The Michigan-China Economic and Security Review Group (MCESRG) stated that Green Charter Township returned $160,000 to Gotion for "unused first responder training and equipment" at a "site of the yet-to-be-built plant," calling the deal "sketchy" and questioning if it was a ploy to create an illusion of acceptance. MCESRG made this statement in a July 30 post on X.

"BREAKING NEWS on the "deal" with PRC-based and CCP-tied @Gotion48660 Green Charter Township prudently and courageously returned $160,000 in funds to Gotion for the costs of training and equipment for first responders in the event of a fire at the site of the yet-to-be-built plant, that may remain vacant land," said MCESRG. "This was another sketchy part of the "deal" concocted by the now recalled GCT elected officials. Why would the City of Big Rapids invoice GCT for something that is in litigation, on the rocks, and may never materialize? Was this a trick or trip wire by Gotion to create the illusion of acceptance of the ill-conceived, ill-executed, and unenforceable Development Agreement?"

According to a letter from Green Charter Township, the return of $160,000 to Gotion was due to funds wired under an alleged Development Agreement currently under federal litigation. The funds were intended for first-responder training and equipment related to a proposed battery plant. However, the Township disputes the agreement's validity and notes that no zoning permits have been applied for. The Township is returning the funds due to the lack of a current Gotion site and recommends that Gotion coordinate directly with the City of Big Rapids for any necessary emergency services, according to the letter provided by MCESRG on X.

Michigan-China Economic and Security Review Group's post | x

Green Charter Township is responsible for managing community affairs and services within its jurisdiction in Michigan, including overseeing developments and handling municipal funds.

Gotion is a California-based company specializing in electric vehicle and energy storage technologies with a focus on advancing electrified transportation and sustainability.

MCESRG focuses on identifying and evaluating security risks from the People's Republic of China (PRC) and the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that could affect Michigan. Its goal is to counter these threats and ensure state security.