Vassar public meetings in 2023

DDA

The Vassar DDA is reviewing holiday lighting and tree decorating expenses, which slightly exceeded the $10,000 budget, and discussing upcoming community events like Coffee with the City Manager and the 2024 event calendar. They are also considering downtown art projects and fundraising merchandise.

• Holiday lighting and tree costs slightly over $10,000 budget
• Coffee with the City Manager: Dec 19 at IRD Homes, Jan 23 at Absolute Health Solutions
• 2024 event calendar: Block Party/Cruise In, 50/50, Lighting Ceremony, Holly Jolly
• Downtown art: petunias, flower boxes, statues/changeable art discussed
• Fundraising/merch: new shirt design, mugs, shirts, 50/50s

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission will meet to approve minutes from the November 14, 2023 meeting. The body will discuss Articles 18 and the City Band.

• Discussion of Articles 18
• Discussion of City Band

City Council

The City Council will review a performance resolution for MDOT and a purchase of hose and equipment for the Fire Department. The body will also discuss the FY 2025 budget calendar timeline and the 2024 public meetings calendar.

• Resolution #2023-15: MDOT Performance Resolution for Municipalities
• Fire Department hose and equipment purchase
• FY24/25 Budget Calendar Timeline
• CY 2024 Public Meetings Calendar
• November 2023 Vendor Invoice List

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding a drive-thru business. The body will consider a conditional rezone for the property located at 127 S. Main.

• Public hearing for drive-thru business at 127 S. Main
• Conditional rezone request for 127 S. Main

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission will meet to review and discuss Articles 17, 18, 19, and 20 of the city charter. The body will also approve the agenda and minutes from the September 12, 2023, meeting.

• Discussion of Charter Articles 17, 18, 19, and 20
• Approval of September 12, 2023, meeting minutes

Parks and Recreation

The Commission is reviewing the status of several park improvements and grant-funded projects. Members are discussing a grant application for shade at the Dog Park and the possibility of promoting weekly dog owner meet-ups.

• Round 9 MSHDA NEP grant application for shade installation at the Dog Park
• Discussion of weekly dog owner meet-ups at the Dog Park
• Status updates on Harper Park, Sticks Park, and Vassar Memorial Park equipment
• Resignation of commission member Ben Kaiser
• Review of Disc Golf Park fundraising, signage, and maps

DDA

The Vassar DDA is meeting to approve the November agenda and October minutes, and to discuss ongoing holiday projects including tree placement, a lighting ceremony, and the Holly Jolly Festival. The meeting also includes welcoming a new member and updates on donations and event logistics.

• 17 trees placed throughout town for holiday decor
• $10,000 budgeted for lighting; $235.73 spent in October
• $450 in donations received for Holly Jolly Festival
• Christmas Cafe closed; M. Cooper to host Santa
• Government For Tomorrow unresponsive; student Baeli outreach discussed

City Council

The City Council will discuss the purchase of equipment for the Wastewater Treatment Plant and pedestrian doors for the Department of Public Works. The meeting also includes a request to close North Main Street for a community event.

• WWTP equipment purchase
• Consideration of DPW pedestrian doors
• Street closure request for North Main Street on December 2, 2023, for Holly Jolly Celebration
• Appointment of Lenore Philo to the DDA for a 3-year term

EDC

The Vassar Economic Development Corporation will review several business items during this meeting. Discussions include requests regarding Kara & Company, Sweet Cakes Hood System, and the Tuscola County EDC.

• Kara & Company business item
• Sweet Cakes Hood System business item
• Tuscola County EDC additional fund request
• City of Vassar donation letter request

Parks and Recreation

The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission will review ongoing park projects, including the new Disc Golf Park, Gazebo Park musical fence, and recent playground installations. They will also discuss the upcoming Pumpkin Roll event, potential weekly dog park meet-ups, and address the resignation of a commission member and the passing of another.

• Disc Golf Park: fundraising, signage, maps, and other needs
• Gazebo Park on Cass: musical fence execution and supply donations
• Harper Park: new basketball court and playground equipment installed (MSHDA NEP Round 7 grant)
• Sticks Park: new playground installed (MSHDA NEP Round 7 grant)
• Dog Park: request for shade funding in MSHDA NEP Round 9 application

DDA

The DDA is reviewing plans for the Holly Jolly Festival and discussing a budget for downtown light purchases. Members are also preparing for a collaborative meeting with the EDC, Planning Commission, and City Council on October 18.

