting adjacent properties, streets or uses.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval attesting as such.
5.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
The proposed use is so designed, located, planned and to be operated that the public
health, safety and welfare will not be adversely impacted.
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval requiring conformance with
the proposed landscape plan, and the site maintenance plan for the entirety of the
project.
6.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
The proposed use shall not be detrimental to existing and/or other permitted land
uses in the zoning district.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
Trustee and Planning Commissioner Overton disagrees that the proposed use meets
this standard.
The Planning Commission recommends approval of the special land use permit.
Staff offers the following motion for consideration:
Motion that the Board of Trustees concurs / disagrees with the recommendation of the Planning
Commission and approves / denies Case No. 25-07 SLU for Utopian Power, for a special land use
permit for a solar energy system at 16492 Ingersoll Road, in Section 34 of Watertown Charter
Township, provided that conformance to conditions 1-__, as noted below, are achieved to the
satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator as being in accordance with the requirements of
the Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance.
Proposed Conditions of Special Land Use Permit Approval:
1. Applicant shall receive final site plan approval for Case No. 25-07 SPR and comply with all
requirements and conditions.
2. Applicant shall ensure that the use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and
equipment or conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or
the general welfare by reason of excessive effects to traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, or
odors affecting adjacent properties, streets, or uses.
3. If necessary, the applicant shall utilize dust control measures to avoid any adverse effects to
neighboring properties or streets. Internal service roads shall minimize dust, with dust
control measures employed when necessary/appropriate.
4. Applicant shall remain in compliance with all highway, street, police, fire protection, drainage
structures, and refuse disposal requirements for the lifetime of the project.
5. Applicant shall install a lock box on security fence gate(s) which meets the requirements of
the fire department serving the township.
6. Applicant shall install an agricultural mesh perimeter security fence with 8’x4”x4”
dimensions.
7. Landscape plan shall be implemented as described on sheet C-404. A long-term project site
maintenance plan shall be provided which meets the requirements of Sec. 28-4.65.2.H.
8. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy system or the perimeter
fencing. This exclusion does not apply to the entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed
on the gate in a visible area and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be
weather-durable and include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
11
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Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 1 (West)
Case No. 25-07- SLU
person for whom additional information may be obtained. Any required emergency
information signage shall be permitted.
9. Applicant shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18, Outdoor lighting.
10. Construction hours of operation for the post-driving component of construction only are
reduced to the same hours allowed for gravel mining operations, those being 8am-5pm
Monday-Saturday, and that all other regular construction activities may take place during the
stated construction hours of operation.
11. A cash bond or irrevocable bank letter of credit or a performance bond shall be provided to
the township. The amount may include a provision for inflationary cost adjustments. The
estimate shall be prepared by the engineer for the applicant, and shall be subject to approval
by the township, with guidance from the township’s engineer. The financial guarantee shall
be returned when all conditions of the special land use permit and the
decommissioning/abandonment plan have been completed. There shall be no partial release
of the financial guarantee. The financial guarantee shall be kept in full force and effect during
the entire time the solar energy system exists or is in place, and it shall be irrevocable and
non-cancelable.
12. Applicant shall comply with the requirements of all regulatory agencies having jurisdiction
over this construction and use, including, but not limited to, Michigan Department of
Environment, Great Lakes and Energy; Clinton County Drain Commissioner; Clinton County
Road Commission; Township Building Official; Township Engineer; and Looking Glass
Regional Fire Authority to the satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator. Written
approval from reviewing agencies may be required prior to finalization of the building
permit.
ATTACHMENTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Special Land Use Application
Applicant Submitted Narrative & Supporting Documentation
Site Plan (will be provided on table at meeting due to size limitations)
Agency Review Responses
Public Comments received after the Public Hearing
DRAFT Planning Commission Minutes 8/6/25
Comments from Lansing Board of Water & Light and Utopian Power
*Full wetland delineation report available and on file. The full report was not included in this
packet due to space. The wetland delineation applies to Case No. 25-07 SRP/SLU and 25-08
SPR/SLU. The site plan review application and supplemental materials were also omitted
from this report but are available for review at any time.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
12
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12803 S. Wacousta Rd., Grand Ledge, Ml 48837
517-626-6593
517-626-6405 Fax
www.watertowntownship.com
WATERTOWN
CHARTER TOWNSHIP
Application for Special Land Use Permit
Page 1 of 2
*This application must be accompanied by a completed application for Site Plan Review*
Applicant Name
Applicant Address
City/State/Zip
Office Phone
Cell Phone
Fax
Email
Utopian Power, LLC.
2035 Independence Blvd.
Ann Arbor, Ml 48104
(313) 462-0806
Permit Address
City/State/Zip
Parcel#
Zoning District
16492 Ingersoll Rd
Lansing, Michigan, 48906
19- lSQ-034-100-025-00, 19-150-034-300-005-00 & 150-034-300-070-00
LI-Light Industrial
N/A
All questions must be answered completely.
If additional space is needed, number and attach additional sheets. Number of attached sheets:
47
What is the proposed use?
See Attached
What is the existing use of the property?
See Attached
Please make a statement of justification for the requested action.
See Attached
What effects and hazards might this proposed use cause neighboring properties? Specify any expected noise,
smoke, fumes, glare, odors or excessive traffic.
See Attached
Staff use only:
Case Number
Date Filed
Fee
Receipt#
'\
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*Full site plan set will be printed and on the table.
RETURN TO AGENDA
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Morrison, Jon
Bryce Thelen
Greg Minshall; Hanses, Phil; Doug Steffen ([email protected]); Andrea Polverento
RE: LBWL Solar Field - Watertown Township
Monday, July 14, 2025 6:00:38 PM
image001.png
Bryce,
Thanks for coming into the office last week to meet about the LBWL project. As
indicated, I made a site visit to observe existing drainage conditions. From that visit,
the Drain Office is comfortable with storm water management for the project as
follows:
1. For the site west of Ingersol Road, project drainage is primarily directed north to
the Watson and Summers Drain and the proposed SWM configuration is
acceptable to mitigate impacts to the drain.
2. For the site east of Ingerson Road, the project drainage that will be directed NE
to the Ingersol Drain tile will first generally flow to an existing wetland area west
of the drain tile and then be picked up by the existing drain tile as necessary.
As such, impacts to the drain are not expected, but the Drain Office likely needs
to do some maintenance on the drain in the near future to address some
deterioration to ensure long term outlet drainage for the district.
3. For the site east of Ingersol Road, the project drainage that will be directed SW
towards Ingersol Road, the Drain Office has concerns with potential impacts to
the existing residential property at 16746 Ingersol Road. There is an existing
cross culvert under the road just south of the driveway for the above address
and the proposed activities are anticipated to modify the balance of flow that
occurs through this culvert towards the west side of Ingersol. Part of this is a
function of the proposed access drive for the east site that will be located in the
lower lying portion of the site paralleling the east side of Ingersol. Construction
of this access drive will place fill that will displace storage and reduce infiltration
that can occur now. As such either some type of compensating cut/detention
area needs to be created to offset this or improvement of surface drainage on
the west side of Ingersol Road towards the Lora I/C Drain needs to occur. I
think there are practical ways to achieve this without having to significantly
impact identified wetland areas. The Drain Office would also entertain granting
of an easement to the Lora I/C Drain to preserve the flow path from the Ingersol
Rd culvert long term.
Feel free to give me a call to discuss the above, just note that I am out of the office for
a conference and some vacation until next Tuesday, so will be answering and
returning phone calls sparingly until I return. My cell # is 989-534-1132.
Jon W. Morrison
Deputy
Clinton County Drain Commissioner's Office
Ph: (989) 224-5212, Fax: (989) 227-6449
[email protected]
Disclaimer: This message has been prepared on resources owned by Clinton County,
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Michigan. It is subject to the Acceptable Use Policy of Clinton County. This message,
including any attachments, is intended solely for use of the intended recipient(s). This
message may contain information that is privileged or otherwise protected from
disclosure by applicable law. Any unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, use or
reproduction is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, you
must delete it permanently and notify the sender immediately.
From: Bryce Thelen <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 9, 2025 1:26 PM
To: Morrison, Jon <[email protected]>
Cc: Greg Minshall <[email protected]>
Subject: LBWL Solar Field - Watertown Township
Good afternoon Jon,
I left you a message earlier this morning, but I wanted to follow up with an email as
well. The Lansing Board of Water and Light Solar Field project in Watertown
Township on Ingersoll Road is back. We submitted the plans to Watertown Township
for review last week.
There were some changes to the original design that we discussed with you about a
year and a half ago. Greg and I were wondering if you have any availability tomorrow
between 1 pm and 3 pm to meet and discuss the proposed design. If tomorrow
afternoon does not work, please let me know another time that would work to discuss.
Thanks,
Bryce Thelen
Civil Project Engineer
Office: (517)-487-2511 Ext. 135
** NEW ADDRESS **
544 Cherbourg Drive
Lansing, MI 48917
Website l Facebook l LinkedIn
Disclaimer: This message has been prepared on resources owned by Clinton County,
Michigan. It is subject to the Acceptable Use Policy of Clinton County. This message,
including any attachments, is intended solely for use of the intended recipient(s). This message
may contain information that is privileged or otherwise protected from disclosure by
applicable law. Any unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, use or reproduction is strictly
prohibited. If you have received this message in error, you must delete it permanently and
notify the sender immediately.
RETURN TO AGENDA
From:
To:
Cc:
Subject:
Date:
Morrison, Jon
Andrea Polverento
Hanses, Phil; Doug Steffen ([email protected]); Marc Trotter; Bryce Thelen; [email protected]
RE: Case No. 25-07 SPR-SLU Ingersoll Road West Solar Facility - Request for Comments & Casse No. 25-08 SPRSLU Ingersoll Road East Solar Facility
Thursday, July 31, 2025 12:33:04 PM
Andrea,
The Drain Commissioner’s Office has now had a chance to meet with the applicants
regarding the project, look over the proposed plans in some detail and received input
from a spokesperson for nearby residents to the project regarding potential drainage
implications.
While the proposed plans generally provide storm water management concepts that
the Drain Commissioner’s Office is not opposed to for the proposed land use change,
additional information will be needed to fully evaluate the potential county drain and/or
potential drainage impacts from the project. A basic list of these items are as follows:
1. A storm water management narrative needs to be provide defining/justifying the
runoff impacts that are expected to result from the project and the measures
being proposed to mitigate those effectively.
2. Specific details and elevation information for the proposed drainage swales
indicated on the plans to clearly demonstrate how drainage is proposed to work
on each site.
3. More information about existing drainage features that are applicable to
drainage function of the project sites. These include the culvert under Ingersol
Rd north of the RR tracks, the bottom elevation of the existing Watson and
Summer County Drain just north of the west Solar Facility and other existing
features that are likely providing for established drainage of either site.
It is critical that positive drainage be provided for the ex. culvert pipe under Ingersol
Rd north of the RR tracks. The Drain Office also wants to confirm the
presence/function of the upper end of the Lori Drain @ the RR grade west of Ingersol
Road. Finally, preserving established drainage for the residential properties between
Ingersol Road and the West Solar Facility will be a critical consideration.
Jon W. Morrison
Deputy
Clinton County Drain Commissioner's Office
Ph: (989) 224-5212, Fax: (989) 227-6449
[email protected]
Disclaimer: This message has been prepared on resources owned by Clinton County,
Michigan. It is subject to the Acceptable Use Policy of Clinton County. This message,
including any attachments, is intended solely for use of the intended recipient(s). This
message may contain information that is privileged or otherwise protected from
disclosure by applicable law. Any unauthorized disclosure, dissemination, use or
reproduction is strictly prohibited. If you have received this message in error, you
must delete it permanently and notify the sender immediately.
RETURN TO AGENDA
From: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 10:58 AM
To: Morrison, Jon <[email protected]>; Hanses, Phil <[email protected]>
Cc: McGrady, Renee <[email protected]>
Subject: Case No. 25-07 SPR-SLU Ingersoll Road West Solar Facility - Request for Comments
Good morning,
Attached, please find applications, supporting documents, and a digital plan set for a
proposed solar facility on the west side of Ingersoll Road. I’ve notified the applicant to
expect a communication from your office regarding an application and fees for your
review. Additional materials are available, including full wetland delineation reports,
etc., please let me know if you’d like copies of those.
Contact information for applicant:
Utopian Power, LLC
Attn: James Maskill, Forrest Cohn
2035 Independence Blvd
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
[email protected]
[email protected]
Please note, this is one of two proposed solar facility projects on Ingersoll Road, you
will receive another email shortly with that information.
Should you have any comments, questions, or requirements, please provide those by
Friday, July 25.
Thank you,
Andrea
Andrea Z. Polverento, Planning Director
12803 S. Wacousta Road | Grand Ledge, MI 48837
Office: 517.626.6593 ext. 208 | Direct line: 517.925.2018
[email protected]
www.watertownmi.gov
Disclaimer: This message has been prepared on resources owned by Clinton County,
Michigan. It is subject to the Acceptable Use Policy of Clinton County. This message,
including any attachments, is intended solely for use of the intended recipient(s). This message
RETURN TO AGENDA
CLINTON COUNTY
ROAD COMMISSION
Managing Director: Douglas L. Steffen
Board Members: Gail A. Watkins
Michael J. Frederick
Kevin P. Holt
July 24, 2025
Andrea Polverento
Planning Director
Watertown Charter Township
12803 S. Wacousta Rd
Grand Ledge, MI 48837
Re: Case 25-07 – SPR (Previous case 23-06)
Commercial Solar Facility
Utopian Power
Location: West side of Ingersoll Rd, north of RR tracks
Owner(s): Lansing Board of Water & Light
Parcel(s): 19-150-034-300-005-00; 150-034-100-025-00; 150-034-300-070-00
Andrea,
The Road Commission has reviewed the proposed site plan and has no objections but will require additional
information prior to issuing a ROW permit for the site. The applicant noted in the proposed transportation
plan that the access will be designed to accommodate delivery trucks and comply with CCRC standards for
commercial driveways. The Road Commission verified the existing driveway has adequate site distance along
Ingersoll Road for safe site access; however it will require upgrades to accommodate commercial vehicles and
construction traffic, including an offset entrance with turn tapers and necessary drainage improvements. The
access drive is proposed as a gravel surface, which is acceptable outside of the ROW, however the approach
within the ROW will need to be a paved surface, HMA or concrete, as per CCRC commercial driveway
requirements.
Sincerely,
Marc Trotter, PE
Dir. of Engineering
Clinton County Road Commission
3536 S. US Highway 27 / St. Johns, MI 48879 / Ph (989)224-3274 / Fax (989)224-4003
Website: www.ccrc-roads.com
Email: [email protected]
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From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Andrea Polverento
Watts, Claire (EGLE)
RE: Case No. 25-07 SPR-SLU Ingersoll Road West Solar Facility - Request for Comments
Tuesday, July 8, 2025 11:41:00 AM
image001.png
Hi Claire,
Great, I’m glad you’re in the loop on this project.
