Village of Schoolcraft

The meeting covered the approval of the agenda and consent agenda. New business included the presentation of the 2011 Citizen Survey developed by the Downtown Revitalization Committee to gather input for a 'Unifying Statement'. Discussions also addressed anticipated reductions in State Revenue Sharing, potentially ranging from $6,000.00 to $28,000.00, resulting in a request to send a letter to State Senator Jase Bolger detailing concerns. Bids for the 2011 Street Resurfacing Program were tabulated, and the contract was awarded to Lakeland Asphalt Corp. for $45,502.70, prompting discussion on future funding mechanisms for street projects. Communications included reading a letter from Judge Santoni regarding the possible closure of the 8th District Court. Administration reports noted a generous contribution of $1515.00 to the Streetscape Project and encouraged participation in the 2011 Citizen Survey and solicitation of candidates for the Village Council Election.

The Village Council meeting included discussions and actions on various topics. These included a presentation of qualifications for the position of District Court Judge, a request for payment to Elmridge Construction, the Schoolcraft Community Library annual report, and a request to remove walnut trees. The council also discussed and approved a Special Use Permit and site plan for Speedway/Marathon for the renovation and construction of a service station, and a memorandum regarding Fund Balance. The sale of the Fire Station was completed. The Village of Schoolcraft is providing water at a cost to assist with the MDOT road project.

The council discussed open burning within the Village and appointed a study committee to recommend amendments to the Village's Burning Ordinance. An overview of budget needs for the South County Fire Authority was presented, and a committee will be appointed to study funding options. A citizen survey will be mailed out with the October 1, 2014, newsletter. The Schoolcraft Community Schools will hold a State of Schools Address on Tuesday, September 23rd.

The council meeting included discussions and approvals for employee bonuses for 2013 and annual compensation for Trustees. The 2014 Hazardous Waste Agreement was approved, along with a Resolution of Appreciation to Daniel P. DeVries for service to the Village of Schoolcraft. The 2014 Schedule of Village Council Meetings was also approved. Discussion took place regarding the vacant seat for Village President, which will be filled at the January 6, 2014 meeting. An update on South County Sewer and Water Authority activities was provided.

The council discussed a Dangerous Building Hearing for a structure located at 123 East Eliza Street, focusing on the need for the Bank of America to either repair or demolish the building within 60 days. Appointments to the Zoning Board of Appeals were addressed, with the re-appointment of Mr. Bruce Imanse and Mr. Mike Rochholz. The council also discussed the recommendation to run a pencil-size stream of water to prevent frozen water lines and considered funding for improvements to East Lyon Street, including authorizing an expenditure to prepare paperwork for potential funding opportunities.