Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, October 10, 2022, at 7:00 p.m., in the City Commission Room, 320 W. Broadway St., Mt. Pleasant, Michigan with virtual options.
City Clerk administered the Oath of Office to newly appointed City Commissioner Bryan Chapman.
Mayor Perschbacher read and presented a Proclamation recognizing Indigenous People’s Day – October 10, 2022. The Onion Creek Drummers performed the Drum Ceremony.
Approved the Agenda as presented.
Received petitions and communications.
Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:
4) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held September 26, 2022.
5) Contract with Great Lakes Concrete Restoration Inc. of Troy/Prudenville, MI for the Apparatus Bay Floor Restoration Project.
6) Warrants and Payrolls.
Held a public hearing and passed, ordained and ordered published Ordinance 1085, an ordinance to add a Chapter 116 to Title XI: Business Regulations of the City of Mt. Pleasant Code of Ordinances entitled “Electric Scooters/Skateboards”.
Approved resolution for the expansion of the Development District and revised Off-Premise and On-Premise Liquor License Policy.
Adopted Resolutions #1 and #2 To Commence Proceedings For Special Assessment, Tentatively Determine The Necessity, And Set A Public Hearing For October 24, 2022, Regarding the Necessity of Special Assessment District #3-22.
Mayor Perschbacher appointed Commissioner Liz Busch to the Principal Shopping District Board to replace Commissioner Ronan.
Conducted a Work Session on the 2023 Operating Budget.
MT. PLEASANT, MI – Director of Public Safety/Police Chief Paul Lauria recently announced personnel changes within the Mt. Pleasant Police Department (MPPD). Effective November 4, 2022, Assistant Police Chief Andy Latham will retire after 26 years of service to the department. Lieutenant Brandon Bliss has been promoted to Assistant Police Chief and will assume his new duties on November 6, 2022.
Director Lauria stated, “There is much to celebrate with these recent personnel changes. It is wonderful to witness a dedicated and successful law enforcement official like Assistant Police Chief Latham achieve retirement. His commitment to our profession and department is truly appreciated and we thank him for his service. It is a bonus,” Lauria continued, “to have the ability to promote a highly qualified individual like Brandon Bliss up through the departmental ranks to fill the role of Assistant Police Chief. Since joining the MPPD in 2008, Brandon has exhibited a strong work ethic and dedication. He will do well in his new role.”
During his tenure with the MPPD, Assistant Police Chief Andy Latham progressed through the ranks of Officer, Sergeant, Lieutenant, Captain and Assistant Police Chief.
Special assignments included serving on the Isabella County Traffic Team, Bayanet, Youth Services Unit, and the Mt. Pleasant Fire Technical Rescue Team. He was also a Motor Operator, Arson Investigator and Commander of the Emergency Services Unit.
Andy has long taken pride in assisting his community by organizing MPPD volunteer activities including: Toys for Tots, Shop with a Cop, Shop with a Hero, Christmas Outreach, helping the Strickler Center Food Pantry, as well as preparing and serving food for the Isabella County Restoration House.
As Andy shared, “I am very fortunate to have spent my career at the MPPD. I have been encouraged and motivated to refine and grow my skill set.” During his law enforcement years, Andy completed multiple Michigan State Police Supervisory Courses, as well as graduated from the Grand Rapids Police Executive Leadership Institute, and the FBI National Academy. This is in addition to his Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice Administration from Columbia Southern University.
Reflecting on his MPPD experiences Andy observed, “I have had the pleasure of working with many noble men and women over the decades. Our community is fortunate to have a Division of Public Safety populated with men and women who are courageous, caring and are deserving of continued gratitude and support. As I retire from the law enforcement profession,” He added, “I do so with great memories, lasting friendships and no regrets. It has been my pleasure to serve the Mt. Pleasant community alongside a talented and committed Public Safety team.”
Andy’s immediate retirement plans include assuming the role of Dean of Students/Athletic Director for Sacred Heart Academy in Mt. Pleasant.
In assuming his new position, Brandon Bliss possesses more than 17 years of law enforcement experience, with 14 of these years with the MPPD. During his time with the department he has served as a Lieutenant, Sergeant, Youth Services Unit Officer, team leader for the Emergency Services Team, lead Sergeant for the Field Training Program and held union leadership roles with the Police Officers Association of Michigan and the Command Officers Association of Michigan.
