*## Township Officials Push Back Against Claims Process Has Stalled*
Oshtemo Charter Township leaders are pushing back against claims they are hearing that progress on a new energy storage system ordinance has stalled or is happening behind closed doors. According to a township statement, planning and legal staff are actively working on the draft ordinance.
The internal draft currently stands at 27 pages, with additional technical appendices still in development. Planning Director Jodi Stefforia explained the technical nature of the work:
"Drafting a zoning ordinance is a detailed, technical process. Most of this work happens at the staff level before a draft is ready for public review, and that's exactly what is occurring now."
## Moratorium Passed in November 2025
The township passed a one-year moratorium in November 2025 on developing battery energy storage system facilities. The topic has caused controversy, as residents are concerned about safety risks and disruption caused by such facilities.
Township officials have been clear: no ordinance drafting has occurred in closed session. The statement added it's not standard practice to report standing updates on ordinance creation progress.
## Seeking Expert Input Before Public Review
Oshtemo Township officials are seeking input from experts to ensure the ordinance reflects current best practices. Public sector and academic guest speakers will address the Planning Commission at its Thursday, April 9 meeting.
Additional scientific and technical experts, particularly in battery chemistry and energy systems, are being identified to help incorporate best practices for battery energy storage safety.
"A strong, defensible ordinance improves the likelihood that the state will support township requirements, in the event they are challenged as unworkable."
## Timeline for Community Input
After the research phase, a draft will go to the Planning Commission for review at a public meeting and at least one formal public hearing to gather community input. The Planning Commission will then make a recommendation to the township board, which will include additional opportunities for public comment at first and second reading.
Supervisor Cheri Bell addressed the timeline:
"We have time, and we are using that time responsibly. Our focus is getting this right for Oshtemo, not rushing to meet someone else's timeline."
The township is balancing resident concerns with the need to develop appropriate regulations for battery energy storage systems in the community.