Village of Stockbridge

Key discussions included the approval of the agenda, where a recommendation was made to only require a Chair and Secretary position, dispensing with a Treasurer or Vice Chair. New business focused on the appointment of a new Planning Commission Chair, resulting in Laura Loomis assuming the role. A presentation was given regarding the Parks and Recreation Master Plan kickoff, which is aimed at achieving MDNR grant eligibility through focusing on mobility, pedestrian safety, sidewalks, bike lanes, and trail system improvements, with community priorities including a new playscape and pump track. Under unfinished business, there was an extensive discussion regarding the Zoning ordinance definition concerning bed and breakfast occupancy, and remarks were made about long-term service and necessary training for commissioners. The meeting concluded with the formal announcement that this was the final meeting for Chair Daryl Anderson in that capacity.

The Planning Commission Meeting Agenda for March 5, 2026, included a public hearing for a Special Use request concerning a Bed and Breakfast at 487 Elizabeth Street. Key new business items involved discussions on rezoning the CBD to allow alcohol sales in licensed businesses and considering zoning changes for property in the village's northwest corner for potential development. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the Parks and Recreation Plan, specifically discussing the online survey results and the draft demographic chapter plans with the consultant from McKenna. Unfinished business carried over the discussion on the Bed and Breakfast zoning definition and analysis of Zoning Table 6-71.

The meeting included a public hearing regarding the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Village Budget, which was subsequently approved as amended, along with the resolution establishing the general appropriations act. Key actions included paying bills totaling $157,981.69, approving the SDDA budget for FY 26/27, approving a contract with McKenna for the Parks and Recreation master plan, and approving an auction agreement with Biddergy.com. The council addressed appointments for the Village Council and the Planning Commission board, as well as appointments to the SDDA. Business also involved discussing an update on utility meter changes and the USDA Loan asset management plan, discussing the SDDA Director position, and approving the February 2026 police contract with the Township with a recommendation for refinement. The DPW Supervisor was placed on paid suspension pending investigation.

The Council meeting focused primarily on the selection of a new Chief of Police. Following the approval of the meeting agenda, the Council proceeded to discuss the candidate for the position. A motion was made and subsequently passed to approve Randy Krause as the Chief of Police for the Village of Stockbridge. A public comment was made by an officer regarding the selection and hiring process for the police chief position.

The agenda for the meeting includes several significant items, starting with a Public Hearing concerning the Proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Village Budget. Financial reports covering January 2026 are scheduled for review. Department and committee reports, including Police, DPW, and Zoning Administrator reports, are on the schedule. New business focuses on the formal Adoption Resolution for the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Village Budget, a Resolution for MDOT Category B, the SDDA Budget for FY 26/27, approval of the McKenna Contract, an auction agreement, and appointments to the Planning Commission and SDDA, as well as a Parks & Recreation Resolution. Unfinished business includes an update on utilities and the SDDA Director Position.