Sylvan Township Board Meeting: More Marijuana and Less Resident Input?

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The Sylvan Township Board will be discussing two important issues at their 7:00pm meeting tonight (Tuesday, 10/3) at the township hall.

First, Treasurer Branham has reopened the discussion about expanding marijuana facilities in our community for revenue generation. No details or other aspects of this topic have been shared, yet, by Mr. Branham or the Board. Questions/requests raised by residents at the last meeting include: “Will the Board consider recent data indicating negative public health effects on young people?” and “Given the easy access to marijuana in our area, is there a public need to open facilities in our township?” Despite a previous decision to not pursue this in our community, re-opening the discussion was supported by Supervisor Kennedy and Trustee Schulze and opposed by Clerk Nimke and Trustee Koseck.

Supervisor Kennedy would like all residents to weigh in. You have the opportunity to share your thoughts at the beginning of every Board meeting during public comment. You can also provide written feedback by emailing Board members at the following addresses.

Supervisor Kennedy - kkennedy@sylvantownshipmi.gov
Treasurer Branham - rbranham@sylvantownshipmi.gov
Clerk Nimke - animke@sylvantownshipmi.gov
Trustee Koseck - kkoseck@sylvantownshipmi.gov
Trustee Schulze - sschulze@sylvantownshipmi.gov

Another important issue being discussed is the second public comment. For quite some time, the Sylvan Township Board has allowed residents to offer opinions to open meetings before issues are discussed and voted on. Then, they could listen to what is said and how the vote goes during the meeting and provide their feedback at the end. Only one public comment session is required by law. So, Supervisor Kennedy has indicated she would like to discuss doing away with the second public comment at the end of Sylvan Township Board meetings.

If you’d like to share your thoughts about these issues, please attend this evening and send an email.

Thank you,

Kevin Townsend