Gotion Inc. will give area residents priority over new jobs at its proposed battery components facility, significantly reduce potential traffic congestion near the facility, and ensure all emergency services in Green Charter Township are paid for over the next 30 years under a development agreement reached with the township.

Township Supervisor Jim Chapman worked to define the content of the agreement with Gotion Inc. It clearly states the terms and obligations for both Gotion Inc. and Green Charter Township.

“This agreement represents a good-faith contract that will help guide the development and ongoing function of Gotion Inc.’s proposed facility in Green Charter Township,” said Chuck Thelen, vice president of Gotion Inc. – North American Manufacturing. “It ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes to both of our obligations and responsibilities. I want to thank the Township Board and especially Supervisor Chapman for his leadership in helping to formulate the bilateral agreement that will guide the project to a successful launch.” 

Under the agreement, Gotion Inc.’s obligations include:

• Giving area residents priority over new jobs for the first two weeks through the Big Rapids Area Michigan Works, prior to seeking job applicants outside the area;

• Greatly limiting traffic congestion on public roads by constructing an on-site truck/trailer staging area.

• Ensuring all township emergency services relating to the facility and overall community support are paid for by Gotion Inc. for the next 30 years.

• Creating a collaboration on legal strategy where Gotion Inc. will provide a large amount of financial assistance to cover the township legal fees surrounding the startup of the project.

• Adhering to a dark sky design to limit the amount of light generated from the facility;

• Maximizing the recycling of raw materials and manufacturing by-product to prevent adverse environmental impacts to the air, sanitary sewer system and ground and surface waters;

• Preparing, filing, and updating the township on Gotion Inc.’s comprehensive safety plans. This includes allowing fire department personnel to receive accessibility to familiarize themselves with the plant layout and procedures; and

• Prohibiting activity that supports or encourages any political philosophy among its employees or the community.

Green Charter Township’s obligations include diligently reviewing plans and specifications for the project to ensure Gotion Inc. complies with applicable township ordinances; coordinating with the Mecosta County Road Commission and Mecosta County Drain Commission with respect to public infrastructure improvements contemplated; and assisting Gotion Inc. in obtaining any licenses, permits, or other governmental authorizations necessary to advance and support the project.

The Green Charter Township Board unanimously voted on Aug. 1 to allow Chapman to negotiate and sign the contract.

SPECIAL NOTE: The development agreement is linked on the front page of Green Charter Township’s website here.