Marquette public meetings in 2022

Police-Fire Pension Board

The board approved new investment guidelines and endorsed a retirement application and new membership participation. Members also approved a letter to employees regarding Act 88 Reciprocity Retirement Eligibility.

• Adopted Principal Investment Guidelines (4-0)
• Endorsed retirement application for Mark Hanes (4-0)
• Endorsed new members' participation in retirement program (4-0)
• Approved drafted letter to active employees regarding Act 88 Reciprocity Retirement Eligibility (4-0)
• Approved $1,500 payment to Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Co. for actuarial services (4-0)
• Approved November 15, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved bills payable totaling $1,014,514.23. Several equipment and service purchases were authorized, including engine parts, substation switches, and license amendment services. The Board also received a financial report for the month ending November 30, 2022.

• Approved Bills Payable totaling $1,014,514.23 (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of MEC Engine Oil from Shell SOPUS for $78,907.50 (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Cylinder Liners, O-rings, & Gaskets from Wartsila for $100,410.78 (Unanimous)
• Approved MEC Engine Cylinder Honing Services for $34,277.00 (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Substation Switches from SEECO Inc. for $25,883.90 (Unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Service Transformers from Power Line Supply Howard for $10,661.85 (Unanimous)
• Approved Tourist Park License Amendment Services from Kleinschmidt not to exceed $46,000 (Unanimous)

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The committee scheduled its annual presentation to the Marquette City Commission for April 10, 2023. Members discussed parking and safety concerns on Tierney Street during school hours and reviewed the effectiveness of the winter overnight parking plan. No formal policy changes were decided.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved 11/15/2022 minutes (4-0)
• Set annual presentation to City Commission for April 10, 2023, at 6 p.m.
• Agreed to continue meeting on the 3rd Tuesday of each month

City Commission

The City Commission will consider appointments for the Public Art Commission and address a vacancy in the Commission. The agenda includes authorization for an $8 million Community Development Block Grant and a presentation on the Election Board. A lease with the Superior Watershed Partnership is also scheduled for approval.

• Appointment of Lauren Tilma to the Public Art Commission
• Authorization for an $8 million Community Development Block Grant
• Scheduling of a public hearing for the Community Development Block Grant
• Superior Watershed Partnership lease agreement
• Approval of bills payable totaling $1,025,375.85

The City Commission appointed Jermey Ottaway to fill the vacancy created by Jenn Hill's resignation. The Commission also established a Charter Study Group to evaluate potential amendments to the City Charter within one year.

• Appointed Jermey Ottaway to City Commission (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Lauren Tilma to Public Art Commission (Unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Charter Study Group to determine need for City Charter amendments (Unanimous)
• Approved total bills payable of $1,025,375.85 (Unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2022 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved Community Development Block Grant Certifying Officer Authorization (Unanimous)
• Approved scheduling of Community Development Block Grant Public Hearing (Unanimous)
• Approved Superior Watershed Partnership lease (Unanimous)

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board received a presentation on a solids handling update project estimated at $11.7 million, which includes a 50% principal forgiveness grant. The board approved the October 20, 2022, meeting minutes and amended the current meeting agenda.

• Approved amendment to the agenda (4-0)
• Approved October 20, 2022, meeting minutes (4-0)

Public Art Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda and previous minutes. Members discussed the live Public Art Directory on MQT Compass and planned future discussions for the Cultural Trail, Spear Dock, and Prismatica alternatives.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Review

The Board of Review processed several exemption requests, including veteran's and poverty exemptions. Five items were approved and one veteran's exemption was denied.

• Approved July 19, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 5 agenda items (unanimous)
• Denied 1 veteran's exemption

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing to consider rezoning a 0.22-acre parcel at 1000 Wright Street from Municipal to Civic. The agenda also includes discussions regarding police labor union wages and a request to purchase city-owned property at 600 W. Spring Street. Additionally, the commission will vote on bills totaling $1,336,984.93.

• Rezoning of NMU-owned parcel at 1000 Wright Street
• Discussion of Police Labor Union wages
• Request to purchase city-owned property at 600 W. Spring Street
• Approval of bills totaling $1,336,984.93
• DNR Spark Grant Application vote

The City Commission authorized the sale of city-owned property at 600 W. Spring Street to support a Habitat for Humanity housing development. Other key actions included approving a 3% police wage increase and authorizing a grant application for a downtown trailhead.

• Adopted resolution of intent to sell 600 W. Spring Street and authorized City Manager to negotiate terms (Unanimous)
• Approved 3% wage increase for Marquette Professional Police Association effective October 1, 2022 (Unanimous)
• Approved resolution to apply for DNR Spark Grant for a downtown trailhead (Unanimous)
• Approved notice of intent to issue Clean Water State Revolving Fund Bonds up to $6,800,000 for solids handling improvement (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of .22-acre NMU owned parcel at 1000 Wright Street to Civic (Unanimous)
• Approved $1,336,984.93 in total bills payable (Unanimous)
• Approved appointments to various boards and committees, including Planning Commission and Public Art Commission (Unanimous)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The committee approved a new recurring meeting schedule and set a work session date for January. Members discussed the A&C Master Plan and potential funding for a Communications Manager position.

• Approved changing recurring meetings to the first Tuesday of the month at 5:30 PM
• Approved work session for January 17th at 5:30 PM

Downtown Development Authority

The Board approved the purchase of a Multihog CX75 multipurpose tractor and the 2023 contract for Executive Director T. Laase-McKinney. The Board also approved the consent agenda, including bills for November 2022.

• Approved 2023 Executive Director Contract (includes 8% salary increase)
• Approved purchase of Multihog CX75 tractor from BEC Brown Equipment not to exceed $135,000
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from 11/17/2022 and November bills

City Planning Commission

The Commission approved a special land use permit to legalize a duplex at 725 Altamont St. and granted a site plan extension for 200 S. Fifth Street. A new Zoning Plan Subcommittee was also established to support the Community Master Plan renewal.

• Approved conversion of single-family home to duplex at 725 Altamont St. (7-0) with parking completion deadline of June 1, 2023
• Approved first extension request for site plan at 200 S. Fifth Street (7-0) with new expiration date of January 18, 2024
• Created Zoning Plan Subcommittee with members Premeau, Williams, Mittlefehldt, and Fetter, and Larson as alternate (7-0)
• Cancelled the December 20th meeting

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board approved the 2023 meeting schedule and the minutes from May 5, 2022. Members and staff discussed a Michigan Court of Appeals unpublished opinion and the City's Land Development Code.

• Approved 2023 meeting dates (5-0)
• Approved May 5, 2022 minutes (5-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Excused absence of Vice-Chair Ms. Dombrowski (5-0)

Board of Light and Power

The Board approved several equipment purchases for engine repairs and electrical infrastructure. It also authorized staff to pursue the expansion of the Powder Mill Disc Golf Course with 'Disc da UP'.

• Elected John Prince as Chair and Edward Angeli as Vice-Chair/Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved Bills Payable totaling $977,424.26 (unanimous)
• Approved 2022-2023 Board Meeting dates as amended (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of MEC Engine 2 big end bearings from Wartsila for $32,165.96 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of MEC Engine 2 repair components and gas ramp from Wartsila for $158,280.68 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of wire puller from Custom Truck for $53,400.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of circuit breakers from WESCO for $65,088.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of electric meters from RESCO for $49,911.36 (unanimous)

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission will consider several arena lease agreements and a development agreement for Ore Dock Real Estate, LLC. The meeting also includes discussions regarding DPW and utilities labor union wages and the purchase of a used fire truck. Additionally, the commission will review bills payable totaling $4,660,684.67.

• Approval of bills payable totaling $4,660,684.67
• Purchase of a used fire truck
• DPW and Utilities labor union wages discussion
• Marquette Figure Skating Club ice contract for $40,800
• Ore Dock Real Estate, LLC development and reimbursement agreement

The City Commission approved the purchase of a used 2001 Pierce Enforcer fire truck and a 2% wage increase for DPW and Utilities employees. The commission also approved a consent agenda including bills totaling $4,660,684.67 and several lease agreements.

• Approved purchase of used 2001 Pierce Enforcer fire truck for not-to-exceed $48,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved 2% wage increase and $625 one-time payment for DPW and Utilities Employees (Unanimous)
• Approved total bills payable of $4,660,684.67 (Unanimous)
• Approved Marquette Figure Skating Club ice contract and storage lease (Unanimous)
• Approved Marquette Junior Hockey Corporation ice contract and concession lease (Unanimous)
• Approved Ore Dock Real Estate, LLC Development and Reimbursement Agreement (Unanimous)
• Approved Police Security Cameras and Cloud Service (Unanimous)
• Approved 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence Proclamation (Unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The commission approved the Executive Director's report and the October 25, 2022 meeting minutes. The board nominated and accepted Stark as President and Metz as Vice President. Commissioners agreed to add the Resident Council to future agendas.

• Approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Executive Director's report
• Nominated Stark as President
• Nominated Metz as Vice President
• Agreed to add Resident Council to the agenda

Downtown Development Authority

The Board approved the purchase of a 2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD and an articulated loader for maintenance. The board also approved the 2023 meeting schedule and renewed the staff healthcare plan. The Parking Committee established a new grant for downtown businesses to receive free parking permits.

• Approved purchase of 2023 GMC Sierra 2500HD not to exceed $44,000
• Approved purchase of articulated loader with accessories not to exceed $100,000
• Approved SB PPO Gold 2000 healthcare plan for 2023
• Approved 2023 Board Meeting Schedule
• Approved consent agenda including 10/13/2022 minutes and October bills
• Approved 10 free parking permits for downtown businesses via new grant
• Approved 10 additional reserved spots in Bluff Ramp lower level

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Board approved the 2023 MAPERS membership renewal and signed an application for age and service for Cygan. Financial reports for the principal investment portfolio and enhancement account were reviewed and filed.

• Approved October 25, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Approved signing age and service application for Cygan (3-0)
• Approved 2023 MAPERS membership renewal of $200 (3-0)

Peter White Public Library Board

The Board approved October 2022 bills totaling $243,484.36 and amended the bylaws regarding the placement of the public comment period. The Board also established the Food for Fines program as an automatic annual event.

• Approved October 2022 bills in the amount of $243,484.36 (5-0)
• Approved amended PWPL Board By-laws GOV-6 regarding public comment placement (5-0)
• Approved annual Food for Fines program in conjunction with local Can-A-Thon (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved October 18, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The committee approved the meeting agenda and previous minutes. Members discussed pedestrian safety, the 'Complete Streets' policy, and identified several intersections for future Master Plan study. No new ordinances or contracts were voted on.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved October 18, 2022 minutes (4-0)

City Planning Commission

The Commission approved a special land use permit for a group day care home with specific conditions to manage traffic and yard capacity. It also determined that Superior Culture is in compliance with its existing permits.

• Approved group day care home at 300 E. Prospect St. (6-0) with conditions on licensing, yard capacity, and staggered drop-offs
• Determined Superior Culture (717 N. Third St.) is in compliance with approval conditions; no further action needed
• Approved 2023 meeting dates (6-0)
• Nominated N. Williams as the PC member on the BZA (6-0)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The board approved the previous minutes and agenda in a unanimous decision. The meeting primarily consisted of staff reports regarding park projects and facility closures. No other substantive votes were recorded.

• Approved minutes and agenda (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold elections for Mayor and Mayor Pro-tem at this meeting. The commission is also reviewing a resolution to declare the former MGH campus area as blighted to assist with an $8 million federal grant application. Other items include rezoning NMU property and addressing a commissioner vacancy.

• Blight Resolution for CDBG Application (Former MGH Campus)
• Cliffs Dow EPA Cleanup Grant Application
• Rezoning of NMU owned property at 1000 Wright Street
• Approval of bills totaling $3,235,927.17
• Procedure to fill City Commission vacancy

The City Commission held its annual organizational meeting to elect officers and administer oaths of office. The commission approved a consent agenda including $3.2M in bills and accepted the resignation of Commissioner Jenn Hill.

• Elected Cody Mayer as mayor (4 votes)
• Elected Sally Davis as Mayor Pro Tem (unanimous)
• Approved bills payable totaling $3,235,927.17 (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 City Commission Meeting Schedule (unanimous)
• Accepted resignation of Commissioner Jenn Hill (unanimous)
• Approved process to accept City Commission applications until Dec. 8, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved CDBG and Cliffs Dow EPA Cleanup Grant applications (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for rezoning NMU property at 1000 Wright Street (unanimous)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The committee discussed the Arts & Culture Master Plan and the Economic Impact Plan survey process. A presentation to the City Commission was scheduled for December 9th. No formal votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Scheduled City Commission presentation for December 9th at 4PM

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The November 10, 2022, meeting was canceled because there was not a quorum. No substantive decisions were made.

Public Art Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda and minutes. Members discussed updates on the Cultural Trail, Spear Dock, and the Prismatica project, and planned for the next iteration of Words to Live and Bike By.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved meeting minutes

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The board approved several payments for brownfield projects, including TIF revenue disbursements and bond payments. It also authorized a resolution of support for an EPA Brownfield Cleanup Grant for the former Cliffs Dow site and approved a revised agreement for the Ore Dock Beer Garden.

• Approved $300,970.81 for Cliffs Dow monitoring, assessment, and reporting expenses
• Authorized Brownfield TIF Revenue disbursements using Scenario 1 for Founders Landing
• Approved resolution of support for EPA Brownfield Cleanup Grant for former Cliffs Dow site
• Approved revised Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Ore Dock Beer Garden
• Approved $103,465.63 in payments to Huntington Bank for Founders Landing bonds
• Approved $545,024.75 payment to Huntington Bank for DLP MGRH Project
• Approved $97,432.50 payment to the State of Michigan for the State Brownfield Fund
• Approved $7,809.48 payment to Mac Consulting Services

City Planning Commission

The Commission approved a special land use permit for a 56-room hotel expansion and recommended a zoning change for a parcel sold to Northern Michigan University. Additionally, the Commission partially revoked a permit for a property on US HWY S 41 due to a land division.