Brandon obtained a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Saginaw Valley State University and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Central Michigan University. Throughout his career he has also completed Michigan State University’s First Line Supervision Program as well as attending various other supervisory and leadership schools.
In regards to his new role Brandon shared, “There have been many exemplary leaders at the MPPD over the years. I look forward to carrying on that long tradition of excellence. I am even more excited to help and support a great group of officers who serve our community, in multiple ways, with integrity, pride and compassion.”
Leaves from High and Pickard Streets will be collected with the sweeper by the end of the day on Monday, December 5, 2022. Leaf collection for the remainder of the city has been completed for 2022.
Updated 11/4/2022: Monday, November 7, 2022 leaf pick-up for specific streets.
Due to the large volume of leaves that have been placed out for collection this week, leaf pick-up will continue on Monday, November 7, 2022 for properties within the boundaries of the following streets: Oak to Mission and Pickard to Bellows. Future leaf collection pick up-dates are the weeks of November 14 and November 28.
Updated 10/21/2022: Crapo Street Leaf Pick-Up Guidance
As the temperatures cool, and the trees start to show their vibrant colors, residents and landscaping companies are reminded to not rake leaves into the streets until the week of October 24. City staff will make one sweep through the entire City during pick up weeks. Therefore, leaves should be raked into low piles before Monday of pick up weeks and not cover catch basins.
On High and Pickard Streets, where high traffic volume prohibits leaves in the street, residents and landscaping companies should rake the leaves onto the rights-of-way, between the curb and sidewalk. Those who live on streets other than High and Pickard must place their leaves in the street. If you live on a boulevard, do not place leaves in the median, place them in front of your home.
Residents on Crapo Street should place leaves in the right of way, and not in the street, due to the construction project. Households on Heritage and Illinois Court should place their leaves in the street as normal.
Yard waste bags should not be used, this collection is for leaves only. Leaf piles must not contain garden or shrubbery clippings, dead grass, branches, trim board or other material.
Residents who wish to rake their yards ahead of the City’s collection schedule may bag and dispose of the leaves for a fee at the Material Recovery Facility, located at 4208 E. River Rd., Mt. Pleasant. Leaves may also be mulched with a mulching lawnmower.
The City’s 2022 leaf collection schedule is as follows:
Week of October 31: Staff will collect leaves in a City-wide sweep.
Week of November 14: Staff will collect leaves in a City-wide sweep.
Week of November 28: Final collection of leaves in a City-wide sweep. Any leaves left in the street after the crews have made their final pass will not be collected and are the responsibility of the homeowner.
Questions may be directed to the Division of Public Works, 989-779-5401.
Here are the topics to watch at the next in-person, as well asvirtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, October 10, 2022 at 7 p.m.
Administer Oath of Office to Commissioner Bryan Chapman.
Proclamation recognizing Indigenous Peoples’ Day (October 10, 2022).
Public hearing on an ordinance to add a Chapter 116 to Title XI: Business Regulations of the City’s Code entitled “Electric Scooters/Skateboards” and consider approval of the same.
Consider resolution in support of expanding the Development District (DDA) license development district and revised Off-Premise and On-Premise Liquor License Policy.
Consider resolutions #1 and #2 to commence the proceedings for special assessment, tentatively determine the necessity and set a public hearing for October 24, 2022 regarding the necessity of Special Assessment District #3-22.
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.
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:
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.
Summary of Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held Monday, September 26, 2022, 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 September 12, 2022.
6) Minutes of closed session of the City Commission held September 12, 2022.
7) Warrants and Payrolls.
Approved the establishment of an Industrial Development District (IDD) and adopted a Resolution to be submitted to the State Department of Treasury for the creation of the district.
Awarded contract for 2023 City Hall Retaining Wall Replacement Engineering Services to Williams and Works of Grand Rapids, MI and approved a budget amendment.
Received Commissioners’ top rankings for Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe two percent allocations.
Received proposed ordinance to add a Chapter 116 to Title XI: Business Regulations of the City of Mt. Pleasant Code of Ordinances entitled “Electric Scooters/Skateboards” and set a public hearing for Monday, October 10, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. on same.
Appointed Bryan Chapman to fill the partial City Commission seat.
