Portage public meetings in 2023

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, review parliamentary procedure training, and discuss a draft letter to the city council. Updates from the Land Conservancy and Green Week subcommittees will be presented, and agenda items for January will be set.

• Review draft letter to city council
• Update from Land Conservancy subcommittee
• Update from Green Week subcommittee
• Public comment period
• Approval of November minutes

Human Services Board

The Portage Human Services Board is meeting to approve minutes and discuss new and other business, including the 2024-2025 Human Services funding materials. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the funding review being the only substantive item.

• Approval of October 5, 2023 minutes
• Discussion of Human Services 2024-2025 funding

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a rezoning application to change two residential lots at 6008 and 6018 Chelsea Lane from R-1A to B-3 General Business and P-1 Vehicular Parking, to allow future commercial development. The applicant, MC Weiner Company, proposes to demolish the existing homes. The commission will also consider approving minutes from the November 16 meeting.

• Rezoning application No. 23/24-2 for 6008 and 6018 Chelsea Lane from R-1A to B-3 and P-1
• Public hearing on the rezoning, with neighborhood opposition petition noted
• Approval of minutes from November 16, 2023 meeting

Park Board

The board will conduct an election of officers and review various committee updates. The agenda includes a financial report and the approval of the 2024 Calendar of Events.

• Election of Officers
• Approval of 2024 Calendar of Events
• Bicycle Advisory Committee Update
• Portage Arts Committee Update
• Youth Advisory Committee Update

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider approving an Active Home Occupation permit for a handyman business at 629, 665 E. Osterhout Avenue. The applicant, Ryan Nelson, seeks to operate the business from his residential property, which already received approval for an accessory building expansion on November 2, 2023. Staff recommends approval, but the commission will weigh public comments and zoning criteria.

• Public hearing for Active Home Occupation at 629, 665 E. Osterhout Avenue
• Applicant: Ryan Nelson, handyman business operating since 2021
• Staff recommends approval of Active Home Occupation permit
• Related accessory building expansion (960 sq ft) approved Nov 2, 2023
• Public comments received from neighbors, including one opposition letter

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Portage Senior Citizens Advisory Board is meeting to approve the October 2023 minutes, receive updates on the travel program, legislative matters, Friends of the PSC, Youth Advisory Board, and the monthly manager's report. They will also discuss building/program updates, the Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, and set advisory board goals. The agenda is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings.

• Approval of October 2023 minutes
• Travel Program update by Art/Trudy
• Legislative Update by Art
• Dementia Friendly Community Initiative discussion
• Advisory Board Goals setting

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve October minutes, receive updates on a draft letter to City Council, and hear reports from the Green Week and Land Conservancy sub-committees. The board will also discuss interest in elections and board officer positions. The agenda is largely procedural with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Update on Draft Letter to City Council
• Update from Green Week Sub-Committee
• Update from Land Conservancy Sub-Committee
• Discussion of elections and board officer positions

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a request to approve a 960-square-foot addition to an existing pole barn at 629, 665 E. Osterhout Avenue. The applicant, Ryan Nelson, wants to park vehicles and a trailer out of the elements. The addition would double the pole barn's size to 1,920 square feet, exceeding the standard accessory building floor area limit, which is allowed on lots over two acres with Planning Commission approval. The commission will also approve minutes from the October 19 meeting.

• Public hearing and consideration of a 960 sq ft addition to an existing pole barn at 629, 665 E. Osterhout Avenue (doubling it to 1,920 sq ft)
• Applicant Ryan Nelson seeks approval to exceed accessory building floor area limit (1,526 sq ft allowed) under Zoning Code Sec. 42-121(B)(1)(b)(3)
• Pole barn addition will match existing tan metal siding and white metal roof, height unchanged at 16 feet
• No water or sewer service proposed for the addition; electrical service will be expanded
• Approval of minutes from October 19, 2023 meeting

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to handle routine business including electing officers, reviewing park board ordinances, and receiving financial and department reports. The board will also discuss requirements for ad hoc committees, review recent events, and begin planning the 2024 calendar of events and meeting schedule.

• Election of officers
• Review of Park Board Ordinance Articles
• Discussion of ad hoc committee requirements (membership, residency, age)
• Review of Oktoberfest (Oct 7) and Monster Mash (Oct 21) events
• Discussion of 2024 calendar of events and meeting schedule

Historic District Commission

The Portage Historic District Commission is meeting to approve the August 2, 2023 minutes, hear a presentation by Sharon Ferraro on researched questions, and discuss a potential change to the commission's meeting day and time. The agenda includes no major decisions or public hearings, only routine business and discussion items.

