Month: March 2022

Summary of Minutes of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – March 28, 2022

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, March 28, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room, 320 W. Broadway St., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan with virtual options.

Public Safety Director Paul Lauria introduced Krysta Carabelli who is joining the City as our Social Crisis Advocate in partnership with RISE, and thanked all those assisting in the creation of this position.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

5) Minutes of the special meeting of the City Commission held March 9, 2022.

6) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held March 14, 2022.

7) Minutes of the closed session of the City Commission held March 14, 2022.

8) Committed to purchase road salt for the 2022-2023 season through the State of Michigan MiDEAL Extended Purchasing Program.

9) MDOT Resolution authorizing the City Manager to approve a contract amendment for the approach slope clearing project at the Mt. Pleasant Airport.

10) Set a public hearing for Monday, April 11, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. to obtain public input on the MEDC Revitalization and Placemaking Grant proposal.

11) Set a public hearing for Monday, April 11, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. to obtain public input on the MEDC Public Gathering Spaces Grant application.

12) Warrants dated March 22, 2022 and Payrolls dated March 18, 2022.

Held a public hearing and approved the Resolution of Approval for the 2022 Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant Application.

Approved the budget amendment to cover the addition of a Water Plant Operator for the remainder of 2022.

Denied Broadway Central for the May 2 – October 11, 2022 season and a budget amendment.

Approved the requested street closure for Richli, Inc. to hold an EDM concert on Saturday, September 17, 2022 on Court Street with conditions.

Approved submission of City requests for Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe two percent allocations with a summary of the Commission’s top priorities.

Approved the revised purchasing policy to enhance and streamline the purchasing process.

Received proposed amendment to Title XI: BUSINESS REGULATIONS, Chapter 112. Medical Marihuana Facilities of the Mt. Pleasant Code of Ordinances to update standards for medical marihuana facilities and set a public hearing for Monday, April 11, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. on same.

Received proposed amendment to Title XI: BUSINESS REGULATIONS, Chapter 115.

Recreational Marihuana Establishments of the Mt. Pleasant Code of Ordinances to update standards for adult-use marihuana establishments and set a public hearing for Monday, April 11, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. on same.

Made appointments to boards and commissions as recommended by the Appointments Committee.

Reappointed Corey Friedrich as the representative of the Planning Commission to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Conducted a work session discussion on MML Capital Conference learning.

Adjourned the meeting at 10:24 p.m.

Distracted Driving is Illegal

Law enforcement, and the U.S. Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) have partnered to raise awareness of the dangers and legal implications of distracted driving.

(An audio message from Public Safety Director Paul Lauria.)

Actions such as eating, drinking, GPS use, updating your play list, cell phone use of any kind, texting, and scrolling through social media, are all considered dangerous when driving. Texting has become a specifically dangerous practice.

If you are texting, follow the tips below:

  • If you are expecting a text message, or need to send one, pull over and park your car in a safe location.
  • Designate a passenger as your ‘designated texter.’
  • Do not engage in social media scrolling or texting while driving.
  • If you are struggling not to text and drive; put your phone out of reach in the trunk, glove box or back seat.

Distracted driving is dangerous and illegal. Avoid a ticket, and the chance of injuring someone else. Keep your eyes on the road and off the phone.

Krysta Carabelli Fills Social Crisis Advocate Role

At the March 28, 2022 Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting, Public Safety Director Paul Lauria introduced Social Crisis Advocate, Krysta Carabelli.

Krysta Carabelli recently joined the Mt. Pleasant Division of Public Safety as a social crisis advocate. This is a new position resulting from an expanded partnership between the City and RISE, an agency which provides support services for survivors of both domestic violence and sexual assault. 

With an overwhelming need for mental health support services, RISE and the City have entered into a one-year pilot program agreement. The purpose of this agreement is to offer networking services to individuals suffering from mental health and temporary crisis issues, as well as substance abuse and drug overdose situations.  

