Summary of Minutes of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – January 25, 2021

Summary of Minutes of the electronically conducted regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, January 25, 2021, at 7:00 p.m.

Video presentation to introduce newly hired employee to the commission and public.

Proclamation recognizing February as “Peacemaking Recognition Month”.

Added a new item to the agenda.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

1) Minutes of the electronically conducted regular meeting of the City Commission held January 11, 2021.

2) Minutes of the closed session of the City Commission held January 11, 2021.

3) Authorized the purchase of a Ford Explorer Utility Vehicle from Krapohl Ford for the Fire Department.

4) Awarded contract for work on Section 1 of EIFS at the DPS building to Cusack Masonry Restoration, LLC of Hubbardston, MI.

5) Approved a budget amendment for the renovation of Conference Room E.

6) Authorized the confirmation of the MERS agreement addendum for retirement plans as presented.

7) Set a special meeting for Thursday, March 4, 2021 at 6:00 p.m. for a joint meeting between the City Commission and the Planning Commission.

8) Warrants dated January 12, 19, and 20, 2021.

Confirmed the sale of up to 3 acres in Industrial Park North to Mitchell Wagoner as recommended by the EDC.

Made appointments of City Commissioners to City standing and special committees.

Made appointments of City Commissioners to applicable City Boards and Commissions.

Approved the appointment of City Manager Nancy Ridley and MMDC CEO Jim McBryde to serve as the representatives on the Airport Joint Operations Board and approved the appointment of DPW Director Jason Moore to serve as the alternate for the City Manager.

Discussion on recent social media post from Vice Mayor Perschbacher.

Adjourned the meeting at 8:53 p.m.

City of Mt. Pleasant COVID-19 Update; Use of Online Services Encouraged (Updated 7/1/2021)

Employees and visitors who are FULLY VACCINATED against COVID-19 are NOT required to wear a face mask when indoor a city facility.

Public Meetings

The City of Mt. Pleasant will host its public meetings virtually as permitted by Public Act 254 of 2020. Citizens can watch these meetings live on Spectrum Charter Channel 188, web streamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/ or via Zoom. Any citizen desiring to make a public comment can email their agenda item comments to comment@mt-pleasant.org or attend the virtual Zoom meeting.

Utility and Tax Payments and Building/DPW Permits

Citizens can make payments via mail (320 W. Broadway Street), the City’s Drop Box located outside of City Hall, or online at www.mt-pleasant.org.
Building and DPW Permit requests can be electronically submitted by visiting www.mt-pleasant.org. In-person inspections will follow recommendations of federal, state and local health officials. If needed, virtual inspections can be conducted through Skype or Zoom.

Small Business Relief

Are you a small business impacted by the COVID-19 outbreak? If so, you may be eligible for a grant or low-interest loan. Refer to this link for more information.https://mmdc.org/our-blog/coronavirus-covid-19-resources-for-your-business/

COVID-19 Health Resources

The City will continue to be guided by information provided by the Central Michigan District Health Department https://www.cmdhd.org/novel-coronavirus, the State of Michigan https://www.michigan.gov/coronavirus, and the Center for Disease Control & Prevention https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html.

COVID-19 Vaccination Information

To stay updated on the most recent COVID-19 vaccination information, visit the Central Michigan District Health Department’s website at www.cmdhd.org.

Information Updates

Information will continue to be updated and shared via the City’s website (www.mt-pleasant.org), Blog (mpcityblog.com), Facebook and Twitter accounts, MACTV Charter Spectrum Channel 188, and the Community Information Phone Line (989) 779-5320.

Topics to Watch at the VIRTUAL Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – January 25, 2021

Here are the topics to watch at the next virtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, January 25, 2021 at 7 p.m.

Consider confirmation of sale of property as recommended by the Economic Development Corporation (EDC).

Appointment of City Commissioners to City standing and special committees.

Consider appointment of City Commissioners to applicable City Boards and Commissions.

Consider appointment of City representative and MMDC representative to the Airport Joint Operations Board.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

Click to access 1.25.21.pdf

How to follow public meetings during social distancing:

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the City of Mt. Pleasant is following federal, state and county health officials’ recommendations while still providing valuable City services.

Even though the City Commission meeting will take place as scheduled, it will be an electronically conducted meeting as allowed by Public Act 254 of 2020, allowing public bodies to meet remotely. City Commission Chambers will be closed to the public.

Citizens can watch the City Commission meeting live on Spectrum Charter Channel 188, web streamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/ or via Zoom.

Zoom Meeting instructions via computer, phone, or dial-in number are as follows:

Zoom Meeting information

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85372130010?pwd=T2RucUU3TXFrazN2YWNUTlVMd2VEZz09

Passcode: 474328

Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

Audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

For participants accessing via computer or smartphone please use the “Raise Your Hand” icon to indicate you would like to speak. First, click on the “Participants” icon at the bottom of your screen. Next, click on the “Raise Your Hand” icon near the bottom right corner of the screen.
To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.
Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting. Any citizen desiring to make a public comment on an agenda item may email their comments.

