Summary of Minutes of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – 11/28/2022

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

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

8) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held November 14, 2022.

9) Purchase of 2023 model Caterpillar backhoe from Michigan CAT.

10) Bid of RBS of Grand Rapids, MI for 2023-2025 Custodial Services.

11) Purchase of a police administration replacement vehicle as part of the Krapohl Buy Back Program.

12) Authorized the purchase of 3 Lucas devices from Stryker Medical of Chicago, IL.

13) Authorized the Mayor to sign a letter of support for MSHDA NEP application.

14) Budget amendment to purchase water treatment chemicals.

15) Warrants and Payrolls.

Held a public hearing and approved DDA License for China Master at their 1216 South Mission St. location.

Approved the final 2023 Annual Operating Budget as presented.

Adopted Resolution amending rates, fees and charges for sewer and water demand effective January 1, 2023.

Reappointments to various boards and commissions as recommended by the Appointments Committee.

Held a Work Session on Property Maintenance Code.

Held a Work Session on MML Annual Convention learning.

Adjourned at 8:12 p.m.

Christmas Celebration Parade Route and Road Closure Information

It is time to visit Downtown Mt. Pleasant and enjoy the Christmas Celebration slated for December 2-3, 2022. Please note the following street closures. For full event information visit: www.mt-pleasant.org/christmascelebration.

Thursday, December 1 starting at 5 p.m. – Saturday, December 3 at 10 p.m.

Broadway St. closed from Main to Franklin.

Court St. closed from Jockey Alley to Broadway.

University St. closed from Broadway to Cat’s Meow Alley.

Franklin St. closed from Broadway to Cat’s Meow Alley.

Beginning December 1 at 4 p.m., cars left on the streets noted above will be subject to towing.

Saturday, December 3

6 a.m. – 10 p.m. No on street parking on Main St. from Town Center to High St.

Cars left on Main St. will be subject to towing.

8 a.m. – 10 p.m. Broadway St. closed from Main to University.

2 p.m. – 10 p.m. Main St. closed to through traffic from Town Center to High St.

The lighted parade which begins at 6 p.m. on December 3, starts at the First United Methodist Church, travels north on Main Street, east on Broadway Street, south on Lansing Street to Michigan Street. B’s Music Shop will serve as parade Grand Marshal.

PARADE SAFETY NOTE:  For the safety of parade-goers and parade participants; please do not venture out into the street during the parade. Stay on the sidewalk during the entire duration of the parade.

Topics to Watch at the Hybrid Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – November 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, November 28, 2022 at 7 p.m.

  • Consider purchase of Lucas devices from Stryker Medical.
  • Public hearing for the Development District (DDA) License for China Master and consider resolution on the same.
  • Consider resolution approving the final 2023 Operating Budget and set the millage rate for 2023.
  • Consider reappointments to the various boards and commissions as recommended by the Appointments Committee.

To view the entire meeting packet visit: 

How to follow public meetings:

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.

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81898905110?pwd=RFdFanltMGhCL2crUm1VQ0J6RG5qUT09

Meeting ID: 818 9890 5110

Passcode: 759190

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

Bryan Chapman          bchapman@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.

Electric Bikes, Scooters and Skateboards – Fire Hazard Information You Need to Know

Electric bikes, scooters and skateboards can be fun, but they also present a fire hazard due to their lithium-ion batteries. When damaged or overcharged, lithium-ion batteries can overheat, catch on fire, and even lead to explosions. These fires often burn very hot and are difficult for firefighters to extinguish.

Chief Rick Beltinck of the Mt. Pleasant Fire Department shared, “Lithium-ion batteries store a large amount of energy, and have a high probability of catching fire if not handled properly.” He continued, “As more products rely on lithium-ion energy, it is imperative that consumers are aware of the risks, and properly store and operate these powerful batteries.”

If you have an e-bike, e-scooter, e-skateboard, or any lithium-ion powered product, there are several fire prevention tips you should follow.

  • Purchase products that have the Underwriters Laboratories Mark (UL).
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for charging and storage.
  • Use the manufacturer’s cord and power adapter made for the device.
  • Do not overcharge items with lithium-ion batteries. Unplug when fully charged.
  • Never leave your bike/scooter/skateboard unattended while charging.
  • Continually inspect lithium-ion batteries for any signs of damage.

Nominating Petitions for Mt. Pleasant City Commission Now Available

City Commission nominating packets for the May 2, 2023 election are available at City Hall, office of the City Clerk, 320 W. Broadway Street, from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.  

Completed nominating petitions may be filed with the City Clerk starting Monday, December 19, 2022. The deadline to file is 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday, January 17, 2023. Petitions must have no less than 50 and no more than 80 signatures.

One (1) partial City Commission term is open due to the resignation of Olivia Cyman. This term runs from May 2023 through December 31, 2023.

The city election will take place on Tuesday, May 2, 2023.

