Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, November 12, 2018

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday,November 12, 2018, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved bringing the matter of establishing a Citizen Advisory Board to the next City Commission meeting for discussion.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

1) Minutes of the special meeting of the City Commission and CMU Student Government Association held October 29, 2018.

2) Bids for 2019 Water Treatment Plant treatment (bulk) chemicals.

3) Accepted PSD recommendation to utilize the Parks and Public Spaces Department for the downtown grounds care and flower basket watering;

4) Purchase of an unmarked 2018-19 Chevrolet Tahoe to be used by the Youth Services Officer from Berger Chevrolet of Grand Rapids, MI.

5) Authorized Finance Director Mary Ann Kornexl to sign a contract with Tokio Marine HCC for health insurance stop loss coverage.

6) Warrants and Payrolls.

Held a public hearing on proposed 2019 Annual Operating Budget. No action required by the Commission at this time.

Postponed action on changes to Section 98.37 of the City Code until after the presentation of the proposed 5-year Capital Improvement Plan in the Spring of 2019 with amendment.

Approved the recommendation from the LOCC to increase the pay for both the City Commissioners and Mayor effective January 1, 2019 as presented.

Agreed to sell the GumBuster machine and place funds from the sale into the PSD fund.

Postponed action on downtown restructuring until the next City Commission meeting on November 26, 2018.

Approved a $5,000 contribution as a local match toward the Phase II Economic Impact Study for the Ann Arbor to Traverse City passenger rail service from the Economic Initiatives Fund.

Approved closed session pursuant to subsection 8(e) of the Open Meetings Act to consult with attorney regarding litigation strategy and settlement negotiations in the case of Western Islands, LLC v. City of Mt Pleasant.

Approved closed session pursuant to subsection 8(h) of the Open Meetings Act to consider material exempt from discussion or disclosure by state or federal statute.

Agreed to accept advice of counsel regarding settlement negotiations in the case of Western Islands, LLC v. City of Mt. Pleasant.

Postponed work session on 2019 Operating Budget until a future meeting.

Held a work session discussion on establishing a Citizen Advisory Board.

Adjourned the meeting at 10:10 p.m.

meet here. Community Rebrand Revealed

Meet here. is a community movement, created by the community and fueled by local pride.

On November 13, the public gathered at the Art Reach Gallery to celebrate the community brand reveal.  This project initially began with the City of Mt. Pleasant and the Mt. Pleasant Area Convention and Visitors Bureau working on their separate rebrand projects.  Both entities had the foresight to combine efforts and invite other partners to become involved, creating a campaign which encompasses the entire community.

The other rebrand partners involved in this process included, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Charter Township of Union, Middle Michigan Development Corporation and Mid Michigan College.

The goals for this project were as follows:

  • Identifying and owning our community’s sense of place.
  • A consistent message the entire community is committed to telling.
  • Making an impact inside and outside our community.
  • Develop an enduring brand strategy; resulting in new growth opportunities.

To help achieve these goals the community partner agencies selected The Darwin Company, a center for social impact/marketing and advertising firm to lead this process.

Numerous members of the Mt. Pleasant community answered the call to action, and shared their thoughts and insights regarding what our community currently has to offer, and what should be the hopes for the future. This was accomplished through a series of focus groups, interviews and a Town Hall Meeting.  Information obtained through these collection methods was analyzed and ultimately developed into a strategic initiative designed to boost tourism, economic development and community spirit.

It became apparent through this research process that people Meet here. for various reasons. Three recurring themes emerged.

  • Cultural Crossroads: “We are the intersection of every walk and stage of life.”
  • Relaxed Lifestyle: “Live life with plenty of the hustle, but none of the hassle.”
  • No Compromises: “Small town feel with big city amenities.”

The Meet here. campaign is versatile and has endless possibilities for residents, businesses, and service organizations to make it their own while still incorporating the community brand.

To find out more about the Meet here. campaign and how you can utilize it visit https://www.mountpleasantwow.com/meet-here/ or visit Facebook – @Meetheremtp.  You are also welcome to share your Meet here. experience at #MeetMtP.   If you need information regarding how to obtain the Meet here. logo contact Darcy Orlik, Director of Public Relations, City of Mt. Pleasant at dorlik@mt-pleasant.org.

Topics to watch at the 11/12/18 City Commission Meeting

Topics to watch at the November 12 City Commission meeting. To see the full City Commission agenda and packet for November 12, 2018 click here.

-Public hearing on proposed 2019 Annual Operating Budget.

-Consider approval of an ordinance to amend Section 98.37 of the Mt. Pleasant City Code regarding snow and ice removal postponed from October 8, 2018.

