Steve M. Duchane

The council adopted a resolution regarding the allocation of proceeds from LDFA bonds. In new business, the council approved a contract award to TG Priehs for local street improvements, as well as two special event permit applications for a church procession and a family fun day. The meeting also included reports from administration, the approval of payment for outstanding bills, and a closed session to discuss collective bargaining strategy and a personnel evaluation for the City Superintendent.

The council meeting included the recognition of the 2026 St. Clair Citizens Police Academy graduates and received administrative reports from the City Superintendent, Police Chief, and City Clerk. Key actions included the approval of a boathouse lot lease transfer, a proposal for professional services for the Wastewater Treatment Plant, and the establishment of a Municipal Sidewalk Program. The council also accepted the distribution of funds for the Parks and Recreation Commission, denied a purchase offer for a specific property, and authorized the purchase of a 2015 Chevrolet Silverado. Additionally, the council heard public comments regarding local infrastructure and discussed successful community events and upcoming holiday celebrations.

The council held a public hearing regarding two major infrastructure projects, specifically the Clean Water State Revolving Fund sewer rehabilitation and the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund water main replacement. Resolutions were adopted to proceed with these projects and to authorize performance permits for cameras within state highway right-of-way. The council reviewed the fiscal year 2025 financial audit, which showed a clean, unmodified opinion, and discussed updates on city administrative reports. Additionally, the council approved an appointment to the Cemetery Board of Trustees, multiple special event permits for community activities such as an art fair, a farmers market, and powerboat races, and authorized the use of public right-of-way for a local business.

The boards held a special joint meeting to review 2025 zoning and planning activity and discuss 2026 potential activity. Key topics included an overview of the draft City Strategic plan, an update on upcoming City Council projects such as road millage and pedestrian islands, and reports from the Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals regarding the Master Plan update, zoning rewrites, and the Downtown Redevelopment District. A brief public comment period regarding pedestrian walkway locations was also conducted.

The board conducted an election of officers to appoint a Chairman, Vice Chair, and Secretary. A public hearing was held regarding a dimensional variance request for the property at 1462 Oakland Avenue to accommodate a gardening business operation. The board discussed the pre-existing conditions of the building, specifically its historical commercial use and the requirement for a rear yard set-back variance under the new C-2 zoning classification. Following the public hearing, the board approved the requested 28.3-foot rear yard dimensional variance.