Director of Public Safety Lauria stated, “An innovative concept for a public safety division of our size, this new position will provide further guidance to first responders in dealing with these specific types of encountered incidents.” He added, “It will also connect individuals to additional resources in obtaining specialized help. The Division of Public Safety is excited to see where this pilot program takes us as we continue to serve with pride, integrity and compassion.”

Krysta, a two-time graduate of Central Michigan University, earned her master’s degree in Clinical Professional Counseling. Previous work experience includes service as a social worker, domestic violence counselor, and a sexual assault counselor. For the past year Krysta has worked for RISE, specializing in trauma and crisis counseling.

Krysta shared, “I went into counseling to help people, and while completing my degree I decided to concentrate on trauma and crisis counseling. Trauma work is difficult, but I am honored to be a support when needed.” She continued, “You can make a drastic difference in someone’s life by being present and genuine. This integrated approach with first responders can make a noticeable difference.”

Topics to Watch at the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – March 28, 2022

Here are the topics to watch at the next in-person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, March 28, 2022 at 7 p.m.

  • Introduction of Social Crisis Advocate Krysta Carabelli.
  • Public hearing on the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant application and consider approval of resolution on the same.
  • Consider approval of Broadway Central for the 2022 season and consider budget amendment for the same.
  • Consider approval of street closure with conditions.
  • Receive an ordinance to amend Chapter 115 of the Mt. Pleasant Code of Ordinances to update standards for adult-use marihuana establishments and set a public hearing for April 11 on the same.

To view the entire meeting packet visit: 

http://www.mt-pleasant.org/docs/board/city.commission/agendas/2022/E-Packet%20for%20March%2028,%202022_reduced.pdf

How to follow public meetings:

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the City Commission Meeting will be held in person in the City Chambers/City Hall (320 W. Broadway Street) with virtual attendance options as well. Non-voting participants may view the meeting live on the City’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/, on Spectrum Charter channel 188 or via Zoom.

If a virtual option becomes unavailable due to technical difficulties, the meeting will continue as scheduled. Residents who would like to provide a comment during the appropriate time are welcome to come to the meeting at City Hall, or email their statement to comments@mt-pleasant.org.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88283075778?pwd=VjlQaEJCMSs2Tyt6ZHRyQ1J3ZXpWZz09

Meeting ID: 882 8307 5778

Passcode: 410939

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.

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

  • Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.
  • Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Individual commissioners can be contacted at the following email addresses:

Mary Alsager               malsager@mt-pleasant.org

Brian Assmann            bassmann@mt-pleasant.org

Elizabeth Busch          ebusch@mt-pleasant.org

Olivia Cyman              ocyman@mt-pleasant.org

Maureen Eke              meke@mt-pleasant.org

Amy Perschbacher      aperschbacher@mt-pleasant.org

George Ronan            gronan@mt-pleasant.org

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.

Sleepy Dog Books – Make It Mt. Pleasant Rental Subsidy Recipient

Sleepy Dog Books, a boutique bookstore, is scheduled to open on May 6th at its 120 E. Broadway Street location. Sleepy Dog Books is the third recipient of the Make It Mt. Pleasant rental subsidy program. Launched in 2020, this grant program is offered to new or expanding downtown Mt. Pleasant businesses.

Fully funded by Lake Trust Credit Union, and administered by the City’s Downtown Development Office, the Make It Mt. Pleasant Program is designed to support new retail, dining, arts and entertainment businesses. The program focuses on first floor commercial spaces within the downtown TIFA district.

Up to two businesses per year are accepted for funding. Selected applicants receive 12 months of rental assistance, not to exceed $4,200, as well as a waiver of City fees and charges not to exceed $2,500. This waiver includes costs associated with building, sign, outdoor merchandising and outdoor dining permits.

Michelle Sponseller, Downtown Development Director shared, “Mt. Pleasant is fortunate Lake Trust Credit Union offers the Make it Mt. Pleasant rent subsidy program and continues to lead by example in assisting new and expanding small businesses.” She added, “Sleepy Dog Books is a model for creating a retail experience while enabling community engagement.  It is very exciting they chose downtown for their store location.”