• Approved special land use permit for hotel expansion at 808 & 900 S. Lakeshore Blvd. (5-0)
• Recommended City Commission approve rezoning of 1000 Wright St. from Municipal to Civic (5-0)
• Revoked special land use permit for single-family residence to be hotel/motel use at 2090 US HWY S 41 (5-0)
• Revoked special land use permit for outdoor entertainment and community events at 2090 US HWY S 41 (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Police-Fire Pension Board

The board approved payments for professional services and a retiree medical exam. Members also signed an actuarial service agreement and set the 2023 meeting schedule.

• Approved $12,775 payment to Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Company (3-0)
• Approved Actuarial Service & GASB 67/68 Agreement (3-0)
• Approved $170 payment for Duty Disability Retiree Follow-up Exam (3-0)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule (3-0)
• Approved September 27, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)

Election Board

The Board performed the public accuracy test of voting equipment for the November 8, 2022 State General Election. The board also adopted the 2023 meeting calendar and approved previous meeting minutes.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 29, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted the 2023 meeting calendar
• Conducted public accuracy test for November 8, 2022 State General Election

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved the purchase of four new vehicles, including a bucket truck, digger truck, service truck, and two pickup trucks. The Board also approved bills payable totaling $1,720,768.20.

• Approved bills payable totaling $1,720,768.20 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 1 pickup truck from Fox Negaunee Chevrolet for $42,479.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 1 pickup truck from Marthaler GMC for $38,517.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of bucket truck from Utility Sales & Service for $410,759.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of service truck from Utility Sales & Service for $231,367.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of digger truck from Utility Sales & Service for $426,615.00 (unanimous)
• Approved September 27 and October 12, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The Board approved the Executive Director's report and established a monthly meeting schedule for 2023. A motion was made to place $2-3 million into a 12-18-month CD. The commission also scheduled a strategic planning date for December 10, 2022.

• Approved Executive Director's report
• Motioned to put $2-3 million in a 12-18-month CD
• Set 2023 meetings for the fourth Tuesday of every month at 2:00pm (except December)
• Scheduled strategic planning for December 10, 2022, at 10:00 am
• Approved September 27, 2022 meeting minutes

City Commission

The City Commission will consider an engineering services contract with Donohue and Associates Inc. and applications for licenses to use city property at 848 Cedar St. and 511 E. Prospect St. The meeting also includes the review of ice use and locker room lease agreements for the Hockey Mutineers of Marquette.

• Engineering services contract with Donohue and Associates Inc.
• License applications for city property at 848 Cedar St. and 511 E. Prospect St.
• Ice use and locker room lease agreements for Hockey Mutineers of Marquette
• Approval of $2,387,833.13 in total bills payable
• Appointments to the Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and Housing Commission

The Marquette City Commission voted 4-1 to deny a request from Matt Treado for a license to use city property adjacent to 848 Cedar St. and 511 E. Prospect St., citing no hardship or unusual circumstances and concerns about precedent and the ongoing Community Master Plan. The Commission also unanimously approved a $542,200 engineering services contract with Donohue & Associates for the Solids Handling Improvements Project Re-Bid, and approved several consent agenda items including $2,387,833.13 in bills payable.

• Denied license to use city property adjacent to 848 Cedar St. and 511 E. Prospect St. (4-1)
• Approved $542,200 contract with Donohue & Associates for Solids Handling Improvements Project Re-Bid (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $2,387,833.13 in bills payable (unanimous)
• Approved appointments: Cadin Cahill to Parks and Recreation Advisory Board, Christopher Rose to Marquette Housing Commission (unanimous)
• Excused Commissioners Stonehouse and Davis from meeting (unanimous)

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board voted 5-0 to approve the agenda and the September 15, 2022 meeting minutes. The financial report was presented, noting the fiscal year end and pending audit adjustments. The operations report noted no permit violations in September, ongoing COVID-19 sampling for NMU, and a halt to liquid biosolids hauling due to safety issues. Under old business, the board learned the solids handling project made the final grant list and may receive a waiver from the Buy America, Build America program.

• Approved agenda 5-0
• Approved September 15, 2022 meeting minutes 5-0
• Discussed but took no vote on hiring an independent cost-benefit analyst for the CoGen system

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The Traffic/Parking Advisory Committee met on October 18, 2022, and discussed several items but took no binding votes. Members reviewed a parking safety issue at the McMillan/Anderson intersection, considered but tabled recommendations for pedestrian crossing signs, and discussed a possible name change to better reflect the committee's goals. The committee also identified intersections for the Master Plan and noted a request for flashing lights near Graveraet School. The meeting was adjourned at 6:44 pm.

• Approved the agenda unanimously 5-0.
• Approved the minutes from 9/20/2022 unanimously 5-0.
• Discussed but took no action on changing the committee's name; members will consider options before a January presentation to the City Commission.
• Discussed the McMillan/Anderson parking issue; police will talk to neighbors and consult engineers before any recommendation.
• Held off on recommending pedestrian crossing signs in roads due to weather and wording restrictions.
• Noted a request for flashing lights near Graveraet School but took no action; funding and a potential Safe Route to School Grant were mentioned.
• Identified intersections (Spruce & Hewitt, Fair & Pine, Seventh St. roundabout) for the Master Plan but took no vote.
• Took no action on a complaint about engine braking on Wright St., as it appeared to be an isolated incident.

City Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a kickoff meeting for the Community Master Plan renewal project, led by consultants Beckett & Raeder. No formal decisions were made; the session focused on introducing the consulting team, discussing community engagement strategies, and gathering initial input from commissioners and steering committee members on critical issues such as housing affordability, climate resilience, and preserving natural assets.

• Approved agenda as presented (6-0)
• Approved minutes of October 4, 2022, by consent

Local Development Finance Authority

The Local Development Finance Authority approved the fall distribution of FY'22 TIF funds to Innovation Marquette Enterprise Corp. and the 2023 meeting schedule. A discussion on reimbursement for companies leaving after receiving public funds was noted for future language.

• Approved FY'22 TIF fund distribution to Innovation Marquette Enterprise Corp. (unanimous)
• Approved 2023 meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved July 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with addition of item #6 (unanimous)

Peter White Public Library Board

The board approved the Carroll Paul Trust Budget for FY22/23, FY22/23 budget adjustments, the 2023 holiday schedule, and the 2023 board meeting schedule, all by 4-0 votes. Bills for September 2022 totaling $207,714.50 were also approved 4-0. No action was taken on an Infant at Work policy; the board will rely on existing policies instead.

• Approved Carroll Paul Trust Budget FY22/23 (4-0)
• Approved FY22/23 Budget Adjustments (4-0)
• Approved 2023 Holiday Schedule as amended (4-0)
• Adopted 2023 Board Meeting Schedule (4-0)
• Approved bills for September 2022 totaling $207,714.50 (4-0)
• Eliminated GOV 6.1 Rules for Public Participation from policy manual (4-0)
• No action taken on Infant at Work policy; will rely on existing policies

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board approved the amended agenda and July 18, 2022 minutes. Members heard updates on grants, playground fundraising ($1.5M raised), Presque Isle Marina construction, and staffing challenges at Lakeview Arena. No new business or public comment occurred.

• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 18, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The committee approved the agenda (with the chair report removed) and the previous meeting's minutes. Manager Tiina Morin reported that the committee will move to bi-monthly meetings starting in January, and that the city is creating a master plan with an arts advisory meeting to review it. The committee discussed the annual art award, including keeping the October date and raising money for a local arts organization, and noted that an economic impact study covering the entire Upper Peninsula is underway with a May deadline.

• Approved agenda with removal of chair report (motion by Mike, second by Jim)
• Approved previous meeting's minutes (motion by Mike, second by Jim)
• Discussed moving to bi-monthly meetings starting January (no formal vote recorded)
• Discussed keeping October date for annual art award (no formal vote recorded)
• Discussed fundraising event for a specific local arts organization (no formal vote recorded)
• Discussed economic impact plan with 600 surveys collected, deadline in May (no formal vote recorded)
• Discussed potential date of 11/26 for Upper Peninsula Arts and Culture Alliance November meeting (no formal vote recorded)
• Discussed coordinating a special work session before November meeting (no formal vote recorded)

Board of Light and Power

The Board of Light and Power unanimously approved three purchases totaling $1,985,860.49: a substation control building for $775,254, overhead materials for $1,088,280, and engine maintenance parts for $122,326.49. No public comments were made. The executive director reported a city-approved lease for an EV charging station at Mattson Lower Harbor Park.

• Approved $775,254 purchase of Second Interconnection Substation Control Building from Electrical Power Products Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved $1,088,280 purchase of Second Interconnection overhead materials from Power Line Supply (unanimous)
• Approved $122,326.49 purchase of MEC Engine 18k hour preventative maintenance parts from Wartsila (unanimous)

Public Art Commission

The Marquette Public Art Commission approved $500 for extra backboard work and $500 for drone photo/video documentation of the Queen City Courts public art project. The commission also discussed plans for a public art RFP at Spear Dock, updates to the artist directory, and a December presentation to the City Commission. No votes were taken on new business items.

• Approved $500 for final extra work on the Queen City Courts backboard (motion by Gustafson, second by Hughes, all in favor)
• Approved $500 for Nels Lindquist drone footage video and photo documentation of Queen City Courts (motion by Hughes, second by Gustafson, all in favor)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold public hearings on rezoning requests for Northern Michigan University property and properties at 221 and 225 W. Park Street. The agenda also includes a vote on a new water ordinance and discussions regarding various labor union wages. Additionally, the commission will review a lease agreement for the Marquette Board of Light and Power.

• Rezoning 1.1-acre NMU property from Civic to Medium Density Residential
• Rezoning 221 and 225 W. Park Street
• Vote on a new Water Ordinance
• Approval of bills totaling $8,700,627.59
• Discussion of labor union wages for City Hall, DPW, Utilities, and Supervisory staff

The City Commission approved several items, including rezoning an NMU-owned parcel to Medium Density Residential, rezoning properties at 221 and 225 W. Park Street, adopting a water ordinance amendment, approving a lease with the Marquette Board of Light and Power for EV charging stations, and approving 2% wage increases with $250 one-time payments for City Hall and Supervisory employees. All votes were unanimous. The agenda was amended to remove Item 8 (DPW and Utilities Labor Union Wages).

• Approved Ordinance 715 rezoning NMU parcel to Medium Density Residential (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 716 rezoning 221 and 225 W. Park Street (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance 714 amending City Code Chapter 48 - Utilities (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $8,700,627.59 in bills payable (unanimous)
• Approved lease agreement with Marquette Board of Light and Power for EV charging stations (unanimous)
• Approved City Hall Employees' 2% wage increase with $250 one-time payment (unanimous)
• Approved Supervisory Employees' 2% wage increase with $250 one-time payment (unanimous)
• Approved establishment of Master Plan Steering Committee (unanimous)

City Planning Commission

The meeting was largely procedural and informational, with no substantive votes on policy or projects. The commission discussed updates on a proposed 30-minute transit route, potential changes to the Land Development Code, and the upcoming Community Master Plan update. Two members volunteered for a transit subcommittee and one for the master plan steering committee.

• Approved agenda with order change (8-0)
• D. Fetter volunteered for transit subcommittee vacancy
• M. Larson volunteered for transit subcommittee vacancy
• D. Fetter offered to serve on Community Master Plan Steering Committee

Election Board

The Marquette City Elections Board unanimously approved rosters of election inspectors and AV Counting Board inspectors for the November 8, 2022 general election, and authorized the City Clerk to appoint additional inspectors as needed, including high school government students.

• Approved roster of election inspectors for Nov. 8 general election (unanimous)
• Approved roster of AV Counting Board inspectors for Nov. 8 general election (unanimous)
• Authorized City Clerk to appoint additional inspectors as needed (unanimous)

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Police/Fire Pension Board approved the Reciprocal Retirement Policy and Application, recommending it to the City Commission. The board also approved the August 23, 2022 meeting minutes with an amendment and received financial reports showing a portfolio total of $38,127,462.25 as of August 31, 2022.

• Approved Reciprocal Retirement Policy and Application (4-0)
• Approved August 23, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (4-0)
• Received, reviewed, and filed financial reports as of August 31, 2022

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved the 2022/23 MBLP annual budget, bills payable totaling $1,399,444.14, and several recommendations including a joint use pole agreement, fleet pickup trucks, bearing kits, preventative maintenance, engine repairs, a natural gas contract, and outage management software. Public comments were heard on the Shiras property, but no decisions were made on that topic.

• Approved 2022/23 MBLP annual budget (unanimous)
• Approved bills payable totaling $1,399,444.14 (unanimous)
• Approved Joint Use Pole Agreement with Davey Research Group for $85,833.34 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2 pickup trucks: $42,024 from Fox Marquette Chevrolet and $45,670.22 from Marthaler GMC (unanimous)
• Approved bearing kits and rod shims from Wartsila for $110,496.43 (unanimous)
• Approved 18k hour preventative maintenance parts and labor from Wartsila for $482,894.17 (unanimous)
• Approved MEC Engine #2 block and casting repairs for $798,245.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of MEC Engine #2 repair parts for $359,677.07 (unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The Marquette Housing Commission approved Resolution 2022-4 updating payment standards. The board also approved the agenda, previous meeting minutes, and the executive director's report. No public comment was received on substantive matters.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved August 23, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved executive director's report
• Approved Resolution 2022-4 Payment Standards

Peter White Public Library Board

The board approved the 2022-2025 AFSCME contract, adding a 12th paid holiday and a wage reopener option. It also approved year-end budget transfers, administration and non-union wage increases, a revised meeting room policy, and August bills of $150,592.88. The infant at work policy was introduced for a first reading with no action.

