During a recent Waterford Township government meeting, significant concerns were raised regarding the regulation of short-term rentals and the enforcement of public comment rules. A member of the board expressed frustration over the lack of clarity in existing ordinances, particularly regarding vacation rentals, which he argued have led to numerous unregulated properties operating in violation of local laws. He highlighted discrepancies in the approval and denial of short-term rental applications, questioning the consistency of the board's decisions and the criteria used to evaluate them.

The discussion also touched on the Open Meetings Act, with the speaker criticizing the board for inconsistent enforcement of public comment rules. He noted instances where individuals were treated differently during public comment periods, raising concerns about transparency and fairness. The recent amendments to the code of conduct, which limit public comments to one per meeting and restrict speakers to a maximum of five minutes, were met with disapproval. The speaker argued that such changes undermine public participation and accountability.

In addition to these issues, community members voiced their opinions on local matters, including the board's decision to deny a request for a new marijuana dispensary, which was applauded by one resident who emphasized the need to protect youth from potential drug use. Another resident commended the Clerk's office for their efficient handling of a recent election, highlighting the professionalism displayed during a busy voting day.

The meeting concluded with an open floor for public comments, reflecting ongoing community engagement and the diverse opinions held by Waterford residents on local governance and regulations.