Because the project crosses Ingersoll Road, we are considering it as two separate projects, although the yellow outline
encompasses the entirety of both applications. The yellow boundary is the extent of the project(s). I will send you a
follow-up email with the details for the east side of Ingersoll Road as well.
I’ve also requested comments from the Drain office, and the applicant has been in touch with them as well.
The township does have a solar ordinance, and we’ll ensure, along with the township’s engineer, that the facility meets
those requirements.
Thanks for the swift response! If I can be of any further help, please let me know.
Andrea
From: Watts, Claire (EGLE) <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, July 8, 2025 11:25 AM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Case No. 25-07 SPR-SLU Ingersoll Road West Solar Facility - Request for Comments
Hi Andrea,
Thank you for the heads up. I held a meeting with the applicant for the solar farm on the west side of Ingersoll, and will be holding
a meeting shortly regarding the farm on the east side of Ingersoll.
The applicant has been informed that a permit is needed for the entire project on both sides of Ingersoll Road. I informed them
they may need to touch base with the Clinton County Drain Commission to determine if detention basins were needed, not sure if
Watertown Township has ordinances for solar farm but I thought I would let you know.
Please confirm if there is another solar farm project outside of the Ingersoll Road project as shown below, the yellow boundary
shown below is my understanding of the extent of this project.
Thank you,
Claire Watts
Environmental Quality Analyst
Water Resources Division, Lansing District Office
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From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
Attachments:
Klein, Patrick (EGLE)
Andrea Polverento
RE: Lansing Board of Water and Light - APA/SESC
Wednesday, July 2, 2025 3:07:16 PM
image002.png
Hi Andrea,
Yes, I can confirm that the Lansing Board of Water and Light is an APA. They have the
authority to govern their earth change activities under their procedures approved by EGLE.
This would mean they are not required to get a permit form the County.
Thanks for reaching out and confirming! Let me know if I can clarify anything!
Patrick Klein
Environmental Quality Analyst
Water Resources Division – Lansing District Office
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy
517-242-1176 | [email protected]
For pollution emergencies: Pollution Emergency Alerting System (PEAS) 1-800-292-4706
From: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, July 2, 2025 3:00 PM
To: Klein, Patrick (EGLE) <[email protected]>
Subject: Lansing Board of Water and Light - APA/SESC
CAUTION: This is an External email. Please send suspicious emails to
[email protected]
Hi Patricia,
I have on my desk an application for a commercial solar project for the Lansing Board
of Water and Light, in Watertown Township in southern Clinton County. It’s been
brought to my attention that the LBWL may be an APA and able to administer their
own soil erosion permits outside of Clinton County’s typical permitting structure. I
wasn’t able to find a directory of agencies that may fall into that category on the
website, and was hoping you could verify that the LBWL does in fact have that
authority.
Thanks!
Andrea
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July 23, 2025
Andrea Polverento, Planning Director
Watertown Charter Township
12803 S. Wacousta Rd.
Grand Ledge, MI 48837
RE:
Site Plan Review
16492 Ingersoll Road
Watertown Charter Township
Dear Andrea:
On behalf of Watertown Township, we have had an opportunity to review the preliminary drawings for
the proposed development at 16492 Ingersoll Rd. prepared by Matrix Consulting Engineers, Inc.
Our comments are as follows:
General
1. The submittal drawings are incomplete.
2. Site grading and drainage changes seem like they will be needed for this project. Please see
comments below.
3. We assume electric connections will be needed for this project. However, we did not see these
utilities on the plans.
4. We are assuming all applicable utility companies have been contacted.
Water System
1. We assume there is no water required for this project. No water system drawings were submitted.
Sanitary Sewer
1. We assume there is no sanitary sewer required for this project. No sanitary sewer drawings were
submitted.
Stronger. Safer. Smarter. Spicer.
WWW . SPICERGROUP . COM
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Watertown Township
16492 Ingersoll Rd.
July 23, 2025
Page 2 of 2
Storm Sewer / Drainage / Grading
1. No storm sewer plans were included. Please provide sewer plans, if needed, for this project.
2. No drainage plans were included. Please provide drainage plans for review.
3. No grading plans were included. Please provide grading plans for review.
Once the items above have been addressed, we would like an opportunity to look the plans over to verify
that the comments have been completed.
Sincerely,
Brian O. House, P.E.
Project Manager
SPICER GROUP, INC
1400 Zeeb Drive
St. Johns, MI 48879
phone: (989) 224-2355
mail to: [email protected]
Cc: SGI File 138144SG2025
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From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
mary ehmen
Andrea Polverento
Re: Solar Farm
Thursday, August 7, 2025 4:39:05 PM
We are on vacation. I don’t know when the planning meeting is but please include our
comments. We do not want the solar farm on the west side of Ingersoll. Our main concern is
the drain and a complete assessment needs to be done on both drains that currently drain the
west side of Ingersoll. We have ponding in our pasture. Ashley Hoag has terrible drainage
issues on her property with the ditch that is supposed to be there adjacent to the BWL
easement next to her driveway. Gil has ponding. New owners next door to us Alvarez same.
Gil same. Zach Hickok same. So we are going to deal with increased water and then we will
have to pay for a new drain or updates or repairs. Also the farmer Steve Lonier expressed the
poor condition of the drains when we spoke last fall. It is not right and that is very poor
planning to just pass the expense to homeowners.
Gary and Mary Ehmen
On Fri, Aug 1, 2025 at 9:18 AM Andrea Polverento <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Mary,
Not all of them check their personal emails regularly, and they don’t have townshipaffiliated emails. If you have any public comments, those should be sent to me, and I’ll
distribute them with the meeting materials.
Thanks!
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, July 31, 2025 8:58 AM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Hi Andrea
Could you please send me the emails for the people on the planning committee. I would
really appreciate it. It was hard to navigate the website.
Thank you
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Mary Ehmen
On Mon, Jul 14, 2025 at 1:05 PM Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
wrote:
Sure thing.
The public hearings will be held at the Planning Commission meeting on August 6. The
Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the Township Board for a final
decision. The Township Board will meet on August 18 to consider the applications and
the recommendations of the Planning Commission.
Hope that helps!
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 14, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Hi Andrea
Could you please clarify purpose of the Aug 6th and Aug 18th meetings.
I am not sure I wrote it down correctly
Thanks so much
Mary Ehmen
On Mon, Jul 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
wrote:
Hi Mary,
RETURN TO AGENDA
Attached, please find the comments you submitted previously for the solar project.
Also, the PA116 Program Manager’s name is Chip Kraus.
Phone: 517-294-2298
Email: [email protected]
Please let me know if you have any further questions. Have a great day!
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 14, 2025 11:39 AM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Hi Andrea
We will be on vacation at the time of the meeting this week. Could you please update
on the status of this project.
We would really appreciate us as it is just over the tracks from our property
Thank you,
Mary Ehmen
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 2:45 PM mary ehmen <[email protected]> wrote:
I am so so glad to hear this. Thanks!
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 2:44 PM Andrea Polverento
<[email protected]> wrote:
Mary,
The recent legislation does not take effect until November, and this project would still
RETURN TO AGENDA
fall under local regulations as it was proposed, because it’s under 50 megawatts.
Regardless of the timing, it’s most likely it would still be considered through the
township’s review process.
Hope that helps.
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, February 22, 2024 2:41 PM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Oh I am so so glad to hear that! I am concerned due to recent legislation that the
property owners would not be informed/ considered
Thank you much
Mary
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 2:39 PM Andrea Polverento
<[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Mary,
I don’t have any updates. The last I heard, the Board of Water and light was
reviewing the proposed property and others nearby, and no further decisions have
been made. Currently, we have no estimate of when or if this project will be resubmitted for review. If and when it is, you will receive an update public hearing
notice in the mail.
Thanks,
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
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12803 S. Wacousta Rd., Grand Ledge, MI 48837
517-626-6593
517-626-6405 (Fax)
www.watertownmi.gov
PLANNING COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING MINUTES - DRAFT
Wednesday, August 6, 2025 | 7:00 pm
CALL TO ORDER: The meeting was called to order at 7:00 pm by Acting Chair John Wiesner with the
Pledge of Allegiance.
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS PRESENT: Secretary John Wiesner, Zoning Board of Appeals
Representative Richard Adams, David Bartkowiak, Joe Davis, Mary Felzke, Charles Openlander, and Ron
Overton. Absent was Vice-Chair Beth Ball. Chair Turcotte arrived at 7:32pm.
STAFF PRESENT: Planning Director Andrea Polverento.
Motion by Overton, seconded by Openlander, to appoint Joe Davis as the temporary secretary of the
Planning Commission for the purposes of this meeting only. Motion carried.
COMMUNICATIONS RECEIVED: Polverento outlined the communications received.
AGENDA APPROVAL:
Motion by Openlander, seconded by Felzke, to approve the August 6, 2025 regular meeting agenda as
amended. Motion carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT, NON-AGENDA ITEMS: None.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
1.
July 9, 2025 Planning Commission Regular Meeting
Motion by Overton, seconded by Bartkowiak, to approve the Planning Commission regular meeting
minutes of July 9, 2025, as presented. Motion carried.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1.
Case No. 25-07 SLU – Utopian Power – 16492 Ingersoll Road (Watertown 1)
Acting Chair Wiesner opened the public hearing at 7:04pm, and the public hearing procedure was
summarized.
Polverento presented the facts of the case, a request for a special land use permit and final site plan approval
for a 10 megawatt DC commercial solar photovoltaic energy generation system. The use is a special land
use in the LI-Light Industrial zoning district. The subject parcels are not served by public water or sanitary
sewer and not located in the GRO-Grand River Overlay zoning district, therefore a principal use is
permitted by the zoning ordinance. The project is being referred to as “Watertown 1.” It is located on the
west side of Ingersoll Road, south of Grand River and north of the railroad tracks. Polverento added that
the application includes three parcels, the north parcel being 5.7 acres, which will mainly be used for
August 6, 2025 Planning Commission Regular Meeting Minutes - DRAFT
Page 1 of 18
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ingress/egress. The main solar field will be located on the two additional parcels 44.8 and 15 acres in size,
for a total project acreage of approximately 65.5.
In the vicinity of the project, Polverento noted, to the north are Big Fireworks and the vacant Challenge
property, to the south and east are rural residential uses, and to the west is vacant industrial property.
Polverento explained that the applicant submitted a number of supplemental items which were provided
to the Planning Commissioners for review, including detailed site plans, a decommissioning plan, a
narrative which responds directly to the specific requirements of this use, and other reference materials. A
wetland delineation was provided and is on file. Comments from the agencies with jurisdiction over
project components were also provided to the Planning Commission.
Polverento noted that no written public comments were received prior to the meeting.
Project applicants Forrest Cohn and James Maskill of Utopian Power addressed the Planning Commission,
and project engineer Bryce Thelen of Matrix, and Lansing Board of Water and Light representatives
Shannon Coombs and Breine Pugh were also introduced.
Cohn referenced an exhibit showing the Watertown 1 site, on the west side of Ingersoll Road. The goal of
this project is to meet the requirements of a 2023 Lansing Board of Water and Light RFP which was to select
a mix of resources to best meet the Lansing Board of Water and Light’s needs for solar energy generation.
They are requesting a special land use permit and final site plan approval. He noted that they are not
requesting any variances or other considerations. Cohn referenced a wetland delineation which was
conducted for the subject property and shapes the layout of the panels on the property. Cohn indicated
that the exhibit he was referencing was an electrical plan set image that shows the site layout. Cohn pointed
out the 5.7 acre parcel which would be used for site access, which abuts Ingersoll Road. He also referenced
the southern 15 acre parcel, which will have some panels on the west side, but the parcel will primarily be
used for medium voltage electrical cables which will come out to the point of interconnection near the
railroad tracks.
Cohn noted that they expect to have a gate at the property likely near Ingersoll Road and they have been
working with the county.
Overton questioned if they expected to have a gate, did they not know?
Cohn responded that there would be a gate near the road and potentially another near the main parcel.
Additionally, he pointed out the interconnection area and indicated that the switchgear would be fenced
in.
Cohn stated that they had submitted for an EGLE Part 301 permit, as they will affect a very small portion
of wetlands for the site access, for a total impact of .056 acres. He added that they have been working with
the Clinton County Drain Commissioner and Road Commission, and they would be obtaining all necessary
permits. He explained that the Lansing Board of Water and Light is an Authorized Public Agency for the
purposes of soil erosion and sedimentation control, and they would manage their own permit, it would
not be at the county level.
Additionally, Cohn indicated that they would be complying with the requirements of the township’s
engineer of record, and ensuring that they met the width and weight requirements for fire department
access.
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Cohn stated that the rationale for this project from the perspective of the Lansing Board of Water and Light
(LBWL) is that it is strategically located in the northwest corner of the LBWL’s heavily loaded distribution
system which is currently operating near electrical capacity. This project will play a critical role in
expanding the system by offsetting heavy loads and providing additional capacity to support their
customers north of and along Grand River and will connect directly to their distribution system. The
Watertown solar site’s long-term economic benefit will not only enhance the system’s reliability and
resilience but also contribute to the long-term economic development of the area.
Cohn asked if there were any questions on Watertown 1, he would be happy to answer them. Wiesner
asked the Commissioners if they had any questions.
Overton asked how high the panels would be off the ground. Cohn responded that the minimum clearance
is 24 inches.
Bartkowiak asked about a threatened and endangered species statement from their application materials.
He noted that none were listed and asked if they were to assume that none were found.
Cohn stated that studies were completed by the LBWL and they noted that regionally, there is the potential
for a few species, but that none were found on the site. He noted that they would still be aware of the
possibility they could be found.
Davis asked about the width and weight capacity of the ingress/egress and interior service roads. Cohn
responded that they would be 20 feet, per fire code, and the weight capacity will be 75,000 pounds based
on the fire department requirements. He further noted that there is no turnaround because the service road
access goes all the way around the site.
Wiesner asked about the staging area during construction and if there would be a staging area on the west
side, or if it would all be staged on the Watertown 2 project. Cohn responded that there would be a staging
area on this site, and pointed out its location in the northeast corner of the main parcel. Polverento directed
the Commissioner’s attention to sheet C-400 of their plan sets, and pointed out where the staging area was
shown. Wiesner asked for clarification that they would not be crossing Ingersoll Road regularly to move
equipment between the sites. Cohn responded that was correct, they would not be crossing the road.
Bartkowiak asked about the proposed fence materials, clarifying the proposal of eight-foot height with sixinch-by-six-inch openings. Cohn responded that was their proposal, and that the material would be of a
tension-style agricultural mesh fencing. Bartkowiak stated his concern that the 6-inch opening in the
agricultural mesh fencing could possibly trap deer and fawns. Maskill stated that they would be willing
to adjust the size to something more appropriate to avoid that situation.
Felzke asked about the proposal for grounds maintenance over the life of the project. Felzke noted their
landscape plan, but questioned how the grass and shrubs would be maintained. Cohn described the
vegetation plan, including buffers, then described that between the panels would be approximately 15-feet
rows. They have not settled on a specific seed, but the grass would be brush-hogged periodically during
the growing season.