• Approved 2022-2025 AFSCME contract with 12 paid holidays (5-0)
• Approved FY21/22 year-end budget transfers (5-0)
• Approved administration and non-union wage increases (5-0)
• Approved revised meeting room policy (5-0)
• Approved August 2022 bills totaling $150,592.88 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (4-0)
• Approved August 9, 2022 board minutes (4-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a public hearing to receive comments on the proposed Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and General Appropriations Act. This budget covers the period from October 1, 2022, through September 30, 2023. Following the hearing, the Commission will consider any necessary changes to the budget.

• Public hearing for Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and General Appropriations Act
• Approval of $2,745,501.61 in total bills payable
• Contract for Community Master Plan Update
• Evaluation of City Attorney and City Manager
• Presque Isle Dredging Project MOU

The City Commission unanimously approved the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget and General Appropriations Act after a public hearing. Commissioners also approved appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee, and extended the City Attorney's and City Manager's contracts by two years at existing compensation. A contract was awarded to Beckett and Raeder for the Community Master Plan update.

• Approved FY 2023 Budget and General Appropriations Act (unanimous roll call)
• Approved appointments: George Patrick Jr. to Board of Zoning Appeals, James Breitenbach to Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $2,745,501.61 in bills, fire prevention proclamation, CDBG consultant, fire turnout gear, KBIC and Sault Tribe YMCA funding, BLP lease, Presque Isle dredging MOU and marina services, recycling carts, water ordinance public hearing, and chemical purchases (unanimous)
• Approved budget adjustments for FY 2022 end (unanimous)
• Approved City Attorney evaluation and contract extension to Sept. 30, 2024 at existing pay (unanimous)
• Approved City Manager evaluation and contract extension to Sept. 30, 2024 at existing pay (unanimous)
• Approved hiring Beckett and Raeder as consultant for Community Master Plan update (unanimous)

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved multiple invoices totaling over $500,000 for Founders Landing, Liberty Way, and other projects. A $95,300 bond payment for Founders Landing, a $365,878.70 pier development payment, a $35,822.50 Liberty Way bond payment, and a $5,075 DLP bond fee were all approved. The board tabled payment of Cliffs Dow environmental monitoring invoices until a report is presented, after a motion to approve died for lack of a second.

• Approved $95,300 for Founders Landing CIP/RZFB bond payments (unanimous)
• Approved $365,878.70 for Founders Landing Pier Development (unanimous)
• Approved $35,822.50 for Liberty Way bond payment (unanimous)
• Approved $5,075 for DLP bond fee and Whetstone Creek monitoring (unanimous)
• Tabled Cliffs Dow environmental monitoring/assessment payment until next meeting
• Approved $400 for Vault Marquette consulting work (unanimous)
• Approved $3,210 for Mac Consulting Services (unanimous)
• Approved August 2022 financial report and placed on file

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The Marquette Traffic/Parking Advisory Committee discussed changing its name to include pedestrian and other movement, with one suggestion being 'People and Vehicle Movement Advisory Committee.' The committee also proposed limiting public comment to three minutes and adding a second public comment period later in meetings. No decisions were made on either proposal; both will be discussed further at future meetings.

• Approved the meeting agenda unanimously 3-0.
• Approved the minutes from 08/16/22 unanimously 3-0.
• Selected Jodi Lanciani as Secretary due to Angela Rayhorn's resignation.
• Discussed but did not decide on limiting public comment to three minutes.
• Discussed but did not decide on changing the committee's name.
• Agreed to request City Engineering include Spruce & Hewitt, Fair & Pine, and Seventh Street & Fisher intersections in traffic studies.
• Agreed to recommend more volunteer crossing guards during large events like the Outback Art Fair.
• Agreed to have Captain Finkbeiner investigate no-parking signs on McMillan St. and Anderson St.

City Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved the street construction design for the Hemlocks development (6-1) and approved the associated site plan (7-0) with a condition to meet staff comments. The project includes new housing units north of the Division St./M-553 intersection, with infrastructure funded through a private development agreement approved by the City Commission.

• Approved Hemlocks street construction design (6-1)
• Approved site plan for Hemlocks development with condition to amend plan per staff comments (7-0)
• Approved agenda as presented (7-0)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting scheduled for September 19, 2022, was not held due to a lack of quorum. No decisions or discussions took place.

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board approved the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget of $4.6 million, which includes a per-unit rate increase from 1.84 to 2.2. The vote was 5-0. The meeting also included a public comment from a Northern Michigan University professor about PFAS research using hemp for phytoremediation.

• Approved FY23 Budget of $4.6 million with per-unit rate increase to 2.2 (5-0)
• Approved July 21, 2022 meeting minutes as written (5-0)
• Amended agenda to move Public Comment to item 1 (5-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is reviewing a resolution to apply for an $89,000 grant for the historic USCG Station Building rehabilitation. The meeting also includes scheduling public hearings for the FY 2023 budget and two rezoning requests. Additionally, the commission will consider approving bills totaling over $2.9 million.

• Resolution for an $89,000 SHPO grant for USCG Station Building rehabilitation
• Approval of bills totaling $2,916,887.47
• Public hearing scheduling for rezoning 1.1 acres of NMU property
• Public hearing scheduling for the FY 2023 Budget
• Public hearing scheduling for rezoning 221 and 225 W. Park Street

The City Commission unanimously approved the consent agenda including $2,916,887.47 in bills, a property use license, a historic Coast Guard station rehabilitation resolution, and public hearings for rezoning and the FY 2023 budget. They also accepted a MEDC grant to update the city's master plan. No substantive decisions beyond these approvals were made.

• Approved $2,916,887.47 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved application for license to use city property adjacent to 110 W. Hewitt Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved historic Coast Guard station rehabilitation resolution (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for rezoning NMU-owned property (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for FY 2023 budget (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for rezoning at 221 and 225 W. Park Street (unanimous)
• Accepted MEDC grant and directed city manager to execute contract for community master plan update (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a special meeting to address updates to water, sewer, and stormwater rates. The commission will also consider approving the minutes from the August 29, 2022, regular meeting.

• Water, Sewer and Stormwater Rate Update

The City Commission held a special meeting to receive a water, sewer, and stormwater rate update from consultant Raftelis. The presentation recommended lower-than-anticipated monthly increases, with the average homeowner bill rising by just over $4 in the coming fiscal year. No decisions or votes were taken on the rate proposal; the item was for discussion only.

• Approved the agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes of August 29, 2022 regular meeting (unanimous)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission denied a special land use permit for a proposed Home2 Suites by Hilton hotel at 955 Lakeshore Blvd., finding it incompatible with the surrounding residential neighborhood and not in conformance with the Master Plan. The commission also recommended approval of a rezoning at 1321 Wright Street to allow a residential sale. Both decisions were made after public hearings.

• Denied special land use permit for Home2 Suites hotel at 955 Lakeshore Blvd (5-2)
• Recommended approval of rezoning at 1321 Wright Street from Civic to residential (7-0)

Board of Light and Power

The Board of Light and Power held a special meeting to review the proposed 2022-23 operating budget presented by CFO Mark Link. Board members praised the clarity of the budget materials but took no formal votes on the budget or any other item. The meeting also noted a mechanical failure on MEC engine #2, with updates to follow.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• No votes on budget or other substantive items

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission is reviewing professional services contracts for the Presque Isle Dredging Project. The agenda also includes approving various appointments and several items on the consent agenda, such as fire department equipment funding.

• Professional services contracts for the Presque Isle Dredging Project
• $21,992.00 in KBIC funding for Fire Department exercise equipment
• Approval of $3,357,724.98 in total bills payable
• Lease of 60 square feet at Tourist Park for kayak rentals

The Commission approved a $88,314 contract with GEI Consultants for environmental review work related to the Presque Isle dredging project. The sandbar material will be repurposed for beach nourishment as part of the Lakeshore Boulevard project. Several board appointments were also approved, and public comments addressed pedestrian safety, foster care needs, and parking for the Elk's Lodge.

• Approved $88,314 contract with GEI Consultants for Presque Isle dredging NEPA review (7-0)
• Approved appointments: Dallas Fetter to Planning Commission, Daniel Torres, Christopher Jason, Michael Potts to Harbor Advisor Committee (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $3,357,724.98 in bills payable, BCBSM contract, KBIC fire department funding, kayak rental lease, and mural artist contract (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a special meeting on August 25, 2022. The agenda includes a budget overview and the approval of minutes from the August 8, 2022, regular meeting.

• Budget overview
• Approval of August 8, 2022 meeting minutes

The City Commission held a special budget meeting, discussing the General Fund, debt service, and component units. Commissioners voted unanimously to direct staff to conduct an analysis of the Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) and its current agreement with the City. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was primarily a discussion and budget overview.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including August 8, 2022 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Directed staff to conduct analysis of LDFA and its agreement with the City (unanimous)

Police-Fire Pension Board

The board received the annual actuarial valuation report showing the pension fund is 82% funded and contributions are sufficient for current benefits. Investment reports indicated negative returns due to the recession and rising interest rates. No substantive decisions were made; all items were informational or procedural.

• Excused board member Lamarre (3-0)
• Approved agenda (3-0)
• Approved July 26, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Received, reviewed, and filed financial reports as of July 31, 2022
• Received, reviewed, and filed Pension Enhancement Account as of June 30, 2022
• Received, reviewed, and filed new membership approval

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved $1,953,058.37 in bills payable and authorized purchases of oil mist separators, circuit breakers, and a voltage transformer totaling $204,746.46. Public comments focused on potential uses for the Shiras Property, including non-motorized boat storage and eco-friendly parking. No final decisions were made on the Shiras Property; the board noted the process will take time.

• Approved $1,953,058.37 in bills payable (unanimous)
• Approved $26,480.90 purchase of oil mist separators from Wartsila (unanimous)
• Approved $86,300.00 purchase of 138kV circuit breaker from GE Grid Solutions (unanimous)
• Approved $61,475.00 purchase of 69kV circuit breaker from GE Grid Solutions (unanimous)
• Approved $30,490.56 purchase of 69kV voltage transformer from GE Grid Solutions (unanimous)
• Approved employee and officer delegates for 2022 MERS annual conference (unanimous)
• Approved July 26, 2022 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The Marquette Housing Commission approved the agenda, previous meeting minutes, and the Executive Director's report. The board also approved the appointment of a commissioner to the ASHUP board and accepted the annual budgets as presented. High REAC scores were reported for Pine Ridge (97) and Lake Superior Village (99).

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved July 26, 2022 minutes
• Approved Executive Director's report
• Appointed Stark to the ASHUP board
• Accepted annual budgets as presented

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The board approved two invoices: $25,212.58 to WGI for the Vault parking study and $2,550 to Mac Consulting. An ad hoc committee was set for August 30 to discuss the Revolving Loan Fund policy. The September regular meeting was rescheduled to September 22. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were informational updates.

• Approved $25,212.58 invoice to WGI for Vault parking study (unanimous)
• Approved $2,550 invoice to Mac Consulting for brownfield consulting (unanimous)
• Set ad hoc committee meeting for August 30 to discuss Revolving Loan Fund
• Rescheduled September regular meeting to September 22

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Facility Advisory Board meeting scheduled for August 18, 2022, was canceled because a quorum could not be reached. No decisions were made. The next regular meeting is set for September 15, 2022.

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee tabled multi-use bike path complaints for further discussion and additional information. The committee also discussed pedestrian crosswalk safety, including a request for a 4-way stop at Spruce and Hewitt, and agreed to investigate the voting process for community concerns.

• Approved agenda unanimously (5-0)
• Approved minutes from 07/19/22 unanimously (5-0)
• Tabled multi-use bike path complaints for next meeting
• Agreed to investigate voting process for community concerns
• Agreed to discuss crosswalk law at next meeting
• Agreed to discuss McMillan Street cul-de-sac signage at next meeting

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission voted 4-1 to recommend that the City Commission deny rezoning requests for 221 and 225 W. Park St. The applicant, Park-Third Inc., sought to rezone the parcels to the Third St. Corridor District to formalize existing parking use. The commission found the rezoning inconsistent with the Community Master Plan's Future Land Use Map, which designates the parcels as single-family residential. A prior motion to recommend approval failed 2-3.

• Recommended denial of rezoning 04-REZ-08-22 for 221 & 225 W. Park St. (4-1)
• Motion to recommend approval of rezoning 04-REZ-08-22 failed (2-3)
• Approved meeting agenda with additions (5-0)
• Suspended rules for discussion (5-0)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting scheduled for August 15, 2022, was not held because a quorum was not present. No decisions, proposals, or discussions occurred.

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority Board approved the purchase of attachments for a Vermeer ATX850, totaling up to $80,000, to replace maintenance vehicles. They also approved support for the Marji Gesick event and the consent agenda, which included minutes, bills, and financial reports. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved purchase of Vermeer ATX850 attachments up to $80,000 (motion passed)
• Approved support for Marji Gesick event and letter of support (motion passed)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, bills, and financial reports (motion carried)

Public Art Commission

The commission approved a one-year moratorium preventing former members from applying to MPAC calls and opportunities after stepping down. They also committed $8,000 to the Playgrounds for All project and allocated $3,000 for arts education. The Queen City Courts mural project is on schedule with artists arriving August 22.

• Approved 1-year moratorium on former members applying to MPAC calls (unanimous)
• Committed $8,000 to Playgrounds for All public art subcommittee
• Allocated $3,000 to arts education budget
• Tabled discussion on educational curriculum development for K-12
• Confirmed Queen City Courts mural timeline: artists on-site Aug 22-29

Peter White Public Library Board

The board approved the FY22/23 budget, a revised purchasing policy (MGT-8), and accepted artwork donations from six artists. It also approved bills for June and July 2022 totaling $284,108.99. The board agreed to send a letter to MCGS about removed materials and discussed drafting a letter of support for Patmos Library.

