Kimberly Hines

Key discussions during the meeting included updates on ongoing infrastructure projects. The DNR projects (Porter Street & Ross Street Corner) remain on schedule, expected to conclude by the end of September. For the Sparks Grant Connector Walk, the design review is underway and an EGLE permit is determined unnecessary. Regarding the CDBG-DR Infrastructure Grant for the Tonkin and Brown Street Culvert, field survey work is finished, and the project is anticipated for completion by fall of 2026, while the Storm Water Study planning grant is nearly 90% complete. The MI Neighborhood 1.0 initiative has projects concluding, out for bid, and under review. Future grant applications include the Walkability Grant in October and an application submitted for the SSRP Industrial Land grant, with MLR Engineering slated for the resulting engineering contract. The Director of Downtown & Community Development is surveying the Manning Property parcel. Additionally, the renewal contract for the DDA Director for August 14th was accepted at a rate of $65,100, which is supported by grant funds.

The meeting commenced with the approval of the agenda. Key discussions under Old Business included completion of the DNR Porter Street & Ross Street Corner Projects, an update on the Sparks Grant Connector Walk (Trail of Two Cities) which is under budget allowing for improved lighting and guardrail, progress on the CDBG-DR Infrastructure Grant and Planning Grants for the Tonkin and Brown Street Culvert, updates on MI Neighborhood 1.0 projects, and the status of the SSRP Industrial Land Use regarding the vacation of Terry-Diane Street. Upcoming grant opportunities, including MI Neighborhood 3.0 and 2026 Transportation/Walkability grants (TAP & SRTS), were reviewed. For DDA Property, the Manning Property survey is pending, and funding was secured for property cleanup. A replacement for a damaged component of the Downtown Tables was noted. New Business focused on Christmas Lights 2025 communications. Following a review of proposals and discussion regarding power supply issues, the board approved a bid from Santa's Light Crew for permanent lights downtown for specific blocks, with other businesses notified of their responsibility for their own lighting costs this season.

The meeting included the approval of the agenda and the March 2025 financial reports. Old business discussions centered on several infrastructure projects, including the installation of a new water main at the Porter Street & Ross Street Corner Projects, updates on the Sparks Grant Connector Walk, and status reviews for CDBG-DR grants for Infrastructure, Planning, and Neighborhood Design Planning. Discussions also covered the status of the MI Neighborhood 1.0 applications, a grant submission for a portable stage to the Gladwin Community Foundation, and an announcement regarding a new MSHDA housing-related grant. Key property discussions included a scheduled meeting regarding the new water tower location and plans for Michigan State University to present their study. A motion was passed to wire earnest money for the Huntington Bank parking lot purchase. New business involved DDA Director updates and communication regarding the removal of tree roots downtown and potential replacement with outdoor seating.

Key discussions included the approval of the agenda and February financial reports. Under Old Business, the board authorized the City Manager to evaluate the DDA Budget to cover a funding shortfall of approximately $82,400 for the DNR Porter Street & Ross Street Corner Projects, expected to start in April. Updates were provided on the Sparks Grant Connector Walk, Land Bank Blight Reduction (two houses demolished), and the status of CDBG-DR grants, including the stormwater study. The city was notified of not being selected for the ORD Rural Readiness funding. Future parking study findings from Michigan State University students are expected in May. New Business focused on the DDA Director updates and approval to apply to the Gladwin County Community Foundation for a grant to fund a portable stage costing $9,044. Communications included a resident inquiry regarding the permanent removal of downtown trees.

The Regular Meeting agenda was approved with the addition of the Manning Building Property discussion under New Business. Key old business items included awaiting the DNR to close out documents for the Porter Street & Ross Street Corner Projects and progress updates on the Sparks Grant walkway. The board also discussed potential concrete issues with the Community Pavilion and noted that Ross Lake Park did not have Christmas lights this year. Under New Business, financial reports provided an overview of estimated budgets for future years to aid planning. A lengthy discussion ensued regarding a request from Robin Smith (BT Owner) to terminate the 10-year contract for the Beaverton Tavern property; the board voted to follow the attorney's recommendations concerning contract modification, contingent on DDA approval of a new buyer who must agree to all Development Agreement terms. Street sign bracket resizing for the Porter and Ross intersection was noted, and the board reviewed recommendations for parcel splits concerning the Manning Street Building, including parking, configuration, potential sale terms, and rights-of-way. Finally, new officers were elected for the DDA.