• Discussion of downtown light purchases with approximately $15,000 available
• Planning for the Holly Jolly Festival and potential lighting ceremony
• Reimbursement for Adam Barden for Block Party food expenses
• Collaborative meeting scheduled for October 18 at 6 PM at City Hall
• Ribbon cuttings for Eddie's and More, Link Learning, and Little Things Salon

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is meeting to review and discuss Articles 17, 18, 19, and 20 of the charter. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and other routine business.

• Review of Articles 17, 18, 19, and 20
• Approval of September 12, 2023 regular meeting minutes

City Council

The Vassar City Council will meet to consider a request from Vassar Township to purchase a police vehicle, along with routine consent agenda items, board minutes, and a street closure for the Pumpkin Roll event. The meeting also includes a resignation from the Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation.

• Consideration of Vassar Township police vehicle purchase
• Street closure request for 2023 Pumpkin Roll on October 14
• Resignation of Ben Kaiser from Planning Commission and Parks & Recreation
• Approval of September 2023 vendor listing
• Minutes from DDA, Charter Commission, and Planning Commission meetings

EDC

The Vassar Economic Development Corporation is meeting to discuss several business items, including a proposal from Kara & Company, a hood system for Sweet Cakes, an additional fund request from the Tuscola County EDC, and a donation letter request. The meeting will also include approval of the agenda and minutes from March 2023, as well as public comment.

• Kara & Company business item
• Sweet Cakes hood system
• Tuscola County EDC additional fund request
• City of Vassar donation letter request

Planning Commission

The Vassar Planning Commission is meeting to review an application from Agrivalley for a wireless communication facility at 236 Division St. The commission will also approve the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting, and hear public comments on the wireless facility item.

• Review of Agrivalley communication request for 236 Division St
• Discussion of wireless communication facilities
• Public comment period for the wireless facility hearing

Parks and Recreation

The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing park projects, including new playgrounds and a basketball court, and to plan the annual Pumpkin Roll event. They will also address the resignation of a commission member and consider organizing weekly dog park meet-ups.

• Harper Park: new basketball court installed, playground equipment delivered, installation hiring pending (MSHDA NEP Round 7 grant)
• Sticks Park: new playground installed (MSHDA NEP Round 7 grant)
• Vassar Memorial Park: new equipment arrived, installation by City (Michigan Baseball Foundation grant)
• Dog Park: grant request for shade installation in MSHDA NEP Round 9 application
• Pumpkin Roll event on October 14 seeking volunteers

DDA

The Vassar DDA will approve August minutes, hear public comment, and discuss ongoing projects including Block Party details and the Holly Jolly Festival. Business items include paying The Sinclairs Band $1,500 for the Block Party, ordering more 'Get Lit' shirts (40 at $12 each), and planning for an October collaboration meeting. They will also discuss downtown light purchases and a possible lighting ceremony.

• Payment of $1,500 to The Sinclairs Band for Block Party performance
• 50/50 ticket sales yielded $435; discussion of ordering 40 'Get Lit' shirts at $12 each ($480 total)
• Collaboration meeting scheduled for Oct 18 at 6 PM at City Hall with DDA, EDC, Planning Commission, Council, and community members
• Discussion of downtown light purchases and a possible lighting ceremony in November

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from the August 8, 2023 meeting. The main business item is a discussion of Articles 15 and 16 of the charter. No other substantive items are listed.

• Discussion of Articles 15 and 16

City Council

The Vassar City Council is meeting to handle routine administrative items and several action items. The council will consider approving a playground installation at Harper Park and a proposal to provide police services to Vassar Township. The agenda also includes a street closure request for the school homecoming parade and board appointments.

• Consideration of Harper Park playground installation (IRD proposal)
• Consideration of City of Vassar's proposal to Vassar Township for police services
• Street closure request for Vassar Public Schools Homecoming Parade on September 21, 2023
• Appointment of I. Rudnick to Planning Commission for a 3-year term
• Consent agenda: August 2023 vendor listing and board/commission minutes

The City Council authorized the City Manager to present a three-year police service agreement to Vassar Township. The council also awarded a contract for playground installation at Harper Park. Various grant updates and community concerns regarding odors and blight were discussed.