Wiesner asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commissioners or the audience.
There being no further public comment, the public hearing was closed at 7:22pm.
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2.
Case No. 25-08 SLU – Utopian Power – 16705 Ingersoll Road (Watertown 2)
Acting Chair Wiesner opened the public hearing at 7:22pm. The Planning Commissioners and applicants
agreed that the public hearing procedure did not need to be repeated.
Polverento presented the facts of the case, a request for a special land use permit and final site plan approval
for a 7.4-megawatt DC commercial solar photovoltaic energy generation system. The use is a special land
use in the LI-Light Industrial zoning district. The subject parcels are not served by public water or sanitary
sewer and not located in the GRO-Grand River Overlay zoning district, therefore a principal use is
permitted by the zoning ordinance. The project is being referred to as “Watertown 2.” It is located on the
east side of Ingersoll Road, south of Grand River and north of the railroad tracks. Polverento added that
the application involves one 36-acre parcel.
Near the project, Polverento noted, to the north is the Robert Franchino Trust, to the east is Aspen
Commercial, to the south are agricultural and residential property, and to the east are rural residential uses.
Polverento explained that the applicant submitted several supplemental items which were provided to the
Planning Commissioners for review, including detailed site plans, a decommissioning plan, a narrative
which responds directly to the specific requirements of this use, and other reference materials. Comments
from the agencies with jurisdiction over project components were also provided to the Planning
Commission. Polverento noted that no written public comments were received prior to the meeting.
Wiesner invited the applicant to make a statement.
Cohn indicated that this is a similar project to Watertown 1, but smaller, at 7.4-megawatts and
approximately 36 acres. Both projects have the same DC-to-AC ratio. He generally described the LBWL’s
distribution lines in the area, noting that one comes from the south, and another comes from the north.
Watertown 2 will go toward the north. He referenced the point of interconnection in the southwest corner
of the site. Cohn also pointed out the existing farm entrance to this site, north of the railroad tracks. They
anticipate moving the driveway slightly to the north. They are working with EGLE on permitting, but do
not expect to need a permit for this site.
Cohn explained that the parcel extends to the north beyond where they expect their footprint and fencing
to be. They will leave the northern part un-fenced. Cohn showed the access drive and described the
turnaround. He outlined the required buffer zones on the west and south. He referenced an exhibit
showing a rendering of what is likely to be visible along Ingersoll Road. He explained that existing
vegetative buffers would be maintained where possible, and other areas would be landscaped as required
by the zoning ordinance.
Cohn mentioned that both this parcel and the Watertown 1 parcel have been purchased by the Lansing
Board of Water and Light. He indicated that for this project, they divided a smaller parcel from the
Franchino Trust and shrunk the footprint from their original plans.
Both projects are interconnected at 13.2 kV, which is what the distribution line supports. He explained that
the rationale for the Watertown 2 project is the same as for Watertown 1. He noted the smaller size of this
project and parcel. He explained that because they do not need to avoid wetland areas on this site, the
panels are condensed into a single solar array. He reviewed the agency comments received and indicated
their intention to comply.
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Polverento added that she has been in communication with the applicant’s engineer, the Clinton County
Drain Commissioner and the EGLE representative to discuss a small area where the county drain and a
small wetland area interact jointly, and she has been working with all parties to facilitate an outcome that
will be suitable. The applicants have indicated that whatever the determination is that suits all parties,
they will comply.
Bartkowiak asked if the Wolverine Pipeline was on this site, or the Watertown 1 site. Cohn responded that
it was on the Watertown 1 site. Maskill added that they had provided the release of easement, and he
believed it had been provided in the staff materials. Polverento confirmed.
Turcotte arrived at 7:32pm. Wiesner asked if Turcotte would like to take over as chair. Turcotte responded
that Wiesner should continue. Turcotte apologized for his late arrival.
Overton asked the applicant to confirm if these panels would also be 24-inches from the ground. Cohn
confirmed, indicating that the ordinance does not allow panels higher than 16-feet, and these panels would
be well under that height at ten feet at maximum height at 25 percent tilt.
Overton stated that at two feet, it precludes agrovoltaics, and we are a preservation of farmland township.
He stated that he will be voting no on all projects unless they are seven feet. Maskill questioned if that
would be Overton’s position even in an industrial zoning district. Overton responded that he didn’t care.
Overton stated that our master plan states unequivocally that we will preserve farmland. It doesn’t have
to be sixteen feet, and we don’t have to have parking underneath like MSU, but at seven feet, it opens up
all agrovoltaics to anything other than row cropping. You can have truck crops, you can have sheep, the
whole world of agrovoltaics is open at seven feet. Overton said that anything under seven feet, he will vote
no, and he loves solar.
Davis asked about a projected start date and expected length of construction. Cohn said that the start date
would be determined by the Lansing Board of Water and Light, but at this time, they expect an early spring
2026 start, with approximately 16 months of construction, coming online in mid-2027.
Wiesner asked if there were any further questions or comments from the Commissioners or the audience.
There being no further public comment, the public hearing was closed at 7:35pm.
NEW BUSINESS:
1.
Drinking Water Public Education Resource Presentation
Christine Spitzley of OHM Advisors gave a presentation on a groundwater and wellhead protection
educational experience. The presentation described wellhead protection and how it matters to both public
and private wells, the township’s public water infrastructure, and how it’s achieved. She described a new
website with educational activities for children and adults on the topic, and highlighted Watertown
Township’s commitment to drinking water protection.
No action taken.
2.
Case No. 25-07 SPR/SLU – Utopian Power – 16492 Ingersoll Road (Watertown 1)
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Polverento reviewed the staff report, describing the compliance with various ordinance requirements.
Polverento referenced the discussion during the public hearing regarding fence materials and height and
suggested that the Planning Commission could make a determination for recommendation to the Board of
Trustees on that matter. Following significant discussion about security, wildlife management and control,
long-term maintenance and durability, and various types of fencing structures and materials, the Planning
Commission recommended that agricultural mesh fencing be permitted with an 8-foot height, and fourinch-by-four-inch tension slats.
Polverento reviewed the agency comments. She noted that the Building Official had suggested that the
construction hours of operation may want to be considered for reduction, due to the noise that may arise
from the post-driving for the solar racking. The Planning Commission discussed this matter at length,
determining that the post-driving construction activities should be limited to the same hours permitted for
gravel mining.
Motion by Overton, seconded by Turcotte, that the Planning Commission recommends to the Board of
Trustees that construction hours of operation for the post-driving component of construction only, be
reduced to the same hours allowed for gravel mining operations, those being 8am-5pm Monday-Saturday,
and that all other regular construction activities may take place during the stated construction hours of
operation. Motion carried.
The Planning Commission reviewed the final site plan review standards, Sec. 28-6.1 These standards are
taken from Chapter 6 of the Zoning Ordinance, and are the basis for review by Township staff, the Site Plan
Review Committee, and the Planning Commission.
(1)
Master plan. The general purposes and spirit of this chapter and the comprehensive development
plan of the township shall be maintained.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Adams, Overton, and Turcotte noted their objections to this standard, stating that it is their position that
the final site plan, as presented, does not comply with the spirit of the master plan. Bartkowiak, Davis,
Felzke, Openlander and Wiesner agreed that the proposed use meets this standard, therefore the plan is
found to be compliant.
Comments:
The proposed use is consistent with goals, objectives, and implementation strategies of the
master plan. The use is permitted by special land use permit within the Zoning District and no variances
or other special considerations are required.
(2)
Health, safety and welfare. The uses proposed will not adversely affect the public health,
safety, or welfare. The site shall be developed so as not to impede the normal and orderly development or
improvement of surrounding property for uses permitted in this chapter.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
The proposed use is not expected to adversely affect the public health, safety, or welfare,
nor is it expected to impede the orderly development of surrounding properties.
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(3)
Access. Safe, convenient, uncontested, efficient and well-defined vehicular and pedestrian
circulation shall be provided for ingress/egress points and within the site. All streets and driveways shall
be developed in accordance with the township subdivision control ordinance, the county road commission,
and the state department of transportation specifications, as applicable. The proposed development shall
be serviced by an adequate road system, and shall not adversely impact the level of service on adjacent
roads.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
The applicant shall obtain permits from, and meet the requirements of the Clinton County
Road Commission and submit written approval.
(4)
Emergency vehicle access. All buildings and groups of buildings shall be arranged so as to
permit reasonable necessary emergency vehicle access as requested by the fire department serving the
township.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval
Not Applicable
Comments:
be presented.
Awaiting specific comments from the fire department. Likely conditions of approval will
(5)
Pedestrian circulation. A pedestrian circulation system which is separated from the vehicular
circulation system may be required. In order to ensure public safety, pedestrian measures such as
sidewalks, crosswalks, crossing signals and other such facilities may be required in the vicinity of schools,
playgrounds, shopping areas, or other uses which generate a considerable amount of pedestrian traffic.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
Pedestrian use in the area is minimal, and there are no sidewalks, crosswalks or other
pedestrian infrastructure provided or necessary. The proposed use is not expected to cause any adverse
impacts to pedestrians along Ingersoll Road.
(6)
Natural features. Removal or alteration of significant natural features shall be restricted to
those areas which are reasonably necessary to develop the site in accordance with the requirements of this
chapter.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval
Not Applicable
Comments:
The proposed use will not require the removal or alteration of significant natural features,
as defined by Sec. 28-2.6. There are wetlands and small, emergent wetlands within the site, though no
alteration is expected. Necessary permits from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes,
and Energy shall be obtained.
(7)
Topography. The landscape shall be preserved in its natural state, insofar as practical, by
removing only those areas of vegetation or making those alterations to the topography which are
reasonably necessary to develop the site in accordance with the requirements of this chapter.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
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Comments:
The Lansing Board of Water and Light is an Authorized Public Agency which will manage
their earth change activities under their procedures approved by the Michigan Department of
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy.
(8)
Drainage. To provide areas for natural habitat, preserve natural drainage patterns and maintain
the natural characteristics of the land, areas of natural drainage such as swales, wetlands, ponds, or swamps
shall be protected and preserved insofar as practical in their natural state.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
Clinton County Drain Commissioner’s office is generally satisfied with the drainage
direction and stormwater management configuration, however, additional detail is necessary. The
proposed use shall comply with the requirements of the Clinton County Drain Commission, EGLE, and
the Township Engineer.
(9)
Stormwater management. Appropriate measures shall be taken to ensure that removal of
surface waters will not adversely affect neighboring properties or the public storm drainage system.
Provisions shall be made to accommodate stormwater, prevent erosion and the formation of dust.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
Clinton County Drain Commissioner’s office is satisfied with the drainage direction and
stormwater management configuration, however, additional information is necessary. The proposed use
shall comply with the requirements of the Clinton County Drain Commissioner, EGLE, and the Township
Engineer.
(10)
Landscaping. Landscaping, landscape buffers and greenbelts shall be provided and
designed in accordance with Article VIII of this chapter.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
The landscape plan shall be implemented as presented on Sheet C-404. Long term
maintenance of the landscaping and site cover shall be addressed with the special land use permit for this
case.
(11)
Privacy. To minimize or prevent trespassing or other adverse effects of adjacent lands, the
site plan shall provide reasonable visual and sound privacy for all uses located therein, and adjacent
thereto.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval
Not Applicable
Comments:
The requirements of Sec. 28-4.65.2.F and Sec. 28-5.9 shall be met. The applicant shall
maintain a perimeter security fence with a lock box approved by the fire department serving the township.
(12)
Lighting. To reduce artificial light pollution, avoid light trespass on to adjacent property
and improve travel conditions by reducing glare and excessively lit surfaces, exterior lighting shall be in
accordance with Sec. 28-5.18, Outdoor lighting.
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Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
No outdoor lighting schedule is provided, however, the proposed use shall comply with
Sec. 28-5.18, Outdoor Lighting.
(13)
Outside approvals. Site plans shall conform to all applicable requirements of county, state,
federal, and township statutes and ordinances. Approval may be conditioned on the applicant receiving
necessary county, state, federal, and township permits before final site plan approval is granted.
Complies
Does not Comply
Condition of Approval Not Applicable
Comments:
This is a regular requirement of all applicants. Outside permits and approvals include, but
are not limited to, the Clinton County Road Commission, Clinton County Drain Commissioner, Michigan
Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, Lansing Board of Water and Light, Capital Region
Airport Authority (FAA), Wolverine Pipeline, CSX Railroad, and the Township Building Official.
Motion by Davis, seconded by Openlander, that the Planning Commission approves Case No. 25-07 SPR
for Utopian Power, for final site plan review for solar energy system at 16492 Ingersoll Road, in Section 34
of Watertown Charter Township, provided that conformance to conditions 1-15, as noted below, are
achieved to the satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator as being in accordance with the
requirements of the Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance.
Conditions of Final Site Plan Approval:
1. The applicant shall obtain approval for and comply with all requirements of Special Land Use
Permit No. 25-07 SLU.
2. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of Clinton County Drain Commission.
3. The applicant shall follow all required soil erosion and sedimentation control guidelines.
4. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Looking Glass Regional Fire
Authority, and any gates locked after business hours shall contain a lock box approved by LGRFA.
5. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Clinton County Road Commission.
6. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Township Engineer.
7. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Lansing Board of Water and Light.
8. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Michigan Department of
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, and obtain all necessary permits.
9. The applicant shall complete FAA Form 7460, if applicable.
10. The applicant shall obtain trades permits from Watertown Charter Township and comply
with all requirements to the satisfaction of the Township Trades Official(s).
11. Outdoor lighting shall comply with Section 28-5.18 of the Watertown Charter Township
Zoning Ordinance.
12. Perimeter safety fencing shall comply with Sec. 28-5.7, Fences.
13. A sign and building permit shall be obtained prior to construction of any signage.
14. The Landscape Plan shall be implemented as described on Sheet C-404.
15. Applicant must comply with all applicable State, Federal and Township laws.
Roll call vote:
Yes: Felzke, Openlander, Davis, Weisner, Bartkowiak
No: Adams, Overton, Turcotte
Absent: Ball
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Motion carried.
The Planning Commission reviewed the special land use specific and general review standards, Sec. 28-6.2
and Sec. 28-4.65. These standards are taken from Chapters 4 and 6 of the Zoning Ordinance, and are the
basis for review by Township staff, Planning Commission, and the Board of Trustees.
Sec. 28-4.65 (2) Site development requirements.
B.
Minimum lot size. There is no minimum lot size. Solar energy systems are permitted by
special use permit, the process by which reviews and considers its compatibility with the surrounding area.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this standard. The lot size is approximately 65.5 acres.
C.
Height restrictions. All solar energy system components, including photovoltaic panels or
other collection device(s) oriented at maximum tilt, support structures, and buildings shall not exceed 16
feet. Substation and electrical equipment are permitted at their usual and customary heights and are
excluded from this maximum height requirement. Substation and electrical equipment must comply with
all local, state, and federal requirements, including, but not limited to the Michigan Tall Structures Act and
Federal Aviation Administration requirements, as applicable.