• Approval of August 2, 2023 meeting minutes
• Presentation by Sharon Ferraro on researched questions/answers
• Discussion of HDC meeting day/time change
• Citizen comments and member comments

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two items: an amendment to the previously approved River Caddis mixed-use development at 412 W. Centre Avenue and 7860 Shaver Road, and an ordinance amendment to establish accessory dwelling unit regulations. The River Caddis amendment reduces the number of dwelling units from 228 to 180 and relocates buildings to avoid mapped wetlands. The commission will also consider approving minutes from the September 21, 2023 meeting.

• Public hearing on River Caddis Tentative Plan amendment: reduce units from 228 to 180, density from 21.5 to 16.9 units/acre, parking from 359 to 294 spaces
• Public hearing on Ordinance Amendment #23/24-2 to establish Accessory Dwelling Unit regulation and permitting process
• Approval of minutes from September 21, 2023 meeting
• River Caddis project seeks MSHDA assistance and approval by December 1, 2023 for funding round
• Construction start for River Caddis changed from late 2023 to Spring/Summer 2024

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Senior Citizens Advisory Board will meet to approve September minutes, receive updates on the travel program, legislative matters, Friends of the PSC, Youth Advisory Board, and the monthly manager's report. They will also discuss building/program updates, the Dementia Friendly Community Initiative, and a financial update for the Portage Zhang Senior Center. The agenda includes citizen comments, limited to five minutes per speaker.

• Approval of September 2023 minutes
• Travel Program update by Art/Trudy
• Legislative Update by Art
• Dementia Friendly Community Initiative discussion
• PZSC Financial Update

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, receive updates on training dates, discuss a letter to council about green space and Celery Flats, and brainstorm ideas for Green Week. The agenda is mostly routine updates and discussions, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Update on letter to council regarding green space and Celery Flats
• Green Week discussion and ideas
• Approval of September minutes
• Update on Board and Commission training dates
• Board communication with council

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes, receive updates from various committees, and discuss financial and department reports. The board will also hear reports on upcoming events including Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and the Traditional Holiday celebration.

• Financial Report
• Park Department Report
• Bicycle Advisory Committee Update
• Portage Arts Committee Update
• Upcoming events: Oktoberfest (Oct 7), Monster Mash (Oct 21), Traditional Holiday (Dec 2)

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to add 1,200 square feet to an existing pole barn at 1442 West Osterhout Avenue. The addition would exceed the maximum allowed accessory building size by 733 square feet, requiring special approval. The commission will also consider approving minutes from the August 17, 2023 meeting.

• Public hearing for accessory building addition at 1442 West Osterhout Avenue
• Proposed 1,200 sq ft pole barn addition exceeds accessory size limit by 733 sq ft
• Approval of August 17, 2023 meeting minutes

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Portage Senior Citizens Advisory Board is meeting to approve August minutes, receive updates on the travel program, legislation, and the Friends of the PSC, and discuss building/program updates and the Dementia Friendly Community Initiative. They will also hear a financial update on the Portage Senior Center (PZSC) and take public comments. The agenda is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or votes listed.

• Approval of August 2023 minutes
• Travel Program update by Art/Trudy
• Legislative Update by Art
• Dementia Friendly Community Initiative update
• PZSC Financial Update

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, discuss procedural rules and parliamentary procedure training, review its enabling statute, and begin setting 2024 goals aligned with City Council priorities. The agenda is largely procedural and goal-oriented, with no specific policy decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of August minutes
• Update on parliamentary procedure trainings supported by City Manager McGinnis
• Review of enabling statutory language/authority for the Environmental Advisory Board
• Discussion of 2024 goals in light of FY23-24 City Council Priorities

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to receive routine reports from the parks department, financials, and advisory committees, and to discuss upcoming community events including Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and the Traditional Holiday celebration. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Financial report and park department report
• Updates from Bicycle Advisory, Arts, Youth Advisory committees
• Planning for Oktoberfest (Oct 7), Monster Mash (Oct 21), Traditional Holiday (Dec 2)
• Portage Parks Foundation report

Human Services Board

The Portage Human Services Board will meet to hold a public hearing on the Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (CAPER) and consider a request to extend repayment of a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) loan. The board will also discuss edits to the 2024-2025 Human Resources funding application and acknowledge a thank-you letter from Twelve Baskets.

• Public hearing on CAPER
• Request for extension of CDBG loan repayment
• Edits to 2024-2025 Human Resources funding application
• Twelve Baskets thank-you correspondence

The Board held a public hearing on the Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report and approved a loan repayment extension for a property owner. Members also discussed upcoming edits to the 2024-25 funding application.

• Approved May 4, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Opened and closed public hearing for Consolidated Annual Performance Evaluation Report (8-0)
• Approved CDBG loan repayment extension and waived 1% penalty fee (8-0)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a rezoning and tentative plan application to change 9581 Oakland Drive from I-1 Light Industrial to Planned Development for a proposed 58-unit residential rental development called Oakland Commons. The commission will also review the FY 2023-24 work program. The agenda includes approval of the August 3, 2023 minutes.

