James Gillett

The council discussed various community projects, including museum summer activities, the planning of an annual summer picnic, and the installation of downtown banners. A public hearing was held regarding the Municipal Water System Ordinance #60, which was subsequently adopted. Other actions included the approval of an MDOT contract for road paving, authorization of Master Plan amendments, approval of a summer tax flyer, and resolution of an easement issue. Reports were provided on fire and emergency medical services, zoning pre-site plan reviews, tree planting scheduling, and little league activities.

This Master Plan Amendment for the Village of Pellston addresses two primary strategic areas: Infrastructure Expansion and Housing & Goals. The Infrastructure Expansion focuses on establishing a municipal water system to address PFAS contamination, including securing grant funding for design and construction, and improving pedestrian infrastructure through new pathways and crosswalks. The Housing & Goals section outlines strategies to promote affordable housing options, support small-scale and flexible housing, preserve and rehabilitate existing homes, encourage infill development, coordinate housing with infrastructure, address vulnerable populations' needs, and protect the village's rural character.

The council held a budget hearing followed by a regular meeting. Key actions included the resolution to issue Drinking Water State Revolving Fund revenue bonds for a new municipal water system project, the engagement of a municipal advisor for financial processes, and the approval of expenditure for accounting reconciling services. The council also approved both the 2025-2026 amended operating budget and the 2026-2027 operating budget, which included wage increases for specific village staff. Additionally, the council discussed a legal matter regarding an outstanding invoice and reviewed various departmental reports, including fire department updates and zoning commission activities.

The council discussed upcoming meetings with McKinley Township regarding municipal water system hook-ups and progress on the acquisition of land for municipal wells. A draft ordinance regarding water service lines and well abandonment was reviewed, noting requirements for public readings and future public meetings. The council approved payment of bills. Committee reports covered topics including fire and EMS call statistics, ongoing zoning violations, planning commission inquiries, DDA reorganization efforts, and tree planting initiatives. Additionally, the council acted on facility use requests, denying a travel ball team request while permitting use of Pioneer Park for a community event.

Key discussions included the authorization for the Village President to sign the Alternative Water Supply Grant Agreement with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes & Energy (EGLE), totaling $11,778,110. The Council also approved Amendments A (Infrastructure Expansion) and B (Housing & Goals) to the Master Plan, along with the required 42-day review period. Financial matters involved approving bills totaling $150,554.07. Committee reports detailed that Fire/EMS runs totaled 516 for 2025, potential damage to the fire hall overhang requiring an insurance review, and an upcoming retirement ceremony. Fire protection fees are set to increase by 5% for 2026. A $200 fine was approved for Mr. Adams regarding zoning violations, with a payment deadline of February 15th. Ongoing issues concerning overnight parked cars impacting snow plowing were discussed. The municipal water system timeline completion date was noted as 2030, with water rates to be determined after final service commitments are made.