Isabella County Restoration House (ICRH) Opens Emergency Cooling Station During Extreme Heat Warning

The City of Mt. Pleasant is sharing the following press release from Isabella County Restoration House regarding an emergency cooling station during the current extreme heat warning.

In response to the National Weather Service’s Extreme Heat Warning in effect from June 30, 2026 through July 2, 2026 at 8:00 PM EDT—and with forecasts indicating dangerous temperatures may continue beyond that period—the Isabella County Restoration House (ICRH) has activated an Emergency Cooling Station to protect vulnerable residents from life-threatening heat conditions.

Beginning today, ICRH will provide safe, air-conditioned shelter daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM through July 2 for individuals without housing, those staying in places not meant for habitation, and community members referred by partner agencies.

Services Available

Individuals entering ICRH for emergency cooling relief will have access to:

Air Conditioned common areas on the Main floor and lower level.

Restrooms and laundry facilities

Smoking area – NOTE: THC & Marijuana products are prohibited on ICRH Property

Computer stations (with staff assistance available for those needing help completing the GIMI Shelter pre-assessment)

Food and beverages as offered to registered ICRH guests

All individuals must sign in at the main desk and follow ICRH rules and policies to ensure safety and appropriate building occupancy.

Important Restrictions

To maintain safety and protect registered guests:

Emergency cooling visitors are not permitted on the second floor or in any sleeping areas under any circumstances.

Emergency cooling visitors are not considered registered guests and will not receive overnight accommodations or extended services.

Individuals seeking full shelter enrollment will be directed to the ICRH website to complete the GIMI pre-assessment and join the waiting list.

Statement from ICRH Leadership

ICRH Executive Leadership emphasized the organization’s commitment to community safety during extreme weather events:

“As always, thank you all very much for your help and support in carrying out this extension of our mission to provide temporary shelter and empower a pathway to self-sufficiency for homeless individuals and families.”

About Isabella County Restoration House

ICRH is the primary emergency homeless shelter serving adults and families in Isabella County. The organization provides temporary shelter, case management, and supportive services designed to stabilize households and prevent homelessness.

For questions, media inquiries, or coordination with partner agencies, please contact ICRH directly at 989-400-4126

City of Mt. Pleasant Shares Housing Report and Invites Community Feedback

The City of Mt. Pleasant has released its 2026 Housing Report and is asking residents to share what types of housing they’d like to see in Mt. Pleasant and what matters most to them when it comes to housing options.

The report was put together by the City’s Planning and Community Development Department, and it takes a close look at home and rental availability, affordability, demographic shifts and development opportunities across Mt. Pleasant. It will help guide future conversations about neighborhoods and planning to ultimately support future growth, neighborhood vitality and long-term economic sustainability.

Mt. Pleasant is growing and changing in ways that create real opportunity. More working families and seniors are calling our community home, and demand for housing that fits a wider range of lifestyles and budgets is on the rise. The report helps the City understand where that demand is coming from and where the greatest opportunities to meet it exist.

The report also found that more than 12,000 people drive into Mt. Pleasant for work every day, many of whom would prefer to live here if the right housing options were available. Giving more people the chance to live where they work strengthens local businesses, supports city services and adds to the long-term health of our neighborhoods.

The report identifies opportunities for new housing on already-vacant or underused land, as well as housing types that many Michigan communities are adding, things like townhomes, duplexes, small apartment buildings and accessory dwelling units.

As part of the process, the City is asking residents to participate in a community housing survey to share what types of housing they’d like to see available in Mt. Pleasant and what housing characteristics matter most to them. It takes less than two minutes to complete.

“This report is intended to educate, inform and start productive community conversations,” said City Manager Aaron Desentz. “As future housing and land use discussions take place, it’s important to understand the challenges and opportunities that Mt Pleasant is currently facing”

To read the 2026 Housing Report and take the survey, visit www.mt-pleasant.org/housingreport.

For questions, contact Manuela Powidayko, Director of Planning and Community Development, at mpowidayko@mt-pleasant.org or (989) 779-5346.

4th of July Holiday Hours and Firework Safety Reminders

City of Mt. Pleasant offices will be closed on Friday, July 3 and will reopen for regular business hours on Monday, July 6.

