Heather L. McCallister

The council discussed service issues with a waste management provider, adopted an amended agenda, and approved budget amendments along with a schedule of bills. Key considerations included the introduction of an ordinance to amend site plan review procedures, the approval of a three-year contract extension for assessment administration services, and the adoption of a resolution for the SMART Municipal and Community Credit contract to fund transit services. Additionally, a request for a mobile food vendor for a promotional event was approved.

The council conducted a review of the proposed FY2025-2026 City Budget, discussing various adjustments to the General Fund, including TIFA capture reductions and potential millage or fee schedule updates. Key discussion items included the potential sale of a skidsteer, utility charging structures for park user groups, facility rental policies for non-profits, and the evaluation of various departmental expenditures such as audit costs, police policy services, wage allocations, tree planting programs, and equipment purchases. Additionally, the council reviewed administrative updates regarding police staffing, streetscape maintenance, grant opportunities, and the mural project, while also identifying infrastructure needs for fire hydrants and street lights.

The meeting included the review of revenue and expense reports and various City Council minutes. The board approved the award of a contract for the Fire Hall Parking Lot Paving project to Asphalt Specialists, Inc., with plans to coordinate the relocation of an existing shed at no cost to the city. Additionally, two members were appointed to the EDC Mural Committee, with preliminary discussions held regarding mural locations and future signage ordinances. The Director provided updates on upcoming road repaving projects and the delivery of new furniture for City Hall.

The Commission held a public hearing and subsequent consideration regarding a text amendment to Section 18.02 concerning the review process for Temporary, Special Event, and Other Uses, ultimately recommending approval to the City Council. The meeting also included reports from city staff regarding the Prosper-Tech project status and permit approvals for Perfection Decks, as well as announcements regarding upcoming community events like the Perennial Exchange and Memorial Day Parade.

The Council approved several special event requests, including a mobile food vendor for the Heritage Festival, an Autumn Nights Market, and a mobile food vendor for a retirement party. A memorial donation agreement for benches, a light, a tree, and landscaping was authorized. The Council awarded a contract for the Gratiot Avenue mill and overlay project to Pro-Line Asphalt. Additionally, a future budget workshop was scheduled, and two members were appointed to the Mural Committee. Council members also discussed traffic enforcement concerns regarding semi-trucks on the State Highway.