At Monday's meeting, City Council approved infrastructure improvements, updating our zoning ordinance, the first reading of a number of new ordinances, and more.
Councilmember Greg Patterson and Deputy Clerk Rachel Patterson (unrelated) were sworn into office.
The city heard a presentation from the Accounting Aid Society. They help low income individuals with tax preparation and dealing with IRS issues and help small businesses with their accounting. You can learn more about their programs or volunteer to help at AccountingAidSociety.org.
A contract was approved for electrical improvements for City Hall and the Public Safety building.
A contract for technical assistance was also approved for a state mandated audit of water line materials as part of new requirements on lead service line replacements. The water lines from the street to the water meter will be reviewed for 364 homes in the city to determine the accuracy of the city's records. Any lead services lines found will be replaced.
A two year project to modernize the City's zoning ordinance was approved. The recently completed Master Plan and the Parking Study that is underway will help inform any updates. There will be significant public outreach and workshops as part of the process. "Particular attention will be paid to organization, graphics and readability, definitions, code enforcement, environmental provisions and compliance with current zoning laws and case law."
The City approved a liquor license for Little Lou's Hot Chicken. The matter now goes to the state for final approval. The restaurant at Coolidge and Catalpa plans to cover their outdoor patio with a pergola type structure that can be partially enclosed for use during cooler months.
Council approved routine quarterly budget amendments.
A number of ordinances were approved for their first reading. Their second reading will be at the March 6 Council meeting.
- Insurance and Indemnification of City Officials, Employees, and Board and Commission Members.
- Clarifications on portable sign regulations and removing permitting requirements for them.
- Regulation of vape shops. They will now be prohibited near schools or in the Gateway or Downtown Districts and must be at least 1,000 feet from each other.
- Allowing day cares in the Twelve Mile District.
Tax Assistance is available for seniors at the Parks & Rec department. Call 248-658-3470 for details.
The city is looking for your input on parking in the city.
A Headlee Override will be on the May ballot. The city is seeking to restore the tax rate to continue to offer the services you've become accustomed to.
The meeting packet.