Michael Greene

The meeting focused on the engagement committee's efforts to improve communication and outreach to city residents, business owners, and commercial property owners. A proposal was discussed to conduct a series of surveys, beginning with a foundational survey aimed at gathering data on how the community currently receives information and identifying communication channels. The Board reviewed a request to split the cost for an Every Door Direct Mail campaign to distribute the first survey, aiming to reach individuals not currently engaged through electronic means. Discussions included the potential for business engagement, the benefit of reaching diverse demographics, and strategies for collecting survey responses.

The Planning Commission discussed the results of several long-awaited public surveys regarding housing, transportation, economic development, and parks and recreation. Key discussion topics included the analysis of public feedback on housing goals, the importance of maintaining housing stock, and how to address polarizing community viewpoints in the comprehensive plan. The commission also addressed the need for future outreach, including an upcoming open house to further explore community consensus on these topics.

The council discussed proposed adjustments to the municipal budget and utility rates, focusing on the need for a more equitable billing structure. Key topics included the elimination of the four-unit minimum billing model, the impact of fixed versus variable costs on water and sewer rates, and the necessary catch-up in rate adjustments since 2020. The meeting also addressed administrative costs, the potential for mid-year reviews of service expenditures like wood chipping, and the impact of personnel vacancies on the budget.

The City Council meeting included a proclamation declaring June 2026 as Responsible Fatherhood Month. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a presentation on the proposed restructuring of water and sewer utility rates, moving from a minimum billing model to a ready-to-serve and usage-based model. Discussions highlighted the need for infrastructure investment, the impact of fixed operational costs, and the risks associated with deferring maintenance on the city's aging water system.

The town hall meeting focused on discussing municipal initiatives aimed at balancing the budget and maintaining resident services. Key topics included a Public Act 33 special assessment for public safety to support police and fire services, a proposal for a dedicated library millage to maintain library services following budget constraints, and an Oakland County regional enhancement millage proposal to support local school districts.