As residents and visitors prepare to celebrate, the City encourages everyone to prioritize safety. Thoughtful preparation can help make the holiday safe and enjoyable for all.

Consumer fireworks may only be used on private property from June 29 through July 4 between 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m.

Consumer fireworks, homemade fireworks, pyrotechnics or display fireworks are not permitted on public property, school property, church property, or another person’s property without permission. Violations shall be punishable with fines of $500 up to $1,000.

For those planning to use fireworks, remember these simple safety tips:

Read and follow all instructions and warnings.
Keep children a safe distance away and never allow them to handle fireworks.
Wear protective clothing, including eyewear.
Light fireworks outdoors on a flat, open surface away from buildings, dry leaves or grass, and other flammable materials.
Always keep a hose or bucket of water nearby in case of malfunction.
Never attempt to relight a firework that did not fully function properly.

Additionally, community members are also reminded that minors may not possess or use consumer fireworks. Fireworks shall not be used while a person is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled substance, or during times when a burning ban has been established by the National Weather Service in Grand Rapids, MI. For a list of burning restrictions by county, visit http://www.dnr.state.mi.us/burnpermits/

The best way to protect your family is to avoid the use of fireworks at home entirely.

Summary of Minutes from the 6/22/2026 Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room, 320 W. Broadway St., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan with virtual options.

Approved the Agenda as presented.

Received petitions and communications.

Item #6 was removed from the Consent Calendar.

Approved the Consent Calendar as amended.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

2) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held June 8, 2026;

3) Removed from Consent Calendar;

4) Payrolls & Warrants.

Discussed the future of the former Mt. Pleasant Center Property. No action taken.

Authorized the Mt. Pleasant Police Department to enter into an agreement with Axon Technology through December 1, 2036, and authorized Director of Public Safety Paul Lauria to execute the contract.

Work Session discussion on Consumers Energy Renewable Energy Program.

Approved and conducted Closed Session pursuant to subsection 8(c) of the Open Meetings Act for strategy and negotiation sessions connected with the negotiation of a collective bargaining agreement.

Adjourned the meeting at 9:40 p.m.

Topics to Watch at the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – June 22, 2026

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, June 22, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Discussion on the future of the former Mt. Pleasant Center Property.

Work Session on Consumers Energy Renewable Energy Program.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet for Regular Meeting on Monday, June ^22nd

How to follow public meetings:

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 comment@mt-pleasant.org.

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86326263434?pwd=9m6nOf8Agl5siSwdcsdkFsbjumoyW1.1

Meeting ID: 863 2626 3434
Passcode: 948976
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The 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 at 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
Hanna Demerath        hdemerath@mt-pleasant.org
Maureen Eke              meke@mt-pleasant.org
Amy Perschbacher      aperschbacher@mt-pleasant.org
Grace Rollins               grollins@mt-pleasant.org
Ryon Skalitzky             rskalitzky@mt-pleasant.org
Boomer Wingard        bwingard@mt-pleasant.org

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

Summary of Minutes from the 6/8/2026 Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, June 8, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room, 320 W. Broadway St., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan with virtual options.

Approved the Agenda as presented.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar: 5) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held May 26, 2026;

6) Minutes of the closed session of the City Commission held May 26, 2026;

7) Approved the 2027-2032 CIP;

8) Awarded the 2026 Wireless Access Point Replacement project to Yeo & Yeo with an Information Technology budget amendment;

9) Payrolls & Warrants.

Authorized additional funds for the easements for the North Pathway Project.

Denied Motion to adopt the Resolution to pardon Mt. Pleasant bear as presented.

Reworked the resolutions presented regarding the bear to create a new resolution with the removal of the term “pardon” from the original resolution.

Held a work session discussion on animals ordinance to address raising chickens in the City limits.

Adjourned the meeting at 9:21 p.m.

Topics to Watch at the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – June 8, 2026

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, June 8, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Proclamation recognizing Juneteenth Celebration Day (June 19, 2026).

Consider approval of the proposed 2027-2032 Capital Improvement Plan.