Finding of Fact: The application indicates that the proposed solar array will utilize a fixed-tilt mounting
system with no panel tracking or movement. The front edge of the panels will be installed 24 inches above
grade, resulting in a maximum rear edge height of just under 10 feet. This configuration complies with the
applicable height regulations.
D.
Setbacks.
ii.
In the LI-Light Industrial district, all solar energy systems, whether principal or accessory
uses, shall meet the minimum setback requirements for the zoning district.
iii.
All solar energy system components, including perimeter fencing, shall be set back at least
to the limit of any established county drain right-of-way.
Comments: County drains (Watson & Summers and Lora Intercounty) abut the subject property
on the north and south, but there are no established county drain rights-of-way on any of the three subject
parcels. There is a culvert under the railroad to the Lora Intercounty drain.
Finding of Fact: Setbacks for the LI-Light Industrial district are: 35’ front yard setback; 50’ rear
yard setback; 30’ side yard setback. These specific setbacks apply when adjacent to either LI-Light
Industrial, RR-Rural Residential, or AG-Agricultural zones, as the use is under 35’ in height.
E.
Maximum lot coverage. Solar energy systems are exempt from maximum lot coverage
requirements. Any other regulated structures on the parcel are subject to the maximum lot coverage
requirements for the zoning district.
Finding of Fact: The proposed solar energy system complies with this requirement.
F.
Safety and access. All solar energy systems shall be completely enclosed by a perimeter
security fence to restrict unauthorized access. The height and material of the fence shall be reviewed for
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appropriateness and compatibility during the special land use process. A lock box approved by the fire
department serving the township shall be required.
Comments: Sheet C-800 describes the fencing proposed. Agricultural mesh fencing which is 8’x 6”x 6” is
proposed. Compatibility should be discussed and determined before reaching a finding of fact. Staff has
proposed a condition of approval requiring a lock box approved by the fire department.
Finding of Fact: The fencing shall be agricultural mesh fencing which is 8’x4”x4”to comply with the
Planning Commission’s recommendation.
G.
Glare. All solar panels shall be located or placed so that concentrated solar glare shall not
be directed toward or onto nearby properties or roadways at any time of day.
Comments: Applicant indicates that potential glare from solar panels will be in full compliance with this
requirement. The glare is comparable to or less than water surfaces. Additionally, vegetative screening
and ordinance-compliant setbacks will further reduce visual impacts. These measures ensure glare is
minimal, aligning with the zoning ordinance’s standards for compatibility and safeguarding neighboring
properties and rights-of-way.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
H.
Landscaping.
i.
When the proposed solar energy system abuts a residential district or use, the landscaping
plan shall meet the requirements of a major buffer zone, as described in Sec. 28-5.23.2.g.
ii.
For principal or accessory uses in the LI-Light Industrial zone, a major buffer shall only be
required on any side abutting a residential zone or use.
iii.
Sec. 28-5.23.1.d shall not apply to any principal or accessory solar energy use in the LILight Industrial zoning district. The minimum buffer requirements shall apply if a public road or street
separates the zoning district.
iv.
The proposed landscape plan shall also include a revegetation plan for the installation and
maintenance of the vegetative cover on the entire site. The planting shall control site soil erosion and
maintenance of soil quality. The primary purpose is control of erosion and maintenance of soil quality.
The plan shall include the plant species and the rate of application of planting. Grazing, cropping, and
wildlife habitat are acceptable secondary uses in the AG-Agricultural district. Use of native plants is
strongly encouraged. Invasive species listed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes,
and Energy as restricted or that are on the watch list are prohibited. The plan shall address the seedbed
preparation, fertilization, mulching, and irrigation, if needed. The plan shall include maintenance
schedules and methods (mowing, replanting, etc.). The site is subject to annual inspection for maintenance
of the vegetative cover and control of erosion.
Comments: Sheet C-404 describes the landscape plan. Plant species and schedule of planting is included.
All proposed plantings are verified to be native species. The revegetation of the site will be in a low growth
mowable vegetation with considerations such as noxious weed and invasive growth resistant, and low
height. A fertilization plan, seedbed preparation, irrigation, and mowing schedule is not included. It is
expected that the proposed vegetative cover will control on-site erosion if properly maintained. Staff has
included a condition of approval that the landscape plan shall be implemented as presented. Staff
recommends the requirement of a long-term landscape maintenance plan/schedule be provided.
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Finding of Fact: The applicant shall submit a long-term landscape maintenance plan to comply with this
requirement.
I.
Signage. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy systems or the
perimeter fencing. This exclusion does not apply to the entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed on
the gate in a visible area and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be weather-durable and
include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact person for whom additional
information may be obtained. Any required emergency information signage shall be permitted.
Comments: No signage is described. Staff has included a condition of approval that describes these
requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
J.
Lighting. Solar energy systems shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18 Outdoor lighting.
Comments: No lighting is described. Staff has included a condition of approval that describes these
requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this requirement.
K.
Transportation plan. The applicant shall provide a proposed access plan during
construction and operational phases. This shall show proposed project service road ingress/egress
locations on to adjacent roadways and the layout of the facility service road system. Due to infrequent
access following construction, it is not required to pave or curb solar panel access drives, but they should
be constructed as to minimize dust conditions.
Comments: Page 6 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative describes the transportation plan. Service roads
are described on the site plan. Staff has included a condition of approval requiring dust control measures
if appropriate. The Clinton County Road Commission will require tapers and paving of approaches within
the right-of-way, and a permit shall be obtained.
Finding of Fact: The proposed transportation plan meets ordinance requirements. The requirements of
the Clinton County Road Commission shall be enforced.
L.
Distribution, transmission, and interconnection. All electrical interconnections or
distribution lines shall comply with all applicable codes and standard commercial large-scale utility
requirements. All collection lines and interconnections from the solar array(s) to any electrical substations
shall be located and maintained underground inside the solar energy system facility. This requirement
shall exclude transmission equipment meant to connect the project substation to the local transmission
system.
Comments: Specific construction documents have not yet been presented for review. It is anticipated that
the proposed use will meet these requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet these requirements.
M.
Environmental and safety impacts.
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i.
An environmental impact statement/study shall be provided at the time of application and
shall include, but not be limited to, a review of the following factors:
I.
Water quality and supply.
II.
Air quality.
III.
Wildlife.
IV.
Floodplains and wetlands.
V.
Identification of solid and/or hazardous waste generated.
VI.
Any other environmental factors typically evaluated for the proposed use or as requested.
Comments: Pages 6-8 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative include responses to these requirements. A
wetland delineation study has been completed as part of this proposal, and wetlands are described on the
site plan, along with soil erosion and sedimentation control measures to protect runoff.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet environmental safety requirements.
ii.
I.
II.
III.
A public safety impact statement/study shall be provided at the time of
application and shall include but not be limited to, a review of the following factors:
Identification of emergency and normal shutdown procedures.
Identify potential hazards to adjacent properties, public roadways, and to
the general public that may be created.
Identify potential hazards to aviation and indicate how state and federal
requirements will be met.
Comments: Pages 8-9 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative include responses to these requirements.
Hazards to aviation are not expected.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet public safety requirements.
L.
Abandonment and decommissioning. A solar energy system shall be decommissioned
following the useful life or at which time it remains non-operational for six months and is considered
abandoned. The applicant shall submit a decommissioning plan, prepared by a licensed professional
engineer, at the time of application for a special land use permit. The decommissioning plan shall include,
but not be limited to the following:
i.
Steps to remove the system
ii.
Steps to dispose of or recycle system components
iii.
Restoration of land
iv.
Estimated cost schedule to meet the following requirements:
v.
Removal of all equipment, conduit, structures, fencing, roads, building foundations,
including any equipment or materials below grade, offsite for disposal.
vi.
Restoration of ground to original condition.
viii.
Revegetation of site to blend with existing surrounding vegetation within six months of
decommissioning.
ix.
For agricultural lands, restoration of soils to their original USDA classification, as
confirmed by a soil survey conducted in accordance with the standards of the national cooperative
soil survey.
Comments: Decommissioning plan has been provided by the applicant, and was prepared and sealed by
a licensed professional engineer. Davis believes the estimate provided is low potentially by a factor of
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two. Polverento will review with the township engineer prior to the Township Board’s consideration of
this application for inclusion in the staff report.
Finding of Fact: To be determined.
O.
Financial guarantees. To ensure proper removal of the project upon decommissioning or
abandonment of the solar energy system, the applicant shall include a description of the financial security
guaranteeing the removal of the system which shall be posted with the township within 15 days after the
project is approved, or prior to the issuance of a building permit for the project. The financial guarantee
shall be in the form of a cash bond or irrevocable bank letter of credit or a performance bond. The amount
shall be reasonably sufficient to restore the property to its previous condition as agreed upon by the
township board and the applicant. The amount may include a provision for inflationary cost adjustments.
The estimate shall be prepared by the engineer for the applicant, and shall be subject to approval by the
township, with guidance from the township’s engineer. The financial guarantee shall be returned when
all conditions of the special land use permit and the decommissioning/abandonment plan have been
completed. There shall be no partial release of the financial guarantee. The financial guarantee shall be
kept in full force and effect during the entire time the solar energy system exists or is in place, and it shall
be irrevocable and non-cancelable.
Comments: Awaiting comments from township engineer.
Finding of Fact: Staff will work with the Township Treasurer, Engineer, and applicant to ensure that the
financial guarantee instrument is in place within 15 days after the project is approved or prior to issuance
of a building permit for the project.
Sec. 28-6.2 Special Land Use General Review Standards
Each application shall be reviewed for the purpose of determining that the proposed special land use meets
all of the general standards. Each special land use will:
1.
Be designed, constructed, operated and maintained so as to be harmonious and appropriate in
appearance, with the existing or intended character of the general vicinity and that such a use will not
change the essential character of the area in which it is proposed.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
2.
Be served adequately by essential public facilities and services such as
highways, streets, police, fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water and sewer facilities.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval requiring compliance with all highway, street,
police, fire protection, drainage structures, and refuse disposal. Water and sewer facilities do not serve this
use. All items under the purview of other agencies shall meet the requirements of those agencies to the
satisfaction of the Zoning Administrator.
Finding of Fact: The proposed is expected to meet this standard.
3.
Not
create
excessive
facilities and services.
additional
requirements
at
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cost
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public
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Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this standard.
4.
Not
involve
uses,
activities,
processes,
materials,
and
equipment
or
conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the general welfare by reason
of excessive effects of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare or odors affecting adjacent properties, streets or
uses.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval attesting as such.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
5.
The proposed use is so designed, located, planned and to be operated that the public
health, safety and welfare will not be adversely impacted.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval requiring conformance with the proposed landscape
plan, and the site maintenance plan for the entirety of the project.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
6.
The proposed use shall not be detrimental to existing and/or other permitted land
uses in the zoning district.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
Overton disagrees that the proposed use meets this standard.
Motion by Davis, seconded by Openlander, that the Planning Commission recommends to the Board of
Trustees the approval of Case No. 25-07 SLU, the special land use permit being for Utopian Power, for a
special land use permit for a solar energy system at 16492 Ingersoll Road, in Section 34 of Watertown
Charter Township, provided that conformance to conditions 1-9, as noted below, are achieved to the
satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator as being in accordance with the requirements of the
Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance.
Recommended Conditions of Special Land Use Permit Approval:
1. Applicant shall receive final site plan approval for Case No. 25-07 SPR, and comply with all
requirements and conditions.
2. Applicant shall ensure that the use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and
equipment or conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive effects to traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, or odors
affecting adjacent properties, streets, or uses.
3. If necessary, the applicant shall utilize dust control measures to avoid any adverse effects to
neighboring properties or streets. Internal service roads shall minimize dust, with dust control
measures employed when necessary/appropriate.
4. Applicant shall remain in compliance with all highway, street, police, fire protection, drainage
structures, and refuse disposal requirements for the lifetime of the project.
5. Applicant shall install a lock box on security fence gate which meets the requirements of the fire
department serving the township.
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6.
Landscape plan shall be implemented as described on sheet C-404. A long-term project site
maintenance plan shall be provided which meets the requirements of Sec. 28-4.65.2.H.
7. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy systems or the perimeter fencing.
This exclusion does not apply to the entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed on the gate in
a visible area and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be weather-durable and
include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact person for whom additional
information may be obtained. Any required emergency information signage shall be permitted.
8. Lighting shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18 Outdoor lighting.
9. Applicant shall comply with the requirements of all regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over
this construction and use to the satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator. Written
approval from reviewing agencies may be required prior to finalization of the building permit.
Roll call vote:
Yes: Felzke, Bartkowiak, Wiesner, Openlander, Davis
No: Turcotte, Adams, Overton
Absent: Ball
Motion carried.
3.
Case No. 25-08 SPR/SLU – Utopian Power – 16705 Ingersoll Road (Watertown 2)
Motion by Davis, seconded by Overton, to waive the reading of, and to mirror the Planning Commission’s
determinations on the compliance with final site plan review standards for Case No. 25-08 SRP/SLU with
Case No. 25-07 SRP/SLU. Motion carried.
Motion by Davis, seconded by Openlander, that the Planning Commission approves Case No. 25-08 SPR
for Utopian Power, for final site plan review for solar energy system at 16705 Ingersoll Road, in Section 34
of Watertown Charter Township, provided that conformance to conditions 1-15, as noted below, are
achieved to the satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator as being in accordance with the
requirements of the Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance.
Conditions of Final Site Plan Approval:
1. The applicant shall obtain approval for, and comply with all requirements of Special Land Use
Permit No. 25-08 SLU.
2. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of Clinton County Drain Commission.
3. The applicant shall follow all required soil erosion and sedimentation control guidelines.
4. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Looking Glass Regional Fire
Authority, and any gates locked after business hours shall contain a lock box approved by LGRFA.
5. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Clinton County Road Commission.
6. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Township Engineer.
7. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Lansing Board of Water and Light.
8. The applicant shall comply with the requirements of the Michigan Department of
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, and obtain all necessary permits.
9. The applicant shall complete FAA Form 7460, if applicable.
10. The applicant shall obtain trades permits from Watertown Charter Township and comply
with all requirements to the satisfaction of the Township Trades Official(s).
11. Outdoor lighting shall comply with Section 28-5.18 of the Watertown Charter Township
Zoning Ordinance.
12. Perimeter safety fencing shall comply with Sec. 28-5.7, Fences.
13. A sign and building permit shall be obtained prior to construction of any signage.
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14. The Landscape Plan shall be implemented as described on Sheet C-403.
15. Applicant must comply with all applicable State, Federal and Township laws.
Roll call vote:
Yes: Davis, Felzke, Wiesner, Bartkowiak, Openlander
No: Adams, Overton, Turcotte
Absent: Ball
Motion carried.
Motion by Overton, seconded by Turcotte, to waive the reading of, and to mirror the Planning
Commission’s determinations on the compliance with general and specific special land use review
standards for Case No. 25-08 SRP/SLU with Case No. 25-07 SRP/SLU. Motion carried.
