Joe Willis

The meeting included two public hearings regarding property tax millage rates and the proposed fiscal year budget. The council agenda covered financial oversight, departmental reports from the City Manager, DPW, Police Chief, and Park Board, as well as an ordinance regarding marihuana businesses. Additionally, the council reviewed new business items including millage rate adoption, fee schedules, budget adoption, the poverty tax exemption policy, infrastructure maintenance projects for water towers and street striping, and performance review processes for the City Manager.

The board discussed the Recreation Intergovernmental Operating Agreement in collaboration with the Marlette Township Board. It was resolved to authorize the City Attorney to collaborate with the township's legal counsel to implement proposed modifications to the agreement, specifically including a stipulation that the interlocal agreement may only proceed contingent upon the passage of both recreation millages.

The council convened to review park and pool operations, programming initiatives, and the associated budgetary impacts for the upcoming season. Key topics included discussions on staffing, operational costs, maintenance requirements for emergency boiler repairs, and proposed fee schedules for park and pool usage. Additionally, the meeting addressed recreational activities, events, and facility usage policies to provide strategic direction to staff.

The council discussed the service line replacement recommendation by Townley Engineering and received a vision plan presentation for the park and pool. Key actions included the acceptance of a councilmember's resignation, approval for the purchase of wastewater treatment plant valve repairs, and updates to authorized signers for city bank accounts. The council authorized the signing of an audit corrective action plan, approved the hiring of a Park/Pool Manager, and enacted revisions to the personnel policy manual. Furthermore, the council rescinded prior ballot language and approved new language for the August Parks and Recreation Millage, while also initiating a process to fill a council vacancy.

The council discussed items including a vacant council seat appointment, the Marlette Community Pool/Park improvement plan, and a presentation on lead service line recommendations. Administrative updates included a report on interest earned, the resignation of a council member, and adjustments to personnel policy manuals. New business items addressed the repair of wastewater valves, updates to bank account signatories, approval of a corrective action plan for audit deficiencies, and the authorization of several grant submissions related to infrastructure and appropriations. Additionally, the council reviewed the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year and the procurement of various equipment and services.