• Rezoning and tentative plan for 58 rental homes (26 single-family, 6 duplex, 18 3-plex, 8 4-plex) at 9581 Oakland Drive
• Proposed density 4.6 units/acre on 12.57 acres
• New private drive, left-turn lane on Oakland Drive, stormwater basin, and emergency access to Weathervane Self Storage
• Possible workforce housing incentives for ~20% units (not yet submitted)
• FY 2023-24 Planning Commission Work Program review

The Planning Commission recommended that City Council approve rezoning 9581 Oakland Drive from Light Industrial to a Planned Development District for a residential project. The commission also approved its work programs for the 2022-23 and 2023-24 fiscal years.

• Recommended approval of Rezoning and Tentative Plan Application #23/24-1 for Oakland Commons residential development (8-0)
• Approved FY 2022-23 and Proposed FY 2023-24 Planning Commission Work Programs (8-0)
• Approved August 3, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Excused Commissioner Adams (8-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Senior Citizens Advisory Board will meet to approve July minutes and receive informational updates on the travel program, legislative matters, Friends of the Portage Senior Center, and the Youth Advisory Board. Old business includes building/program updates and the Dementia Friendly Community Initiative. The agenda is largely procedural with no new business items listed.

• Approval of July 2023 minutes
• Travel Program update by Art/Trudy
• Legislative Update by Art
• Friends of the PSC update by Trudy
• Monthly Manager's Report by Kim

The board reviewed updates on the dementia friendly community initiative, including a scheduled City Council proclamation and upcoming awareness training. The board also received reports on the Friends of PSC purse sale and expanded operating hours at the PZSC.

• Approved minutes from 7/20/2023 meeting
• Scheduled City Council proclamation for dementia friendly community for 8/22
• Scheduled dementia awareness training for 9/1
• Approved expanded PZSC evening hours (7AM to 7:30PM Tue-Thu) starting in September

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, review its attendance policy and board vacancies, assign member roles, and set goals for 2023/2024. Public comment is also scheduled.

• Approve May 2023 meeting minutes
• Review attendance policy, board member vacancy, and terms expiring in October
• Assign board member roles and responsibilities
• Discuss EB goals and initiatives for 2023/2024

The board approved the May 2023 meeting minutes and discussed member attendance and board procedures. Members identified goals for the coming year, including the creation of a Green Week and research into local development impacts and water quality.

• Approved May 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved motion to review board procedure documents prior to the next meeting
• Approved motion to continue discussion on 2023/2024 goals at the next meeting

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will continue its discussion on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), reviewing draft standards that would allow them in single-family residential districts. The commission will also consider its FY 2023-24 work program. This is a continued discussion from the July 6 meeting, where public comments raised concerns about setbacks, short-term rentals, and neighborhood impacts.

• Continued discussion on Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) with draft standards
• Review of FY 2022-23 work program and proposed FY 2023-24 work program
• Approval of minutes from July 6, 2023 meeting
• Draft ADU standards include: max 900 sq ft, no short-term rentals, owner must live on-site

The Commission held a workshop to discuss a proposed text amendment to the zoning code to allow Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). While no formal vote was taken on the amendment, the Commission provided general support for the proposal with requested modifications to deed restrictions and size flexibility. Staff will review the material with the City Attorney and return it as a formal Text Amendment.

• Approved July 6, 2023 meeting minutes (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Portage Historic District Commission will review and approve its draft goals and objectives for fiscal year 2023-2024, which include preserving historic structures, increasing public awareness, and developing design guidelines. The commission will also elect officers for the upcoming year. The agenda includes approval of the September 7, 2022 meeting minutes and discussion of old and new business.

• Draft FY 2023-2024 Historic District Commission Goals and Objectives
• Election of officers
• Approval of September 7, 2022 meeting minutes
• List of FY 23/24 HDC meeting dates and updated member list

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to approve minutes, receive updates from various committees, and discuss financial and park department reports. They will also review plans for upcoming events including Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and a traditional holiday celebration.

• Financial Report presented by Angelique
• Park Department Report by Kathleen
• Bicycle Advisory Committee update (September 5 at 6 PM)
• Portage Arts Committee update (August 23 at 6 PM)
• Event planning: Oktoberfest (October 7), Monster Mash (October 21), Traditional Holiday (December 2)

The board met to discuss staffing, promotion, and vendor coordination for the October 7 Oktoberfest event. No official actions were taken as a quorum was not present.

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Portage Senior Citizens Advisory Board is meeting to approve June minutes, receive updates on the travel program, legislation, and the manager's report, and discuss building and program updates. A presentation on making the community dementia-friendly is scheduled under new business. The agenda is largely informational and procedural.

