2020)

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the City of Mt. Pleasant continues to follow recommendations of federal, state and county health officials while still providing vital City services.

Therefore, through May 28, 2020 the City is following Governor Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order 2020-77, and is continuing its level of building closure and only providing critical services at this time. This includes: police, fire, airport operations, water, wastewater, limited street services as well as limited construction permitting and inspection services.

Other City staff will be monitoring emails and phone calls and will attempt to answer urgent inquiries.

City Parks

City parks are currently open, but park restroom facilities are closed as well as Island Park’s Skate Park and Hannah’s Bark Park.

Trash/Recycling (Updated 5/12/2020 and 5/18/2020)

City trash pick-up is still taking place.

Recycling

The City of Mt. Pleasant has contracted with Republic Services to conduct a one-time curbside pick up for recyclables. This collection will take place on your regularly scheduled recycle pick up date during the week of May 18, 2020. Please place your items at the usual pick up point (curb or alley) by 7:00 a.m. on your usual scheduled pick up day. All City recycling guidelines are still in effect.

REMINDER: Recycling should NOT be placed in plastic bags or in oversized/appliance-size boxes. Boxes 24” x 36” will be collected, if they are not too heavy and can be picked-up by recycling staff.

For detailed information visit:

https://mpcityblog.com/2020/05/12/special-one-time-recycling-collection-for-city-of-mt-pleasant-residents/

Recycling will remain suspended after this one-time pick-up. Further announcements regarding the opening of the Isabella County Material Recovery Facility, will be made when information becomes available.

Recycling fees were waived on the April and May utility bills due to the Materials Recovery Facility being closed.

As a result of building closures, the City has temporarily suspended the direct sale of recycling bins, City trash bags and tags. City trash bags and tags are available at Meijer and Ric’s. Individual tags are available at GreenTree Grocery.

Large Item Pick Up

Large item pick-up is now reinstated. 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/

Second Spring Leaf Collection

Since landscaping companies are now operating, a second leaf pick-up for May 11, 2020 has been scheduled. Please note all leaves must be out and ready for pick up by 6 p.m. on May 10. There will be one collection through each neighborhood starting on May 11.

Public Meetings

The City of Mt. Pleasant will host its public meetings virtually as allowed by the Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order. Citizens may watch these meetings live on Spectrum Charter Channel 188, webstreamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/ or via Zoom. Any citizen desiring to make a public comment must email their comments on agenda items to comment@mt-pleasant.org.

-Virtual City Commission meeting will take place on May 11, 2020 at 7 p.m.

-May 12 Historic District Commission is cancelled.

-May 14 DDA meeting is cancelled.

-May 14 Airport Advisory Board meeting is cancelled.

-May 18 TIFA Board meeting is cancelled.

-Virtual Parks and Recreation Commission meeting will take place on May 19 at 6:30 p.m.

-Virtual Police and Fire Pension Board meeting will take place on May 21, 2020 at 8:15 a.m.

-Virtual City Commission meeting will take place on May 26, 2020 at 7 p.m.

-May 27 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting is cancelled due to lack of action items.

Event Cancellations

Federal and state health officials are mandating all events be cancelled or postponed to stop the gathering of people, of any size. This guidance has caused the cancellation of the following to date:

-PEAK activities cancelled until at least June.

-Farmers’ Market cancelled through the month of May.

-City of Mt. Pleasant park shelter rental reservations are cancelled for the duration of Governor Whitmer’s Stay at Home Executive Order.

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 Permits can also be electronically submitted by visiting www.mt-pleasant.org. Inspections will be scheduled once the City receives the proper recommendations from federal, state and local health officials. If needed, virtual inspections can be conducted through Skype or Zoom.

COVID-19 Resources

The City will continue to monitor this situation and 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.

Information Updates

Information will 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.

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 these links for more information.

https://www.michigan.gov/Coronavirus

https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options

Topics to Watch at the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – May 11, 2020

Here are the topics to watch at the next Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for May 11, 2020.

-Consider resolution authorizing an amendment to the Standard Lighting Contract between the City and Consumers Energy for the removal of the existing light pole in Parking Lot 7.

-Consider extension of conditional approval of medical marijuana license for 3967 Euclid LLC.

-Consider resolution waiving summer tax bill late charges, confirmation of waiver of late fees on utility bills until June 15, and authorization for utility bill payment plans.

To view the entire meeting packet visit: http://www.mt-pleasant.org/docs/board/city.commission/agendas/2020/5.11.20.pdf

How to follow public meetings during this 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 the Governor’s Executive Order and the 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/82681508676?pwd=bWpvVnU4UG1wQUZIMjJ2WDdacmpsZz09

Meeting ID: 826 8150 8676

Password: 929986

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 must email their comments to comment@mt-pleasant.org either before or during the meeting. Individuals must include their name and address.

