February 17, 2026, Special Bushnell Twp Board Public Hearing held at Sheridan Community Center called to order at 6 pm by Supervisor Mike Fitzgerald for the purpose of discussing the DTE Battery Energy Storage System (aka B.E.S.S.) permit.
Present: Supervisor Mike Fitzgerald; Trustee Patrick Draper; Clerk Louise Belyou; Treasurer Karron Bliss; Trustee Lori Daly; Absent: None Also present: Bushnell Atty Andy Gordon; DTE Jeff Haines; DTE Dorothy Worthremitt; DTE Atty John Anders (Miller/Johnson); and 15 community members.
Public Hearing called to order by Supervisor Fitzgerald followed by pledge of allegiance.
Motion by Draper, support Daly to accept agenda. Roll Call vote, unanimously approved. Atty Andy explained how a hearing works. The board is here to hear concerns of the people.
Motion by Bliss, support Draper open Public Hearing. Roll Call vote, unanimously accepted. Gen. info: est. completion = 2nd quarter,2027/ Located E. of Woods Rd on Condensery Rd.
Jim Goodell, 7759 Staines Rd, wondered how the storage system maintained safe temperature --- DTE Jeff answered -- The cooling system is self-contained, it uses antifreeze like a car with no added water. Has security warning system for control. Doug Stearns, Staines Rd, Fenwick – does not approve of the app – has problem with destroyed farmland.
Marcia Long, Vickeryville Rd, Sheridan – thanked board for doing the public hearing, asked about grass in front – DTE Jeff answered – will be mowed two times per year after the root system has time to develop.
Steve , 2501 Staines Rd, wondered if the project will expand – DTE Jeff answered – No, the original permit only allows the current size.
Public Comment State can make differing order which would probably become the rule.
Motion by Draper, support Daly to table decision on app permit until regular board meeting on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Motion approved.
Public Comment Marcia Long, talked about team page.
Staci Hansen-Goodell, wondered how to do zoning? – what is the cost?
Motion Draper, support Daly to adjourn. With no additional business to discuss the hearing adjourned.
Respectfully submitted, Louise Belyou, Clerk