Motion by Davis, seconded by Openlander, that the Planning Commission recommends to the Board of
Trustees the approval Case No. 25-08 SLU, the special land use permit being for Utopian Power, for a
special land use permit for a solar energy system at 16705 Ingersoll Road, in Section 34 of Watertown
Charter Township, provided that conformance to conditions 1-9, as noted below, are achieved to the
satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator as being in accordance with the requirements of the
Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance.
Recommended Conditions of Special Land Use Permit Approval:
1. Applicant shall receive final site plan approval and comply with all requirements and conditions.
2. Applicant shall ensure that the use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and
equipment or conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive effects to traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, or odors
affecting adjacent properties, streets, or uses.
3. If necessary, the applicant shall utilize dust control measures to avoid any adverse effects to
neighboring properties or streets. Internal service roads shall minimize dust, with dust control
measures employed when necessary/appropriate.
4. Applicant shall remain in compliance with all highway, street, police, fire protection, drainage
structures, and refuse disposal requirements for the lifetime of the project.
5. Applicant shall install a lock box on security fence gate which meets the requirements of the fire
department serving the township.
6. Landscape plan shall be implemented as described on sheet C-403. A long-term project site
maintenance plan shall be provided which meets the requirements of Sec. 28-4.65.2.H.
7. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy systems or the perimeter fencing.
This exclusion does not apply to the entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed on the gate in
a visible area and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be weather-durable and
include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact person for whom additional
information may be obtained. Any required emergency information signage shall be permitted.
8. Lighting shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18 Outdoor lighting.
9. Applicant shall comply with the requirements of all regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over
this construction and use to the satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator. Written
approval from reviewing agencies may be required prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy.
Roll call vote:
Yes: Felzke, Bartkowiak, Openlander, Davis, Weisner
No: Overton, Adams, Turcotte
Absent: Ball
Motion carried.
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UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None.
COMMITTEE AND STAFF REPORTS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Executive Committee Report – None.
Ordinance Review Committee Report – None.
Site Plan Review Committee Report – No report was given.
Board of Trustees Report – Overton provided the Board of Trustees report.
Zoning Board of Appeals Report – None.
Capital Improvements Committee Report – None.
Staff Reports: Assistant & Director’s Reports – Polverento provided the staff reports.
COMMENTS AND QUESTIONS FROM AUDIENCE, STAFF, AND COMMISSIONERS:
Overton wants to amend the zoning ordinance on the height requirements for solar panels from the
ground to be seven feet. Polverento noted that could be discussed at the next Ordinance Review
Committee meeting. Overton said he had all kinds of documentation about how it works, that seven feet
is the magic number. Then you always have that opportunity to use it in addition. He saw a crazy guy in
Germany who had corn, solar panels, and windmills on the same property.
Openlander questioned if solar panels may be proposed on a Steiner Way property.
Turcotte questioned if the new Planning Commission members had received the Zoning Ordinance,
Master Plan, Capital Improvements Plan, the Planning Commission bylaws, and a copy of the current
published guidelines for Planning and Zoning officials. He questioned if the guidelines even exist. The
new members of the Planning Commission indicated they had received those materials. Polverento
verified that the guidelines exist. Turcotte requested a copy.
ADJOURNMENT:
Motion by Davis, seconded by Turcotte, to adjourn the meeting at 9:48pm.
Date approved: 9/3/25
___________________________
John Wienser, Acting Chair
____________________________
Joe Davis, Acting Secretary
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Date: August 13, 2025
To: Watertown Charter Township Board of Trustees
12803 S. Wacousta Rd.
Grand Ledge, MI 48837
From: Forrest Cohn, President - Utopian Power LLC
Subject: Special Land Use Permit Application for Watertown 1 and Watertown 2 Solar
Projects
● Summary
Utopian Power is seeking approval of Special Land Use (SLU) permits for the Watertown
1 and Watertown 2 Solar Projects. At its August 6, 2025 meeting, the Planning
Commission approved the final site plans and voted to recommend SLU permit approval
to the Board of Trustees.
This memorandum, with supporting materials in Attachments A–H, provides an overview
of the project history, demonstrates compliance with all applicable zoning ordinance
requirements, and outlines the benefits for the projects. Both projects are located in the
Light Industrial (LI) zoning district, are not served by public sanitary sewer or a public
water supply, and they are not in the GRO- Grand River Overlay Zoning District,
therefore a principal use is permitted by the Zoning Ordinance.
This memo includes a chronological record of Planning Commission project reviews,
references to Township meeting minutes documenting when solar energy systems were
codified as a Special Land Use in the LI district, and supporting documentation showing
the projects meet the Township’s established standards.
Included for Reference:
● Attachment A (March 4, 2020 Planning Commission Minutes) confirms the
adoption of the Solar Energy Systems ordinance and the concurrent Master Plan
amendment permitting solar as a Special Land Use in LI zoning.
● Attachment B (January 11, 2023 Planning Commission Minutes) documents
initial conceptual support from the Planning Commission.
● Attachment C (June 4, 2025 Planning Commission Minutes) shows preliminary
site plan review discussions with no Master Plan or agrivoltaic conflicts raised.
● Attachments D–H contain excerpts from the 2023 Watertown Township Master
Plan, demonstrating the alignment of these projects.
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● Project Review History:
Since December 2022, Utopian Power has worked with Watertown Charter Township on
the development of these solar projects, presenting three times to the Planning
Commission as outlined below. Also included is a summary of the March 4, 2020
Planning Commission meeting (Case No. 20-02, Ordinance No. 55), at which the solar
ordinance was adopted.
● March 4, 2020 - Planning Commission Regular Meeting - Attachment A
○ The Planning Commission minutes reflect that adoption of the Solar
Energy Systems ordinance also amended the Master Plan to allow solar
as a Special Land Use. The adopted ordinance (Sec 28-4.65) includes
clear provisions for “principal use solar energy systems in the LI–Light
Industrial district” (Sec 28-3.10.B.2), confirming that solar is intended as a
primary use in LI zoning through the Special Land Use process. This
action was motioned by Commissioner Overton and seconded by
Commissioner Adams.
● January 11, 2023 - Planning Commission Regular Meeting - Attachment B
○ The Watertown 1 and Watertown 2 Solar projects were first presented by
Utopian Power LLC as New Business to the Planning Commission at the
January 11, 2023 regular meeting. The approved minutes state:
■ “The Planning Commissioners indicated that they were supportive
of the conceptual proposal, and looked forward to working with the
applicants on future reviews should they decide to move forward.”
● June 4, 2025 - Planning Commission Regular Meeting - Attachment C
○ Case No. 25-06 PSPR – Utopian Power Preliminary Site Plan Review
■ The Planning Commission conducted a preliminary site plan
review for both projects. Discussion included layout, access roads,
wetlands, vegetative cover, noise concern, and fencing. No
concerns regarding Master Plan alignment were raised during this
meeting. Utopian Power indicated the expectation to submit final
plans for review in summer 2025.
● August 6, 2025 - Planning Commission Regular Meeting
○ Site Plan Review / Special Land Use - Utopian Power - Watertown 1
(Case No. 25-07) and Watertown 2 (Case No. 25-08)
○ The Planning Commission voted 5-3 to issue Final Site Plan Approval
(with conditions) for both projects.
○ The Planning Commission voted 5–3, to recommend to the Board of
Trustees approval (with conditions) of Special Land Use permits for both
projects
○ While the project received a formal recommendation for approval, Utopian
Power wishes to address the reasons given for the three “no” votes:
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■ Master Plan Inconsistency (two votes) – The concern was that the
projects do not align with the Master Plan.
● However, the Township’s March 4, 2020 Planning
Commission minutes confirm that the Master Plan was
amended when the Solar Energy Systems ordinance was
adopted. The zoning ordinance, which is the binding
regulation, lists solar as a permitted Special Land Use in
the LI district.
■ Height Requirement to allow for crop growth (one vote) – A
request was made for a 7′ leading-edge panel height to allow for
agrivoltaics.
● While the intent is understood, SLU conditions must be
based on ordinance standards and supported by evidence.
The ordinance contains no such requirement, and the
projects, as designed, meet all existing height, setback,
and screening standards.
● Project Resource Need / Rationale and Benefits
In alignment with the Lansing Board of Water & Light’s (BWL) 2023 All Source Request
for Proposal, Utopian Power conducted an extensive search and identified and
recommended two parcels in Watertown Township for acquisition by BWL.
The Watertown Solar projects are strategically sited at the northwest edge of BWL’s
heavily loaded distribution system, which is currently operating near capacity. By
delivering power directly into this part of the grid, the projects will relieve system
constraints, offset heavy electrical loads, and expand capacity to continue to serve
existing and new customers on Grand River.
Through direct interconnection to BWL’s existing distribution network, the projects will:
● Improve system reliability by reducing strain on transmission lines and
equipment.
● Increase resilience in the face of outages or peak demand events.
● Support long-term economic growth by ensuring sufficient electrical capacity for
businesses and residents.
● This is not just an energy project, it is a critical infrastructure investment that
directly advances the objectives of BWL’s Lansing Energy Tomorrow program,
which is committed to delivering a cleaner, more reliable energy future to the
communities it serves.
● Low Impact Operations:
○ Minimal ongoing traffic once operational.
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○ Low noise levels.
○ No chemical hazards or harmful emissions.
○ Proven technology with a safe operating record.
● Environmental Stewardship:
○ Native vegetative buffers for screening and pollinator habitat.
○ Avoidance of wetlands and sensitive areas, consistent with local, state,
and federal environmental protections.
○ Full decommissioning plan ensuring land restoration to agricultural use if
desired at the end of the project’s life.
● No Community Opposition
○ At the August 6, 2025 Board of Commissioners meeting, no members of
the public spoke in opposition to the project, and no letters of objection
were submitted.
Taken together, the Watertown Solar Projects will deliver clean, reliable, and
cost-effective energy (Attachment H, Renewable Energy Opportunities), strengthen
critical infrastructure, stimulate the local economy, and maintain the environment, all
within the framework of what the Township’s Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance have
already determined to be a permissible and encouraged use for the LI zoning district
(Attachment F, G & H). The design prioritizes avoidance of wetlands (Attachment G) and
maintains compatibility with surrounding land uses.
● Solar Inclusion in Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance
The Master Plan is the Township’s long-range vision for land use, economic
development, and environmental stewardship, while the Zoning Ordinance is the legal
framework that enforces the Master Plan’s vision, with a “clear connection between
Master Plan goals and the Zoning Ordinance” (Attachment E). In March 2020, both were
amended to allow principal-use solar energy systems in the Light Industrial (LI) district
through the Special Land Use process (Attachment A - Ordinance Sec. 28-3.10.B.2 &
Sec. 28-4.65).
The Watertown projects directly advance Goal 2: Encourage Economic Development
(Attachment F) by diversifying LI industrial uses, creating 50+ local construction jobs,
generating tax revenue, generating electricity for local homes and businesses, and
efficiently connecting to existing BWL infrastructure. They also fulfill Goal 4:
Environmental Protection and Sustainability (Attachment G) by avoiding wetlands,
using low-impact ground cover, and producing clean electricity for decades. Together,
these documents ensure that solar projects in the LI district advance the Township’s
vision while meeting enforceable zoning standards.
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● Approval Request Statement
Utopian Power has worked closely with Watertown Charter Township for nearly three
years to ensure the Watertown 1 and Watertown 2 Solar Projects meet every applicable
zoning, environmental, and design requirement. The projects are located in the Light
Industrial zoning district, where Watertown zoning ordinance permits solar energy
systems as a Special Land Use.
The Planning Commission has reviewed and approved the Final Site Plans, and voted to
recommend Special Land Use approval to the Board of Trustees. No public objections
have been submitted, and the projects have demonstrated clear compliance with both
the Township’s Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance.
We respectfully request that the Board approve the Special Land Use Permits for both
projects. By doing so, the Township will:
● Fulfill its adopted vision for sustainable and diversified industrial development.
● Strengthen critical energy infrastructure for the community.
● Deliver measurable economic, environmental, and reliability benefits for decades
to come.
● Comply with Michigan law, which requires approval of a Special Land Use Permit
when ordinance standards are met (MCL 125.3502(4)), limits conditions to those
based on ordinance standards and supported by evidence (MCL 125.3504), and
recognizes the Master Plan as an advisory document rather than a regulatory
one (MCL 125.3833).
These projects are ready to move forward, and your approval will ensure they begin
delivering value to Watertown Township without delay.
Thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Forrest Cohn
President
Utopian Power
(907) 420-7480
[email protected]
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Attachment A - March 4, 2020 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
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Attachment B - January 11, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
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Attachment C - June 4, 2025 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
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Attachment D - Page I of the Watertown Charter Twp Master Plan
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Attachment E -Page 4.2 of the Watertown Charter Twp Master Plan
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Attachment F - Page 2.9 & 4.10 of the Watertown Charter Twp Master Plan
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Attachment G - Page 2.11 & 4.10 of the Watertown Charter Twp Master Plan
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Attachment H - Page 3.20 of the Watertown Charter Twp Master Plan
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ATTACHMENT 8B
4-20-26 BOT MTG
MEMORANDUM
TO:
WATERTOWN TOWNSHIP PLANNING COMMISSION
FROM:
SUBJECT:
DATE:
ANDREA Z. POLVERENTO, PLANNING DIRECTOR
CASE NO. 25-08 SPR – UTOPIAN POWER – WATERTOWN 2 (EAST)
SOLAR ENERGY FACILITY: 16705 INGERSOLL ROAD
8/12/2025
GENERAL INFORMATION
Applicant:
Utopian Power
Existing Zoning:
LI – Light Industrial
Status of Applicant:
Property Address/Location:
Parcel Size:
Present Land Use:
Adjacent Uses:
Adjacent Zoning:
Design/Builder
16705 Ingersoll Road
No. 19-150-034-400-005-02
36.05 +/- acres
Vacant
N
S
E
W
N
S
E
W
-
Robert Franchino Trust (vacant)
Foster, William and Joan (residential/ag)
Aspen Commercial (vacant)
Various residential
LI
AG (South of Railroad)
LI
RR/LI
The applicant is requesting a special land use permit and final site plan approval for a 7.4
megawatt DC commercial solar photovoltaic energy generation system. This is a special land
use in the LI Zoning District. The parcels in question are not served by public sanitary sewer
or a public water supply and they are not in the GRO-Grand River Overlay Zoning District,
therefore a principal use is permitted by the Zoning Ordinance. The project is being referred
to as “Watertown 2.”
RETURN TO AGENDA
Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
PUBLIC HEARING
A public hearing was held on this matter at the Planning Commission regular meeting on August 6,
2025. Public notice was provided as required by law to all properties with a property line within 300’
of the subject property. This included 15 parcels, who received a copy of the hearing notice by mail.
The hearing was advertised in the Lansing State Journal on July 13, 2025, which meets the
requirements for at least a 15-day notice prior to the hearing. Additionally, the public hearing notice
was posted on the township’s website and on the outside bulletin board.