Stay the course. Wear a face mask.

In addition to continuing our social distancing practices of keeping a 6 ft. physical distance between ourselves and others, all individuals 2 years of age or older, who can medically tolerate it, must wear a cloth face mask. This mask must cover their nose and mouth when out in enclosed public spaces which includes stores and workplaces. Surgical and N95 masks must be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. Thank you for doing your part to beat COVID-19.

For more information regarding the use of face masks visit:

• Governor Whitmer’s Executive Order 2020-70

http://www.michigan.gov/whitmer

• CDC Face mask FAQ: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

Notice to Hannah’s Bark Park Members

We hope you and yours are in good health during this fight against COVID-19. We understand the importance of exercise and fresh air for you and your pets – especially under our current circumstances. However, the health and safety of the public, and the dog park membership, is always our priority.

In order to protect the health and safety of our members, and following the guidelines and recommendations from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (see link below), the decision has been made to close the dog park beginning Saturday, May 2, 2020 until further notice. At this time, we are uncertain as to when the park will resume operation, but we will continue to monitor the recommendations of the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and share any updates.

Membership fees may be extended for the period of the park closure, or you may request a refund for the number of months not used due to the park’s closure. Questions regarding refunds can be sent to Ryan Longoria at rlongoria@mt-pleasant.org

Please note that Mission Creek Park and all other City parks and trails remain open, although park restroom facilities and the Island Park Skate Park are closed. While enjoying these park offerings please practice social distancing and keep dogs on their leashes, in accordance with park rules.

For detailed information from the CDC related to best practices for pets and their owners during the current pandemic, visit:

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/animals.html

Thank you for your continued support and understanding during these difficult times. We very much look forward to seeing you and your dogs at the park in the near future.

Sincerely,

City of Mt. Pleasant Parks and Recreation Department

Summary of Minutes of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission Meeting – April 27, 2020

Summary of Minutes of the electronically conducted regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, April 27, 2020, at 7:00 p.m.

City Manager Ridley announced Interim Director Jason Moore as the new Division of Public Works Director.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

1) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held April 13, 2020.

2) Authorized amendment to construction engineering and design services contract with Rowe Professional Services Company for 1MG Reservoir Bypass Project and budget amendment on same.

3) Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) Resolution authorizing the approval of a contract for partial reimbursement of funds for 2020 M-20 (High Street) Pump Station Rehabilitation Project.

4) Warrants and Payrolls.

Approved the resolution regarding recreational marijuana establishment license deadlines as presented. (CC Exh. 2-2020)

Conducted a work session on potential options for local relief to City residents and businesses due to COVID-19.

Adjourned the meeting at 8:20 p.m.

Mt. Pleasant Police Department Investigates Felonious Assault

On April 29, at 5:17 p.m. officers of the Mt. Pleasant Police Department responded to a call of an altercation at Tall Grass Apartments located in the 1200 block of E. Broomfield Street.

Upon arrival officers determined a firearm was pointed at a sole victim during the altercation. Through victim and witness statements, and further investigative leads, a suspect was immediately identified and lodged in the Isabella County Jail. This suspect is currently pending arraignment. There was no risk to the public.

This is an ongoing investigation. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident are asked to contact the Mt. Pleasant Police Department’s Anonymous Tip Line at 989-779-9111 or Central Dispatch at (989) 773-1000.

The Mt. Pleasant Police Department was assisted by the Isabella County Sheriff’s Department and Central Michigan University Police.

Fees Waived, Second Leaf Pick Up and Sod Repair Scheduled

The last few weeks have been trying in many ways. COVID-19 has altered our daily lives, our methods of interaction with others, and has expanded our vocabulary. We are now frequently using terms such as social distancing, flattening the curve, personal protection equipment (PPE) and mitigating the spread. As we adjust to these many changes our City Commissioners and City staff have been committed to identifying potential ways to assist our residents and businesses. Therefore, we have some good news to share with you in regards to fee waivers and City services being offered.

The recycling fee will once again be removed from your next utility bill due to the closure of the Materials Recovery Facility and curbside recycling being suspended. The City has also delayed utility bill due dates from April 15 to May 15 without penalty. Payments may be made online, by mail, or dropped off at the drop box located in the City Hall parking lot.

