Jeffrey A. Buerman

The meeting addressed the approval of the Consent Agenda. Key reports included updates from the Marijuana Committee regarding reviewed applicants and discussions on the DDA potentially expanding its area. The Police Department reported on a new officer graduating from the academy. The Department of Public Works director provided updates on budget work and snow clearing efforts. A presentation was given regarding the DDA Awards Banquet. The Council considered and approved the Special Event Fee Schedule, determining it would be enforced starting with the 2027 event season to ensure fairness for the 2026 season applicants. A presentation on the Recast Leaders Cohort was also held. A request from Putnam Township to pay an additional $300 towards Cleanup Day was unanimously denied after discussion regarding existing tax contributions.

The session focused on the review and recommendation of business license applications for the village council. Key discussion points included verifying accomplishments from the previous week, considering new applicant information such as litigation history, and discussing the scoring methodology. Specific compliance issues reviewed involved the prohibition of marijuana/medical marijuana sales, documented tax liens, and regulatory history, including prior warnings and tax payment issues. Operational details considered included vehicle traffic patrons, camera placement and accessibility for monitoring, and security guard presence. Concerns were raised regarding litigation status and regulatory compliance violations involving marijuana noted by a State Police Detective.

The meeting commenced with public comment against a gun range in the village. Key discussions included reports from the Police Chief regarding 'Shop With A Cop,' a damaged patrol car, and a new officer attending the Academy, as well as updates on downtown cameras. A report from Putnam Township noted their search for a new Zoning Administrator. The Council unanimously approved the fiscal year 2024-2025 Audit Summary. The body also voted to correct an administrative error regarding Council pay, passed a resolution to pay for Water Meter Transceiver Units, welcomed Holly Stebbins to the Planning Commission, and approved changes to the Marijuana License Rubric, as well as the 2026 Village Council Meeting dates. The public forum addressed questions about the social district and paperwork for running for office.

Key discussions focused on outstanding issues and new business proposals. Under Old Business, the discrepancy regarding tree skirt invoicing on M-36 required clarification before payment could be issued, and the Tree Grate Project concept, featuring a four-season display, will be formally presented in February. The Governor Whitmer Main Street Funding item was tabled pending follow-up. The Community Garden item involved a practice presentation for an upcoming Village Council appearance. New Business included a presentation on the Certified Tourism Ambassador (CTA) Program and Explore Brighton Howell Magazine, highlighting potential collaboration and a $10,000 matching grant opportunity. An update was provided on the Pinckney Business Owners! Group, noting a recently established bank account and ongoing website development. A proposal for a September festival by Heritage Pharmacy was introduced, leading to a discussion regarding Village charges for road closures for future events. Upcoming events included planning for a Recognition Banquet and noting the date for the St. Patrick's Day Parade. Member discussion touched upon event cleanup responsibilities.

The primary purpose of this meeting was to score the two applicants seeking a Retailer License for the Village of Pinckney, utilizing the Village of Pinckney Business Scoring Rubric. All six committee members participated in the scoring process. The announced results for the applicants were QPS Michigan Holdings with a score of 88, and 759 Pinconning with a score of 87. The committee scheduled a follow-up meeting for February 5, 2026, to review these scores and formulate a final recommendation regarding the license award.