• Dementia Friendly Community Presentation
• Travel Program update by Art/Trudy
• Legislative Update by Art
• Friends of the PSC update by Trudy
• Monthly Manager's Report by Kim

The Board voted to recommend that City Council pass a resolution to establish Portage as a Dementia Friendly Community. This proposal includes planning a memory café at the PZSC and providing training for city and PZSC staff.

• Approved 6/21/2023 meeting minutes with corrections
• Recommended City Council pass a resolution establishing a Dementia Friendly Community (DFC)
• Tabled Travel Program update
• Tabled Building/Program Updates
• Tabled Activities Reminders

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to receive financial and department reports, updates from advisory committees, and individual park reports. They will also discuss upcoming events including Picnic in the Park, National Night Out, Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and the Traditional Holiday celebration. The agenda is largely routine with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Financial Report and Park Department Report
• Bicycle Advisory Committee update (July 11)
• Portage Arts Committee update (July 26)
• Event planning: Picnic in the Park (June 15), National Night Out (Aug 1), Oktoberfest (Oct 7), Monster Mash (Oct 21), Traditional Holiday (Dec 2)
• Next meeting scheduled for August 2, 2023 at Central Park Pavilion

The board approved the meeting agenda and the June meeting minutes. Members received reports on park finances, the Lexington Green Playground RFP, and upcoming events. The National Night Out event scheduled for August 1 was cancelled.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved June Park Board meeting minutes
• Accepted May Bicycle Advisory Committee minutes
• Cancelled National Night Out event (August 1)

Local Officers Compensation Commission

The Local Officers Compensation Commission is meeting to review survey data and discuss salaries for the Portage City Council and Mayor. They will consider a report recommending either no change to current salaries or new annual amounts, which will then be submitted to the City Council for review.

• Review of survey data on officer compensation
• Discussion of City Council and Mayor salaries
• Creation/review of report recommending salaries
• Possible approval of no salary change or new salary amounts

The Local Officers Compensation Commission approved annual salary increases for the Mayor and City Councilmembers. The decision followed a review of compensation rates from other local municipalities and a discussion on inflation and the lack of a 2021 increase.

• Appointed Mike Stoddard as Chairperson
• Approved July 28, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Increased Mayor's annual compensation by $1,500.00 to a total of $11,000.00 (5-0)
• Increased City Councilmembers' annual compensation by $1,500.00 to a total of $8,500.00 (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to remove one parking space at 8842 Portage Road to allow outdoor seating for 468 Wine, and will hold a workshop on Accessory Dwelling Units. The meeting also includes approval of the June 28, 2023 minutes. The agenda includes one public hearing and one workshop item, with no other substantive business.

• Public hearing: parking reduction request to remove one space for outdoor seating at 8842 Portage Road (468 Wine)
• Workshop: Accessory Dwelling Units discussion
• Approval of minutes from June 28, 2023

The Commission approved a request to remove one parking space at 8842 Portage Road to allow for outdoor dining. Members also held a workshop to discuss potential regulations for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs).

• Approved reduction of one parking space for outdoor seating at 8842 Portage Road (6-0), conditioned on the installation of a bicycle rack for at least four bicycles
• Approved June 28, 2023, meeting minutes (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on Ordinance Amendment #22/23-11, a city-wide zoning code update to align with state regulations and make technical changes. The commission will also review draft Master Plan key recommendations and elect officers for the coming year.

• Public hearing on Ordinance Amendment #22/23-11 amending Chapter 42 Article 4 (Zoning Code)
• Zoning changes include updating child care home definitions (6 to 7 children, 12 to 14 children) per state law
• Lakefront fence rules expanded to allow wrought iron and other designs up to 4 feet
• Brewpubs and microbreweries in B-2 and B-3 districts to become administratively approved instead of requiring special land use permit
• Election of Planning Commission officers

The Planning Commission approved items 1-4 and 6 of Ordinance Amendment #22/23-11, including a change to limit Child Day Care Homes to no more than seven. Item 5, which concerned removing the 30-foot separation between multifamily buildings, was tabled following public opposition. The Commission also reviewed a draft Master Plan presentation.

• Approved Ordinance Amendment #22/23-11 items 1-4 and 6 (7-0)
• Tabled Ordinance Amendment #22/23-11 item 5 regarding multifamily building separation (7-0)
• Approved June 1, 2023 meeting minutes (7-0)
• Elected Chair Corradini to continue as Chair
• Elected Commissioner Baldwin as Vice Chair
• Elected Commissioner Freiman as Secretary

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Senior Citizens Advisory Board will meet to approve May minutes, hear updates on the travel program, legislative matters, Friends of the PSC, Youth Advisory Board, and the manager's report. Old business includes building/program updates and membership manual revisions; new business is a membership satisfaction survey. The agenda is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or votes listed.

