Media Release: Oshtemo Clarifies Status of Energy Systems Ordinance an

Published on April 07, 2026

For Immediate Release: April 7, 2026

Oshtemo Clarifies Status of Energy Systems Ordinance and Process

Oshtemo Charter Township, Mich – Oshtemo Township is actively working on an energy systems ordinance and is committed to a transparent, fact-based process that protects residents and neighboring communities.

In recent weeks, some public comments and social media posts have suggested that little or no work is happening on the ordinance, or that it is being developed behind closed doors. Those claims are not accurate. No ordinance drafting has occurred in closed session. 

“Drafting a zoning ordinance is a detailed, technical process,” Planning Director Jodi Stefforia said. “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.”

Planning and Legal staff are working on the draft ordinance almost daily. The internal draft is currently 27 pages, with additional technical appendices under development. These will address topics such as sound modeling and other standards, building on and enhancing the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) Application Filing Instructions and Procedures.

Research and writing are a normal part of developing any zoning ordinance. It is not typically listed as a separate agenda item or reported as a standing update at each meeting, which has contributed to some misunderstanding about the status of the work.

To ensure the ordinance reflects current best practices, the Township is seeking input from experts, beginning with public-sector and academic guest speakers at the April 9 Planning Commission 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.

By grounding the ordinance in science and expert guidance, Oshtemo will be better positioned if a developer seeks approval from the MPSC. A strong, defensible ordinance improves the likelihood that MPSC will support Township requirements if they are challenged as unworkable.

As with all zoning ordinances, the energy systems ordinance will follow the Township’s standard development process. 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. Only after Planning Commission review and recommendation will the draft be sent to the Township Board for consideration, which will include additional opportunities for public comment at first and second reading. 

“We have time, and we are using that time responsibly,” Township Supervisor Cheri Bell said. “Our focus is on getting this right for Oshtemo, not rushing to meet someone else’s timeline.”

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About Oshtemo Charter Township:

Established in 1839, Oshtemo exists to advance the quality of life of all residents through a commitment to responsible growth and value-driven municipal services that promote the relationships among economic vitality, environmental stewardship, and social equity.

Editor’s Note: Three images are attached for your use, including:

• Township Hall Sign Image.
• Township Hall Image.
• Oshtemo Logo Color.

For more information, please contact:

Rich Blair, Media & Communications Manager, Oshtemo Township

rblair@oshtemo.org | 269.440.0762

Oshtemo Township Hall Sign

Oshtemo Township Hall Image

Oshtemo Logo Color