Work Session discussion on animals’ ordinance to address raising chickens in the City limits.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet for Regular Meeting on Monday, June 8^th

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89514136121?pwd=ufdoDNxbM41fh1SHHj2G7izp0twebE.1

Meeting ID: 895 1413 6121
Passcode: 680328
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

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

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 at 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:

Water Meter Replacement Frequently Asked Questions

Why are we doing this?

Water meters have always been replaced, as needed.

The only difference now is the city is replacing meters with updated units and changing out more units across the city’s water system.

Due to cellular technology, it is now financially feasible for meters to be changed from manual read to automatic read.

Because of the advances in technology, the current manual water meter reading system is becoming difficult to replace, since most municipalities have already shifted to an automatic read system.

Benefits

With this cellular technology, city personnel no longer need to enter onto your property to read the outside meter touchpad, it can now be done remotely. Electrical and gas companies already utilize a similar system.

Gives access to a portal (optional) which allows you to view:

Consumption History

Notifications and Alerts – helps in troubleshooting any water problems at your home.

A temperature sensor will also determine if your pipes are in danger of freezing.

If you would like to sign up for this optional portal, visit http://www.waterscope.us (Please allow 30 days after meter installation before account sign up.)

What do I do next?

If you received a letter from HydroCorp in the mail, you need to call (800) 315-4305 and make a water meter installation appointment.

Appointments are scheduled Monday – Thursday 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Customers can choose from (2) four-hour blocks, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m. or 12 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Two-hour windows are offered from 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. There are several customers scheduled in a time frame; you are not guaranteed to be the first in line.

If you did not receive a letter from HydroCorp, no action is needed from you at this time.

What will happen during my appointment?

HydroCorp technicians will have to enter your residence. Personnel will be identifiable with a HydroCorp company shirt and an identification badge.

The meter install takes less than 45 minutes.

Meter location will remain the same.

Since there is an antenna on the new unit, wiring will not be changed.

Questions regarding home access is outlined in the City’s Ordinance 52.29.

Visit: https://codelibrary.amlegal.com/codes/mtpleasant/latest/mtpleasant_mi_code/0-0-0-2642

Structure Fire on Clover Lane Displaces Residents

At approximately 3:08 p.m. today, the Mt. Pleasant Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire at 5414 Clover Lane in the Crossings Mobile Home Park on East Broadway Road in Union Township.

Upon arrival, firefighters observed heavy smoke and fire coming from the rear of the residence. Crews quickly initiated fire suppression operations and brought the fire under control by approximately 4:10 p.m.

The structure sustained significant fire, smoke, and water damage. The occupants were home at the time of the incident and were able to evacuate safely. No civilian injuries were reported; however, the residents have been displaced as a result of the damage.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Mt. Pleasant Fire Department was assisted at the scene by the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Fire Department, Shepherd Tri-Township Fire Department, Michigan State Police, Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police Department, Mobile Medical Response, and Isabella County Central Dispatch.

No residents or firefighters were injured during the incident.

Most home fires occur at night when people are sleeping. Check your smoke detectors monthly and replace your batteries twice a year. Operating smoke detectors may save your life.

Topics to Watch at the 06/04/26 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Z-26-01 – Introduction: Discuss proposed rezoning of parcels 17-000-17-300-00, 17-000-17 303-00, 17-000-17-304-00, 17-000-17-305-00, 17-000-17-306-00, located at the southwest corner of Crawford and Broomfield, from PRD (Planned Residential Development) to CD-4 (General Urban Character District with the Residential/Dwelling Use Restriction), CD-4 (General Urban Character District), SD-U (Special District University), and CZ (Civic Zone), and consider setting a public hearing at the July 9, 2026 regular meeting.

TC-26-02 – Introduction: Discuss proposed amendment to Table 154.405.A of the zoning ordinance as it relates to SD-U University Special District rules and consider setting a public hearing at the July 9, 2026 regular meeting.

PRD Dissolution: Termination of the Planned Residential Development Agreement (PRD) for the southwest corner of Crawford and Broomfield.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet Link

How to follow public meetings:

The Planning 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.

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88448225094?pwd=bHfAbbJVzlwm9NZadnhHnlGLolpgxh.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 421332
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

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

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 at 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.