Dean A. Martin

The council meeting addressed several operational and administrative items. Key discussions included the acceptance of a water and sewer rate study, the appointment of a new Council Trustee to fill a vacancy, and the approval of Council priorities for the 2026-2027 period. The council also deliberated on ferry franchise agreements, directing staff to prepare a resolution for a $200,000 annual license fee per ferry company. Additionally, the council authorized a request for partnership with Wawatam Township regarding infrastructure improvements on Lakeside Drive and reviewed and approved accounts payable.

The council discussed several business items, including the authorization of AT&T lease negotiations, a closed session, and the postponement of a bid packet regarding a water system improvement project. Additionally, the council approved an extension request for commercial parking lot paving, adopted a new policy for mailbox damage replacement, and formally accepted the resignation of a Village Council Trustee. The meeting concluded with the approval of accounts payable.

The Council discussed various agenda items including a sewer rate study, the establishment of a temporary committee to study market concentration, and a Consumers Energy easement request. Reports were provided by department heads and the Village Manager, covering projects like the Old School Park and water system improvements. Several zoning ordinance amendments were reviewed for the B1, B2, and B3 districts, alongside the regulation of data centers. Additionally, the Council addressed a council vacancy following a resignation and handled accounts payable for village services.

The meeting included discussions on the DPW snow removal services, the potential charging of services for reenactment pageants, and updates on grant applications and utility rate studies. Key approvals included the Fort Michilimackinac Reenactment, authorization for bond issuance for sanitary sewer system improvements, and a draw from the sewer reserve account. Additionally, the council consented to the drafting of letters regarding data center recommendations and correspondence with the City of St. Ignace concerning SB 304. Legal consultation was authorized regarding ferry regulation parity, and accounts payable were approved.

The Council discussed the regulation of third-party ticket sales for ferry services and reached a consensus to draft a Ferry Licensee agreement. It was also noted that an engineering firm will be utilized for future site plan reviews. The Council approved an ordinance to rezone a portion of a parcel from R2 Single Family Residence District to AG Agricultural District. Additionally, the Council consented to the issuance of a Request for Proposals for auditing services for fiscal years 2026 through 2028 and approved the payment of accounts payable.