City of Ann Arbor

The meeting commenced with technical difficulties resolved, followed by the approval of the agenda. The approval of the minutes from the September 4, 2024 meeting was tabled. Manager's reports included updates on the Comprehensive Plan, noting an upcoming workshop on October 23rd and recent subcommittee meetings. A preview of the next working session involved discussion of modifying requirements for non-conforming structures, initiated by requests to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Additionally, discussions were planned for November and December regarding proposed business related to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority and the DDA's circulation study. A public comment session included a detailed discussion regarding the expansion of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) eligibility to include housing projects under the state Brownfield act, with concerns raised about taxpayer subsidies benefiting private developers without sufficient affordability standards. Under regular business, a site plan revision petition for 900 Brierwood Circle, which included downsizing a large format retailer and adding a small retail building, was recommended to be tabled due to the petitioner requesting postponement without a set return date. Another item involved an amendment to Chapter 55 UDC regarding permitted use tables to allow child care center and private school uses in more zoning districts.

The meeting focused on the appeals, actions, and show cause hearings, specifically addressing an application for 302 East Liberty Street. The application requested relief from sections of the 2015 Michigan Building Code concerning stair geometry, rise, run, and landing space between the newly constructed third-floor stairway and a door. Staff recommended denial, citing that the proposed condition was less safe than minimum code requirements and the applicant had not proven their construction was equal or better. The applicant argued that the renovation eliminated a significant trip hazard at the top of the stairs and that the proposed configuration was the safest viable option given the space constraints for the required door, which is necessary for office suite security and attorney ethics provisions. The Board engaged in a detailed discussion regarding the door swing, the necessity of multiple doors on the third floor, and the compliance of existing stairwells.

The meeting commenced with roll call and the subsequent approval of the agenda. A significant portion of the session was dedicated to welcoming and hearing from new commissioners, including Cynthia Harrison, Josh Meisler, and Randy Milgrom, who introduced themselves and shared relevant experience in community involvement, social work, and criminal justice initiatives. The commission then discussed old business concerning the city council's resolution to explore an unarmed response program for crisis calls where an armed presence might be detrimental. Commissioners shared insights from national models like the CAHOOTS program and emphasized the need for ICPO Commission involvement in policy recommendations, especially if police co-response is utilized. Commissioner Phillips highlighted the importance of balancing community needs with officer perspectives and referenced models involving 9-1-1 triage for dispatching unarmed teams. Furthermore, Commissioner Swan discussed the importance of broad community engagement in developing the plan, mentioning plans for neighborhood forums and a youth forum to gather diverse input on public safety visions. A recent incident involving armed police response in a dormitory setting was cited to illustrate the need for alternatives.

The work session featured presentations from Michigan Future regarding Michigan Future Grant opportunities and the Arbor South project. The meeting began with an oath of office ceremony for newly sworn-in council members. The presentation focused on data indicating declining household income and population loss in Michigan, emphasizing the critical need to attract and retain young talent by investing in high amenity, walkable, dense urban areas. Specific attention was given to Ann Arbor's potential role as a talent magnet compared to cities like Madison and Chicago. Discussion detailed the $25 million Michigan Talent Partnership grant program, which focuses on public space investments (not building construction) and support for locally owned businesses, requiring a 50% local match. The presenters expressed hope that cities would develop comprehensive plans leveraging this grant funding and seeking additional support from other state departments.

The meeting agenda was approved. Public comment did not receive any sign-ups. The Executive Director reported that this was the final meeting in the current location, with the next meeting moving to council chambers at city hall. Key business involved the adoption of the FY26 Downtown Development Authority (DDA) budget, which had previously been forwarded to city council. Two grant requests were approved: one for up to $21,000 from Avalon Housing, which included a discussion about the significance of the property to the organization's history, and a second for the FY26 co-ass and get downtown annual grant request. Discussions surrounding the transportation grant highlighted a desire for a more holistic approach to downtown transportation, including connections for non-resident employees utilizing programs like the Go Pass. Financial reports for the third quarter were presented, showing revenues up 13% over budget targets primarily due to an unbudgeted millage rate increase, while expenditures were tracking at 45% of the budget as of March 31st. The parking system revenues were also reported to be strong, finishing 3/4 through the year at 88% of budget, largely supported by a strong evening economy. The investment overview indicated stable returns managed primarily by Bank of Ann Arbor. An update on the upcoming audit fieldwork, scheduled for the last week of October, was provided.