• Approved FY22/23 budget (4-0)
• Approved MGT-8 Purchasing Policy, effective 8/9/2022 (4-0)
• Accepted artwork donations from Maggie Linn, Katherine Conover, John Linn, RA Stewart, Nita Engle, and Roger Magnuson (4-0)
• Approved bills for June & July 2022: $143,805.54 & $140,303.45 (4-0)
• Approved agenda as amended (3-0)
• Approved minutes of June 13, 2022 and July 27, 2022 (3-0)
• Agreed to send letter to MCGS acknowledging removal of collection and requesting public access info
• Agreed to draft letter of support to Patmos Library (discussed, not voted)

City Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted 5-0 to approve a site plan for a multi-phase residential development at 2500 S. McClellan Ave. and part of 2464 Division St., with a condition that an amended plan be submitted to meet staff comments. The project, proposed by Ironshore Properties, includes up to 100 units in the first phase and aims to be completed by 2025. The Commission also voted 5-0 to begin rewriting the Community Master Plan after finding many items need updating.

• Approved site plan for 2500 S. McClellan Ave. development (5-0), conditioned on amended plan meeting staff comments
• Approved rewriting the Community Master Plan (5-0) after review found many items need updating

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding Ordinance 7013, which proposes several amendments to the Land Development Code, including updates to sign regulations. The commission is also scheduled to vote on NFPA Fire and Life Safety Ordinances.

• Public hearing for Land Development Code amendments (Ordinance 713)
• Roll call vote on NFPA Fire and Life Safety Ordinances
• Approval of bills payable totaling $2,136,840.97
• Review of EV Smart Communities Commitment Letter
• Appointments to the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and Harbor Advisory Committee

The City Commission unanimously adopted Ordinances 703, 704, and 705 related to NFPA fire and life safety codes, with an amendment directing staff to explore adopting NFPA 909 and 914 for cultural and historic properties. The amendment passed 4-2, and the main motion as amended carried unanimously. The commission also approved Ordinance 713 for land development code amendments, several board appointments, the consent agenda, and a commitment letter to the EV Smart Communities program.

• Adopted Ordinance 713 (Land Development Code Amendments) unanimously by roll call
• Adopted Ordinances 703, 704, 705 (NFPA Fire and Life Safety) unanimously by roll call, as amended
• Amendment to explore NFPA 909 and 914 passed 4-2
• Approved appointments to Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and Harbor Advisory Committee unanimously
• Approved consent agenda including $2,136,840.97 in bills payable unanimously
• Approved EV Smart Communities commitment letter and authorized Mayor to sign unanimously

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a work session to review the annual update regarding Cliffs-Dow environmental monitoring and compliance. Aside from this update, the agenda contains only procedural items.

• Cliffs-Dow Environmental Monitoring and Compliance Annual Update

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority approved its Fiscal Year 2023 budget, which includes parking revenue increases, employee wages with a 5-8% assumed raise, and funds for training and maintenance equipment. The board also approved adding two new bank signers and removing one, with a requirement that one signature be from a board member.

• Approved FY2023 budget (motion carried)
• Added T. Laase McKinney and J. Lanciani as Range Bank signers, removed R. Finco (motion carried)

Peter White Public Library Board

The board met for a budget work session to discuss FY22-23 revenues and expenses. No formal decisions or votes were recorded; the meeting was informational only.

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Police/Fire Pension Board approved several routine financial items, including a fiduciary liability insurance renewal, service invoices, and a standing letter for quarterly Wells Fargo invoices. It also accepted three new police and fire department hires into the pension plan. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved fiduciary liability insurance renewal for $5,079 (4-0)
• Approved Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Co. invoice for $1,500 (4-0)
• Approved standing letter and quarterly invoices for Wells Fargo Advisors (4-0)
• Accepted three new hires (one police, two fire) into pension plan (4-0)
• Approved VanOverbeke, Michaud & Timmony, P.C. invoice for $649.40 (4-0)

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved a $33,373.39 substation maintenance services contract with Premier Power Maintenance. They also approved bills payable totaling $1,833,121.93 and accepted the June 28 and July 12 meeting minutes. A public comment requested repurposing the former Shiras Steam Plant site into a dog park, but no action was taken.

• Approved substation maintenance services from Premier Power Maintenance for $33,373.39 (unanimous)
• Approved bills payable totaling $1,833,121.93 (unanimous)
• Accepted June 28, 2022 regular and July 12, 2022 special meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The commission approved the agenda, previous meeting minutes, and the Executive Director's report, which covered REAC inspections, training, and financial updates. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on operational updates and a strategic planning discussion.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved June 28, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Executive Director's report

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission will discuss the performance evaluation process for the City Manager and City Attorney. The agenda also includes consideration of a PA 425 agreement with Marquette Township and a YMCA facility use agreement. Additionally, the commission will review a special event permit for the Festival of Sail.

• City Manager and City Attorney performance evaluation process
• Festival of Sail Special Event Permit
• Marquette Township PA 425 Agreement
• YMCA Facility Use Agreement
• Wastewater Plant Fire Alarm Contract/Change Order #1

The City Commission unanimously approved the YMCA Facility Use Agreement and authorized the City Manager to negotiate a PA 425 agreement with Marquette Township for the Longyear housing development on Forestville Road. They also approved the consent agenda, including $1,664,404.25 in bills, and established a committee to evaluate the City Manager and City Attorney.

• Approved YMCA Facility Use Agreement (unanimous)
• Authorized City Manager to negotiate PA 425 agreement with Marquette Township for Longyear housing development (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,664,404.25 in bills (unanimous)
• Authorized committee to review City Manager and City Attorney performance evaluations (unanimous)

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved several financial items, including a $495,000 grant and up to $1M loan from EGLE for the Vault Marquette project, and authorized the chair to execute the agreements. The board also approved budget adjustments for FY 2022 and the FY 2023 budget, and ratified a TIF disclosure for Customs House. Several invoices were approved, including $689,476.89 for Pier Redevelopment construction.

• Approved FY 2022 budget adjustments (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2023 budget and recommended to City Commission (unanimous)
• Authorized chair to execute EGLE Brownfield Grant and Loan Agreements for Vault Marquette (unanimous)
• Approved $134,641.20 as Maximum Eligible Activity Obligation for U.P. State Bank projects (unanimous)
• Ratified TIF disclosure acknowledgement for Customs House (unanimous)
• Authorized submission of EGLE Brownfield Assessment Program application for North Shore project (unanimous)
• Approved $689,476.89 payment for Pier Redevelopment construction and design services (unanimous)
• Approved $7,177.50 payment to WGI Consulting for Vault parking project (unanimous)

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board approved the amended agenda and corrected June minutes, both 5-0. It agreed that replacement of DO equipment and a mixer (estimated $31,000) should be paid from the maintenance fund. No other formal decisions were made; the rest were reports.

• Approved amended agenda to include Financial Report (5-0)
• Approved June 16, 2022 minutes with typo correction (5-0)
• Agreed to pay $31,000 for DO equipment and mixer from maintenance fund

Board of Review

The Marquette City Board of Review met on July 19, 2022, and unanimously approved the March 2022 minutes and all agenda items, which included parcels for veteran's exemptions, mutual mistake in fact, and clerical errors. No public comment was received, and no additions or deletions were made to the agenda. The board also discussed state-level changes to veteran's exemptions and a potentially high inflation rate for next year.

• Approved March 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved all agenda items, including veteran's exemptions, mutual mistake in fact, and clerical errors (unanimous)

Election Board

The Marquette City Elections Board met to conduct the public accuracy test of voting equipment for the August 2, 2022 State Primary Election. The board unanimously approved the agenda, prior meeting minutes, and sealing of transfer containers. Members unanimously verified the accuracy of the election programming. No public comment was made.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved June 23, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Directed sealing of transfer containers (unanimous)
• Verified accuracy of election programming for Aug. 2 primary (unanimous)

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The Traffic/Parking Advisory Committee met and tabled the selection of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary positions to the next meeting to allow an absent member to participate. They also discussed crosswalk sign removal, parking safety near Morgan Creek Falls Trail, and pedestrian safety concerns, but took no formal action on these items.

• Tabled officer position elections to next meeting
• Approved agenda (motion by Al, seconded by Jodi)
• Approved minutes from 4/19/2022 (motion by Al, seconded by Jodi)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission approved the Special Land Use Permit for outdoor entertainment and the Special Permit for outdoor food and beverage service for Superior Culture LLC at 717 N. Third St., finding conditions of approval met. The approval includes a review scheduled for November 15, 2022, and clarifies that lights must be off by 10:00 p.m. as part of the outdoor operations cease time. The commission also discussed potential future zoning changes for duplexes on corner lots but took no action.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit 04-SUP-06-21 for outdoor entertainment (5-0) with review on Nov. 15, 2022
• Approved Special Permit 05-SPR-06-21 for outdoor food and beverage service (5-0) with review on Nov. 15, 2022 and lights off by 10:00 p.m.
• Approved agenda with addition (5-0)

Local Development Finance Authority

The Marquette Local Development Finance Authority approved its FY'23 budget and made the summer distribution of FY'22 TIF funds to Innovation Marquette Enterprise Corp. The board also approved receiving agenda and presentation materials five business days before quarterly meetings. No public comment was made, and no old business was discussed.

• Approved FY'23 LDFA budget proposal (unanimous)
• Approved summer distribution of FY'22 TIF funds to Innovation Marquette Enterprise Corp. (unanimous)
• Approved receiving written agenda and presentation 5 business days before quarterly meetings (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from April 18th meeting (unanimous)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board approved a proposal to allow a kayak rental business at Tourist Park, with the city attorney to review a hold harmless agreement. The board also accepted the resignation of member Tara Laase-McKinney and approved the amended agenda and June minutes. No other new business was discussed.

• Approved kayak rental proposal at Tourist Park (unanimous)
• Approved amended agenda (unanimous)
• Approved June 20, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Tara Laase-McKinney's resignation from the board

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority approved hiring T. Laase-McKinney as Executive Director and approved her employment agreement. The board also passed a bylaw amendment updating the organizational chart and hierarchy, approved a $182,510 payment to Traffic & Safety Control Systems Inc., and approved a $3,500 facade grant for Loyaltees while partially approving Seiche Stone Company's application. A special budget meeting was set for July 28, 2022, and a walking tour for August 25, 2022.

• Approved hiring T. Laase-McKinney as Executive Director and employment agreement
• Passed bylaw amendment updating organizational chart and hierarchy (2nd reading)
• Approved consent agenda including bills and financial reports
• Approved $3,500 facade grant for Loyaltees (A. Adan opposed)
• Partially approved Seiche Stone Company facade grant
• Set special budget meeting for July 28, 2022 at 8 a.m.
• Set walking tour for August 25, 2022 at 8 a.m.

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The Arts & Culture Advisory Committee elected Jamie Weeder as Chair and Maddie as Vice-Chair by unanimous approval. They discussed the new Art Week theme 'Home', reviewed the annual art awards, and planned a September 26 presentation to the City Commission. No formal votes were taken on funding or contracts.

• Elected Jamie Weeder as Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Maddie as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved February 2022 minutes (motion by Michael, second by Maddie)

Board of Light and Power

The Marquette Board of Light and Power approved a LiDAR aerial survey and data processing contract with Fugro Inc. for $49,620. The motion was made by Ed Angeli, seconded by Robert Niemi, and passed unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was brief and procedural.

• Approved $49,620 LiDAR aerial survey & data processing contract with Fugro Inc. (unanimous)
• Excused absent board member Paul Schloegel (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will consider authorizing 2022 Capital Improvement Bonds and the purchase of residential curbside recycling carts. The meeting also includes several appointments to local boards and committees. Additionally, the commission will review various special event permits and city bills totaling $727,986.69.

• Resolution authorizing 2022 Capital Improvement Bonds
• Residential curbside recycling cart purchase
• Approval of $727,986.69 in bills payable
• Special event permits for Art on the Rocks and Outback Art Fair
• Appointments to the Housing Commission and Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The City Commission approved waiving competitive bidding to buy up to 6,200 recycling carts from Cascade Cart Solutions for up to $344,000, with Commissioner Stonehouse voting no. The Commission also approved the consent agenda, including $727,986.69 in bills, and authorized 2022 Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds. Several board appointments were made unanimously.

• Approved $344,000 recycling cart purchase (6-1)
• Approved consent agenda including $727,986.69 in bills (unanimous)
• Authorized 2022 Limited Tax General Obligation Bonds (unanimous)
• Approved appointments to Housing Commission, Parks and Recreation, and Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee (unanimous)

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Police/Fire Pension Board approved a retirement application for Guertin and filed financial reports as of May 31, 2022. The board also approved the May 24 meeting minutes and discussed a draft policy on Public Act 88 and a delay in fund transfers. All votes were unanimous (3-0).

• Approved retirement application for Guertin (3-0)
• Approved May 24, 2022 meeting minutes (3-0)
• Received, reviewed, and filed financial reports as of May 31, 2022
• Received, reviewed, and filed commission presentation reminder for July 11

Board of Light and Power

The Marquette Board of Light and Power unanimously approved opting out of PA-95, purchasing three voltage regulators for $86,770.59, and replacing a circuit breaker for $33,287.88. They also approved bills payable totaling $886,421.42 and a Certificate of Corporate Resolution. The board entered closed session for an enterprise risk management discussion.

• Approved opt-out of PA-95 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 3 voltage regulators from Border States for $86,770.59 (unanimous)
• Approved circuit breaker replacement (CB5693) and removal (CB58) by Electric Power Systems for $33,287.88 (unanimous)
• Approved bills payable totaling $886,421.42 (unanimous)
• Approved Certificate of Corporate Resolution (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended (unanimous)
• Approved May 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Entered closed session for enterprise risk management discussion (roll call 5-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding the conditional rezoning of a 27-acre parcel on Forestville Basin Trail from Conservation and Recreation to Low Density Residential. This request is part of the Blue Heron Bluffs 2 Condominium Project. The meeting also includes reviews of various special event permits and appointments.