• Approval of May 2023 minutes
• Membership Satisfaction Survey as new business
• Membership Manual Revisions
• Travel Program update
• May 2023 statistics: 3,464 active memberships, 112 new memberships

The board approved the May 17, 2023, meeting minutes and scheduled a presentation for the July meeting regarding establishing Portage as a dementia-friendly community. The meeting included updates on the Friends of PSC budget and PZSC operational reports.

• Approved minutes from 5/17/2023 meeting
• Approved adding dementia-friendly community discussion to July agenda

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, discuss the Bee City program, address a board vacancy, and set goals for 2023/2024. The agenda is mostly discussion and planning, with no formal votes on ordinances or contracts.

• Bee City Discussion
• Board Member Vacancy / Recruitment
• EB Goals / Initiatives for 2023/2024

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting for routine business, including approving the agenda and minutes, receiving committee updates, and hearing reports on finances, parks, and subcommittees. The board will also discuss upcoming events such as Picnic in the Park, National Night Out, Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and the Traditional Holiday. No major decisions or public hearings are listed on this agenda.

• Financial report from Angelique
• Park Department report from Kathleen
• Bicycle Advisory Committee update including Bike Valet
• Portage Arts Committee update (July 26 @ 6:00 PM)
• Subcommittee reports for Picnic in the Park, National Night Out, Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, Traditional Holiday

The Park Board approved $100 in additional expenditures for picnic supplies. The board also noted the cancellation of the Bike Valet for the remainder of the season due to resource constraints.

• Approved $100 additional expenditures for picnic supplies
• Cancelled Bike Valet for the rest of the season
• Approved June 7 agenda
• Approved May meeting minutes

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two items: a request to amend the previously-approved Tentative Plan for The Woodlands at Austin Lake Condominiums at 4301 Branch Avenue, reducing three proposed duplexes to three detached single-family homes (lowering total units from 74 to 71), and a Tentative Plan and Rezoning Application (#22/23-9) to rezone 732, 810, 830, and 906 E. Centre Avenue from OS-1 Office Service and B-1 Local Business Districts to Planned Development (PD) District for a 103-unit senior housing facility by Trilogy Health Services. The Commission will also consider approving minutes from the May 18, 2023 meeting.

• Rezoning and Tentative Plan for senior housing at 732, 810, 830, and 906 E. Centre Avenue (103 units, 14.99 units/acre)
• Amendment to The Woodlands at Austin Lake PD at 4301 Branch Avenue: convert 3 duplexes to 3 detached homes, reducing total units from 74 to 71
• Public hearing on the Woodlands amendment (density change >10% triggers re-review)
• Public hearing on the Centre Avenue rezoning (from OS-1 and B-1 to PD)
• Approval of minutes from May 18, 2023

The Planning Commission recommended that City Council approve a rezoning request for a senior housing facility on E. Centre Avenue. The Commission also recommended approval of a plan amendment to reduce the unit count at The Woodlands at Austin Lake Condominiums.

• Recommended approval to City Council for Tentative Plan Amendment at 4301 Branch Avenue to reduce unit count to 71 (8-0)
• Recommended approval to City Council for Rezoning Application #22/23-9 for senior housing at 732, 810, 830, and 906 E. Centre Avenue (8-0)
• Approved May 18, 2023 meeting minutes (8-0)

Planning Commission

The Commission discussed 12 proposed zoning code changes, expressing support for 11 items while rejecting a proposal regarding carwash vacuum hose standards. Staff will provide further research and a zoning amendment draft for the supported items at a future meeting.

• Approved April 20, 2023 minutes (8-0)
• Rejected proposed zoning standards for carwash vacuum hose locations

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The board approved the minutes from the April 19, 2023 meeting. Members received updates on center membership, funding awards, and the acquisition of a Class C Liquor License.

• Approved minutes from 4/19/2023 meeting with corrections (unanimous)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Board denied a request for oversized wall signs at 7101 South Westnedge Avenue. It approved a variance for a detached accessory building at 4619 South Long Lake Drive. The Board also approved the April 10, 2023 meeting minutes.

• Approved April 10, 2023 minutes (5-0)
• Denied variance for 211 sq ft wall signs at 7101 South Westnedge Avenue (5-0)
• Approved variance for 20-foot by 54-foot detached accessory building at 4619 South Long Lake Drive (5-0)

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, recap Arbor Day, update on the garlic mustard pull contest, and discuss renewable energy and the city's master plan. The agenda is mostly routine updates and discussions, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approve April 2023 meeting minutes
• Arbor Day recap
• Garlic mustard pull contest update
• Renewable energy discussion
• Master plan discussion

The Board approved the April meeting minutes. Members discussed the Arbor Day tree planting and the potential for Portage to become a Bee City, USA, with more information to be provided at the June meeting.

• Approved April meeting minutes
• Motion to discuss Bee City, USA designation passed

Human Services Board

The agenda for the Portage Human Services Board meeting on May 4, 2023, could not be retrieved. The city's agenda center returned an error stating the file was not found. As a result, no specific items for discussion or decision are available.