Attendance to the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

• Members of the public must provide their name and address with their comments.

• Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting in writing or emailed to comment@mtpleasant.org.

• Individual commissioners can be contacted at the following email addresses:

Mary Alsager malsager@mt-pleasant.org

Olivia Cyman ocyman@mt-pleasant.org

Lori Gillis lgillis@mt-pleasant.org

William Joseph wjoseph@mt-pleasant.org

Amy Perschbacher aperschbacher@mt-pleasant.org

George Ronan gronan@mt-pleasant.org

Pete Tolas ptolas@mt-pleasant.org

• Comments/Questions can be emailed to comment@mt-pleasant.org during the meeting and during normal public comment sections of the agenda.

• Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment periods.

Persons with disabilities needing assistance to participate may call the Human Resources office at (989) 779-5314. Persons requiring speech or hearing assistance may contact the City through the Michigan Relay Center at 711. A 48-hour advance notice is necessary for accommodation.

Free Tree Planting Program

The City of Mt. Pleasant plants a variety of trees in the city rights-of-way as part of the Urban Forestry Plan. Residential and commercial property owners are eligible for one free tree per year, to be planted in the right of way in front of their property. The Street Department will determine the best location for the tree. Once planted, the property owner is asked to water the tree, with additional watering encouraged during extended periods of hot, dry weather.

To receive a free tree and have it planted in the Spring, fill out a Tree Application form and return it to the Department of Public Works at 320 W. Broadway Street, by April 1, 2021. Both the application and tree brochure are located on the City’s website at www.mt-pleasant.org.

If individuals wish to plant their own tree in the right-of-way, a permit must be obtained from the Division of Public Works office. There is no charge for the permit, however, there is a limitation to the size and species of tree which can be planted in this area. For more information, please contact the Division of Public Works office at 989-779-5401.

City of Mt. Pleasant Extends Building Closure until 2/1/2021; But Full Services Provided

In order to keep our community safe and slow the spread of COVID-19, the City of Mt. Pleasant is heeding the warning of federal, state and local health officials while continuing to provide important city services. Therefore, City Hall and Public Safety offices will continue to be closed to the public until February 1, 2021. Access to city services is still available online, over the phone, or by appointment only. Residents are encouraged to conduct their city business virtually.

If an in-person transaction/service is necessary, an appointment must be made in advance. Upon request, staff will schedule an appointment within one business day. Individuals coming to a city facility for a scheduled face-to-face transaction will be required to do the following:

Call the City staff member they are meeting from the parking lot upon arrival for their pre-scheduled appointment.
Over the phone, the City staff member will go through a health-screening questionnaire with the visitor.
If answers suggest a potential COVID risk, the individual will not be admitted to the building.
If answers do not appear to present a COVID risk, City staff will meet the individual in the vestibule/lobby. Transactions and meetings will take place in this area, if possible.
A facemask must be worn when visiting a city building.

Trash/Recycling

City trash pick-up and recycling is still taking place as per the normal schedule.
City trash bags and tags are available at Meijer and Ric’s. Individual tags are available at GreenTree Grocery. If purchase of a recycling bin, City trash bags or tags are necessary at City Hall, an appointment must be made.

Large Item Pick Up

Tags can be ordered online. Once payment is received, your tag will be delivered to your door. http://www.mt-pleasant.org/residents/online_service_center/.

Public Meetings

Utility and Tax Payments and Building/DPW Permits

Citizens can make payments via mail (320 W. Broadway Street), the City’s Drop Box located outside of City Hall, or online at www.mt-pleasant.org. An appointment must be made for cash payments.
Building and DPW Permit requests can be electronically submitted by visiting www.mt-pleasant.org. In-person inspections will follow recommendations of federal, state and local health officials. If needed, virtual inspections can be conducted through Skype or Zoom.

Penalty on Property Taxes Waived

Mt. Pleasant City Commissioners approved waiving the 3% penalty for summer and winter property taxes paid after February 16, 2021 and before March 2, 2021. State law allows the City Commission to waive all, or part of penalty fees, but not interest on past due taxes. Delinquent summer tax payments are subject to a 6% interest tax rate.

Post marks are not accepted therefore allow ample time for postal delivery by March 2, 2021. Payments may also be made online at www.mt-pleasant.org, or by using the drop box located in the City Hall parking lot at 320 W. Broadway Street.

Tax payments received on or after March 2, 2021 are payable to the Isabella County Treasurer and will be subject to interest and penalty in accordance with state law.

COVID-19 Health Resources

COVID-19 Vaccination Information

To stay updated on the most recent COVID-19 vaccination information, visit the Central Michigan District Health Department’s website at www.cmdhd.org.