No written public comments were received prior to the public hearing and there were no members of
the public in attendance at the public hearing. A comment was received on August 7, 2025, after the
hearing, and that has been included for your review as an attachment to this report.
STAFF OBSERVATIONS
The LI zoning district allows solar energy systems as a special land use. The subject property is not
located in the GRO-Grand River Overlay district, and the property is not served by public sanitary
sewer or water. A principal use solar energy system is permitted under these conditions. The
scope of the application meets the definition of a solar energy system:
Solar energy system means a utility-scale commercial facility that converts sunlight to electricity,
whether by photovoltaics, concentrating solar thermal devices or any other various and similar
solar technologies, and including solar collectors, controls, energy storage devices, heat pumps,
heat exchangers, and other materials, hardware, or equipment necessary to the process by which
solar radiation is collected, converted into another form of energy, stored, protected from
unnecessary dissipation and distributed for the primary purpose of wholesale or retail sales of
generated electricity offsite.
The applicant has provided a decommissioning plan as required by the zoning ordinance which was
prepared by a licensed engineer. Staff is working with the township’s engineer and Treasurer, and will
have a verbal report related to the decommissioning plan and required financial guarantees at the
meeting.
AGENCY REVIEW
Agency review responses were solicited on July 8, with a requested response date of July 25. At the
time of this report, the following review responses have been received:
Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy: : Suggests the applicant schedule
a pre-application meeting with EGLE. A copy of the wetland delineation for this site was provided to
EGLE upon receipt, and staff answered other questions regarding the property. Staff discussed the
project with EGLE’s local water resources manager, and the applicant has indicated they are working
with the Board of Water and Light to submit the permit applications to EGLE within the next week.
The EGLE permit must be issued prior to any construction activities commencing. A condition to this
effect has been included.
SCCMUA: The opportunity for comment was offered, but SCCMUA declined due to the facility not
being served by public sanitary sewer.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
Lansing Board of Water and Light: Comments are not expected, as the facility is not served by
public water. The opportunity for comment was provided, as this is a LBWL project.
Soil Erosion/Sedimentation Control: The Lansing Board of Water and Light is an Authorized Public
Agency (APA) for the purposes of soil erosion and sedimentation control. They have the authority to
govern their earth change activities under their procedures approved by EGLE. They are not required
to get a permit from the County.
Municipal Inspection Services: The Building Official suggested that the construction hours of
operation permitted by the Township (Sec. 28-7.11 of the Zoning Ordinance) which allow
construction Monday-Friday from 7am-9pm, and weekends from 8am-9pm may, for noise abatement
purposes, wish to be reviewed, particularly for the post-driving component of construction activities.
The Planning Commission made the following recommendation in the form of a motion:
Motion by Overton, seconded by Turcotte, that the Planning Commission recommends to the Board of
Trustees that construction hours of operation for the post-driving component of construction only, be
reduced to the same hours allowed for gravel mining operations, those being 8am-5pm Monday-Saturday,
and that all other regular construction activities may take place during the stated construction hours of
operation. Motion carried.
The DRAFT minutes of the Planning Commission meeting are included as an attachment to this
report. Staff has included this recommendation as a condition of special land use permit approval.
The applicant indicated that the post-driving component of construction activities is expected to
take 6-8 weeks. Limiting the hours of construction may lengthen this time period by a few days.
Clinton County Drain Commission: The project drainage that will direct northeast to the Ingersol
Drain (tile) will flow into the existing wetland area west of the drain, then be picked up by the existing
drain tile. Impacts to the drain are not expected, but the Drain office expects it will need to do some
maintenance to address some minor deterioration and ensure long term outlet drainage for the
district.
For the project drainage that will direct southwest towards Ingersoll Road, the Drain Office is
concerned about potential effects to the residential property at 16746 Ingersoll. There is an existing
cross culvert just south of the driveway at that address and the solar project may affect the balance
of flow through the culvert towards the west side of Ingersoll. The access drive installation will
displace storage and reduce current infiltration. This may require a compensating cut, a detention
area, or possibly an improvement to surface drainage on the west side towards the Lora Intercounty
Drain. The Drain office also indicated they would be open to a granting an easement to the Lora Drain
to preserve the flow path from the culvert.
Overall, the Drain office is seeking additional information on runoff impacts, elevation information
on drainage swales, and additional drain elevations on the Watson & Summers drain. There are not
likely to be EGLE implications on this site.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
Clinton County Road Commission: Ingersoll Road is a county primary road. The Road Commission
has verified site distances for safe site access, but will require upgrades to accommodate commercial
vehicles during the construction activities, including an offset entrance with turn tapers and the
requisite drainage improvements. Within the right-of-way, the approach areas are required to be
paved, but can be gravel within the confines of the project. A right-of-way permit is required.
Spicer Group (Township Engineer): Spicer Group’s main concerns include the site maintenance
during construction activities, specifically where the dirt will be stored during site work, and how
drainage will be handled during that time, and once the site work/construction is complete. Their
office would like to see more detailed stormwater plans. The Drain office did a site visit and
addressed their concerns as described above.
Capital Region Airport Authority: When this development was previously proposed in 2023, no
FAA permitting was required.
Planning Commission Comments:
Please see the attached DRAFT minutes of the Planning Commission meeting. Three members of the
Planning Commission expressed their belief that the final site plan should not be approved because the
plan did not comply with the spirit of the master plan. Five members of the Planning Commission
agreed that it did comply with the spirit of the master plan, and the final site plan was approved on a
5-3 vote.
Further, Trustee and Planning Commission Overton stated that because the solar panels were proposed
at 24’ height from grade which precluded the opportunity for an agrovoltaics project, he was opposed
to the site plan and the special use permit on those grounds.
SPECIAL LAND USE SPECIFIC REVIEW STANDARDS (Sec. 28-4.65 Solar Energy Systems)
The Planning Commission reviewed the special land use specific and general review standards, Sec.
28-6.2 and Sec. 28-4.65. These standards are taken from Chapters 4 and 6 of the Zoning Ordinance,
and are the basis for review by Township staff, Planning Commission, and the Board of Trustees.
The Board of Trustees must review and determine the findings of fact, as recommended or amended,
during their review process.
(2)
Site development requirements.
B.
Minimum lot size. There is no minimum lot size. Solar energy systems are
permitted by special use permit, the process by which reviews and considers
its compatibility with the surrounding area.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this standard. The lot size is
approximately 65.5 acres.
C.
Height restrictions. All solar energy system components, including
photovoltaic panels or other collection device(s) oriented at maximum tilt,
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
support structures, and buildings shall not exceed 16 feet. Substation and
electrical equipment are permitted at their usual and customary heights and
are excluded from this maximum height requirement. Substation and
electrical equipment must comply with all local, state, and federal
requirements, including, but not limited to the Michigan Tall Structures Act
and Federal Aviation Administration requirements, as applicable.
Finding of Fact: The application indicates that the proposed solar array will utilize
a fixed-tilt mounting system with no panel tracking or movement. The front edge of
the panels will be installed 24 inches above grade, resulting in a maximum rear edge
height of just under 10 feet. This configuration complies with the applicable height
regulations.
D.
ii.
iii.
Setbacks.
In the LI-Light Industrial district, all solar energy systems, whether principal
or accessory uses, shall meet the minimum setback requirements for the
zoning district.
All solar energy system components, including perimeter fencing, shall be
set back at least to the limit of any established county drain right-of-way.
Comments: The Ingersoll County Drain transects the subject property on the
northeast. All components, including perimeter fencing, appear to be set back at
least to the limit of the established county drain right-of-way.
Finding of Fact: Setbacks for the LI-Light Industrial district are: 35’ front yard
setback; 50’ rear yard setback; 30’ side yard setback. These specific setbacks apply
when adjacent to either LI-Light Industrial, RR-Rural Residential, or AG-Agricultural
zones, as the use is under 35’ in height. All components are set back to at least the
limit of the county drain right-of-way. The proposed site plan shows compliance
with these requirements.
E.
Maximum lot coverage. Solar energy systems are exempt from maximum lot
coverage requirements. Any other regulated structures on the parcel are
subject to the maximum lot coverage requirements for the zoning district.
Finding of Fact: The proposed solar energy system complies with this
requirement.
F.
Safety and access. All solar energy systems shall be completely enclosed by
a perimeter security fence to restrict unauthorized access. The height and
material of the fence shall be reviewed for appropriateness and
compatibility during the special land use process. A lock box approved by
the fire department serving the township shall be required.
Comments: Sheet C-800 describes the fencing proposed. Agricultural mesh fencing
which is 8’x 6”x 6” is proposed. Compatibility should be discussed and determined
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
before reaching a finding of fact. Staff has proposed a condition of approval
requiring a lock box approved by the fire department.
Finding of Fact: The fencing shall be agricultural mesh fencing which is 8’x4”x4”to
comply with the Planning Commission’s recommendation.
G.
Glare. All solar panels shall be located or placed so that concentrated solar
glare shall not be directed toward or onto nearby properties or roadways at
any time of day.
Comments: Applicant indicates that potential glare from solar panels will be in full
compliance with this requirement. The glare is comparable to or less than water
surfaces. Additionally, vegetative screening and ordinance-compliant setbacks will
further reduce visual impacts. These measures ensure glare is minimal, aligning
with the zoning ordinance’s standards for compatibility and safeguarding
neighboring properties and rights-of-way.
Finding of Fact: At your discretion.
H.
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Landscaping.
When the proposed solar energy system abuts a residential district or use,
the landscaping plan shall meet the requirements of a major buffer zone, as
described in Sec. 28-5.23.2.g.
For principal or accessory uses in the LI-Light Industrial zone, a major buffer
shall only be required on any side abutting a residential zone or use.
Sec. 28-5.23.1.d shall not apply to any principal or accessory solar energy
use in the LI-Light Industrial zoning district. The minimum buffer
requirements shall apply if a public road or street separates the zoning
district.
The proposed landscape plan shall also include a revegetation plan for the
installation and maintenance of the vegetative cover on the entire site. The
planting shall control site soil erosion and maintenance of soil quality. The
primary purpose is control of erosion and maintenance of soil quality. The
plan shall include the plant species and the rate of application of planting.
Grazing, cropping, and wildlife habitat are acceptable secondary uses in the
AG-Agricultural district. Use of native plants is strongly encouraged.
Invasive species listed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great
Lakes, and Energy as restricted or that are on the watch list are prohibited.
The plan shall address the seedbed preparation, fertilization, mulching, and
irrigation, if needed. The plan shall include maintenance schedules and
methods (mowing, replanting, etc.). The site is subject to annual inspection
for maintenance of the vegetative cover and control of erosion.
Comments: Sheet C-403 describes the landscape plan. Plant species and schedule
of planting is included. All proposed plantings are verified to be native species. The
revegetation of the site will be in a low growth mowable vegetation with
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
considerations such as noxious weed and invasive growth resistant, and low height.
A fertilization plan, seedbed preparation, irrigation, and mowing schedule is not
included. It is expected that the proposed vegetative cover will control on-site
erosion if properly maintained. An annual maintenance plan is not included. Staff
has included a condition of approval that the landscape plan shall be implemented
as presented. Staff recommends the requirement of a long-term landscape
maintenance plan/schedule be provided.
Finding of Fact: The applicant shall submit a long-term landscape maintenance
plan to comply with this requirement.
I.
Signage. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy
systems or the perimeter fencing. This exclusion does not apply to the
entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed on the gate in a visible area
and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be weather-durable
and include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact
person for whom additional information may be obtained. Any required
emergency information signage shall be permitted.
Comments: No signage is described. Staff has included a condition of approval that
describes these requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
J.
Lighting. Solar energy systems shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18 Outdoor
lighting.
Comments: No lighting is described, none is expected. Staff has included a
condition of approval that describes these requirements.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this requirement.
K.
Transportation plan. The applicant shall provide a proposed access plan
during construction and operational phases. This shall show proposed
project service road ingress/egress locations on to adjacent roadways and
the layout of the facility service road system. Dure to infrequent access
following construction, it is not required to pave or curb solar panel access
drives, but they should be constructed as to minimize dust conditions.
Comments: Page 6 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative describes the
transportation plan. Service roads are described on the site plan. Staff has included
a condition of approval requiring dust control measures if appropriate.
Finding of Fact: The proposed transportation plan meets ordinance requirements.
The requirements of the Clinton County Road Commission shall be enforced.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
L.
Distribution, transmission, and interconnection. All electrical
interconnections or distribution lines shall comply with all applicable codes
and standard commercial large-scale utility requirements. All collection
lines and interconnections from the solar array(s) to any electrical
substations shall be located and maintained underground inside the solar
energy system facility. This requirement shall exclude transmission
equipment meant to connect the project substation to the local transmission
system.
Comments: Specific construction documents have not yet been presented for
review. It is anticipated that the proposed use will meet these requirements.
Finding of Fact: Specific construction documents have not yet been presented for
review. It is anticipated that the proposed use will meet these requirements.
M.
i.
I.
II.
III.
IV.
V.
VI.
Environmental and safety impacts.
An environmental impact statement/study shall be provided at the time of
application and shall include, but not be limited to, a review of the following
factors:
Water quality and supply.
Air quality.
Wildlife.
Floodplains and wetlands.
Identification of solid and/or hazardous waste generated.
Any other environmental factors typically evaluated for the proposed use or
as requested.
Comments: Pages 6-8 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative include responses to
these requirements. A wetland delineation study has been completed as part of this
proposal, and wetlands are described on the site plan, along with soil erosion and
sedimentation control measures to protect runoff.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet environmental safety
requirements.
ii.
I.
II.
III.
A public safety impact statement/study shall be provided at the time of
application and shall include but not be limited to, a review of the following
factors:
Identification of emergency and normal shutdown procedures.
Identify potential hazards to adjacent properties, public roadways, and to
the general public that may be created.
Identify potential hazards to aviation and indicate how state and federal
requirements will be met.
Comments: Pages 8-9 of 9 of the SLU Application Narrative include responses to
these requirements. Hazards to aviation are not expected.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet public safety requirements.
L.
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
I.
II.
III.
IV.
Abandonment and decommissioning. A solar energy system shall be
decommissioned following the useful life or at which time it remains nonoperational for six months and is considered abandoned. The applicant shall
submit a decommissioning plan, prepared by a licensed professional
engineer, at the time of application for a special land use permit. The
decommissioning plan shall include, but not be limited to the following:
Steps to remove the system
Steps to dispose of or recycle system components
Restoration of land
Estimated cost schedule to meet the following requirements:
Removal of all equipment, conduit, structures, fencing, roads, building
foundations, including any equipment or materials below grade, offsite for
disposal.
Restoration of ground to original condition.
Revegetation of site to blend with existing surrounding vegetation within six
months of decommissioning.
For agricultural lands, restoration of soils to their original USDA
classification, as confirmed by a soil survey conducted in accordance with
the standards of the national cooperative soil survey.