• Agenda PDF not found in the city's file system

The Portage Human Services Board unanimously approved changes to the CDBG Home Repair Program guidelines, reducing eligible projects per homeowner from multiple to one to share funding with more residents. The board also received a presentation from the Fair Housing Center of Southwest Michigan and discussed cancelling the June 1 regular meeting.

• Approved CDBG Home Repair Program guideline changes to limit projects to one per homeowner (6-0)
• Approved minutes of April 6, 2023 (6-0)

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to receive routine reports from staff and committees, including financial, park department, and bicycle advisory updates. The board will also discuss upcoming community events scheduled from May through December, such as Picnic in the Park, National Night Out, Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and the Traditional Holiday celebration.

• Financial Report and Park Department Report
• Bicycle Advisory Committee Update and Bike Valet Sign-up
• Picnic in the Park at Harbors West on May 11 and Schrier Park on June 15
• National Night Out at Lexington Green on August 1
• Oktoberfest on October 7, Monster Mash on October 21, Traditional Holiday on December 2

The Portage Park Board approved the meeting agenda and April minutes, and accepted February Bicycle Advisory Committee minutes for filing. No financial or major policy decisions were made; the board received updates on park projects, trail expansion, and upcoming events.

• Approved meeting agenda (motion by Gomes, second by Black, passed)
• Approved April Park Board meeting minutes (motion by Gomes, second by Riley, passed)
• Accepted February Bicycle Advisory Committee minutes for filing

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and consider a site plan application for Willow Crossings, a 23-unit one-family attached residential development at 10329 Oakland Drive. The project includes a mix of 3- and 4-plex buildings, a new private road, and 87 parking spaces. Staff recommends approval, and the commission will vote on the site plan.

• 23-unit one-family attached residential development at 10329 Oakland Drive
• Density of 7.39 units per acre; mix of 3- and 4-plex buildings
• 87 parking spaces including 11 visitor spaces
• New private road 'Willow Circle' and 8-inch water and sewer mains
• Staff recommends approval; no conditions from Development Review Team

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the site plan for Willow Crossings, a one-family attached residential development. The project consists of 23 attached condominium units at 10329 Oakland Drive.

• Recommended approval of Site Plan for 'Willow Crossings' residential development at 10329 Oakland Drive (8-0)
• Approved April 6, 2023 minutes (8-0)

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss several environmental topics including Arbor Day tree planting, an Urban Bird Treaty update, renewable energy, the Master Plan, and a speaking engagement with KPL. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Arbor Day/Tree Planting discussion
• Urban Bird Treaty update
• Renewable Energy discussion
• Master Plan discussion
• KPL Speaking Engagement

The board approved a motion to create a master plan committee at the next meeting. Members discussed an upcoming Arbor Day tree planting and the status of an Urban Bird Treaty application. No other formal actions were taken.

• Approved March minutes
• Approved motion to create a master plan committee at the next meeting

Planning Commission

The Portage Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a proposed ordinance amendment to update commercial marijuana development standards, including allowing drive-through service for retailers and provisioning centers, establishing queuing standards, and prohibiting outdoor growing in industrial districts. The commission will also review a final planned development site plan for a senior housing facility at 8150 Creekside Drive. The agenda includes approval of the March 16, 2023, meeting minutes.

• Ordinance Amendment #22/23-9: amend commercial marihuana development standards in Chapter 42 Article 4
• Allow drive-through service for marijuana retailers, provisioning centers, and microbusinesses
• Prohibit outdoor commercial marijuana growing in industrial districts (I-1 & I-2)
• Rename 'marihuana' to 'marijuana' throughout the code
• Final Planned Development Site Plan for senior housing at 8150 Creekside Drive

The Planning Commission recommended that City Council approve amendments to commercial marijuana development standards and the final site plan for a senior housing facility. The commission also approved the minutes from the March 16, 2023, meeting.

• Recommended approval of Ordinance Amendment #22/23-9 regarding commercial marijuana development standards (6-1)
• Recommended approval of Final PD Site Plan for StoryPoint South senior housing at 8150 Creekside Drive (7-0)
• Approved March 16, 2023, meeting minutes (7-0)
• Excused Commissioners Baldwin and Kasper (7-0)

Human Services Board

The Portage Human Services Board will hear a presentation from the Fair Housing Center of Southwest Michigan and hold a public hearing on the CDBG Annual Action Plan. The board will also approve minutes from its March 2, 2023 meeting.

• Fair Housing Center of Southwest Michigan presentation
• Public hearing for the CDBG Annual Action Plan
• Approval of March 2, 2023 minutes

The board opened and closed a public hearing regarding the FY23-24 Annual Action Plan for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds. Staff reported a $79,890 budget reduction due to lower HUD allocations and fewer loan repayments. The board approved the minutes from the March 2, 2023 meeting.