Chris Leonard Named Youth Services Unit Officer

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department (MPPD) is pleased to announce Officer Chris Leonard has been named Youth Services Unit (YSU) Officer for Mt. Pleasant High School.

Officer Leonard joined the MPPD in April 2022. Prior law enforcement experience includes, 13 years of service with the Isabella County Sheriff’s Office as a corrections sergeant and road patrol deputy.

Chris received his corrections academy certificate from Mid-Michigan Community College and is a graduate of the Delta College Police Academy.

The YSU, in existence since 1996, is a valuable program which involves police positively interacting with youth at an early age. The YSU Officer spends a considerable amount of time in the schools and provides guidance and support to students when needed, ultimately forming lifelong bonds. The popular Youth Police Academy and Shop with a Cop are just a few of the programs hosted by YSU.

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

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, November 14, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room, 320 W. Broadway St., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan with virtual options.

Mayor Perschbacher recited the Proclamation recognizing the Elimination of Violence Against Women Day on November 25, 2022.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

7) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held October 24, 2022.

8) Contract with Adams & Associates of Grand Rapids, MI for appraisal services.

9) Bid of GreenScene Landscaping of Mt. Pleasant, MI for Downtown Sidewalk Snow Removal 2022-2023.

10) Set a public hearing for Monday, November 28, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. on China Master’s request for a Development District (DDA) License at 1216 South Mission St.

11) Resolution approving the submittal of an application for the 2022 TAP Grant.

12) MDOT resolution authorizing the approval of a contract for the reimbursement of funds for M-20 Reconstruction Project.

13) Appointments to the 9-1-1 Governing Board.

14) Bid of Tokio Marine HCC for 2023 stop loss coverage insurance.

15) Warrants and Payrolls

Held a public hearing on S.A. #3-22 roll and adopted Resolution #5 to approve the roll and set the payment terms.

Held a public hearing on proposed 2023 Annual Operating Budget. There is no action required at this time.

Approved the Resolution to dissolve the LDFA. (CC Exh. 2-22)

Adopted the final amended budget for the LDFA.

Adopted the proposed PILOT policy and authorized staff to solicit proposals for affordable housing projects during the first quarter of 2023.

Approved revised Resolution #5 for S.A. #2-22.

Approved Agreement on Restrictive Covenants associated with City property with Valero contingent on final review of the City Attorney and the City Manager and the change from Texas to Michigan in which the Guaranty shall be governed by.

Held a Work Session Discussion on Parking Enforcement.

Adjourned the meeting at 8:52 p.m.

Snow Emergencies – City of Mt. Pleasant

If a snow emergency is declared by City staff, on-street parking will NOT be permitted.

During a snow emergency, failure to remove vehicles from the street will result in a ticket. Towing may be utilized if ticketing has proven ineffective and/or the vehicles parked on the street cause a delay in snow removal.

Notice of when a snow emergency is declared, and later lifted, will be provided through the city’s social media channels, blog https://mpcityblog.com/, community information phone line (989-779-5320), local media notification, and an email alert.

To receive an email notification, sign up to receive the city’s monthly eConnections newsletter by visiting http://www.mt-pleasant.org/news/e-news.asp.

Other parking ordinance guidelines are as follows:

  • Overnight street parking is allowed throughout the City of Mt. Pleasant year-round, except for the Downtown area.
  • Downtown street parking is prohibited from 4 – 6 a.m. year-round.
  • When a snow emergency is declared, all cars must be removed from the street.

Cram a Cruiser: Join Forces with the Mt. Pleasant Police Department to Support Toys for Tots

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department and Krapohl Ford Lincoln invites the public to help ‘cram a cruiser’ with new, unwrapped, unopened toys to support Toys for Tots.

Mt. Pleasant Police Officers look forward to personally thanking you for your generosity at the toy drop offs scheduled for:

  • December 1 from 3:00 – 5:30 p.m. at Kraphol Ford Lincoln, 1415 E. Pickard Road.
  • December 8 from 4:00-6:30 p.m. in front of the Division of Public Safety Building, 804 E. High Street.
  • December 15 from 4:00 – 6:30 p.m. in front of the Division of Public Safety Building, 804 E. High Street.

Topics to Watch at the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – November 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, November 14, 2022 at 7 p.m.

  • Public hearing on Special Assessment District #3-22 roll and consider approval of Resolution #5 to approve the roll and set the payment terms for Special Assessment District #3-22.
  • Public hearing on proposed 2023 Annual Operating Budget.
  • Consider resolution to dissolve the Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA).
  • Consider adoption of PILOT Policy and authorize staff to solicit proposals for affordable housing projects in 2023.
  • Consider agreement on restrictive covenants associated with City property.

To view the entire meeting packet visit: 

How to follow public meetings:

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.

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85345598332?pwd=NWtaS2p0U20xZ2RNTWVvTFVKWGlrdz09

Meeting ID: 853 4559 8332

Passcode: 634121

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

Bryan Chapman          bchapman@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.