• Conditional rezoning of Parcel 0510156 on Forestville Basin Trail
• Rezoning of property at 595 Forestville Basin Trail
• Approval of bills totaling $1,489,656.23
• Special event permits for Hiawatha Music Non-Profit and International Food Fest
• Purchase of a used fire truck

The Commission adopted Ordinance 711, rezoning a 27+ acre parcel on Forestville Basin Trail from Conservation and Recreation to Low-Density Residential with a conditional rezoning agreement, allowing 8 single-family homes. The vote was 6-1, with Mayor Smith dissenting. The Commission also approved a second rezoning (Ordinance 712) for a nearby parcel, which passed unanimously. Additionally, a special event permit for Camp Cannabis was approved unanimously, and the purchase of a used fire truck was authorized.

• Adopted Ordinance 711, conditional rezoning of parcel 0510156 to Low-Density Residential (6-1)
• Adopted Ordinance 712, rezoning parcel 1170101 to Low-Density Residential (unanimous)
• Approved appointments of Madeline Arquette and Amy Manning to committees (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,489,656.23 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved special event permit for Camp Cannabis with insurance contingency (7-0)
• Approved purchase of used 1999 Pierce Sabre fire truck for up to $39,000 (unanimous)

Election Board

The Marquette City Elections Board unanimously approved the agenda, minutes, and the appointment of election inspectors and Absent Voter Counting Board (AVCB) inspectors for the August 2, 2022, State Primary Election. The City Clerk also reported on a security grant to fund new election laptops, a security camera, a ballot drop box, and ballot transfer cases. No public comment was made.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved April 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed election inspectors for Aug. 2, 2022 primary (unanimous)
• Appointed AV Counting Board inspectors for Aug. 2, 2022 primary (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is considering a proposal to increase the city's operating millage from 14.9225 to 17.5604 mills. This change aims to address a revenue shortfall and would generate an estimated $1.5 million in annual revenue. For homeowners with an $80,000 taxable value, this increase represents an additional yearly payment of $211.03.

• Increase City operating millage to 17.5604 mills
• Approval of June 15, 2022 special meeting minutes

The City Commission unanimously approved a resolution to increase the city's operating millage to 17.5604 mills, directing the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the resolution and execute the 2022 L-4029 form. The decision followed a staff presentation on budget challenges, including debt service, legacy costs, and inflation. The increase will affect upcoming tax bills, with payments due by September 14, 2022.

• Approved operating millage increase to 17.5604 mills (unanimous)
• Directed Mayor and City Clerk to sign resolution and execute 2022 L-4029 form
• Approved consent agenda, including minutes of June 15, 2022 special meeting (unanimous)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission approved a Special Land Use permit for a new duplex dwelling at 442 McMillan Street. The decision was made after a public hearing where multiple neighbors voiced opposition, citing concerns about traffic, parking, and neighborhood character. The commission determined the application met all requirements of the Land Development Code and voted 5-0 to approve it as presented.

• Approved Special Land Use permit 03-SUP-06-22 for a duplex at 442 McMillan Street (5-0)
• Approved the meeting agenda with two additional correspondence items (5-0)
• Suspended rules for discussion on the duplex application (5-0)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board approved two recreation vendor items: placement of a rental kayak rack at Dead River Basin beach in Tourist Park (with Sara Bixby voting against), and the concept of a mobile sauna. The board also approved the agenda and April minutes, and heard project updates on playgrounds, marinas, and trails.

• Approved kayak rental rack at Dead River Basin beach, Tourist Park (Sara Bixby opposed)
• Approved concept of mobile sauna
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved April 11, 2022 minutes (unanimous, Lori Hauswirth abstaining)

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board approved the agenda and May 19, 2022 minutes, both 4-0. Members heard the financial report noting increased expenditures due to inflation, and the FY21 audit showing minimal changes from FY20. Operations reported no permit violations in May and ongoing COVID-19 sampling. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved May 19, 2022 meeting minutes (4-0)

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to consider resolutions regarding the sale of various city-owned properties. This includes a proposal from the Steve Mariucci Beacon House for 600 W. Spring Street and a request for 200 acres of Heartwood Forestland. A presentation on the city's property inventory is also scheduled.

• Proposed sale of 0.84 acre at 600 W. Spring Street for $128,000
• Proposed sale of 200 acres of Heartwood Forestland in Sands Township
• Proposed sale of property at Founders Landing
• Presentation on City Owned Property Inventory

The Commission denied the Steve Mariucci Beacon House's purchase request for 600 W. Spring Street and directed staff to prepare an RFP for higher-density, low-income or workforce housing, as defined in the Community Master Plan and Ad Hoc Housing Committee report. It also unanimously denied Curran and Company's purchase request for Heartwood Forestland and Marquette Opportunity LLC's request for Founders Landing. The meeting included a presentation on the city property inventory and discussion on affordable housing.

• Denied Beacon House purchase request for 600 W. Spring Street (5-1)
• Directed staff to prepare RFP for higher-density, low-income or workforce housing at 600 W. Spring Street (5-1)
• Denied Curran and Company purchase request for Heartwood Forestland (unanimous)
• Denied Marquette Opportunity LLC purchase request for Founders Landing (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including June 13, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Peter White Public Library Board

The Peter White Public Library Board approved the FY 21/22 budget revisions, several revised policies (Library Sponsored Program, Material Selection and Intellectual Freedom), and the election of officers, all by 5-0 votes. The board also accepted artwork donations, transferred artifacts to the NMU DeVos Museum, and voted to continue operating fully open with masks optional. Bills for April and May 2022 were approved in the amounts of $194,516.82 and $161,303.57.

• Approved agenda and April 19, 2022 minutes (5-0)
• Elected Anne Donohue as president and Steve Schmunk as secretary (5-0)
• Approved bills for April & May 2022: $194,516.82 & $161,303.57 (5-0)
• Approved updated authorized signer list (5-0)
• Approved PRG-1 Library Sponsored Program Policy, effective 5/17/2022 (5-0)
• Approved INFO-1 Material Selection and Intellectual Freedom Policy, effective 6/13/2022 (5-0)
• Approved FY 21/22 Budget Revisions (5-0)
• Accepted artwork donations from five artists and transferred artifacts to NMU DeVos Museum (5-0)

City Commission

The Commission will hold a public hearing regarding Northern Michigan University's request to vacate a section of Center Street. If approved, the City would no longer be responsible for maintaining this portion of the street once it is acquired by the university. The agenda also includes approval of bills totaling $763,864.60.

• Public hearing: Vacation of a portion of Center Street east of Presque Isle Avenue
• Approval of bills payable in the amount of $763,864.60
• 2022 Fireworks Display Permit
• Vango's, Inc. concession lease agreement
• Additions to the 2027-2029 Capital Improvement Plan

The City Commission approved the vacation of a portion of Center Street, confirmed the appointment of Dulcee Ranta as City Assessor, and approved the consent agenda including $763,864.60 in bills. The meeting also included presentations on the FY2021 audit, life-saving awards, and an art exhibit, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved vacation of a portion of Center Street (unanimous roll call)
• Confirmed appointment of Dulcee Ranta as City Assessor (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $763,864.60 in bills (unanimous roll call)
• Approved reappointment of Jamie Weeder to Arts and Culture Advisory Committee (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority approved a consent agenda including May bills and financial reports, supported the Queen City Half Marathon, updated its organizational chart and by-laws (first reading), approved pay increases for two director positions, approved Range's bid for the Marquette Commons fire suppression system, and approved a facade grant for Ore Dock Brewing while denying Loyaltees' request.

• Approved consent agenda including May bills and financial reports
• Supported Queen City Half Marathon with Spring St. closure until 3 p.m.
• Updated organizational flow chart and by-laws (first reading)
• Increased salary for Operations Director and Business and Promotions Director positions
• Approved Range's bid for fire suppression system at Marquette Commons
• Approved Ore Dock Brewing facade grant, denied Loyaltees' request

Public Art Commission

The commission approved the consent agenda and minutes. They discussed grant applications, including $24,000 for Art Week and a $560,000 WRAP grant for the LCP building and bandshell, but no votes were taken on these. The KBIC cultural trail project is in early discussion, with a site visit planned for July 9th and a potential RFP in January. No substantive decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved consent agenda and minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled RFP conflict of interest policy discussion
• Discussed $24,000 Art Week grant application to MCAC
• Discussed $560,000 WRAP grant application for LCP building and bandshell

Marquette Housing Commission

The Marquette Housing Commission approved the consent agenda, including the Executive Director's Report, financials, checks, cash position, and voucher progress. No substantive decisions were made beyond routine approvals; the meeting was largely informational.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved April 26, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Executive Director's Report (consent agenda)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Brownfield Plan for the redevelopment of the former hospital property. The project, led by the Northern Michigan University Foundation, involves an estimated $166 million investment for housing and commercial uses. The plan includes building demolition and infrastructure improvements such as the reconstruction of College Avenue.

• Brownfield Plan for 420 W. Magnetic Street redevelopment
• Approval of bills payable totaling $1,798,998.01
• Public hearing on Land Development Code Amendments
• MDOT Bridge Rehabilitation Grant Application
• Conditional contractor selection for Lake Superior Shoreline Restoration Project

The City Commission approved the Former Hospital Redevelopment Brownfield Plan, which will fund demolition and remediation of the former hospital site, with $166 million in private investment. The Commission also rejected a limited franchise for UPPCO, adopted land development code amendments, rezoned city-owned property near McClellan Avenue, and conditionally selected Smith Construction for the Lake Superior Shoreline Restoration Project.

• Approved Former Hospital Redevelopment Brownfield Plan (unanimous roll call)
• Rejected UPPCO Limited Franchise Ordinance (6-1, Stonehouse no)
• Adopted Ordinance #709 Land Development Code Amendments (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance #710 rezoning McClellan Avenue parcels to Conservation-Recreation (6-1, Hanley no)
• Confirmed Single Lot Special Assessment Roll #589 (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda including $1,798,998.01 in bills (unanimous)
• Conditionally selected Smith Construction for Lake Superior Shoreline Restoration Project (unanimous)
• Approved Notice of Intent for up to $6M in Capital Improvement Bonds (unanimous)

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Police/Fire Pension Board approved the retirement application for Haile and the March meeting minutes. Financial reports were received and filed, and the board discussed upcoming presentations and administrative changes.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 22, 2022 meeting minutes as corrected (4-0)
• Approved Age and Service Retirement application for Haile (4-0)
• Received and filed Principal Investment Portfolio Quarterly Report
• Received and filed financial reports as of April 30, 2022
• Received and filed Quarterly Pension Enhancement Account report

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved a $77,510 contract with Turbo Systems US Inc. for MEC turbocharger overhaul services. It also approved $1,494,003 in bills payable and the minutes from prior meetings. No other substantive decisions were made; remaining items were informational updates.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved May 3 and May 4 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills payable totaling $1,494,003 (unanimous)
• Authorized $77,510 for MEC turbocharger maintenance to Turbo Systems US Inc. (unanimous)

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a Brownfield Plan for the former Marquette General Hospital site, with the NMU Foundation as facilitator. The plan includes a $5 million MEDC grant for demolition and Act 381 tax capture. The board also approved invoices for parking consulting and consulting services, and discussed updates on several projects.

• Approved Brownfield Plan for former MGH redevelopment (unanimous)
• Approved $6,072.50 payment to WGI for parking consulting
• Approved $7,435.28 in invoices to Mac Consulting Services for April 2022
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 21, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board approved an amended agenda and the April 21, 2022 minutes, both 4-0. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting focused on financial reports, permit compliance, plant operations, and updates on biosolids application and CoGen economics.

• Approved amended agenda to add CoGen Economics under Board Comment (4-0)
• Approved April 21, 2022 meeting minutes as written (4-0)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission approved a concept Planned Unit Development (PUD) for Shophouse Park at 480 River Park Circle, a mixed-use project including live/work dwellings, hospitality, light industrial, and outdoor recreation uses. The commission also approved two special land use permits for marihuana businesses: one for a retailer, designated consumption establishment, Class B grower, and processor at 1210 S. Front Street (3-1), and another for a retailer at 1651 S. Front Street (4-0). Additionally, the commission approved amendments to the City Municipal Property Inventory Book and Map, moving two parcels from active to inactive status.

• Approved concept PUD for Shophouse Park at 480 River Park Circle (3-1)
• Approved special land use for marihuana retailer, consumption, grower, and processor at 1210 S. Front Street (3-1)
• Approved special land use for marihuana retailer at 1651 S. Front Street (4-0)
• Approved amendments to Municipal Property Inventory, moving A13a and A13b to inactive (4-0)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board meeting scheduled for May 16, 2022, was not held because a quorum was not present. No decisions were made or items discussed.

City Commission

The City Commission is meeting to discuss the redevelopment of the former hospital on College Avenue. The agenda includes scheduling a public hearing for a Brownfield Plan to support the estimated $160 million project. This plan aims to facilitate housing and commercial uses through tax increment financing.

• Scheduling a public hearing for the Former Hospital Redevelopment Brownfield Plan
• Presentation and discussion regarding former hospital redevelopment
• Approval of May 9, 2022, meeting minutes

The City Commission unanimously approved scheduling a public hearing for the Former Hospital Redevelopment Brownfield Plan for the May 31, 2022 meeting. The hearing follows presentations from the NMU Foundation and Veridea Group about the 23-acre site redevelopment. No final decisions were made on the project itself; the action was to set the hearing date.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes of May 9, 2022 special and regular meetings (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for Former Hospital Redevelopment Brownfield Plan for May 31, 2022 (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority approved an ATM lease for the Commons, three facade improvement grants, and named interim directors with bill-approval authority. The board also discussed social districts, parking garage studies, and hiring for a new executive director.