-Receive and consider recommendation from Local Officers Compensation Commission on compensation of elected city officials.

-Consider approval of Downtown restructuring.

  1. Resolution for board restructuring.
  2. Resolution for funding and responsibilities restructuring.

-Consider Ann Arbor to Traverse City (A2TC) passenger train study funding request.

Mt. Pleasant City Commission meetings take place at 7 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month at City Hall, 320 W. Broadway Street.

Mt. Pleasant City Commission meetings are also streamed live at the City’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/ and aired on Channel 188, or viewed online at a later date on the MACTV website.

Nov. 10 is “Ladies’ Night Out” in downtown Mt. Pleasant

MT. PLEASANT, Mich. – Saturday, Nov. 10 is the 14th annual Ladies’ Night Out event in downtown Mt. Pleasant. This year will feature fantastic shopping opportunities and giveaways for women while benefiting two local women’s organizations – the Women’s Initiative and R.I.S.E. Advocacy, Inc., formally known as Women’s Aid Service.

The event begins at 4 p.m. at the Broadway Theatre. With a $5 donation at the door, ladies will enter the theatre for fun and an exciting raffle featuring prizes provided by local businesses. Once the giveaways are distributed, ladies can visit participating downtown businesses to take part in the countless in-store giveaways, promotions and specials.

A number of area businesses are also offering deals and discounts known as “Early Girl Specials” throughout the entire day. Visit the events calendar at www.facebook.com/downtownmp for the full list of these sales and specials.

Over the last 13 years, the Ladies’ Night Out event has raised more than $24,200 for the Women’s Initiative and R.I.S.E. Advocacy, Inc.

The Women’s Initiative Fund, initiated by the Mt. Pleasant Community Foundation, provides for the needs of women and girls in Isabella County by granting funds to local organizations that combat the issues more commonly faced by women, including single parenting, abuse, eating disorders and more. R.I.S.E. Advocacy, Inc. provides emergency shelter and crisis intervention for domestic violence victims, as well as counseling services and support groups for victims of violence. For more information about these organizations, visit their websites at www.mpacf.org and www.womens-aid.org.

Summary of Minutes of the special meeting of the City Commission and Central Michigan University Student Government Association – October 29, 2018

Summary of Minutes of the special meeting of the City Commission and Central Michigan University Student Government Association held Monday, October 29, 2018, at 7:02 p.m., at Central Michigan University Bovee University Center Auditorium, 103 E. Preston St., Mt. Pleasant.

Mayor Lents provided an overview of the purpose of the meeting and facilitated introductions of the Commissioners to the Student Government Association (SGA).

Received Petitions and Communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

1) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, October, 22, 2018.

2) Bid of Republic Services of Pierson, MI for solid waste collection and disposal.

3) One-year contract extension with MMI of Mt. Pleasant, MI for curbside pick-up of recycling collection services.

Approved installation of a commercial ball field lighting system at one upper Pickens Field through a donation from the Mt. Pleasant Little League and authorized staff to establish a use agreement on same.

Held a work session in the Central Michigan University Bovee University Center Maroon Room to discuss:

1) Economic Development Contracts

2) Sidewalk Snow Removal.

Adjourned the meeting at 9:53 p.m.

Topics to Watch at the 10/29/18 Special Combined Meeting of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission and CMU’s Student Government Association

Topics to watch at the October 29 special combined meeting of the City Commission and CMU’s Student Government Association. This meeting will take place at CMU’s Bovee University Center’s Auditorium (third floor.)

To see the full City Commission agenda and packet for October 29, 2018 click here.

-Bids and quotations for:

*Municipal Refuse Collection

*Curbside Recycling Collection

-Consider approval of commercial ball field lighting installation at Pickens Field by Mt. Pleasant Little League and use agreement on the same.

-Public comment on agenda and non-agenda items.

*The City Commission is interested in obtaining comment from SGA members regarding any items related to the City.

This special combined meeting of the Mt. Pleasant City Commission and CMU Student Government Association will be available for viewing at a later date on the MACTV website.

Summary of Minutes from City Commission Meeting – October 22, 2018

Mayor read and presented proclamation recognizing Kris and Mike Roethlisberger’s service to the community.

Introduced new Water System Operators Jason DeFeyter and Tyler Heard.

Introduced new Assistant Public Works Director Jason Moore.

