Jason Kern

The regular session included presentations regarding Recreational Retail Marihuana Establishments, specifically Tranquility Fields, which detailed plans for online sales and community impact through entertainment consumption lounges. The Council held a Closed Session requested by the City Attorney and Labor Attorney to consider materials exempt from disclosure. Under the Consent Calendar, the body approved various items including the minutes from previous study sessions, the 2022 Council Meeting dates, and the closure of Superior Street for the Albion Aglow Reverse Parade. Key discussions involved supporting a Study Session to discuss creating a Minority Business Advisory Committee, approving a Settlement Agreement, rejecting the transfer of property not sold at auction, approving the first reading of an ordinance to amend Section 82-276 of the Code, and approving funding for the Transportation Asset Management Plan via the Local Street Millage. Additionally, a discussion was held regarding the 2020 Water Quality Report, which indicated no health-risk contaminants, and the approval of an initial appointment to the Recreation Commission. The City Manager provided updates on the Comprehensive Plan Community Engagement Survey, infrastructure discussions with Albion College, DDA meeting items, the Albion Aglow event schedule, the upcoming City Council work session with the MML Coach, the 2022 budget public hearing date, and City Hall closure for Thanksgiving.

The study session primarily focused on the review of eight Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Plans for Downtown Albion Projects, collectively referred to as the Big Albion Plan. The discussion detailed the scope of these eight projects, which involve 18 buildings, 29 commercial units, and 73 residential units, representing a $19 million capital investment. A Tax Increment Financing (TIF) overview was provided, explaining eligibility criteria, eligible activities such as environmental assessments and remediation, and how TIF is utilized to repay developers for eligible costs. The session also outlined the projected benefits to the City, including new income tax revenue and permit/development fees. Public comments were also received on various matters.

The joint study session primarily focused on the discussion of the Comprehensive Plan, which is a state requirement that sets priorities and goals for the City. Key strengths identified included resilient people, natural resources (parks, river, trail system), small-town and industrial businesses, location, culture, and strong liberal arts presence via Albion College. Weaknesses noted involved environmental contaminants, institutional racism, lack of shared vision, poor internet quality and infrastructure, homelessness issues, lack of programming for all ages, limited local school system options, and issues related to transportation, childcare, and being a food desert. Opportunities highlighted leveraging partnerships with Albion College, small businesses, and community organizations, alongside improving community connectivity and financial position. Threats included feelings of hopelessness, workforce challenges, lack of support services like addiction treatment, transportation, a shrinking foundation, and financial position concerns. Action steps discussed included pursuing federal funds for Housing, Rental Assistance for Homelessness (HARA), and completing the Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC) Checklist.

The agenda items for the City Council meeting included the approval of the agenda itself, public comments, and a closed session. The consent calendar contained multiple minutes approvals (from July and August 2021) and approval of two permits for alcohol in public places for upcoming events in September 2021. Items for individual discussion included the approval of appointments to the Equity Task Force and Zoning Board of Appeals, approval of grant and service agreements (MEDC and Beckett & Reeder), discussion and first reading of two ordinances concerning Chapter 22 amendments, approval of the Equitable Community Engagement Services RFP, waiving a park reservation application, approval for a Council Retreat, various resolutions concerning personnel action, M-99 reconfiguration, and a commitment to civil discourse, approval for outdoor equipment for the DPW, and funding for water valve replacement. Discussions were also scheduled regarding the McIntosh Park Environmental Report, Tree Safety, and the 2020 Audit Report.

The meeting agenda included a public hearing and subsequent resolution approval concerning an Application for Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate for Albion Reinvestment Corporation, specifically affecting properties on South Superior Street. Discussions also covered the first reading of an ordinance to amend finance/purchases regulations, approval of a Materials Management Agreement with Michigan Agribusiness Solutions, and approval of a $100,000 expenditure request for a fire truck purchase. Additionally, there was a discussion item regarding the Emergency Management Plan.