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Commission approves first reading of ordinance to regulate compost site use; commissioners request clearer stump/wood rules and signage
Summary
The commission approved first reading of an ordinance to regulate the North Bo compost site, requiring permits for non-resident and commercial users and creating an enforceable fine; commissioners asked staff to clarify acceptable wood/trunk sizes (suggested 12-inch-diameter limit and length limits for tub-grinder compatibility) and to improve signage before second reading.
Boone City commissioners approved the first reading of an ordinance establishing formal rules for the city’s North Bo compost site, clarifying that non-residents and commercial users must purchase an annual permit and that unauthorized use may carry fines under state limits.
Staff noted the site is a taxpayer-funded service for residents and that non-resident or commercial users currently must secure an annual permit (the draft references a $1,000 annual fee). Because state law caps local ordinance fines in many cases, staff said any local penalty must comply with the applicable Michigan Code (MCL) limits — the draft therefore proposes a fine consistent with that statutory ceiling.
Commissioners and staff spent significant time refining operational details. Commissioner Pritchard asked that the ordinance explicitly define acceptable tree and stump sizes; he suggested adding language to allow trunk sections up to 12 inches in diameter (and recommended specifying maximum length for stumps or log sections so the tub grinder and staff handling can accept material without undue cost). Staff agreed to update the draft ordinance language, clarify signage that distinguishes resident access and hours, and return the revised language at second reading.
Commissioners directed staff to prepare clearer on-site sign text explaining who may use the site, permit rules and hours, and to ensure the ordinance language and signage match operational practice before adoption.