Carey Hammel, Director MAC TV Network, gave a presentation on what MAC TV does for the City of Mt. Pleasant and community.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

  1. Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held October 8, 2018.
  2. Minutes of the closed session of the City Commission held October 8, 2018.
  3. Authorized a contract with R & T Murphy of Mt. Pleasant, MI for 2018 leaf hauling and for 2018-2019 snow hauling.
  4. Approved a five-year contract with Vredeveld Haefner LLC of Grand Rapids, MI for audit services with option for financial statement preparation if desired.
  5. Authorized the Mayor and Clerk to sign any closing documents regarding the purchase of easement for Parcel E-17 from Frontier Communications.
  6. MDOT Resolution authorizing the approval of a contract to receive funds for the acquisition of an easement for approach slope clearing.
  7. Resolution supporting fees and charges for the Learn to Bowl program.
  8. Warrants and Payrolls.

-Approved the amended Rear Yard Sanitary Sewer and Sewer Lead Serving Multiple Buildings Policy with amendment.

-Authorized the City Manager to sign a one-year agreement with EAA and also authorize the City Manager to sign subsequent leases if the terms remain unchanged and request the City Manager bring back a report to the Commission annually with the amount spent by EAA on maintenance and promotion before the renewal is signed.

-Authorized the Mayor and Clerk to sign an amendment to the June 2013 Real Estate Purchase Agreement with Mr. Joe Olivieri to waive the requirement of building a spec home in 2018.

-Authorized the fireworks display on Saturday, December 1, 2018 and approve a sole source contract with Wolverine Fireworks Display.

-Authorized staff to issue a refund for the six properties that were incorrectly classified in the Principal Shopping District assessment roll between 2008-2017 and the appropriate budget amendment from the Principal Shopping District assigned balance.

-Held a work session discussion on the 2019 Operating Budget.

Adjourned at 10:08 p.m.

Items to watch at the 10/22/18 City Commission Meeting

Here are the five things to watch at the October 22 City Commission meeting.  To see the full City Commission agenda and packet for October 22, 2018 click here.

-Consider approval of previously postponed amended Sanitary Sewer House Lead Reconnection Policy.

-Consider Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) resolution authorizing the approval of a contract to receive funds for the acquisition of an easement for approach slope clearing.

-Consider lease renewal with the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) for City-owned airport hangar and authorize the City Manager to execute future renewals.

-Consider contract amendment for the remaining sites in Eastpointe IV as recommended by the Property Committee.

-Consider approval of fireworks display as part of the 2018 Christmas Celebration and sole source contract for the fireworks.

Mt. Pleasant City Commission meetings take place at 7 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Mondays of the month at City Hall, 320 W. Broadway Street.

Mt. Pleasant City Commission meetings are also streamed live at the City’s YouTube Channel at https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/ and aired on Channel 188, or viewed online at a later date on the MACTV website.

 

Broadway Street Construction – October 15 and 22, 2018

On October 15, the Street Department will complete the final improvements and water main repair work at the intersection of Broadway and Franklin Streets. This is the area which was affected by the August 13 water main break. Both lanes will be closed for the day at this intersection.

On October 22, both lanes at the intersection of Broadway and Franklin Streets will be closed for the day due to paving.

Broadway Street will close between Franklin and University Streets starting at 7 a.m. on October 15 and 22.  At this time water service is not expected to be interrupted.

City Commission Meeting Summary of Minutes – October 8, 2018

Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday,
October 8, 2018, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room.

Mayor Lents read and presented a proclamation to Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Council
Members, recognizing “Indigenous People Day – October 8, 2018”.

Mayor Lents read and presented a proclamation to Jerry Fountain with the Bowlers Hall of Fame, recognizing “Bowlers Hall of Fame Day – October 14, 2018”.

Received petitions and communications.

Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:

1) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held September 24, 2018.

2) Set a special meeting for Monday, October 29, 2018 at 7:00 p.m. in the CMU Bovee University Center for the purpose of meeting with Central Michigan University Student Government Association.

3) Warrants and Payrolls

Held a public hearing and passed, ordained and ordered published Ordinance 1041, an
Ordinance to amend Chapter 30, Sections 30.04, 30.05, 30.06, 30.07, 30.08, 30.09, 30.10,
30.11, 30.13, 30.15 and 31.01 and add Section 30.16 of the Mt. Pleasant Code of Ordinances having been introduced and read, now be passed, ordained and ordered published.

Held a public hearing and postponed action on changes to Section 98.37 of the Mt. Pleasant City Code regarding snow and ice removal until a work session discussion can be held.

Approved and conducted a closed session pursuant to subsection 8(h) of the Open
Meetings Act for material exempt from discussion or disclosure by state or federal statue.

Conducted a work session discussion on 2019 Operating Budget.

Adjourned at 10:10 p.m.