Fred Golda

The council meeting addressed various community matters, including resignations from the Mobile Home Park Advisory Board and appointments to the Parks and Recreation Committee and DDA Board. Financial approvals were granted for invoices from Edgewater, Spence Brothers, and Fletcher Fealko Shoudy & Francis, PC. A public hearing was held regarding parking ordinance updates. Additionally, the council discussed and approved an off-premises tasting room license for Detroit City Distillery, an operating agreement with the DNR for fire boat slip usage, zoning ordinance updates, a service agreement with the Woodhill Group, and construction-related change orders and pay applications for Tierney Park and the water treatment plant.

The meeting focused on various park improvement projects and operational updates. Key discussions included updates on Tierney Park, such as the upcoming facility closure, contractor selection, and the redesign of the walkway and play structure due to budget constraints. The committee reviewed Lester Park updates, specifically addressing fence maintenance, trail repairs, drainage issues, and the establishment of the Lexington Community Foundation to support fundraising efforts. Additionally, the committee discussed the potential development of a pocket park and reviewed staffing updates.

The board discussed the status of the Tierney Park project, noting the completion of underground work and future plans for concession stands and playground equipment. Members reviewed updates on the Harbor Project, including negotiations regarding DNR dock parking allocations and the completion of new tanks. Additionally, the board explored strategies for recruiting new members through various communication channels and discussed reviewing plans for Lester Street Park. Public comment addressed the utilization of MHP funds for ongoing park projects.

The Planning Commission discussed the Zoning Administrator's report, which included updates on permitting, sign violation enforcement, site plan reviews for local properties, and power infrastructure concerns. Old business included progress updates on the Master Plan update, specifically regarding state-mandated housing assessments and grant opportunities. The Commission reviewed significant budget issues and change orders concerning the Tierney Park renovation, as well as the incomplete status of Phase 1 of the Gielow site plan, prompting plans for a formal notice of non-compliance. New business involved a discussion regarding the zoning ordinance applicability for portable restroom facilities on leased property, resulting in a decision to seek a legal opinion.

The Board discussed the status of the Parking subcommittee and negotiations with the DNR, as well as initiated a legal inquiry into the ownership of Coles Alley to facilitate potential repairs. Financial approvals included bids for Christmas flower pots and holiday lighting services, a budget for Halloween candy, funding for the Christmas Tree Lighting event, and travel expenses for the MDA Annual Conference. Additionally, the meeting covered updates on the LBA mixer and the need to address board vacancies, specifically the treasurer position.