April 17, 2025 Special Planning commission meeting minutes

Sheridan Township Planning Commission

Sheridan Township Hall

Special Meeting

April 17, 2025- 7:00 p.m.

Planning Commission present:  Sally Jackson (Vice Chair), Scott Frederick, Chip Hanlon, Janet Cuatt

Excused: Rick Offerson (Chair)

Staff: David Martin (Zoning Administrator)

Guests: Brady Friss, representing Ranger Power

Jackson opened the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance at 7:08p.m.

Agenda:  BESS Battery Energy Storage System Ordinance Review*: 

Martin reported that the BESS Ordinance was sent to County Planning Commission for review. They responded with recommendations regarding stacking batteries and a full decommissioning plan.  Martin also discussed that our legal team recommends considering leaving reference to Public Act(s) out of the Ordinance. If a Public Act changes, it automatically assumes we approve/agree with the changes to our Ordinance.  As long as we have an Ordinance, we can keep control, unlike if we keep reference to a Public Act.  This can help prevent Ordinance items being determined by states CREOs.

A motion was made by Frederick; seconded by Hanlon to adopt the County Planning Commission’s recommendations regarding Stacking Batteries, Full Decommissioning, and additionally to remove references to the Public Act(s) from our BESS Ordinance. The motion passed unanimously.

Next steps, Martin will ask Lewan to review the recommendations, update the BESS Ordinance which will be provided to the Planning Commission members for final review before being presented to the Township Board. 

Adjournment: A motion was made by Hanlon; seconded by Jackson, to adjourn. Motion passed unanimously. Meeting adjourned at 7:35 p.m.

Reminder of our next regular meeting – June 5, 2025

Minutes submitted byJanet Cuatt, Secretary

Sheridan Township Planning Commission

Sally Jackson, Vice Chair

Sheridan Township Planning Commission

Minutes approved at the 6/5/2025 meeting of the Sheridan Township Planning Commission

*Copies of item referenced in these minutes are available in the Township Clerk’s Office.