• Approved March 2, 2023 minutes (8-0)
• Opened public hearing for FY23-24 CDBG Annual Action Plan
• Closed public hearing for FY23-24 CDBG Annual Action Plan (8-0)

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to receive updates from various committees and departments, including financial, park, bicycle, arts, and youth advisory reports. The board will also consider approving funds for the May Picnic in the Park event and discuss the Park Steward Program. Several upcoming community events are listed for planning purposes.

• Approval of funds for May Picnic in the Park (Harbors West, May 11)
• Bicycle Advisory Committee update including Bike Patrol and Bike Valet sign-up
• Park Steward Program discussion with summary activity attached
• Subcommittee reports for events: Picnic in the Park, National Night Out (Lexington Green, Aug 1), Oktoberfest (Oct 7), Monster Mash (Oct 21), Traditional Holiday (Dec 2)
• Financial report and park department report

The Park Board approved spending for the Picnic at the Park event and student scholarships for archery and fish camp. The board also received updates on bike rentals, trail designs, and the Parks Foundation's $30,000 fundraising goal for Oktoberfest.

• Approved up to $350 for Picnic at the Park supplies
• Approved $145 for student scholarships ($60 for archery, $85 for fish camp)
• Approved April 5 agenda
• Approved March meeting minutes

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission received the 2023-2029 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for City Council consideration. Commissioners discussed grant transparency, local vendor preferences, and public engagement strategies for the program.

• Received 2023-2029 Capital Improvement Program (7-0)
• Approved March 2, 2023 meeting minutes with corrections (7-0)

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Portage Senior Citizens Advisory Board is meeting to approve February minutes, hear updates on the travel program, legislation, Friends of the PSC, and the Youth Advisory Board, and discuss old business including membership manuals and the PZSC org chart. New business includes a discussion of PZSC fee increases. The agenda also includes activity reminders and public comment.

• PZSC fee increases under new business
• Membership manuals for review
• PZSC org chart review
• Travel program update
• Legislative update

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to discuss several environmental topics, including an upcoming garlic mustard contest, tree planting, the Urban Bird Treaty, renewable energy, and the city's master plan. The agenda includes public comment and approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Garlic Mustard Contest on April 29, 10 a.m. – Noon
• Tree Planting event update
• Urban Bird Treaty discussion
• Renewable Energy discussion
• Master Plan Discussion

The board approved the February meeting minutes. Members discussed a new cash-prize approach for garlic mustard removal and an upcoming wetlands exhibition. The board tabled a discussion on federal renewable energy incentives until April.

• Approved February meeting minutes
• Tabled renewable energy incentives discussion until April meeting

Human Services Board

The Board conducted a public hearing regarding a plan to reallocate $110,341 in CDBG-CV3 grant funds to Housing Resources Inc. for COVID-19 housing stabilization. The Board also discussed upcoming Fair Housing Month activities and a review of the human service application process.

• Approved February 2, 2023 minutes (7-0)
• Opened and closed public hearing for CDBG-CV substantial plan amendment (7-0)
• Proposed reallocation of $110,341 to Housing Resources Inc. for eviction prevention, rapid re-housing, and utility assistance
• Cancelled regular meeting dates and times beginning in May 2023 to allow members to review the human service application process

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting for its regular monthly session, covering routine reports and updates. Key items include the financial report, department updates, and a review and approval of the board's goals for fiscal year 2023-2024. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Financial Report
• Bicycle Advisory Committee update including Bike Registration Program and Bike Patrol
• Board Goals FY 2023-2024 Review & Approval
• Subcommittee reports on Picnic in the Park events, Oktoberfest, Monster Mash, and Traditional Holiday
• Bike Westnedge event moved to 2024

The Park Board approved the board goals for fiscal year 2023-24. Members reviewed financial reports and received updates on the East Central Trail and Lakeview Park projects. The board also noted the postponement of the Bike Westnedge event until 2024.

• Approved FY 2023-24 Board Goals
• Approved March 1, 2023 meeting agenda
• Approved February Park Board meeting minutes
• Accepted November Bicycle Advisory Committee minutes

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Portage Senior Citizens Advisory Board is meeting to approve January minutes, receive updates on the travel program, legislative matters, Friends of the PSC, and the Youth Advisory Board, and review the PZSC organizational chart for current staffing. The agenda is largely informational and procedural, with no major decisions or public hearings scheduled.

• Approval of January 2023 minutes
• Travel Program update by Art/Trudy
• Legislative Update by Art
• Friends of the PSC update by Trudy
• Review of PZSC Org Chart for current staffing

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve January minutes, discuss recommendations for a new tree ordinance, and consider the Master Plan and local grid power generation. The agenda also includes public comment and board member discussion of upcoming events.