Large item pick-up will be reinstated beginning May 4, 2020. Tags can be ordered online at http://www.mt-pleasant.org/residents/online_service_center/. In the City of Mt. Pleasant – Water Sewer Account # field, enter Large Item. After you complete your online purchase call the Treasurer’s Office at 989-779-5387. Once payment is received your tag will be delivered to your door.

Starting May 4, 2020, weather permitting, street crews will be doing sod repair to the areas affected by last winter’s sidewalk snow plowing.

Since landscaping companies are now operating, a second leaf pick-up is scheduled for the week of May 11, 2020. Please note all leaves must be out and ready for pick up by 6 p.m. on May 10. There will be one collection through each neighborhood starting on May 11. High and Pickard Street residents should rake leaves into low piles in the right-of-way. All others should place leaves in low piles in the street gutter. As always, please do not cover catch basins.

The City of Mt. Pleasant is hosting public meetings virtually as allowed by the Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order. Citizens may watch these meetings live on Spectrum Charter Channel 188 or webstreamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/. Any citizen desiring to make a public comment must email their comments on agenda items to comment@mt-pleasant.org.

Information is constantly changing. All updates will be 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.

We ask you continue to follow the recommended guidelines from our health officials, adhere to Governor Whitmer’s Executive Orders, and please, stay safe and be well.

Update from Director of Public Safety, Paul Lauria Stay the course. Wear a face mask. Safeguard our community.

To combat the spread of COVID-19 in Michigan, Governor Whitmer extended the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order 2020-59 requiring Michiganders to stay at home through May 15, 2020. Progress has been made in our battle against this virus but we must stay the course to assure our communities are safe and healthy.

In addition to continuing our social distancing practices of keeping a 6ft. physical distance between ourselves and others, all individuals must now wear a cloth face mask which covers their nose and mouth when they are out in enclosed public spaces which includes stores and workplaces. Surgical and N95 masks must be reserved for healthcare workers and first responders. It is also imperative to keep up the practice of going to the store alone, which mitigates the spread of the virus.

Recreational activities such as walking, hiking, running, cycling, and now boating and golfing without a cart are encouraged as long as social distancing is practiced.

With the change in season, landscape and lawn care companies may now operate and plant nurseries and garden centers along with bike repair shops can be open. Shopping for non-essential items may be done by curbside pickup or delivery.

This fight against COVID-19 is unlike any other. But, by staying home, practicing social distancing, and wearing a cloth face mask when we do go out in public, we can mitigate the spread of this virus and successfully keep our family and friends healthy. Thank you for the vital role you play in beating COVID-19.

COVID-19 and City of Mt. Pleasant Services Update (Posted: 4/27/2020; Updated 5/1/2020)

In an effort to slow the spread of COVID-19, the City of Mt. Pleasant continues to follow recommendations of federal, state and county health officials while still providing vital City services.

Therefore, through May 15, 2020 the City is following Governor Whitmer’s “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order 2020-59, and is continuing its level of building closure and only providing critical services at this time. This includes: police, fire, airport operations, water, wastewater and limited street services. Other City staff will be monitoring emails and phone calls and will attempt to answer urgent inquiries.

City Parks

City parks are currently open, but park restroom facilities are closed as well as Island Park’s Skate Park and Hannah’s Bark Park. (Updated 5/1/2020)

Trash/Recycling

City trash pick-up is still taking place.

Curbside recycling is currently suspended due to the Materials Recovery Facility being closed. Recycling fees will be waived on the next utility bill.

Large Item Pick Up

Large item pick-up is now reinstated. Tags can be ordered online. Once payment is received your tag will be delivered to your door.

Spring Leaf Collection

Since landscaping companies are now operating, a second leaf pick-up will be scheduled in the near future.

No Fee Brush Pick Up – UPDATE: 4/27/2020 – All 150 reservations have been filled.

The City is offering up to 150 households within the City limits 30 minutes of no fee brush chipping during the week of May 11. Brush chipping will be completed at curbside only, no alleys. Reservations will be accepted beginning April 27 at 8:00 a.m. until May 7 at 4:30 p.m. Reservations can be made online, emailing publicworks@mt-pleasant.org, or by calling and leaving a message at the Division of Public Works, 989-779-5401.

Public Meetings

The City of Mt. Pleasant will host its public meetings virtually as allowed by the Governor’s Stay at Home Executive Order. Citizens may watch these meetings live on Spectrum Charter Channel 188 or webstreamed at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/. Any citizen desiring to make a public comment must email their comments on agenda items to comment@mt-pleasant.org.

-Virtual City Commission meeting will take place on April 27, 2020 at 7 p.m.

-Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting (April 28) is cancelled due to lack of action items.

-Virtual Planning Commission meeting will take place on May 7, 2020 at 7 p.m.