General Summary #

The Davison Township Board of Trustees convened a special meeting at 9:00 a.m. at the Davison Township Municipal Center. The meeting was brief, lasting approximately 12 minutes, and focused on administrative tasks and a specific policy update.

During the meeting, the board addressed the implementation of a policy for campaign signs posted on township property during the 9-day early voting window. This decision was informed by legal opinions obtained from the Township attorney and the Michigan Township Association (MTA). Additionally, the public comment period allowed residents to recognize local business donations and express concerns regarding freedom of speech and local government transparency.

Key Points #

  • Campaign Sign Policy: The board established a policy for managing campaign signs on township property during the 9-day early voting period.
  • Business Recognition: A resident recognized Michigan Quality Laminating for donating materials and costs to the local Veteran’s Court.
  • Public Concerns: Residents raised concerns regarding the legality of restricting political signs, the importance of transparency, and the use of personal photos on township department doors.

Who #

  • Jim Slezak: Supervisor
  • Michael T. Leffler: Clerk
  • Tim R. Green: Treasurer
  • Matthew D. Karr: Trustee
  • Lori Tallman: Trustee
  • Jami Vert: Recording Secretary
  • Matt Place: Public Commenter
  • Sandy O’Dell: Public Commenter
  • Matthew Smith: Public Commenter
  • Michigan Quality Laminating: Local business recognized for donations

What #

  • Policy Approval: Approval of a policy governing the placement of campaign signs on township property during the 9-day early voting period.

When #

  • Meeting Date: July 25, 2024
  • Meeting Duration: 9:00 a.m. to 9:12 a.m.
  • Relevant Timeframe: 9-day early voting period (subject of the new policy)

Why #

  • The campaign sign policy was introduced to address issues arising from the implementation of the 9-day early voting period, supported by legal guidance from the Township attorney and the Michigan Township Association (MTA).

Votes/Decisions #

  • Adopt the Agenda:
    • Motion: Karr
    • Second: Green
    • Result: Carried unanimously.
  • Approve Policy for Campaign Signs:
    • Motion: Slezak
    • Second: Green
    • Roll Call: Slezak (Yes), Leffler (Yes), Tallman (Yes), Green (Yes), Karr (Yes).
    • Result: Carried unanimously.
  • Adjournment:
    • Motion: Karr
    • Second: Green
    • Result: Carried unanimously.