• Approved ATM lease for the Commons (motion passed)
• Approved $25,000 in facade improvement grants to Superior Aesthetics, Evergreen Market, and Donckers (motion passed)
• Approved J. Lanciani and T. Laase-McKinney as interim directors with authority to approve bills up to $2,500 (motion passed)
• Approved consent agenda including April minutes, bills, and financial reports (motion carried)

Public Art Commission

The commission selected a circular area on the North Pier for an indigenous maker's installation focusing on land acknowledgment and treaty information, and approved small-scale garden artwork for the South Pier. They also approved a minimum of six benches (ideally ten) for the South Pier. Several items were deferred to the June meeting, including a trail marker discussion and conflict-of-interest policy.

• Approved North Pier circular area for indigenous art installation (all in favor)
• Approved South Pier small-scale garden artwork (all in favor)
• Approved South Pier benches: minimum six, ideal ten (all in favor)
• Approved consent agenda and minutes (all in favor)
• Deferred trail marker discussion at Mount Marquette to June agenda
• Deferred conflict-of-interest policy for former commissioners to June agenda

City Planning Commission

The Planning Commission recommended denial of a rezoning request for 21 acres at Forestville Basin Trail from Conservation & Recreation to Low Density Residential, citing inconsistency with the Master Plan, inadequate streets and utilities, and density concerns. It separately recommended approval of a street vacation for a portion of Center Street. The commission also recommended approval of a separate rezoning for a 1.5-acre parcel at 595 Forestville Basin Trail, and adopted a resolution formalizing a prior Master Plan amendment.

• Recommended denial of rezoning 02-REZ-05-2022 (21 acres, Forestville Basin Trail) from CR to LDR (5-0)
• Recommended approval of street vacation 01-STR-05-2022 for portion of Center Street (5-0)
• Recommended approval of rezoning 03-REZ-05-2022 (595 Forestville Basin Trail) from CR to LDR (4-1, Premeau no)
• Adopted Community Master Plan Amendment Resolution of Adoption (5-0)
• Tabled review of Draft Municipal Property Inventory and Map to May 17, 2022 meeting

City Commission

The City Commission is holding public hearings for ordinances regarding foot traffic path designations and a prohibition on wildlife feeding. The commission will also consider an agreement with Marquette Township for advanced life support medical services. Other items include approving bills totaling $476,526.96 and committee appointments.

• Ordinance #707: Designating paths for foot traffic only
• Ordinance #708: Prohibiting the intentional feeding of wildlife
• Advanced Life Support Intercept Agreement with Marquette Township
• Approval of bills totaling $476,526.96
• Appointments to Presque Isle Park Advisory Committee

The City Commission unanimously approved two ordinances: one designating foot traffic paths and another prohibiting wildlife feeding. It also approved a consent agenda including $476,526.96 in bills, a lease with SpinwayMQT, LLC, and a brownfield grant application. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Ordinance #707 designating foot traffic paths (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance #708 prohibiting wildlife feeding (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $476,526.96 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved lease agreement with SpinwayMQT, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved resolution for Brownfield Grant and Loan application to EGLE (unanimous)

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission will hold a special meeting focused on a discussion regarding the operating millage. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from the April 25, 2022, work session and regular meeting.

• Operating millage discussion
• Approval of April 25, 2022, commission work session minutes
• Approval of April 25, 2022, regular commission meeting minutes

The City Commission held a special meeting to discuss the city's budget and financial landscape. Staff indicated they will likely ask the Commission to increase the operating millage this year, which would be the first increase in 16 years, potentially taking effect in July. No formal decision was made; the discussion was informational only.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from April 25, 2022 work session and regular meeting (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a request for multiple variances to allow a second-story addition and porch at 730 High St., with a 5-0 vote. The board also approved a one-year extension for a previously approved deck variance at 238 Craig St. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved variances for 730 High St. addition (5-0)
• Approved extension for 238 Craig St. deck variance (5-0)

Board of Light and Power

The Board of Light and Power held a work session to discuss the future of the 400 E. Hampton property, which includes three parcels (one deeded to MBLP and two under state Bottomlands agreements). No formal decisions were made; the board heard public comments favoring a green space, parking, and other recreational uses. The board noted that any project would require a third-party developer and must benefit the community.

• Excused Ed Angeli from the meeting (unanimous)
• Approved the agenda as presented (unanimous)

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved the purchase of additional electric meters from RESCO for $32,782.44 and approved an updated co-generation policy with language changes. Bills payable totaling $710,503.66 were approved, and minutes from prior meetings were accepted. A resident requested permission to install a cigarette butt recycling station at no cost to the utility; no decision was recorded.

• Approved $710,503.66 in bills payable (unanimous)
• Approved $32,782.44 purchase of electric meters from RESCO (unanimous)
• Approved updated co-generation policy (unanimous)
• Accepted March 29 and April 28 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Excused absent board member Ed Angeli (unanimous)

Board of Light and Power

The Marquette Board of Light and Power unanimously approved the purchase of a 138kV/69kV step-down substation transformer for $2,485,961 through Haversock, Koenig, and Associates. They also approved the purchase of a replacement pick-up truck from Fox Marquette Chevrolet for $35,351.00. Both items were approved without public comment, and the meeting adjourned at 3:48 p.m.

• Approved $2,485,961 purchase of 138kV/69kV step-down substation transformer (unanimous)
• Approved $35,351.00 purchase of replacement pick-up truck from Fox Marquette Chevrolet (unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The Marquette Housing Commission meeting on April 26, 2022, was called to order and proceeded with routine approvals. The commission approved the agenda, the previous meeting's minutes, and the March financials. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural, with reports from the Executive Director and discussion of vacancies and upcoming training.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Approved March financials

City Commission

The City Commission will review a 60-month lease for Cisco network switches totaling $46,380. The meeting also includes scheduling public hearings for land development code amendments and ordinances. Additionally, the commission will address a fire truck purchase and residential recycling cart grants.

• Cisco equipment lease totaling $46,380
• Public hearings for Land Development Code Amendments
• Fire truck purchase
• Residential curbside recycling cart grants
• Appointment of Antonio Adan to the Downtown Development Authority

The City Commission approved the purchase of a new Pierce Velocity PUC Pumper Truck from Red Power Diesel Service, Inc. for up to $829,080.61, with Commissioner Stonehouse voting no. The Commission also accepted two recycling cart grants (from EGLE and The Recycling Partnership) by a 4-3 vote, with Mayor Pro Tem Mayer and Commissioners Bonsall and Stonehouse opposed. All other agenda items, including the consent agenda and proclamations, were approved unanimously.

• Approved purchase of Pierce Velocity PUC Pumper Truck, not-to-exceed $829,080.61 (6-1)
• Accepted recycling cart grants from EGLE and The Recycling Partnership (4-3)
• Approved consent agenda including $512,319.92 in bills, Cisco equipment lease, and special event permits (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Antonio Adan to Downtown Development Authority (unanimous)
• Acknowledged proclamation for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women Awareness Week (unanimous)
• Acknowledged proclamation for 25th anniversary of Marquette Symphony Orchestra (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will attend a presentation by Motor Pool staff and a tour of the motor pool and fire equipment. No other substantive items are listed for this work session.

• Presentation by Motor Pool Staff
• Tour of Motor Pool and Fire Equipment

The City Commission held a work session with a presentation and tour of the Motor Pool and fire equipment. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational, focusing on plans for purchasing a new fire truck and potential budgeting issues due to rising steel prices. A public comment suggested replacing flags at the Municipal Service Center before Flag Day.

• No formal decisions made during work session

Election Board

The Marquette City Elections Board unanimously approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes, verified candidates for local office, and conducted a public accuracy test for the May 3, 2022 special election. All candidates for the City Commission and Board of Light and Power were verified and will appear on the November ballot. No public comment was made.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved March 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Verified candidates for local office (unanimous)
• Conducted public accuracy test for May 3, 2022 special election

Traffic-Parking Advisory Committee

The Traffic/Parking Advisory Committee met on April 19, 2022, and approved a motion to meter two additional handicap parking spots in front of the Old City Hall building downtown. The vote was 3-0. No other substantive decisions were made; the agenda and minutes were not approved, and no old business was discussed.

• Approved metering two additional handicap parking spots in front of Old City Hall (3-0)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission voted 4-2 to amend the Special Land Use Permits for Superior Culture LLC at 717 N. Third St., allowing outdoor music to continue but with new conditions. Outdoor live music is now limited to Friday nights from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., with exceptions for Music on Third events, and requires installation of sound-dampening materials. The commission also voted 4-2 to amend the outdoor food and beverage permit, requiring all outdoor operations in the back yard to cease by 10:00 p.m.

• Amended outdoor entertainment permit for Superior Culture with conditions (4-2)
• Limited outdoor music to Fridays 7-9 p.m., except Music on Third events
• Required installation of sound wall, curtains, and canopy before live music resumes
• Banned live drum kits except during Music on Third events
• Required all instruments/vocals through business sound system
• Amended outdoor food and beverage permit, requiring back yard operations cease by 10 p.m. (4-2)
• Required applicant to provide updated site plan with sound-dampening materials
• Set staff report on complaints due by July 19

Local Development Finance Authority

The Marquette City Local Development Finance Authority met on April 18, 2022, and approved the agenda and the minutes from the January 22nd meeting. The board heard presentations on the Innovation Marquette Enterprise SmartZone's financial report and project updates, and discussed preparing for upcoming city commission presentations. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved January 22nd meeting minutes (Hewitt/Cherry; Boyer-Davis abstained)

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority accepted the resignation of its executive director and named co-interim directors. It approved a parking rate increase to $1 per hour after new pay stations are installed, and renewed the Spinway lease for three years. All decisions were made at the April 14, 2022 meeting.

• Accepted executive director resignation (motion carried)
• Named Tara Laase-McKinney and Jodi Lanciani as Co-Interim Executive Directors (motion carried)
• Approved Spinway lease renewal for three years, $500 annual payment (motion passed)
• Approved hourly parking rate increase to $1 per hour after new pay stations installed (motion carried)
• Authorized R. Finco to continue negotiations for pay station signage and construction (motion carried)
• Approved consent agenda including March minutes, bills, and financial reports (motion carried)

Public Art Commission

The Marquette Public Art Commission approved the selection of a circular area on the North Pier for an indigenous maker's installation on land acknowledgement and treaty information, and approved small-scale garden artwork for the South Pier. They also approved a proposal for ten benches (six minimum) on the South Pier. The commission received a $100,000 NEA Our Town grant for the Cultural Trail project and discussed recruitment for open member slots.

• Approved North Pier circular area for indigenous installation on land acknowledgement and treaty info (all in favor)
• Approved South Pier small-scale garden artwork (all in favor)
• Approved South Pier benches: ten ideal, six minimum, staggered (all in favor)
• Approved March meeting minutes (all in favor)

City Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted 5-3 to recommend that the City Commission approve rezoning multiple city-owned properties along the McClellan Ave. corridor from Municipal (M) to Conservation & Recreation (CR). The recommendation follows a public hearing where residents expressed support for the rezoning to prevent future development. The Commission also unanimously recommended approval of Land Development Code amendments and a Community Master Plan amendment incorporating the Ad-Hoc Housing Committee's final report.

• Recommended rezoning 9 city-owned parcels along McClellan Ave. corridor from Municipal to Conservation & Recreation (5-3)
• Recommended approval of Land Development Code amendments (01-ZOA-04-22) (8-0)
• Recommended approval of Community Master Plan amendment adding Ad-Hoc Housing Committee report as Appendix K (8-0)
• Approved meeting agenda with additional correspondence (8-0)
• Approved minutes of March 1, 2022 meeting by consensus

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board unanimously approved Tara Laase-McKinney as interim secretary and Jim Susourney as vice-chair. The board also reviewed draft guidelines for recreational vendors on public grounds, with further discussion planned. No other substantive decisions were made; most items were updates or discussions.

• Approved Tara Laase-McKinney as interim secretary (unanimous)
• Approved Jim Susourney as vice-chair (unanimous)
• Approved agenda with addition of community member rolls (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of March 21, 2022 (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will consider several board appointments and approve $772,049.18 in payable bills. The agenda also includes a presentation from the Marquette Housing Commission and review of the Trucking Corridor Agreement.

• Lakeshore Boulevard restoration project contract with Smith Construction Inc. at $205,807.40
• Approval of bills payable totaling $772,049.18
• Sewer Cleaning and Televising Services for 2022-2024 Project Contract
• Wright Street Sidewalk Extension and Sidewalk Repair and Replacement Project
• Amended and Restated Trucking Corridor Agreement

The City Commission unanimously approved an amended and restated Trucking Corridor Agreement, authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to sign it. The Commission also approved several appointments, reappointments, and a consent agenda that included paying bills totaling $772,049.18 and approving contracts for sewer cleaning and sidewalk projects. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved amended and restated Trucking Corridor Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $772,049.18 in bills payable (unanimous)
• Approved Lakeshore Boulevard Coastal Zone Management Program Area Restoration Project Contract (consent agenda)
• Approved Sewer Cleaning and Televising Services for 2022-2024 Project Contract (consent agenda)
• Approved Wright Street Sidewalk Extension and Sidewalk Repair and Replacement Project (consent agenda)
• Approved appointment of Suzanne Williams to Peter White Public Library Board of Trustees (unanimous)
• Approved reappointments of Wayne Premeau to Planning Commission and Erik Johnson to Presque Isle Park Advisory Committee (unanimous)

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Board of Zoning Appeals approved a variance request by Herman and Lisa Eleby for an 8.7-ft side yard variance to build a 12-ft x 20-ft open carport at 944 Sherman St. The approval was granted with a condition that a gutter be installed on the west side of the structure. The board also elected officers and discussed a training article.

• Approved 8.7-ft side yard variance for carport at 944 Sherman St. (5-0) with gutter condition
• Approved minutes of November 4, 2021 (4-0, Frischkorn abstained)
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Elected Mr. Ottaway as Chair (5-0)
• Elected Ms. Dombrowski as Vice-Chair (5-0)

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved $1,449,364.08 in bills payable, a $36,000 relay and controls upgrade, a $35,724 replacement pickup truck, a $208,644 service truck surcharge, $15,725 in cyber penetration testing, and $113,350 in geotechnical services. They also authorized moving forward with a consent judgment for a plat amendment in Chocolay Township. No public comments were made.