Riley and Jenifer Justis, owners of Sleepy Dog Books said, “Our May 6th grand opening is planned as a Community Block Party, complete with live music, activities and much more.” They continued, “Through this amazing grant program we were able to take the time and build a bookstore following and community even before the physical opening of our storefront.”

Businesses interested in the rental subsidy program should schedule a pre-application meeting with City staff prior to applying. Contact Michelle Sponseller at (989) 779-5348 or msponseller@mt-pleasant.org to schedule an appointment.

To download a copy of the Make It Mt. Pleasant guidelines and application please visit:
http://www.mt-pleasant.org/departments/division_of_community_services/downtown_development/

Summary of Minutes of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – March 14, 2022

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, March 14, 2022, at 7:00 p.m.

City Planner Kain and Mayor Perschbacher presented the 2021 Community Improvement Awards to the selected property owners.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

9) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held February 28, 2022.

10) Corrections to the MDOT Act 51 map and approved resolutions for same.

11) Awarded contract for 2022 Alley Reconstruction Project to Malley Construction, Inc. of Mt. Pleasant, MI and budget amendment for same.

12) Transfer of parcels from CBD/TIFA to City.

13) Set a public hearing for March 28, 2022 to obtain public input on the MDNR Trust Fund Grant application.

14) Budget amendment for preliminary design and cost estimates for Town Center civic space.

15) Amendment to the 2022 CBD/TIFA budget and 2022 general fund budget.

16) Item removed from Consent Calendar.

17) Received recommended text change to amend Article VII of the Mt. Pleasant Zoning Ordinances to update the definition of liquor store and set a public hearing for April 11, 2022 on same.

18) Received recommended text change to amend Sections 154.1203, 154.613 and 154.615 of the Mt. Pleasant Zoning Ordinances regarding the types of improvements and applications requiring site plan review and approval and set a public hearing for April 11, 2022 on same.

19) Received City requests for Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe 2% allocations.

20) Warrants and Payrolls.

Held a public hearing and read, passed, ordained and ordered published Ordinance 1075, an Ordinance to amend Section 154.414 to update band sign standards and delete reference to downtown Mt. Pleasant signage design guidelines.

Held a public hearing on Green Tree Cooperative Grocery, Inc.’s performance as required under the CDBG-RLF program. Authorized the Mayor to sign the required Action to Affirmatively Further Fair Housing form.

Awarded the contract for the 2022 Illinois Street Reconstruction Project to McGuirk Sand and Gravel of Mt. Pleasant, MI and approved budget amendments.

Approved the Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to sign the MDOT Grant Agreement for reimbursement of funds to the City for the 2022 Brown Street Reconstruction Project.

Tabled Item #16: “Recommendation from the Planning Commission to reappoint Corey Friedrich as the representative of the Planning Commission to the ZBA.” to the March 28th meeting.

Approved and conducted a closed session to consult with the city attorney regarding trial or settlement strategy the discussion of which in an open meeting would have a detrimental financial effect on the litigation or settlement position of the City and pursuant to MCL 15.268(1)(h) to discuss written confidential legal opinions with the city attorney, which are exempt from disclosure by state or federal statute.

Adjourned the meeting at 9:03 p.m.

Mt. Pleasant Fire Department Responds to Millpond Park Brush Fire

On March 16 at 6:55 pm, the Mount Pleasant Fire Department (MPFD) responded to a brush fire at Mill Pond Park.

Upon arrival, crews observed smoke and flames in a brush area east of the park. There were no injuries sustained to residents or emergency personnel.

The MPFD is investigating to determine the cause of the fire. 

The MPFD was assisted by the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Fire Department, Mt. Pleasant Police Department and Isabella County Central Dispatch.

Topics to Watch at the Hybrid Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – March 14, 2022

Here are the topics to watch at the next in-person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, March 14, 2022 at 7 p.m.

