Beth Chapman

The meeting included discussions on the Lighted Christmas Parade, updates on the DDA Bylaws, and membership encouragement. Bids for downtown flowers were discussed, with the opening scheduled for December and presentation at the January DDA meeting. The board discussed social districting, including sticker requirements for participating establishments, and approved the payment for social districting signs. The December DDA meeting was canceled due to the holidays. The City Treasurer presented the financial report, and the City Manager mentioned the idea of calling West Main Street "Old Town" for marketing. There were also discussions about WiFi in the downtown area, including a fund to pay for services and bids for electrical services. The meeting concluded with positive reflections on the year and anticipation for the future of Wednesday Night Live.

The meeting included discussions and approvals related to the Durand Chamber Schedule of Events for 2026, a resolution for America250MI, and a resolution from CN Rail for support of Rail Safety Week. The council approved an invoice for turnout gear for the Fire Department and another invoice from Fleis & Vandenbrink. They also approved a petition to exhibit a display, with an amendment requiring permission from all applicable property owners. A citizen raised concerns about a crumbling driveway approach from the Lincoln/Monroe Street project, and the Chamber Director mentioned accessibility issues near a phone booth. A council member suggested a charter amendment to increase the City Manager's spending threshold.

The meeting included updates on Wednesday Night Live, including sponsor fees and committed bands. The board discussed the Lighted Christmas Parade and the updated DDA Bylaws. The conversation regarding the Architecture Book was tabled. The board addressed social districting signs and the need for bars to apply for state licenses. The board also discussed having food trucks on site for the concerts.

The council approved several financial items, including an invoice from PVS Technologies, an extension of the contract for PVS Technologies, and an invoice from Haviland. They also approved the purchase of a Hydro Verge Hydrant Buddy and Gate, a proposal from the Eric Morris Law Firm, and an employment proposal for Mr. Kurncz with Preston Community Services. Additionally, the council approved an amendment to code enforcement establishing fees, a resolution of understanding and concurrence for the Reed Road development project, and the purchase agreement revisions between the City and Green Development Ventures. They also approved Option 2, Emergency Petition, from the Shiawassee County Drain Commission, a proposal from ROWE Engineering, and pay application #5 from LA Construction. There was also discussion regarding land on North Durand Road.

The meeting included discussions and wrap-up of Wednesday Night Live event, including agreement with bands, 50/50 raffle breakdown, band costs, and changes such as the need for port-a-potties. The board approved refunding Patty Perry for a concert cancellation due to bad weather. Social District costs were reviewed, including business stickers and concerns about Monday night make-up concerts, and the need for more police presence. The Christmas Parade theme was decided. The financial report was presented, and board member comments included concerns about businesses trimming trees and appreciation for the downtown flowers.