On September 23, 2022 at approximately 7:19 p.m. officers from the Mt. Pleasant Police Department (MPPD) Youth Services Unit were contacted by a Mt. Pleasant Public Schools Administrator. This administrator informed officers that a juvenile spectator at the Mt. Pleasant High School (MPHS) football game may have a gun in their possession.
Youth Services Unit Officers immediately made contact with the 17-year-old male suspect and asked him to step outside of the stadium. Once outside of the stadium gates, the male juvenile engaged in a physical fight with officers. A gun was located on the suspect and he was immediately placed into custody.
The juvenile suspect is not a student of the Mt. Pleasant Public Schools System.
This was an isolated incident and there is no risk to the public.
Anyone with further information are asked to contact the Mt. Pleasant Police Department’s Anonymous Tip Line at 989-779-9111 or Isabella County Central Dispatch 989-773-1000. This is an ongoing and open investigation.
The Mt. Pleasant Police Department was assisted by the Isabella County Sheriff’s Department, Central Michigan University Police Department, Michigan State Police, Isabella County Central Dispatch and the Saginaw Chippewa Tribal Police Department.
Here are the topics to watch at the next in-person, as well asvirtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, September 26, 2022 at 7 p.m.
Presentation on Mt. Pleasant city landfill finding study by David Adler of Mannik Smith Group.
Presentation by Building Official Brian Kench on sustainability efforts/plans.
Public hearing on the establishment of an Industrial Development District for DL Wilson Properties located at 1219 N. Mission Street and consider resolution on the same.
Receive and ordinance to add a Chapter 116 to Title XI: Business Regulations of the City’s Code entitled, “Electric Scooters/Skateboards” and set a public hearing for October 10, 2022 on the same.
Consider recommendation from the Appointments Committee for the City Commission vacancy.
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.
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:
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.
Mayor Perschbacher acknowledged Vice Mayor Olivia Cyman’s resignation from the City Commission.
Commissioner Alsager was elected Vice Mayor for the remainder of 2022 by a majority vote of the Commission.
Received petitions and communications.
Approved the following items on the Consent Calendar:
5) Minutes of the regular meeting of the City Commission held August 22, 2022.
6) Appointed voting delegate and alternate for the MML 2022 Annual Convention.
7) Contract extension with MMI of Mt. Pleasant, MI for municipal recycling curbside collection services for one year.
8) Contract with OHM Advisors of Mt. Pleasant, MI for design and oversight of the M-20 Bridge project.
9) Received Fall 2022 Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribal 2% funding requests from City Departments. 10) Received proposed 2023 Annual Operating Budget and set a public hearing for Monday, November 14, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. on same.
11) Received resolution to amend 2022 operating budget.
12) Support and approval of MPACF grant application submission for automatic CPR machines for the Fire Department.
13) Warrants and Payrolls.
Cancelled the scheduled public hearing on David Wilson’s request to consider establishing an Industrial Development District and set a new public hearing for Monday, September 26, 2022 at 7:00 p.m. on the same.
Approved resolution supporting land acknowledgement statement.
Staff directed to conduct community outreach and research signage for local roadways in regards to jake braking being prohibited within the City.
Mayor Perschbacher designated Commissioners Assmann and Eke to the Appointments Committee.
The Appointment Committee recommended and the Commission unanimously approved Jim Catlin to the LDFA Board to fill a vacancy with a term ending 12/31/24.
Approved and conducted a closed session pursuant to subsection 8(1)(h) of the Open Meetings Act.
The City of Mt. Pleasant is offering 150 households, within the City limits, up to 30 minutes of no fee brush chipping during the week of October 10, 2022. Brush chipping will be completed at curbside only, no alleys. Reservations will be accepted beginning September 26 at 8:00 a.m. until September 30 at 4:30 p.m., or until all spots are filled.
Reservations can be made in person at City Hall, online, calling the Division of Public Works, 989-779-5401 or emailing publicworks@mt-pleasant.org.
Here are the topics to watch at the next in-person, as well asvirtual Mt. Pleasant City Commission meeting scheduled for Monday, September 12, 2022 at 7 p.m.
Presentation on the Boil Water Advisory issued Thursday, September 1, 2022.
Quarterly update from Jim McBryde of Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC).
Receive proposed 2023 Annual Operating Budget and set a public hearing for November 14, 2022 on the same.
Public hearing on the establishment of an Industrial Development District for DL Wilson Properties located at 1219 N. Mission Street.
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.
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:
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.
City of Mt.Pleasant 
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