Comstock Township taxpayers are on the hook for an estimated $341,000 after the Board of Trustees voted to fire their superintendent without cause.
The 4-3 vote came Monday night, June 1, ending the tenure of Scott Hess, who served as superintendent of the Charter Township of Comstock. Because Hess was terminated without cause, his contract triggers a substantial severance payout to the township, according to the township attorney.
A Board Split Down the Middle
The vote revealed a deeply divided board. Three trustees who opposed the termination said they were caught off guard by the motion.
Supervisor Ben Martin, Treasurer Sandra Bloomfield, and Trustee Jerry Amos all voted against firing Hess. The three attempted to table the vote, saying they had not received proper notice that a decision on Hess would be made that night, according to WWMT.
The motion to terminate Hess still carried. Voting in favor were Clerk Beauchamp, Trustee Cherry, Trustee McIver, and Trustee Pratt.
A Contentious Meeting
The board spent more than an hour debating Hess' termination before voting, according to Public Media Network. A motion to postpone the decision failed. The board also took a recess before casting the final vote.
The termination was contingent on Hess signing a waiver of liability, Public Media Network reported.
Political Turmoil in Comstock
The firing comes amid broader political instability in the township. Multiple trustees are currently facing recall efforts, according to MLive.
The township has also been embroiled in a legal battle with Supervisor Martin over the legality of his cider barn operation. The barn was recently cleared to continue operation, Martin told MLive.
"The obstacles put up by the township inspired Martin to run for office in 2024, when he was elected," Martin said, according to MLive.
Martin ran for office in 2024 after disputes with the previous board leadership over his cider barn. He won election as supervisor.
What Happens Next
The township now owes Hess approximately $341,000 under the terms of his contract, according to the township attorney cited by MLive.
The board has not announced a timeline for hiring a replacement superintendent. With multiple trustees facing recall petitions and the board split along ideological lines, the leadership vacuum could extend well beyond the superintendent's office.
Comstock Township residents will see the payout reflected in township finances, though officials have not specified whether the cost will come from reserves or require budget adjustments.
Sources: MLive, WWMT, WKZO, Public Media Network