Comments: Decommissioning plan has been provided by the applicant, and was
prepared and sealed by a licensed professional engineer. Planning Commissioner
Davis believes the cost estimate provided is low, potentially by a factor of two. Staff
is working with the engineer and Treasurer and will provide additional information
at the meeting.
Finding of Fact: At your discretion.
O.
Financial guarantees. To ensure proper removal of the project upon
decommissioning or abandonment of the solar energy system, the applicant
shall include a description of the financial security guaranteeing the removal
of the system which shall be posted with the township within 15 days after
the project is approved, or prior to the issuance of a building permit for the
project. The financial guarantee shall be in the form of a cash bond or
irrevocable bank letter of credit or a performance bond. The amount shall
be reasonably sufficient to restore the property to its previous condition as
agreed upon by the township board and the applicant. The amount may
include a provision for inflationary cost adjustments. The estimate shall be
prepared by the engineer for the applicant, and shall be subject to approval
by the township, with guidance from the township’s engineer. The financial
guarantee shall be returned when all conditions of the special land use
permit and the decommissioning/abandonment plan have been completed.
There shall be no partial release of the financial guarantee. The financial
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
guarantee shall be kept in full force and effect during the entire time the
solar energy system exists or is in place, and it shall be irrevocable and noncancelable.
Comments: Staff will work with the Township Treasurer, Engineer, and applicant
to ensure that the financial guarantee instrument is in place within 15 days after the
project is approved or prior to issuance of a building permit for the project.
Finding of Fact: At your discretion.
SPECIAL LAND USE GENERAL REVIEW STANDARDS (Sec. 28-6.2)
Each application shall be reviewed for the purpose of determining that the proposed special
land use meets all of the general standards. Each special land use will:
1.
2.
Be designed, constructed, operated and maintained so as to be harmonious and
appropriate in appearance, with the existing or intended character of the general
vicinity and that such a use will not change the essential character of the area in
which it is proposed.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
Be served adequately by essential public facilities and services such as
highways, streets, police, fire protection, drainage structures, refuse disposal, water
and sewer facilities.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval requiring compliance with all
highway, street, police, fire protection, drainage structures, and refuse disposal.
Water and sewer facilities do not serve this use. All items under the purview of
other agencies shall meet the requirements of those agencies to the satisfaction of
the Zoning Administrator.
3.
Finding of Fact: The proposed is expected to meet this standard.
4.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use meets this standard.
Not create excessive additional requirements at public cost for public
facilities and services.
Not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and equipment or
conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or the
general welfare by reason of excessive effects of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare or
odors affecting adjacent properties, streets or uses.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval attesting as such.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
5.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
The proposed use is so designed, located, planned and to be operated that the public
health, safety and welfare will not be adversely impacted.
Comments: Staff has included a condition of approval requiring conformance with
the proposed landscape plan, and the site maintenance plan for the entirety of the
project.
6.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
The proposed use shall not be detrimental to existing and/or other permitted land
uses in the zoning district.
Finding of Fact: The proposed use is expected to meet this standard.
Trustee and Planning Commissioner Overton disagrees that the proposed use meets
this standard.
The Planning Commission recommends approval of the special land use permit.
Staff offers the following motion for consideration:
Motion that the Board of Trustees concurs / disagrees with the recommendation of the Planning
Commission and approves / denies Case No. 25-08 SLU for Utopian Power, for a special land use
permit for a solar energy system at 16705 Ingersoll Road, in Section 34 of Watertown Charter
Township, provided that conformance to conditions 1-__, as noted below, are achieved to the
satisfaction of the Township Zoning Administrator as being in accordance with the requirements of
the Watertown Charter Township Zoning Ordinance.
Proposed Conditions of Special Land Use Permit Approval:
1. Applicant shall receive final site plan approval for Case No. 25-08 SPR and comply with all
requirements and conditions.
2. Applicant shall ensure that the use does not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, and
equipment or conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property, or
the general welfare by reason of excessive effects to traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, or
odors affecting adjacent properties, streets, or uses.
3. If necessary, the applicant shall utilize dust control measures to avoid any adverse effects to
neighboring properties or streets. Internal service roads shall minimize dust, with dust
control measures employed when necessary/appropriate.
4. Applicant shall remain in compliance with all highway, street, police, fire protection, drainage
structures, and refuse disposal requirements for the lifetime of the project.
5. Applicant shall install a lock box on security fence gate which meets the requirements of the
fire department serving the township.
6. Applicant shall install an agricultural mesh perimeter security fence with 8’x4”x4”
dimensions.
7. Landscape plan shall be implemented as described on sheet C-403. A long-term project site
maintenance plan shall be provided which meets the requirements of Sec. 28-4.65.2.H.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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Site Plan Review / Special Land Use – Utopian Power – Watertown 2 (East)
Case No. 25-08- SPR/SLU
8. No signage or graphics shall be on any part of the solar energy systems or the perimeter
fencing. This exclusion does not apply to the entrance gate(s) signage which shall be placed
on the gate in a visible area and not exceed six square feet in size. Gate signage shall be
weather-durable and include the name of the owner/operator, a phone number, and contact
person for whom additional information may be obtained. Any required emergency
information signage shall be permitted.
9. Lighting shall comply with Sec. 28-5.18 Outdoor lighting.
10. Construction hours of operation for the post-driving component of construction only are
reduced to the same hours allowed for gravel mining operations, those being 8am-5pm
Monday-Saturday, and that all other regular construction activities may take place during the
stated construction hours of operation.
11. A cash bond or irrevocable bank letter of credit or a performance bond shall be provided to
the township. The amount may include a provision for inflationary cost adjustments. The
estimate shall be prepared by the engineer for the applicant, and shall be subject to approval
by the township, with guidance from the township’s engineer. The financial guarantee shall
be returned when all conditions of the special land use permit and the
decommissioning/abandonment plan have been completed. There shall be no partial release
of the financial guarantee. The financial guarantee shall be kept in full force and effect during
the entire time the solar energy system exists or is in place, and it shall be irrevocable and
non-cancelable.
12. Applicant shall comply with the requirements of all regulatory agencies having jurisdiction
over this construction and use, including, but not limited to, Clinton County Drain
Commissioner; Clinton County Road Commission; Township Building Official; Township
Engineer; and Looking Glass Regional Fire Authority to the satisfaction of the Township
Zoning Administrator. Written approval from reviewing agencies may be required prior to
issuance of a building permit.
ATTACHMENTS
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Special Land Use Application
Applicant Submitted Narrative & Supporting Documentation
Site Plan (printed and on the table at the meeting, omitted due to file size)
Agency Review Responses (some omitted as they addressed both this and 25-07)
Public Comments received after the Public Hearing
Lansing Board of Water and Light & Utopian Power letters omitted with this staff
report as they addressed both this project and 25-07
*Full wetland delineation report available and on file. The full report was not included in this
packet due to space. The wetland delineation applies to Case No. 25-07 SRP/SLU and 25-08
SPR/SLU. The site plan review application and supplemental materials were also omitted
from this report but are available for review at any time. The DRAFT Planning Commission
minutes reference this case and Case No. 25-07 SLU, and were not reprinted here.
Watertown Charter Township Planning Commission
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*Full site plan set will be printed and on the table.
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CLINTON COUNTY
ROAD COMMISSION
Managing Director: Douglas L. Steffen
Board Members: Gail A. Watkins
Michael J. Frederick
Kevin P. Holt
July 24, 2025
Andrea Polverento
Planning Director
Watertown Charter Township
12803 S. Wacousta Rd
Grand Ledge, MI 48837
Re: Case 25-08 – SPR (previous case 23-07)
Commercial Solar Facility
Utopian Power
Location: East side of Ingersoll Rd, north of RR tracks
Owner(s): Lansing Board of Water & Light
Parcel(s): 19-150-034-400-005-02
Andrea,
The Road Commission has reviewed the proposed site plan and has no objections but will require additional
information prior to issuing a ROW permit for the site. The applicant noted in the proposed transportation
plan that the access will be designed to accommodate delivery trucks and comply with CCRC standards for
commercial driveways. The Road Commission verified there is adequate site distance along Ingersoll Road for
safe site access; however it will require upgrades to accommodate commercial vehicles and construction
traffic, including an offset entrance with turn tapers and necessary drainage improvements. The access drive is
proposed as a gravel surface, which is acceptable outside of the ROW, however the approach within the ROW
will need to be a paved surface, HMA or concrete, as per CCRC commercial driveway requirements.
Sincerely,
Marc Trotter, PE
Dir. of Engineering
Clinton County Road Commission
3536 S. US Highway 27 / St. Johns, MI 48879 / Ph (989)224-3274 / Fax (989)224-4003
Website: www.ccrc-roads.com
Email: [email protected]
RETURN TO AGENDA
July 23, 2025
Andrea Polverento, Planning Director
Watertown Charter Township
12803 S. Wacousta Rd.
Grand Ledge, MI 48837
RE:
Site Plan Review
16705 Ingersoll Road
Watertown Charter Township
Dear Andrea:
On behalf of Watertown Township, we have had an opportunity to review the preliminary drawings for
the proposed development at 16705 Ingersoll Rd. prepared by Matrix Consulting Engineers, Inc.
Our comments are as follows:
General
1. The submittal is incomplete.
2. Site grading and drainage changes seem like they will be needed for this project. Please see
comments below.
3. We assume electric connections will be needed for this project. However, we did not see these
utilities on the plans.
4. We are assuming all applicable utility companies have been contacted.
Water System
1. We assume there is no water required for this project. No water system drawings were submitted.
Sanitary Sewer
1. We assume there is no sanitary sewer required for this project. No sanitary sewer drawings were
submitted.
Stronger. Safer. Smarter. Spicer.
WWW . SPICERGROUP . COM
RETURN TO AGENDA
Watertown Township
16705 Ingersoll Rd.
July 23, 2025
Page 2 of 2
Storm Sewer / Drainage / Grading
1. No storm sewer plans were included. Please provide sewer plans, if needed, for this project.
2. No drainage plans were included. Please provide drainage plans for review.
3. No grading plans were included. Please provide grading plans for review.
Once the items above have been addressed, we would like an opportunity to look the plans over to verify
that the comments have been completed.
Sincerely,
Brian O. House, P.E.
Project Manager
SPICER GROUP, INC
1400 Zeeb Drive
St. Johns, MI 48879
phone: (989) 224-2355
mail to: [email protected]
Cc: SGI File 138144SG2025
RETURN TO AGENDA
From:
To:
Subject:
Date:
mary ehmen
Andrea Polverento
Re: Solar Farm
Thursday, August 7, 2025 4:39:05 PM
We are on vacation. I don’t know when the planning meeting is but please include our
comments. We do not want the solar farm on the west side of Ingersoll. Our main concern is
the drain and a complete assessment needs to be done on both drains that currently drain the
west side of Ingersoll. We have ponding in our pasture. Ashley Hoag has terrible drainage
issues on her property with the ditch that is supposed to be there adjacent to the BWL
easement next to her driveway. Gil has ponding. New owners next door to us Alvarez same.
Gil same. Zach Hickok same. So we are going to deal with increased water and then we will
have to pay for a new drain or updates or repairs. Also the farmer Steve Lonier expressed the
poor condition of the drains when we spoke last fall. It is not right and that is very poor
planning to just pass the expense to homeowners.
Gary and Mary Ehmen
On Fri, Aug 1, 2025 at 9:18 AM Andrea Polverento <[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Mary,
Not all of them check their personal emails regularly, and they don’t have townshipaffiliated emails. If you have any public comments, those should be sent to me, and I’ll
distribute them with the meeting materials.
Thanks!
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, July 31, 2025 8:58 AM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Hi Andrea
Could you please send me the emails for the people on the planning committee. I would
really appreciate it. It was hard to navigate the website.
Thank you
RETURN TO AGENDA
Mary Ehmen
On Mon, Jul 14, 2025 at 1:05 PM Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
wrote:
Sure thing.
The public hearings will be held at the Planning Commission meeting on August 6. The
Planning Commission makes a recommendation to the Township Board for a final
decision. The Township Board will meet on August 18 to consider the applications and
the recommendations of the Planning Commission.
Hope that helps!
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 14, 2025 12:51 PM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Hi Andrea
Could you please clarify purpose of the Aug 6th and Aug 18th meetings.
I am not sure I wrote it down correctly
Thanks so much
Mary Ehmen
On Mon, Jul 14, 2025 at 12:00 PM Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
wrote:
Hi Mary,
RETURN TO AGENDA
Attached, please find the comments you submitted previously for the solar project.
Also, the PA116 Program Manager’s name is Chip Kraus.
Phone: 517-294-2298
Email: [email protected]
Please let me know if you have any further questions. Have a great day!
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, July 14, 2025 11:39 AM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Hi Andrea
We will be on vacation at the time of the meeting this week. Could you please update
on the status of this project.
We would really appreciate us as it is just over the tracks from our property
Thank you,
Mary Ehmen
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 2:45 PM mary ehmen <[email protected]> wrote:
I am so so glad to hear this. Thanks!
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 2:44 PM Andrea Polverento
<[email protected]> wrote:
Mary,
The recent legislation does not take effect until November, and this project would still
RETURN TO AGENDA
fall under local regulations as it was proposed, because it’s under 50 megawatts.
Regardless of the timing, it’s most likely it would still be considered through the
township’s review process.
Hope that helps.
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, February 22, 2024 2:41 PM
To: Andrea Polverento <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Solar Farm
Oh I am so so glad to hear that! I am concerned due to recent legislation that the
property owners would not be informed/ considered
Thank you much
Mary
On Thu, Feb 22, 2024 at 2:39 PM Andrea Polverento
<[email protected]> wrote:
Hi Mary,
I don’t have any updates. The last I heard, the Board of Water and light was
reviewing the proposed property and others nearby, and no further decisions have
been made. Currently, we have no estimate of when or if this project will be resubmitted for review. If and when it is, you will receive an update public hearing
notice in the mail.
Thanks,
Andrea
From: mary ehmen <[email protected]>
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 9A
4-20-26 BOT MTG
MEMORANDUM
To:
Township Board
From: Jennifer Tubbs, Township Manager
Date: April 15, 2026
Re:
2027 Clark Road Heavy Maintenance
Attached are estimates for the various options for the heavy maintenance and resurfacing of
Clark Road from Wacousta Road to Airport Road. There is an updated spreadsheet provided by
the Clinton County Road Commission and representatives will be attending the meeting to
discuss the options.
The estimates provided include options for the addition of shoulders that include 3’paved and
2’gravel for additional of 5’ total shoulders.
In addition to the Township Non-Motorized Circulation Plan adopted in 2009 and the updated
student Plan in 2023, Clark Road is identified in the 2015 Clinton County Non-Motorized
Facilities Plan and Tri-county Regional Planning Commission proposed Non-Motorized Routes as
a key non-motorized circulation point between the Wacousta Area of Watertown and Dewitt
Township.
The funding received for Clark Road along with a significant investment from the township
makes it possible to consider paved shoulders at this time. The project would need to begin
survey and engineering work soon in order to make the 2027 construction season.