  • Consider property transfer from Central Business District/Tax Increment Finance Authority (CBD/TIFA).
  • Consider budget amendment for preliminary design and cost estimates for Town Center civic space.
  • Receive recommended text change to amend Article VII of the Mt. Pleasant Zoning Ordinances to update the definition of liquor store and set a public hearing for April 11, 2022 on the same.
  • Receive recommended text change to amend Sections 154.103, 154.613 and 154.615 of the Mt. Pleasant Zoning Ordinances regarding the types of improvements and applications requiring site plan review and approval and set a public hearing for April 11, 2022 on the same.
  • Public hearing on recommended text change to Section 154.414 to update band sign standards and delete reference to downtown Mt. Pleasant signage design guidelines and consider approval of the same.
  • Public hearing on Green Tree Cooperative Grocery job creation accomplishment through the Michigan Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and authorize the Mayor to sign the required documentation on the same.

To view the entire meeting packet visit: 

http://www.mt-pleasant.org/docs/board/city.commission/agendas/2022/3-14-22.pdf

How to follow public meetings:

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the City Commission meeting will be held in person in the City Chambers/City Hall (320 W. Broadway Street) with virtual attendance options as well. Non-voting participants may view the meeting live on the City’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/, on Spectrum Charter channel 188 or via Zoom.

If a virtual option becomes unavailable due to technical difficulties, the meeting will continue as scheduled. Residents who would like to provide a comment during the appropriate time are welcome to come to the meeting at City Hall, or email their statement to comments@mt-pleasant.org.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88401152424?pwd=U1U4RFZRdVpVRDlVRmhzRUZKVm9VQT09m

Meeting ID: 884 0115 2424  

Passcode: 476845

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.

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

  • Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.
  • Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Individual commissioners can be contacted at the following email addresses:

Mary Alsager               malsager@mt-pleasant.org

Brian Assmann            bassmann@mt-pleasant.org

Elizabeth Busch          ebusch@mt-pleasant.org

Olivia Cyman              ocyman@mt-pleasant.org

Maureen Eke              meke@mt-pleasant.org

Amy Perschbacher      aperschbacher@mt-pleasant.org

George Ronan            gronan@mt-pleasant.org

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.

Election Day – May 3,2022

On May 3, 2022 an election will be held to elect one individual to the Mt. Pleasant City Commission as well as a proposal for Gratiot Isabella RESD.

The two candidates running for the one City Commission seat are:

Brian Assmann

Michael Kostrzewa

Precinct Consolidation:

Please note precinct locations for this May 3, 2022 election.

  • Precinct 2 (City Hall): Voters from Precinct 1 (Ganiard) and Precinct 2 will vote at City Hall.
  • Precinct 3 (Pullen): Voters from Precinct 4 (High School) and Precinct 3 will vote at Pullen.
  • Precinct 6 (Vowles): Voters from Precinct 5 (Kinney) and Precinct 6 and Precinct 7 (Fancher) will vote at Vowles.

Permanent Absentee Voters:

Permanent absentee voters have been mailed an application for a ballot. If you wish to vote in this election you must return the application by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022. A ballot will then be mailed to you. Ballots can be mailed to the City Clerk’s office (320 W. Broadway Street) or placed in the ballot drop box located in the City Hall parking lot.

Absentee Voting:

For those not on the Permanent Absentee Voter list, you can submit a request for an absentee ballot to the City Clerk’s office by mail, or email (clerk@mt-pleasant.org). This must be completed by 5 p.m. on Friday, April 29, 2022.

Absentee voting at the Clerk’s Office is available beginning Thursday, March 24, 2022 during regular business hours with additional hours on Saturday, April 30, 2022 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and on Monday, May 2, 2022 from 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Voter Registration:

If you are currently not registered to vote, you can register online at  https://mvic.sos.state.mi.us/ or mail in the voter registration application found online. This must be completed by April 18, 2022.

After April 18, 2022 voter registration will be available at the City Clerk’s office. Please bring a proof of residency and a photo ID. This can be done until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022.

Election Day Information

Polls will be open from 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3, 2022. Need a ride to and from the polls? I-Ride is offering free rides. Call (989) 772-9441 to schedule.

Visit www.mi.gov/vote to confirm where you are registered to vote.