PLEASE NOTE: As of 1/18/2021, more than 16,000 residents over the age of 65 have signed up to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. Currently, the Central Michigan District Health Department is only receiving 1,200 vaccine doses from the State of Michigan for the week of 1/18/2021. Thank you for your patience as the health department is working to get as many individuals vaccinated with the supply available.

Information Updates

Mt. Pleasant City Commission Waives 3% Penalty on Taxes

On January 11, 2021 Mt. Pleasant City Commissioners approved waiving the 3% penalty for summer and winter property taxes paid after February 16, 2021 and before March 2, 2021. State law allows the City Commission to waive all, or part of penalty fees, but not interest on past due taxes. Delinquent summer tax payments are subject to a 6% interest tax rate.

Tax payments received on or after March 2, 2021 are payable to the Isabella County Treasurer and will be subject to interest and penalty in accordance with state law.

Summary of Minutes of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – January 11, 2021

Summary of Minutes of the electronically conducted regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, January 11, 2021, at 7:00 p.m..

Commissioner William Joseph was elected Mayor for 2021.

Commissioner Amy Perschbacher was elected Vice Mayor for 2021.

Adopted resolution setting time and day of regular meetings. 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month beginning at 7 p.m.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

1) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held December 14, 2020.

2) MDOT performance resolution for governmental agencies for the purpose of representing the City in transactions.

3) Appointments of City Officials to applicable City boards and commissions for 2021.

Authorized the Mayor and Clerk to sign the Airport Joint Operations Agreement as presented and to retain the current Airport Advisory Board members until their terms expire.

Approved the resolution to waive the 3% penalty on unpaid taxes between February 17 and March 1 as presented.

Approved and conducted closed session pursuant to subsection 8(e) of the Open Meetings Act to consult with counsel regarding pending litigation.

Adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m.

City of Mt. Pleasant Trash Collection Delayed One Day; Recycling to be Collected as Scheduled

Due to the icy road conditions, Republic Services is canceling their trash collection routes in Mt. Pleasant on Tuesday, January 12, 2021. Trash pick up will be delayed one day for the remainder of the week.

PLEASE NOTE: Recycling collection, provided by MMI, will take place as originally scheduled.

City Commissioners Take Oath of Office; Mayor and Vice Mayor Elected

At tonight’s City Commission meeting, newly elected commissioners, William Joseph and Olivia Cyman were given the oath of office by Interim City Clerk Chris Saladine. Immediately following, William Joseph was elected mayor and Amy Perschbacher was elected vice mayor.

2021 City Commission:

Mary Alsagar, Commissioner malsager@mt-pleasant.org

Olivia Cyman, Commissioner ocyman@mt-pleasant.org

Lori Gillis, Commissioner lgillis@mt-pleasant.org

William Joseph, Mayor wjoseph@mt-pleasant.org

Amy Perschbacher, Vice Mayor aperschbacher@mt-pleasant.org

George Ronan, Commissioner gronan@mt-pleasant.org

Petro Tolas, Commissioner ptolas@mt-pleasant.org

City Commission meetings take place at 7 p.m. on the 2^nd and 4^th Monday’s of the month.

Due to COVID-19, City Commission meetings will take place as scheduled, but they will be electronically conducted meetings as allowed by Public Act 254 of 2020, allowing public bodies to meet remotely. City Commission Chambers will be closed to the public.

Citizens can watch the City Commission meeting live on Spectrum Charter Channel 188, web streamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/ or via Zoom. What ‘topics to watch’ and Zoom sign-in information will be posted on the City of Mt. Pleasant Facebook Page, Twitter feed and blog (mpcityblog.com) the Friday before the City Commission meeting.

Mt. Pleasant Fire Department Responds to Two Structure Fires Over Weekend

On January 9, 2021 at 7:06 a.m. the Mt. Pleasant Fire Department (MPFD) responded to a house fire at 448 E. Pickard Road in Union Township.

Upon arrival firefighters observed light smoke coming from the structure. It was determined the fire was located in the attic, and was quickly extinguished. Smoke and fire damage were sustained in the attic and the rear of the home. The MPFD is currently investigating to determine the cause of the fire.

The occupants of the residence were home at the time of the incident and safely exited the structure.

The MPFD was assisted by the Isabella County Fire Investigation Team and the Deerfield Fire Department.

On January 10, 2021 at 5:21 a.m. the MPFD responded to a barn fire at 4989 E. Millbrook Road in Union Township. Firefighters arrived on the scene and observed a large barn fully engulfed in heavy smoke and flames. The building is determined a total loss. The MPFD is investigating the cause of the fire.

All farm animals were safely removed from the area.

The MPFD was assisted by MMR, Shepherd Tri-Township Fire Department, Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Fire Department and Fremont Fire Department.