ATTACHMENT 9A
4-20-26 BOT MTG
RETURN TO AGENDA
Clark Road - Wacousta to Francis Budget
**Budget numbers are off rough estimate. Will need survey and design for more accurate budget**
Option 1 - Pave existing with no shoulders
Clark - Wacousta to Francis
Clark - Francis to Airport
Total Constructin Estimate:
Estimate
$
421,900.00
$
770,325.00
$
1,192,225.00
Option 1 Funding
FA Buyout
CCRC - 60%
Watertown - 40%
Total Constructin Funding
$
$
$
$
1,035,621.90
93,961.86
62,641.24
1,192,225.00
Option 1 - Pave existing with 3' paved shoulders
Clark - Wacousta to Francis
Clark - Francis to Airport
Total Construction Estimate:
Estimate
$
970,919.10
$
1,491,168.50
$
2,462,087.60
Option 1 Funding
FA Buyout
CCRC - 20% of original FA funds
Watertown
Total Constructin Funding
$
$
$
$
1,035,621.90
230,138.20
1,196,327.50
2,462,087.60
Paved vs. unpaved difference
Clark - Wacousta to Francis
Clark - Francis to Airport
$
$
$
549,019.10
720,843.50
1,269,862.60
RETURN TO AGENDA
CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATE
TOWNSHIP:
Watertwon
CONTRACT NEEDED? yes
ROAD:
Clark Road
LOCATION:
ROAD TYPE:
Asphalt
MILES:
DATE:
3/16/2026
Wacousta to Francis
1.990
PROJECT NUMBER:
Widening existing road form 22' to 28' for new 3' paved shoulder. Ditching, tiling of ditch, trenching,
culvert replacement, crush and shape, HMA paving at 3.5" and gravel shoulders.
Labor &
Vouchers &
Materials
@
$
72.25
$
$
485,520.00
Tree Removal
28 Ea
@
$
-
$
28,000.00
$
-
$
28,000.00
109001
Culvert, 15"
60 Ft.
@
$
8.50
$
3,600.00
$
510.00
$
4,110.00
109005
Culvert, 24"
60 Ft.
@
$
22.00
$
3,600.00
$
1,320.00
$
4,920.00
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
Asphalt
109001
109006
109007
109008
Sub Base
Sub Base-Rel
Price Each
Equipment
Qty.
6720 Tons
Item
109001
-
$
485,520.00
TOTALS
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
109010
Crush and Shape
32853 Syd
@
$
2.20
$
-
$
72,276.60
$
72,276.60
119001
Trench Widening
211 Sta
@
$
225.00
$
-
$
47,475.00
$
47,475.00
119002
Shoulder Gravel
600 Tons
@
$
33.00
$
-
$
19,800.00
$
19,800.00
122001
Machine Grading / Ditching
211 Sta
@
$
475.00
$
-
$
100,225.00
$
100,225.00
123000
Slope Restoration / Hydroseeding
4500 Syd
@
$
5.50
$
-
$
24,750.00
$
24,750.00
128001
Site balance / backfill
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
128001
Storm Sewer, 12"
128001
-
$
-
1895 Ft.
@
$
6.50
$
HMA curb
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128002
Driveway Removal
3 Ea
@
$
650.00
$
-
$
1,950.00
$
1,950.00
160000
Pavement Marking
1 LSUM
@
$
2,400.00
$
-
$
2,400.00
$
2,400.00
160000
Traffic Control
1 LSUM
@
$
7,500.00
$
-
$
7,500.00
$
7,500.00
180000
Design / Engineering / Testing
1 LSUM
@
$ 25,000.00
$
25,000.00
$
25,000.00
185000
TOTAL
COMMENTS:
46,500.00
$
12,317.50
$
58,817.50
Field Supervision
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Dr Structure, 12 inch T section
15 Ea
@
$
25.00
$
-
$
375.00
$
375.00
Contigency - 10%
1 LSUM
@
$ 87,800.00
$
-
$
87,800.00
$
87,800.00
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
81,700.00
$
889,219.10
$
970,919.10
RETURN TO AGENDA
CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATE
TOWNSHIP:
Watertown
CONTRACT NEEDED? yes
ROAD:
Clark Road
LOCATION:
ROAD TYPE:
Asphalt
DESCRIPTION OF WORK:
MILES:
DATE:
3/16/2026
Wacousta to Francis
1.990
PROJECT NUMBER:
HMA overlay, crown correction milling, gravel shoulders, minor ditching and pavement markings
Labor &
Vouchers &
Materials
@
$
85.00
$
-
$
Monument Preservation
0 Ea
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
109001
Culvert, 15"
45 Ea
@
$
6.50
$
2,900.00
$
292.50
$
3,192.50
109005
Culvert, 24"
45 Days
@
$
8.50
$
2,900.00
$
382.50
$
3,282.50
109006
Grading - Add'l Lane/Elev Chg.
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
109007
Sub Base
Asphalt
109001
109008
Sub Base-Rel
Price Each
Equipment
Qty.
4500 Tons
Item
109001
382,500.00
TOTALS
$
382,500.00
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
825 Syd
@
$
6.00
$
-
$
4,950.00
$
4,950.00
109010
Milling
119001
Shoulder Grading
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
119002
Shoulder Gravel
900 Tons
@
$
23.00
$
-
$
20,700.00
$
20,700.00
122001
Ditching
1 Days
@
$ 1,275.00
$
-
$
1,275.00
$
1,275.00
123000
Slope Restoration
500 Syd
@
$
6.00
$
-
$
3,000.00
$
3,000.00
128001
Curb Removal
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128001
Curb, Conc.
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128001
HMA curb
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128002
Driveway Removal
0 Ea
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
160000
Pavement Marking
1 LSUM
@
$
600.00
$
-
$
600.00
$
600.00
160000
Traffic Control
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
180000
Engineering
3 Days
@
$
800.00
185000
TOTAL
COMMENTS:
-
$
-
$
2,400.00
$
2,400.00
Field Supervision
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Pulverizing
0 Syd
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Base Stabilizing
0 Gal
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
5,800.00
$
416,100.00
$
421,900.00
RETURN TO AGENDA
CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATE
TOWNSHIP:
Watertwon
CONTRACT NEEDED? yes
ROAD:
Clark Road
LOCATION:
ROAD TYPE:
Asphalt
MILES:
DATE:
3/16/2026
Francis to Airport
3.000
PROJECT NUMBER:
Widening existing road form 22' to 28' for new 3' paved shoulder. Ditching, tiling of ditch, trenching,
culvert replacement, crush and shape, HMA paving at 3.5" and gravel shoulders.
Labor &
Vouchers &
Materials
@
$
72.25
$
$
728,280.00
Tree Removal
64 Ea
@
$
-
$
64,000.00
$
-
$
64,000.00
109001
Culvert, 15"
60 Ft.
@
$
8.50
$
3,600.00
$
510.00
$
4,110.00
109005
Culvert, 18"
120 Ft.
@
$
13.25
$
7,200.00
$
1,590.00
$
8,790.00
109006
Culvert, 30"
60 Ft.
@
$
33.50
$
3,600.00
$
2,010.00
$
5,610.00
109007
Sub Base
Asphalt
109001
109008
Sub Base-Rel
Price Each
Equipment
Qty.
10080 Tons
Item
109001
-
$
TOTALS
728,280.00
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
2.20
$
-
$
108,416.00
$
108,416.00
109010
Crush and Shape
49280 Syd
@
119001
Trench Widening
317 Sta
@
$
225.00
$
-
$
71,325.00
$
71,325.00
119002
Shoulder Gravel
900 Tons
@
$
33.00
$
-
$
29,700.00
$
29,700.00
122001
Machine Grading / Ditching
317 Sta
@
$
475.00
$
-
$
150,575.00
$
150,575.00
123000
Slope Restoration / Hydroseeding
6750 Syd
@
$
5.50
$
-
$
37,125.00
$
37,125.00
128001
Site balance / backfill
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
128001
Storm Sewer, 12"
128001
-
$
-
3175 Ft.
@
$
6.50
$
HMA curb
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128002
Driveway Removal
7 Ea
@
$
650.00
$
-
$
4,550.00
$
4,550.00
160000
Pavement Marking
1 LSUM
@
$
3,600.00
$
-
$
3,600.00
$
3,600.00
160000
Traffic Control
1 LSUM
@
$
7,500.00
$
-
$
7,500.00
$
7,500.00
180000
Design / Engineering / Testing
1 LSUM
@
$
37,500.00
$
37,500.00
$
37,500.00
185000
TOTAL
COMMENTS:
75,000.00
$
20,637.50
$
95,637.50
Field Supervision
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Dr Structure, 12 inch T section
18 Ea
@
$
25.00
$
-
$
450.00
$
450.00
Contigency - 10%
1 LSUM
@
$
134,000.00
$
-
$
134,000.00
$
134,000.00
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
153,400.00
$
1,337,768.50
$
1,491,168.50
RETURN TO AGENDA
CONSTRUCTION ESTIMATE
TOWNSHIP:
Watertwon
CONTRACT NEEDED? yes
ROAD:
Clark Road
LOCATION:
ROAD TYPE:
Asphalt
MILES:
DATE:
3/16/2026
Francis to Airport
3.000
PROJECT NUMBER:
HMA Mill and Fill at 330 lbs/syd, gravel shoulders, culvert replacement and pavement markings
Labor &
Vouchers &
Materials
@
$
72.25
$
-
$
Tree Removal
0 Ea
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
109001
Culvert, 15"
60 Ft.
@
$
8.50
$
3,600.00
$
510.00
$
4,110.00
109005
Culvert, 18"
120 Ft.
@
$
13.25
$
7,200.00
$
1,590.00
$
8,790.00
109006
Culvert, 30"
60 Ft.
@
$
33.50
$
3,600.00
$
2,010.00
$
5,610.00
109007
Sub Base
Asphalt
109001
109008
Sub Base-Rel
Price Each
Equipment
Qty.
7300 Tons
Item
109001
TOTALS
527,425.00
$
527,425.00
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Sand
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Gravel
0 Tons
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
109010
Cold Milling, HMA
42240 Syd
@
$
2.75
$
-
$
119001
Trench Widening
0 Sta
@
$
225.00
$
-
$
450 Tons
@
$
33.00
$
-
$
0 Sta
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
1500 Syd
@
$
5.50
$
-
$
8,250.00
$
8,250.00
116,160.00
-
$
$
116,160.00
-
119002
Shoulder Gravel
122001
Machine Grading / Ditching
123000
Slope Restoration / Hydroseeding
128001
Site balance / backfill
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128001
Storm Sewer, 12"
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128001
HMA curb
0 Ft.
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
128002
Driveway Removal
0 Ea
@
$
650.00
$
-
$
-
$
-
160000
Pavement Marking
1 LSUM
@
$
3,600.00
$
-
$
3,600.00
$
3,600.00
160000
Traffic Control
1 LSUM
@
$
3,500.00
$
-
$
3,500.00
$
3,500.00
180000
Design / Engineering / Testing
1 LSUM
@
$
8,000.00
$
8,000.00
$
8,000.00
185000
TOTAL
COMMENTS:
14,850.00
$
14,850.00
Field Supervision
0 Days
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Dr Structure, 12 inch T section
0 Ea
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
Contigency - 10%
1 LSUM
@
$
$
-
$
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
@
$
-
$
-
$
-
$
-
70,030.00
$
14,400.00
$
70,030.00
755,925.00
$
$
70,030.00
770,325.00
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 9B
4-20-26 BOT MTG
MEMORANDUM
To:
Township Board
From: Jennifer Tubbs, Township Manager
Date: April 15, 2026
Re:
Host Community Agreement - Granger
Granger is proposing to negotiate a new Host Community Agreement for the sanitary landfill
located on Grand River Avenue. Simultaneously, Clinton County is actively working on updating
the Material Management Plan required by Part 115 of PA 451 (Subpart 11) for the county, as
well as a new agreement with Granger.
The township had an initial meeting with Granger and I asked Ms. Brokob to attend the meeting
because she serves on the Clinton County Material Management Planning Committee. In
addition to the Township Attorney, it would be prudent to appoint a committee to negotiate
this process.
Recommended Action:
Move to appoint the Township Manager, Clerk and Township Attorney to negotiate a new Host
Agreement with Granger for consideration by the Township Board.
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 9C
4-20-26 BOT MTG
MEMORANDUM
To:
Township Board
From: Jennifer Tubbs, Township Manager
Date: April 15, 2026
Re:
Planning Commission Representative to the Zoning Board of Appeals
At their April regular meeting, the Planning Commission elected officers and recommended
Richard Adams be appointed as the Planning Commission’s representative to the Zoning Board
of Appeals.
For your reference, officers elected were:
Chair: Joe Davis
Vice-Chair: David Bartkowiak
Secretary: Steve Lonier
Suggested motion:
Motion that the Board of Trustees concur with the recommendation of the Planning
Commission and appoint Richard Adams as the Planning Commission’s representative to the
Zoning Board of Appeals for a one-year term ending April 30, 2027.
RETURN TO AGENDA
ATTACHMENT 9D
4-20-26 BOT MTG
MEMORANDUM
To:
Township Board of Trustees
From: Carolyn Brokob, Clerk
Date: April 1, 2026
Re:
Proactive Zoning of Data Centers and Consideration of a Temporary Moratorium
Data centers are facilities used to house computer systems and related infrastructure. Data Centers
are rapidly expanding across the United States due to increased demand for cloud computing,
artificial intelligence, and data storage. While historically concentrated in major metropolitan areas,
developers are increasingly targeting smaller communities, including those in Michigan, due to
available land, access to power, and fewer regulatory barriers.
At present, the Watertown Charter Township’s zoning ordinance does not specifically address data
centers. As a result, such uses may be interpreted as permitted without adequate standards tailored
to their unique impacts and the Township’s goals. While there may not be immediate development
pressure, the rapid growth of the data center industry presents a foreseeable land use challenge.
Taking proactive steps now will ensure the Township retains control over how and where such
facilities develop, protects local resources, and aligns future development with community goals.
Also, a proactive approach ensures decisions are guided by policy rather than urgency.
I’m recommending that the board direct staff, in coordination with the Planning Commission,
prioritize the review and preparation of a zoning ordinance amendment to address the siting and
regulation of data centers.
To allow time for thoughtful ordinance development, the board may want to consider adopting a
temporary moratorium on the acceptance of any application for the establishment of data centers.
POSSIBLE ACTION:
Motion that the township board direct staff, in coordination with the Planning Commission, prepare
proposed zoning ordinance amendments addressing the siting and regulation of data enters, and
present draft language within 120 days.
Motion that the Township Board direct staff, in consultation with the Township Attorney, prepare a
temporary moratorium ordinance on the acceptance and processing of applications for data center
developments for consideration at the next board meeting.
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Provenance
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- Agenda Watch · Sep 28, 2026
Permanent ID DKT-2026-003251 — this record is never deleted.
Record history
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- Sep 28, 2026 Filed on the Docket
- Sep 28, 2026 Full document archived — public record
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