• Approved bills payable totaling $1,449,364.08 (unanimous)
• Authorized $36,000 purchase for substation relay and controls upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved $35,724 purchase of replacement pickup truck from Fox Marquette Chevrolet (unanimous)
• Approved $208,644 service truck surcharge amount (unanimous)
• Approved $15,725 cyber penetration testing with VDA Labs (unanimous)
• Approved $113,350 geotechnical services for Second Interconnection with GEI Consultants (unanimous)
• Authorized attorney to proceed with consent judgment for plat amendment in Chocolay Township (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission is holding a public hearing to adopt updated fire and life safety ordinances. These updates would implement the NFPA 1 Fire Code and NFPA 101 Life Safety Code as city standards. The agenda also includes grant applications for land conservation and recreation.

• Public hearing for Fire and Life Safety Ordinances #703, #704, and #705
• Michigan Land and Water Conservation Grant Application
• Michigan Recreation Passport Grant Application
• Approval of $461,588.99 in total bills payable
• Contract Amendment #3 for BP 17-11 Solid Waste Collection Services

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Police/Fire Pension Board approved a $3,750 invoice for GASB 67/68 services from Gabriel, Roeder, Smith & Co, and received and filed financial reports showing a portfolio of $43,792,054.95. The board also approved the February meeting minutes as amended and excused a member. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved $3,750 invoice for GASB 67/68 services (3-0)
• Approved February 22, 2022 meeting minutes as amended (3-0)
• Excused Gordon from meeting (3-0)
• Received and filed financial reports as of February 28, 2022

Marquette Housing Commission

The Marquette Housing Commission approved the consent agenda, which included the executive director's report, January financials, and check approvals. The Youth and Family Center hired a new program manager, Julia Beard, and a part-time office person was brought in during a staff member's maternity leave. The commission also approved a letter supporting a co-op and discussed but did not advance a small-scale rental pilot program.

• Approved consent agenda including financials and check approvals (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved February 22, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved support of Co-op letter
• Decided to delay Small Scale Rental Pilot Program application for more lead time

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board unanimously recommended that the City Commission adopt grant resolutions for the Marquette Lions Lakeside Park renovations and the Tourist Park Day-Use Road and Parking. Both motions passed without opposition. The board also tabled discussion of recreation vendors on public grounds until the next meeting.

• Approved agenda and February 14, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled recreation vendors on public grounds until next meeting
• Recommended City Commission adopt Lions Lakeside Park grant resolution (unanimous)
• Recommended City Commission adopt Tourist Park Day-Use Road and Parking grant resolution (unanimous)

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the City and NMU Foundation for the former Marquette General Hospital redevelopment, authorized up to $35,000 from the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund for consulting, and approved several invoices. The board also acknowledged a change in the developer entity for the Ore Dock Beer Garden project from Ore Dock Brewing Company to Ore Dock Real Estate, LLC.

• Approved MOU for former MGH redevelopment (unanimous)
• Authorized up to $35,000 from LBRF for MGH consulting (unanimous)
• Acknowledged developer entity change to Ore Dock Real Estate, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved $500 payment to Huntington Bank for bond legal ad (unanimous)
• Approved $19,700 payment to Huntington Bank for 2010 bonds (unanimous)
• Approved $822.50 payment to Incredible Bank for Liberty Way bond (unanimous)
• Approved $9,471.22 payment to Mac Consulting Services, LLC (unanimous)

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Facility Advisory Board meeting scheduled for March 17, 2022, was canceled. The board will next meet on April 21 at 10 a.m. at the Wastewater Treatment Plant, 1930 US-41 South. No substantive decisions were made.

• Canceled March 17 board meeting

City Commission

The City Commission and Planning Commission are holding a joint work session. The meeting includes discussion regarding draft Land Development Code Amendments and future community planning projects.

• Draft Land Development Code Amendments
• Future Community Planning Projects

The City Commission and Planning Commission held a joint work session to discuss the Planning Commission's past-year activities and future focal points, including a climate action plan, housing affordability, transit, and a Master Plan update expected to conclude in fall 2023. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational and included public comments on accessibility, transportation, and housing costs.

• No formal decisions made; work session only
• Discussed proposed Land Development Code amendments for future presentation to City Commission
• Reviewed Master Plan update timeline, expected completion fall 2023

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission will consider a budget amendment for the Kids Cove Playground. The meeting also includes discussions on bridge loading analysis for overweight loads and the approval of over $1.1 million in bills.

• Budget amendment for Kids Cove Playground
• Approval of $1,130,352.37 in total bills payable
• Bridge loading analysis for oversized and overweight loads
• Public hearings for Fire and Life Safety Ordinances
• Appointments to the Board of Zoning Appeals and Housing Commission

The City Commission unanimously approved a $1.5 million budget amendment for the Kids Cove Inclusive Playground, matching expenditures and revenues. The Commission also authorized the mayor to appoint three commissioners to a hospital redevelopment sub-committee, approved a memorandum of understanding with NextEnergy Center for MiNextCities, and approved several appointments and consent agenda items, including $1,130,352.37 in bills.

• Approved $1.5M budget amendment for Kids Cove Inclusive Playground (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor to appoint three commissioners to hospital redevelopment sub-committee (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor and city clerk to sign MOU with NextEnergy Center for MiNextCities (unanimous)
• Approved appointments: Nathan Frischkorn to Board of Zoning Appeals, Michelle Metz to Housing Commission (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,130,352.37 in bills and various contracts (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority board approved a bylaw amendment adding the City Manager to the Executive/Personnel Committee, approved a $5,000 facade grant for Highbridge Group, denied a $3,155 request from Third Street Hair Co. (inviting them to reapply), and approved event support for Ore Dock Brewing Company's Angry Bear Festival. The board also discussed the Third Street TIF project, which may be tabled due to lack of support.

• Approved bylaw amendment adding City Manager to Executive/Personnel Committee (unanimous)
• Approved $5,000 facade grant for Highbridge Group
• Denied $3,155 facade grant for Third Street Hair Co. (invited to reapply)
• Approved event support for Ore Dock Brewing Company's Angry Bear Festival
• Approved consent agenda including February minutes, bills, and financial reports

Public Art Commission

The Marquette Public Art Commission reviewed GEI's Spear Dock site updates and discussed potential locations for public art, including a partial circular area on North Pier and interpretative art on South Dock. The commission agreed to provide feedback on concrete pad locations and bench options by mid-April to mid-May. Officers were elected, with Tracy Wascom as Chair, Steven Hughes as Co-Chair, and Kristina Behrens as Secretary. No formal votes were taken on substantive decisions; most items were discussions or updates.

• Approved February meeting minutes (all in favor, one abstention)
• Elected Tracy Wascom as Chair, Steven Hughes as Co-Chair, Kristina Behrens as Secretary
• Agreed to provide feedback to GEI on art pad locations and bench options by mid-April to mid-May
• Moved Spear Dock presentation to after Public Comment (all in favor)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission approved a one-year extension for a previously approved duplex project at 1103 and 1107 N. Fourth Street, setting a new expiration date of May 4, 2023. The commission also elected officers and a BZA representative, and discussed draft Land Development Code amendments without taking final action.

• Approved extension for special land use 02-SUP-05-21 at 1103 & 1107 N. Fourth St., new expiration May 4, 2023 (7-0)
• Elected J. Cardillo as Chairperson and M. Larson as Vice-Chairperson (7-0)
• Nominated N. Frischkorn as Planning Commission representative to Board of Zoning Appeals (7-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a roll call vote on the Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority Millage. The agenda also includes discussions regarding a Memorandum of Understanding for the former hospital redevelopment. Additionally, several appointments and various consent agenda items are scheduled for approval.

• Roll call vote on Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority Millage
• Memorandum of Understanding for Former Hospital Redevelopment
• Approval of $770,802.99 in total bills payable
• Appointment of Nathan Frischkorn to the Planning Commission

The City Commission approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for the redevelopment of the former hospital, with an amendment requiring apprenticeships through a licensed regional trades program. The amendment passed 6-1, and the amended MOU was approved unanimously. The Commission also approved a resolution supporting the Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority millage ballot initiative, and approved several appointments and consent agenda items.

• Approved MOU for former hospital redevelopment, as amended (unanimous)
• Amendment to MOU adding apprenticeship requirement (6-1)
• Approved resolution supporting Iron Ore Heritage Recreation Authority millage (unanimous roll call)
• Approved appointment of Nathan Frischkorn to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved reappointments of Kristina Behrens and Mark Schneider (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $770,802.99 in bills (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a work session to discuss rates for water, sewer, and stormwater services. The agenda also includes time for announcements and public comments.

• Water, Sewer and Stormwater Rate Discussion

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved the Development and Reimbursement Agreement for the Ore Dock Beer Garden project and ratified the City Commission's revision to the Brownfield Plan. The board also approved reimbursing the City $714,414.49 for Pier Design and Construction Services from bond proceeds and paid $8,070.00 in consulting invoices. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 9:45 a.m.

• Approved agenda with change to move Former MGH Redevelopment item up (unanimous)
• Approved January 20, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted Treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Ratified City Commission revision of Ore Dock Brownfield Plan to eliminate LBRF capture (unanimous)
• Approved Development and Reimbursement Agreement for Ore Dock Beer Garden (unanimous)
• Approved $714,414.49 reimbursement to City for Pier Design and Construction Services (unanimous)
• Approved $8,070.00 payment to Mac Consulting Services, LLC (unanimous)

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Marquette Police/Fire Pension Board approved issuing a 13th check to retirees, with the total benefit based on $42,000, to be distributed in March or April. The board also approved a retirement application for R. Blake Rieboldt and adopted updated board bylaws. Financial reports and the Wells Fargo quarterly investment report were received, reviewed, and filed. The meeting was procedural with no public comment or old business.

• Approved 13th check for retirees, total benefit based on $42,000, distribution in March/April
• Approved retirement application for R. Blake Rieboldt
• Approved Police/Fire Pension Board Bylaws
• Approved January 25, 2022 regular meeting minutes
• Received, reviewed, and filed Wells Fargo investment portfolio quarterly report
• Received, reviewed, and filed financial reports as of January 31, 2022
• Received, reviewed, and filed quarterly pension enhancement account report
• Received, reviewed, and filed Q&A booklet for new hires

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved the agenda as amended, the January 25th and February 2nd meeting minutes, and bills payable totaling $1,080,796.27. It approved the purchase of a Financing & Accounting Module from NISC, MEC Radiator Access Materials & Fabrication from UP Fabricating Company for $29,818.35, and two field reclosers from Power Line Supply for $49,540.00. The Board also received the 2021 audit report with an unmodified 'clean' opinion and discussed capital projects and financial statements.

• Approved the agenda as amended to add item 6a
• Approved the January 25th Regular and February 2nd Special Meeting minutes
• Approved bills payable totaling $1,080,796.27
• Approved purchase of Financing & Accounting Module from NISC
• Approved purchase of MEC Radiator Access Materials & Fabrication from UP Fabricating Company for $29,818.35
• Approved purchase of two field reclosers from Power Line Supply for $49,540.00

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board recommended two new arts projects to the Public Art Commission: $1,000 stipends for artists to create month-long installations in parks, and a project to purchase and decorate 24 Adirondack chairs for Mattson Lower Harbor Park. The board also advised the Superiorland Pickleball Club to develop a plan for a pickleball complex to present with the city's next master plan. No other new business was discussed.

• Approved agenda as revised unanimously.
• Approved January 10, 2022 minutes with corrections unanimously.
• Recommended artist stipend project to Public Art Commission unanimously.
• Supported Adirondack chair project unanimously.
• Recommended pickleball club develop a plan for a court complex.
• Tabled discussion on recreation vendors on public grounds.

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a Brownfield Plan for the Ore Dock Beer Garden project at 214 S. Front Street. The plan proposes using tax increments to reimburse costs for demolition, site preparation, and infrastructure. The project involves an estimated $1.5 million in private investment.

• Public hearing for Ore Dock Brewing Company Brownfield Plan
• Approval of bills payable totaling $1,219,302.00
• Conditional rezoning request for 1651 S. Front Street
• Lease agreements for Marquette Area Public Schools and Moosewood Nature Center
• Disposition of 1435 Wright Street

The City Commission approved the Ore Dock Beer Garden Brownfield Plan, amended to remove the final five years of tax capture directed to the Marquette Brownfield Revolving Fund, in a 6-1 roll call vote. The Commission also directed the City Manager to file a rezoning application for all City-owned properties fronting McClellan Avenue between Fair Avenue and Wright Street, changing zoning from Municipal to Conservation/Recreation, carried unanimously. Additionally, the Commission approved the consent agenda, including $1,219,302 in bills, and established a Development Area Citizens Council for a one-year term.

• Approved the Ore Dock Beer Garden Brownfield Plan, amended to remove the final five years of collection to the Marquette Brownfield Revolving Fund, and authorized the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the resolution (6-1, Hill dissenting).
• Directed the City Manager to file a rezoning application for all City-owned properties fronting McClellan Avenue between Fair Avenue and Wright Street, from Municipal to Conservation/Recreation (unanimous).
• Approved the consent agenda, including bills payable of $1,219,302.00, easements, a conditional rezoning contract extension, leases, right-of-way dedications, and a fireworks permit for Meijer State Games (unanimous).
• Approved the reappointment of Taylor Klipp to the Marquette County Transit Authority for a term ending 12-31-24 (unanimous).
• Approved the establishment of a Development Area Citizens Council for March 15, 2022 - March 15, 2023, and directed the City Manager to recommend membership for approval at the March 14, 2022 meeting (unanimous).
• Authorized the Mayor to sign a letter of support for the Marquette County Collaborative for Recovery and Homeless Services proposal (unanimous).

