Gary McKinney

The meeting involved a review of library circulation reports, which showed positive growth compared to the previous year. The Friends of the Library provided updates regarding the distribution of two scholarships, potential sales during the Independence Festival weekend, and scheduling adjustments for the Cookie Walk. The Library Department Head's report covered outreach initiatives for reading month, the inclusion of a guest reader, food drive efforts, and positive performance metrics for digital platforms. Additionally, the department head announced a summer button exchange program and a public survey concerning future library options. The commissioners also noted the appointment of a new director for the Suburban Library Cooperative.

The Recreation Commission discussed the Recreation Director's report, which covered details on upcoming trips, the annual Easter Egg Hunt, and the scheduling and planning of the Independence Festival. Additionally, the commission addressed the renaming of the Beer Fest, inquired about the count of tennis and pickleball courts at Memorial Park, suggested the inclusion of start-up bands for festival events, and requested clarification on a survey regarding the potential relocation of the library to Memorial Park.

The key discussion points included reviewing upcoming recreation trips scheduled for June, July, August, and November. The Director provided updates on the annual Easter Egg Hunt and the Center Line Independence Festival, noting that the Beer Fest was renamed the Center Line Fall Music Festival. Commission members discussed the number of tennis/pickleball courts planned for Memorial Park, the suggestion to include start-up bands at the festivals, and inquired about a survey concerning the relocation of the library to Memorial Park.

Key discussions during the meeting included the adoption of the agenda and the approval of circulation reports for January 2026, noting steady MeLCat numbers where Center Line typically lends more than it borrows. The Friends of the Library update confirmed the distribution of two $500 scholarships this year. The Library Department Head provided comments highlighting a successful event with Marvel artist Jerry DeCaire despite school closures, and announced upcoming events such as Random Acts of Kindness Week, laser tag for all ages hosted by TechnoTag, LLC, and two sessions on February 13th for PACE of SE MI and an elder abuse prevention program. Other future programs include a trivia night and a murder mystery event.

The Council meeting agenda includes several key actions. A Public Hearing is scheduled regarding the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds, where the Council will determine the allocation of $3,400.00 for 2026. Council action items involve considering waivers of bid requirements to approve quotes for alarm systems (not to exceed $46,577.00 plus monitoring), and renewing insurance benefits for the upcoming year. Furthermore, Council will consider adopting Resolution 2026-003 regarding a 20% employee contribution towards healthcare costs beginning March 1, 2026, and a request from Macomb County College to collect 100% of its property taxes in the Summer of 2026. Other items include approving engineering services for ADA improvements at Memorial Park and authorizing an increase in the spending level for specific General Engineering water and sewer accounts, as well as reviewing Budget Amendment FY26 number 5. The Consent Agenda covers approval of January vouchers, approval of January 5, 2026, meeting minutes, approval for the annual Clean-up Day on May 16, 2025, approval of a Franchise agreement transfer, changing the date of the Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a Resolution of tribute to Karen Pietrzyk.