Oscoda board holds second reading of blight and accessory-structure ordinances as residents press for enforcement

The Charter Township of Oscoda Board of Trustees held second readings Sept. 23 of a proposed blight ordinance and an accessory-structure amendment, moving both measures another step toward possible adoption.

Supervisor William Palmer said the items have been under review and indicated the township is also having its police ordinances reviewed to improve enforcement. The meeting packet included a Planning Commission note that tonight marked second readings of ordinances the commission has worked on.

Public commenters urged faster enforcement. Fredrick Buckner told the board the ordinance “will help resolve the issues with blight once it is passed.” Resident Gail Falzon said Westshore Drive faces “a huge issue with blight that needs to be addressed” and asked what action the township will take to enforce code. Cathy Wusterbarth also raised concerns about the pledge item and other agenda matters during public comment.

Board members discussed the history of the problem. Trustee Mr. Tasior said the planning commission revised the ordinance after earlier efforts with past attorneys failed to resolve the problem; Trustee Mr. Cummings and Trustee Mr. Wusterbarth expressed support for the updated approach. The minutes do not record a final adoption vote on either ordinance; the items are at second reading.

If adopted, the ordinance would put updated enforcement tools before township officials, but the minutes do not specify the exact enforcement mechanisms or timelines. The board said it is pursuing a parallel review of police ordinances to ensure consistent authority and enforcement procedures.

The board did not set a final adoption date in the recorded minutes. The ordinances remain at second reading and will appear on a future agenda for possible final action.