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a special meeting to hear an update from the Northern Michigan University Foundation. The presentation covers due diligence findings and redevelopment opportunities at the former UP Health System - Marquette Hospital Site. The commission will also approve minutes from January 31, 2022, meetings.

• Redevelopment update for former UP Health System - Marquette Hospital Site
• Approval of Jan 31, 2022, work session minutes
• Approval of Jan 31, 2022, regular meeting minutes

The City Commission held a special meeting to receive an update from the Northern Michigan University Foundation on redevelopment of the former UP Health System hospital site. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with discussion of a $166 million investment plan, $15 million demolition costs, and next steps toward a memorandum of understanding.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes from January 31, 2022 meetings (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority approved a purchase of up to 34 T2 Systems pay stations for $365,202, exceeding the budgeted $328,000, and adopted amendments to its 401(k) plan in a unanimous 7-0 roll call vote. The board also discussed a by-law amendment (first reading) to change the Executive/Personnel Committee membership, and heard updates on TIF district expansion and grant applications.

• Approved purchase of up to 34 T2 Systems Luke II pay stations for $365,202 (motion approved)
• Adopted 401(k) plan amendments unanimously (7-0 roll call)
• Approved agenda and consent agenda (minutes, bills, financial reports)
• Discussed by-law amendment to replace Treasurer with City Manager on Executive/Personnel Committee (first reading, no vote)

Arts and Culture Advisory Committee

The committee discussed taking over management of the Delos gallery from LSAA, planning to streamline to six exhibits per year. They also reviewed the Art Week application process with $3,500 available for applicants, and discussed expanding annual art awards to include performative art. No formal votes were taken; items were discussed and tasks assigned.

• Approved consent agenda and minutes (unanimous)
• Discussed taking over Delos gallery management from LSAA, moving to 6 exhibits/year
• Reviewed Art Week application process; $3,500 total available for applicants
• Discussed expanding Annual Art Awards to include performative art
• Tasked committee to review Art Week packet and grading points system

Public Art Commission

The commission approved the consent agenda and December meeting minutes, with one abstention. No substantive decisions were made; most items were updates or tabled for future discussion.

• Approved consent agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December meeting minutes (unanimous, one abstention)

Board of Light and Power

The Board of Light and Power held a special meeting and, after a closed session, unanimously approved a motion to follow legal counsel's recommendation. This included ratifying a Tolling Agreement, authorizing the executive director to sign a Memorandum of Understanding, and authorizing the board chair to sign a comprehensive settlement agreement related to the Marquette Energy Center noise remediation dispute. No public comments were made, and the meeting adjourned at 3:02 p.m.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Entered closed session under Section 8(h) of the Open Meetings Act (5-0)
• Exited closed session (5-0)
• Approved motion to follow legal counsel's recommendation: ratify Tolling Agreement, authorize T. Carpenter to sign MOU, authorize Board Chair J. Prince to sign comprehensive settlement agreement (unanimous)

Marquette Housing Commission

The Marquette Housing Commission approved the consent agenda, which included the Executive Director's report and financial items, and passed resolutions for a COVID-19 emergency plan and utility allowance. Officers were re-elected unanimously. No public comment was made, and the meeting adjourned at 1:29 pm.

• Approved agenda and November 23, 2021 minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including Executive Director's report and financials (unanimous)
• Passed Resolution 2022-2 COVID-19 Emergency Plan
• Passed Resolution 2022-3 Utility Allowance
• Re-elected Lankinen as President and Stark as Vice President (unanimous)

City Planning Commission

The Planning Commission held a work session to review draft Land Development Code amendments, covering about 98.5% of the proposed changes. They discussed various topics, including building cladding limits, wireless facility standards, temporary structures, fences, RV parking, parking standards, awnings, and residential heights. No formal decisions were made on the amendments; the commission agreed to cancel the next meeting and reschedule the April 5th meeting to April 12th.

• Approved agenda as presented (6-0)
• Approved minutes of January 18th, 2022 by consensus
• Agreed to cancel next meeting by consensus
• Approved changing April 5th meeting to April 12th (6-0)

City Commission

The City Commission will consider appointments to the Downtown Development Authority and Board of Review. The meeting includes presentations on waste management and Presque Isle Park. The Commission will also review several equipment purchases and lease agreements.

• Schedule public hearing for Ore Dock Brewing Company Brownfield Plan
• Approval of $1,521,170.63 in total bills payable
• Fire Truck Maintenance Agreement
• Purchase of Monroe Wing Plow and Municipal Tractor
• Dedication of McClellan Avenue and Center Street Right of Way

The City Commission unanimously approved the consent agenda, including $1,521,170.63 in bills, and several routine items. They authorized the purchase of a Maclean MV5 tractor for up to $170,000 via the Sourcewell program, and approved submitting an EDA grant application for the Lake Superior Cultural Arts Trail project. They also scheduled a public hearing for the Ore Dock Brewing Company Brownfield Plan and approved appointments and reappointments to city boards.

• Approved consent agenda including $1,521,170.63 in bills (unanimous)
• Approved appointments of Lauren Rowland to DDA and Adeline Beauchaine to Board of Review (unanimous)
• Approved reappointments of Nichole Durley to DDA and David Allen to MBRA (unanimous)
• Scheduled public hearing for Ore Dock Brewing Company Brownfield Plan for Feb. 14, 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved fire truck maintenance agreement with Powell Township (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of Maclean MV5 tractor with attachments not to exceed $170,000 (unanimous)
• Authorized submission of EDA grant application for Lake Superior Cultural Arts Trail (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission will hold a work session to discuss the Downtown Development Authority Third Street TIF. The agenda also includes announcements and public comments.

• Downtown Development Authority Third Street TIF discussion

The City Commission held a work session to discuss the Downtown Development Authority's proposal to add Third Street properties to its tax-increment financing (TIF) district. No formal decision was made; the session was informational only. The DDA explained its operations and the increased maintenance costs for Third Street, while commissioners raised concerns about the city's budget and the timing of any expansion.

• No formal decisions made; work session only

Police-Fire Pension Board

The Marquette Police/Fire Pension Board approved two age-and-service retirement applications and paid a legal invoice. The board also elected officers, approved minutes, and received financial reports. No substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved Michael Laurila's retirement application (4-0)
• Approved Daniel Pruner's retirement application (4-0)
• Paid $114.60 legal invoice to VanOverbeke, Michaud & Timmony (4-0)
• Elected Archocosky as Chair, Gordon as Vice Chair, LaMarre as Secretary (4-0)
• Approved December 21, 2021 meeting minutes as amended (4-0)

Local Development Finance Authority

The Marquette City Local Development Finance Authority approved an Interlocal Agreement with Ore Dock, involving an approximate $1.5 million investment. The board also elected officers for 2022 and tabled the Innovation Marquette Enterprise SmartZone financial report and operations update due to an illness.

• Approved 2022 officers: Hartman as Chair, Hewitt as Vice Chair, Cherry as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved LDFA/MBRA Interlocal Agreement with Ore Dock, ~$1.5M investment (unanimous)
• Tabled Innovation Marquette Enterprise SmartZone Financial Report and Operations Update

Board of Light and Power

The Board unanimously approved the purchase of five pad mount polyphase transformers from Powerline Supply for $96,406, and approved bills payable totaling $1,912,875.94. They also approved the agenda and the minutes from the December 22, 2021 meeting. No public comments were made, and no other substantive decisions were taken.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved December 22, 2021 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved bills payable totaling $1,912,875.94 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 5 pad mount polyphase transformers from Powerline Supply for $96,406.00 (unanimous)

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission is holding a work session to discuss the city's budget and revenue. The agenda also includes announcements and opportunities for public comment.

• Budget and revenue discussion

The City Commission held a work session to discuss the city's declining property tax revenues and potential options to address them, including increasing the general operations millage or pursuing other voter-approved millages. No formal votes or decisions were taken during the session; it was purely informational and discussion-based.

• No formal decisions or votes taken during work session
• Discussed options to address declining property tax revenues, including millage increases
• Heard public comment from Margaret Brumm requesting public outreach on revenue issues

Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority

The Marquette Brownfield Redevelopment Authority approved a Brownfield Plan for the Ore Dock Beer Garden, authorizing submission of work plans and interlocal agreements for tax increment financing. The board also approved payments for a legal ad and parking consultant invoices. No public comments were made, and the meeting was largely routine.

• Approved Brownfield Plan for Ore Dock Beer Garden (unanimous)
• Authorized MSF Act 381 and EGLE Act 381 work plan submissions for Ore Dock Beer Garden
• Approved interlocal agreements with DDA and LDFA for TIF capture
• Approved $1,705 payment for legal ad for Pier Redevelopment bond issuance
• Approved $5,595 payment to WGI for parking consultant services
• Rescheduled February 17 meeting to February 24

Marquette Area Wastewater Treatment Advisory Board

The board approved authorizing the chair to sign an audit request from Anderson, Tackman & Company, PLC. They also approved the agenda and December minutes, and discussed a cyanide permit violation for December 2021.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Approved December 16, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Authorized board chair to sign audit request from Anderson, Tackman & Company, PLC (4-0)

Peter White Public Library Board

The Peter White Public Library Board approved bills for November and December 2021 totaling $369,781.32, along with the 2022 holiday closings, the Carroll Paul Trust budget, a gift of Lundmark artwork, and a fee structure revision from Foster Swift. The board also discussed increased costs from vendors and reviewed two policy drafts without taking action.

• Approved bills for Nov & Dec 2021 totaling $369,781.32 (5-0)
• Approved 2022 Holiday Closings (5-0)
• Approved Carroll Paul Trust budget (5-0)
• Approved donation of Lundmark artwork (5-0)
• Approved Foster Swift fee structure revision (5-0)
• No action on Public Bulletin Board Posting Policy (first reading)
• No action on Tour Policy (first reading)

City Planning Commission

The Marquette City Planning Commission approved the site plan for commercial renovations and additions at 200 S. Fifth Street, with conditions to submit an amended plan meeting staff comments. The applicant removed a proposed duplex from the plan due to fire department turnaround requirements. The commission also discussed draft Land Development Code amendments, including transitional housing definitions, but took no final action on those.

• Approved site plan for 200 S. Fifth Street (6-0) with condition to submit amended plan
• Approved agenda as presented (6-0)
• Approved minutes of December 21, 2021 by consensus
• Suspended rules for discussion (6-0)

City Commission

This meeting is a work session for the City Commission. The agenda includes an update from the Marquette Board of Light and Power and opportunities for public comment.

• Marquette Board of Light and Power update

The City Commission received an update from the Marquette Board of Light and Power (BLP) at a work session. The BLP reported that the Shiras Steam Plant demolition is nearly complete and under budget, and it will not pursue a broadband service initiative after a study found it financially unfeasible. No formal decisions were made; the session was informational only.

• BLP will not move forward with broadband service (study found it not financially feasible)
• Shiras Steam Plant demolition nearly complete, expected to finish in spring
• BLP to launch new bill pay and user portal by end of January
• BLP to pursue second connection with American Transmission Company for redundancy
• BLP to replace hydro controls equipment
• BLP to study electric vehicle impacts with third-party company
• UPPCO franchise request to be brought to City Commission for action at a future meeting

Downtown Development Authority

The Marquette Downtown Development Authority board approved the interlocal agreement with Brownfield and Ore Dock Brewing Co., reinstated the Local Facade Improvement Grant Program with $30,000 budgeted, and appointed officers for 2022. The board also changed bank signatories and assigned committee members.

• Approved interlocal agreement with Brownfield and Ore Dock Brewing Co. (unanimous)
• Reinstated Local Facade Improvement Grant Program with $30,000 budget
• Appointed J. Ottaway as Chairman, R. Stern as Vice Chair, M. Weinrick as Treasurer, N. Durley-Rust as Secretary
• Changed bank signatories to R. Finco, J. Ottaway, M. Weinrick, N. Durley-Rust (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including December bills and financial reports
• Assigned board members to committees

Public Art Commission

The commission approved the description of MPAC for the Marquette Compass website and excused an absent member. Updates were given on various projects, including Prismatica funding, Creative Parks language changes, and signage for MAPP. No major policy decisions were made; most items were status updates or discussions.

• Excused Kristina Behrens from meeting (all in favor)
• Approved consent agenda (all in favor)
• Approved December meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved MPAC description for Marquette Compass (all in favor)

Parks and Recreation Advisory Board

The Parks and Recreation Advisory Board approved a presentation and budget amendment for the Kids Cove Project, and approved sending the presentation to the City Commission. No other substantive decisions were made; old business was tabled and the rest of the meeting was procedural.

• Approved Kids Cove presentation and budget amendment (unanimous)
• Approved presentation to City Commission (unanimous)
• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved December 13, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Commission

The Marquette City Commission will consider appointments to the Planning Commission and the Marquette County Transit Authority. The agenda also includes trail grooming permits for the Noquemanon Trails Network and state right-of-way maintenance. The commission will vote on approving $1,132,289.23 in total bills payable.

• Approval of $1,132,289.23 in total bills payable
• Noquemanon Trails Network grooming permit for Lakeshore Boulevard corridor
• Noquemanon Trails Network grooming permit for Tourist Park
• Appointment of Nathan Williams to the Planning Commission
• Reappointment of Scott Krah to the Marquette County Transit Authority

The City Commission unanimously approved its updated Rules of Procedure, two board appointments, and a consent agenda including $1,132,289.23 in bills and trail grooming permits. The meeting also included a presentation from the Board of Review chair about limited membership and a discussion of commissioners' goals for 2022. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved City Commission Rules of Procedure #2003-01 (unanimous)
• Approved Nathan Williams to Planning Commission, term ending 02-15-24 (unanimous)
• Approved Scott Krah to Marquette County Transit Authority, term ending 12-31-24 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $1,132,289.23 in bills and Noquemanon Trails Network grooming permits (unanimous roll call)