• Approve January 2023 meeting minutes
• Discuss new tree ordinance recommendations
• Review Master Plan and local grid power generation
• Public comment period

The board voted to table the discussion on a new tree ordinance until the next meeting to allow members to review existing ordinances and research other cities. Members also discussed decarbonization outreach and the city's master plan.

• Approved January minutes with edits
• Tabled new tree ordinance discussion until next month
• Decided not to sponsor a Garlic Mustard pull this year

Human Services Board

The Portage Human Services Board will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the CDBG Annual Action Plan and begin discussing Human Services funding applications. The board will also approve minutes from the December 1, 2022 meeting.

• CDBG Public Hearing for Annual Action Plan comments
• Human Services Funding application discussion begins
• Approval of December 1, 2022 minutes

The Board recommended a funding list for 21 applicants totaling $205,400 from the FY2023-2024 General Fund. The Board also approved a reduced FY23-24 CDBG budget of $274,210 and held a public hearing regarding CDBG fund releases.

• Approved recommendation to City Council for $205,400 in General Fund grants (8-0)
• Approved FY23-24 CDBG budget of $274,210 (8-0)
• Approved December 1, 2022 meeting minutes (8-0)
• Opened and closed public hearing for CDBG Request for Release of funds (8-0)
• Recommended $0 funding for Senior Care Partners PACE GrandPad Tablet support
• Recommended $0 funding for United Way VITA Kalamazoo

Park Board

The Portage Park Board is meeting to receive financial and department reports, hear updates from advisory committees, and discuss board goals for fiscal year 2023-2024. The agenda includes reports on upcoming events and individual park statuses. No votes or decisions are listed, only discussion items.

• Financial Report
• Bicycle Advisory Committee Update
• Picnic in the Park events (Harbors West May 11, Schrier Park June 15, Lexington Green August 1)
• Bike Westnedge (May 21)
• Oktoberfest (October 7), Monster Mash (October 21), Traditional Holiday (December 2)

The board approved the meeting agenda and the January meeting minutes. Members discussed modifications to the FY 2023-2024 board goals and received reports on park repairs and upcoming event planning.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved January park board meeting minutes
• Modified FY 2023-2024 goal #4 to work with Youth Advisory Committee to promote youth-related functions
• Removed Great American Campout from goal #6 and discussed adding Farmers Market Bike Valet

Senior Citizens Advisory Board

The Portage Senior Citizens Advisory Board is meeting to approve November 2022 minutes and receive informational updates on the Travel Program, legislative matters, Friends of the PSC, Youth Advisory Board, and the monthly manager's report. Old business includes an update on the current status of the Senior Center. The agenda is largely routine and informational, with no new business items listed.

• Approval of November 2022 minutes
• Travel Program update
• Legislative update
• Update on current status of Senior Center
• Monthly Manager's Report

Park Board

The Park Board approved the 2023 calendar of events and meeting schedule. The board also voted to provide funding for a garlic mustard pull contest and issued letters of support for the Spark Grant and the 2023 Recreation & Open Space Plan.

• Approved 2023 Calendar of Events and board assignments
• Approved $475 funding request for Garlic Mustard Pull Contest
• Approved 2023 Meeting Schedule
• Approved 2023 Recreation & Open Space Plan Letter of Support
• Approved Spark Grant Letter of Support
• Assigned Jen Gomes as liaison to Portage Arts Committee

Environmental Board

The Portage Environmental Advisory Board is meeting to approve past minutes and discuss several topics, including Arbor Day, the Portage Master Plan, and local grid power generation. These are discussion items, not final decisions.

• Approve September and December 2022 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Arbor Day
• Discussion of Portage Master Plan
• Discussion of local grid power generation

The board voted to allocate time to recommend a new tree ordinance to the city. Members also formed a committee for a 2024 Green Week and scheduled a future discussion on the Portage Master Plan.

• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved December 2022 meeting minutes (7-0, 1 abstain)
• Approved motion to recommend a new tree ordinance to the city (unanimous)
• Formed 2024 Green Week Committee consisting of LT, JK, DL, and JC
• Approved 10 minutes for Master Plan discussion at next meeting (6-0, 2 abstains)

Human Services Board

The Portage Human Services Board will hold a public hearing to receive comments on the CDBG Annual Action Plan and review the Human Services Funding application summary for FY2023-24. The board is deciding on funding recommendations for local human service programs, with a total General Fund request of $362,400 and CDBG request of $50,550.

• CDBG Public Hearing for Annual Action Plan
• General Fund FY2023-24 requests total $362,400; CDBG requests total $50,550
• New applicants: Milestone Senior Services ($25,000), Kalamazoo Valley Habitat for Humanity ($25,000), United Way VITA ($10,000)
• Portage Community Center requests $85,000 (General Fund) and $50,550 (CDBG)
• Twelve Baskets requests $35,000 for food pantry and free store