5 things to watch at the next City Commission meeting

Fall 2016 Homecoming — CMU fraternity and sorority members volunteer their time to collect trash and clean up local residential neighborhoods as part of the “Greeks Clean the Streets” program. The program will be recognized during the April 24 City Commission meeting.

Here are 5 things to watch at the April 24 City Commission meeting…

“Greeks Clean the Streets”: Mayor Kathy Ling will read a proclamation recognizing the “Greeks Clean the Streets” program, a partnership comprised of the fraternities and sororities at Central Michigan University and the City of Mt. Pleasant. Since the program’s inception in 2012, close to 665 students have volunteered their time during 22 events to beautify and better the residential student neighborhoods.
2017 Citizens’ Academy participants: Mayor Ling will present certificates to the 19 participants of the 2017 Citizens’ Academy. The academy took place over the course of seven Tuesday evenings and the participants learned about the various facets of our local government.
National Historic Preservation Month: Mayor Ling will read a proclamation declaring May 2017 as National Historic Preservation Month. This special observance celebrates the role of history in our lives, and recognizes that historic preservation is essential for revitalizing neighborhoods, fostering local pride and maintaining community character while enhancing livability.
Human Rights Ordinance: A resolution to reaffirm the City’s Human Rights Ordinance will be presented. Adopted nearly five years ago, the Human Rights Ordinance outlines the City’s commitment to diversity, inclusion and non-discrimination, and assures the City will continue to provide protection from any violations of this ordinance.
Brush pickup options: The City Commission will consider several options for free brush pickup.

To see the full City Commission agenda and packet for April 24, 2017, click here.

Mount Pleasant City Commission meetings are held at City Hall on the second and fourth Monday of every month. Meetings begin at 7 p.m.

PEAK volunteer earns United Way award

MAGGIE United Way Award PEAK program volunteer Maggie Klumpp is among the 2017 recipients of the LIVE UNITED award for her continuous dedication to the Mt. Pleasant area’s after-school program. Presented by the United Way of Gratiot & Isabella Counties, the award honors key volunteers for their work to improve the community.

Nominated for the award by PEAK Coordinator Mary LaChance, Klumpp donates her time to the PEAK participants at West Intermediate School five days a week. “Maggie attended PEAK until she graduated high school and has since been a wonderful volunteer and addition to our team,” said LaChance. “She always greets everyone with a smile and high five, and encourages the current PEAKers to never stop reaching for their goals.”

LaChance calls Klumpp a positive role model for students and a “staple” of the PEAK program. “We are so glad Maggie is continuing to be a part of our PEAK family by graciously volunteering her time with us,” said LaChance. “She is truly an inspiration.”

Sytsema named Mt. Pleasant police lieutenant

dsytsem The City recently announced the promotion of Detective Don Sytsema to police lieutenant. Sytsema has dedicated 22 years to the Mt. Pleasant Police Department, serving first as an officer and later as detective.

As lieutenant, Sytsema will oversee day-to-day operations of the road patrol and detective bureau, and will be responsible for duties related to crime analysis and prevention. He will also coordinate special operations with other area law enforcement agencies, among many other tasks.

“We are very confident and pleased with Don’s decision to be a part of the police administration team,” said Police Captain Andy Latham. “Don is a creative and analytical thinker who uses his head and his heart to make decisions. This lends to an inclusive leadership style that is well received and embraced by those around him.”

Sytsema is looking forward to the new challenge. “My vision is that our department will continue to use and explore new technology to support the solving of crime,” he said. Sytsema also envisions continued police engagement with our community and businesses, as he is committed to cultivating positive relationships.

Sytsema will fill the role of lieutenant beginning April 16.

5 things to watch at the next City Commission meeting

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Here are 5 things to watch at the April 10 City Commission meeting…

Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) tree planting: The City Commission will consider authorizing a bid award for the purchase and planting of new trees and vegetation along portions of the Chippewa River. This project is part of the GLRI Grant Program in cooperation with the Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe to improve the Chippewa River corridor.
Capital Improvement Plan: The commission will receive the 2018-2022 capital improvement plan, which details the projected infrastructure projects for the next five years. A public hearing will be set for May 22 to obtain public input.
Adult Softball League fees: The commission will consider an adjustment to the team and participant fees for the 2017 Adult Softball League. These recommendations are based on the goal to have the adult leagues be self-sustaining for the direct costs, a comprehensive review of the City’s expenses and projected number of teams, and new rental rates implemented by CMU for use of its fields.
Brush pick-up options: The City Commission will consider authorizing a one-time service of brush pickup for residential units in the City during the week of May 15, 2017.
Appointments to Michigan Medical Marijuana Facilities Licensing Act (MMMFLA) ad-hoc committee: Mayor Kathy Ling will announce the appointment of the members of the MMMFLA ad-hoc committee.

To see the full City Commission agenda and packet for April 10, 2017, click here.

Mount Pleasant City Commission meetings are held at City Hall on the second and fourth Monday of every month. Meetings begin at 7 p.m.

Riverside Cemetery spring cleanup has begun

Spring cleanup has begun at Riverside Cemetery. All materials on grave sites must be removed by April 15 or they will be discarded. Plantings may be placed beginning May 1. Riverside Cemetery is open daily from dawn to dusk.

For further information or questions, contact the Parks & Recreation Office at 779-5331.