Melissa Garcia

The primary discussion item involved a motion to enter into a closed session pursuant to subsection 8(h) of the Open Meetings Act to consider material exempt from disclosure by statute. The Commission deliberated in closed session and subsequently reconvened into regular session before the Mayor adjourned the meeting.

The meeting commenced with procedural elements, including the pledge of allegiance and an acknowledgement of the ancestral lands of the Sagon Chipua Indian tribe. Key discussions included a proclamation recognizing February as Black History Month. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation by the Director of Planning on current zoning residential regulations, specifically contrasting conventional zoning with character-based zoning adopted in 2015/2018. The presentation detailed the four residential character districts, special overlay requirements (such as residential-only zones), and the permitting process for various residential uses, including Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and duplexes, noting which require a special use permit. The discussion also covered Special Use Permits generally and the prohibited commercial uses within residential zones, followed by a commissioner inquiry regarding the enforcement of home occupation rules due to reported violations involving noise and repairs.

The meeting included a presentation by Progressive Companies providing an update on the Mission Street Corridor Improvement Plan. The presentation covered the finalization of the existing conditions analysis, incorporating results from a public survey, and reviewed past plans, including the 2020 Master Plan and its vision for a regional center at Broomfield and Mission Street. The discussion addressed demographic changes, noting a population decrease but an increase in residents aged 30-44 and early retirees, and highlighted that the median household income, excluding students, is in line with the state average. Employment analysis showed a significant influx of workers to the city, with major sectors being education and healthcare. The presentation also detailed findings from a walking audit, emphasizing safety, accessibility, and pedestrian comfort as primary concerns due to narrow parkways and lack of buffering. Challenges identified include balancing traffic flow with safety, physical right-of-way constraints, and dependency on the education and healthcare sectors. Housing analysis indicated a strong existing diversity of housing types, contributing to walkability.

The meeting commenced with the administration of the Oath of Office to a new Commissioner. Key discussions included a presentation by the Middle Michigan Development Corporation on its 2025 Annual Report, and public input regarding the City Manager's contract. Items approved on the Consent Calendar included Resolutions #1 and #2 for the Principal Shopping District Special Assessment #1-26, which sets a public hearing for February 9, 2026, and outlines estimated funding of $104,700 per year for 2026 and 2027. The Commission also approved the purchase of two drones, authorizations related to the MDOT contract for street overlay projects on Broadway and Mosher Streets, a Municipal Services Agreement extension, and received a proposed amendment regarding transitory food service units, setting a hearing for February 9, 2026. Furthermore, the Commission authorized issuing revenue bonds, up to $30,000,000, to finance improvements to the Water Supply System, including lead service line replacement. Appointments and reappointments to various City Boards and Commissions were finalized. Finally, the Commission approved a 5% salary increase for the City Manager for 2026 and amended the employment contract to specify 12 months of severance pay if dismissed without cause. The session concluded with a Work Session to prioritize 2026 City Commission Work Sessions and Interests.

The meeting commenced with Proclamations recognizing the Gamma Alpha Zeta Zeta Chapter and LGBTQ+ Pride Month. Presentations included the 2022 Annual Comprehensive Financial Report and updates on the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) project. The agenda was approved with the addition of the Oath of Office for Commissioner Bryan Chapman, which was subsequently administered. Consent calendar items approved included a contract for roof restoration on the Public Safety Building, a contract for lime residual removal, an audit services extension, and setting public hearings for May 22, 2023, regarding proposed amendments to the Human Rights Ordinance and the DWSRF project plan. Approval was also granted for an amended Development District License for China Master Restaurant, Inc., payrolls, and warrants, as well as maintaining the 2023 millage rate. New business included announcements regarding a solar townhall meeting and updates on the community garden. The session concluded with a work session presentation and discussion on the 2024-2029 Capital Improvement Plan.