• Authorized City Manager to present Police Service Agreement to Vassar Township
• Awarded $6,500 contract to IRD Homes for Harper Park Playground installation
• Approved appointment of I Rudnick to Planning Commission for a 3-year term
• Approved street closure for Vassar Public Schools Homecoming Parade on September 21, 2023
• Approved August 7, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved August 2023 Vendor Listing

Planning Commission

The Vassar Planning Commission is meeting to hold public hearings on two conditional rezoning requests: one for 127 N. Main St. and one for 135 E. Huron Ave. Both properties are in the B1 zoning district. The commission will take public comment and then decide whether to recommend approval of the conditional rezones.

• Public hearing for conditional rezone at 127 N. Main St.
• Public hearing for conditional rezone at 135 E. Huron Ave.
• Both properties are in the B1 zoning district.
• Approval of March 2023 meeting minutes.

The Planning Commission held public hearings for two specific addresses. Both requests were approved by the commission.

• Approved public hearing for 127 N. Main St. (All in favor)
• Approved public hearing for 135 E. Huron Ave (All in favor)

ZBA

The Zoning Board of Appeals is meeting to consider a variance request for the property at 675 N. Main St. The agenda includes roll call, approval of minutes, and public comment periods, with the variance as the only new business item.

• Variance request for 675 N. Main St.

The Zoning Board of Appeals approved a height variance for both primary and accessory structures at 675 N. Main St. The board also approved the minutes from June 27, 2022.

• Approved height variance for primary and accessory structures at 675 N. Main St (unanimous)
• Approved June 27, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

DDA

The Vassar DDA is meeting to approve minutes and discuss ongoing projects, primarily the upcoming Block Party on September 14, including vendor arrangements and ribbon cuttings for three new businesses. They will also review the Holly Jolly Festival, a collaborative meeting, and the status of the Vet's Fountain.

• Block Party set for September 14, 5-8 PM, with Sinclair's Band and Angry Ginnger food truck booked
• $300 received from Living Life Gifts/Little Wonders and $500 from Cork Pine Builders for Block Party
• Ribbon cuttings planned for Cottage Inn Pizza, M15 Taproom, and PR Studio and Events
• Collaborative meeting scheduled for October 18 at 6 PM at City Hall
• Discussion on state of petunias for next year

The DDA approved spending up to $200 for logo mugs to be included in welcome bags for new businesses. The board also lowered prices for DDA puzzles and posters and rescheduled a concert to September 6.

• Approved up to $200 to order logo mugs for new business welcome bags
• Lowered DDA puzzle price to $20 from $30
• Lowered DDA poster price to $15 from $20
• Rescheduled July 26 concert to September 6
• Approved August 2023 Agenda
• Approved July 2023 Minutes

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is holding a regular meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from the July 11, 2023 meeting, then discuss business items covering Articles 11 to 14 of the charter. This is a working session focused on reviewing specific charter articles.

• Approval of July 11, 2023 regular meeting minutes
• Discussion of Articles 11 to 14 of the charter

The Commission discussed and proposed specific deletions and wording changes to Articles 11 through 14 of the City Charter. These changes focus on purchasing limits, legal submissions, and financial reporting frequency. Articles 15 and 16 were deferred to the September meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved July 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Proposed striking Section 13.8 regarding attorney submissions
• Proposed striking 'Five Thousand Dollars' from Sections 13.11.1 and 13.11.2
• Proposed changing Section 14.5.6 reporting from quarterly to 'Biannually'
• Proposed striking Section 14.5.10 in its entirety
• Consensus to consider Articles 15 & 16 at the September meeting

City Council

The Vassar City Council will vote on routine consent items and discuss new business, including purchasing a dual auger system for the wastewater treatment plant and upgrading City Hall's HVAC. They will also consider a rental agreement for the Corkpine Fair and a pavilion rental waiver for a basketball tournament.

• Consideration of WWTP Dual Auger System Purchase
• Consideration of City Hall HVAC with estimates from Goyette, Norms, Quality, and Roots
• Consideration of Corkpine Fair Rental Agreement
• Soul'd Out Pavilion Rental Waiver for 3-on-3 basketball tournament
• Street closures for Corkpine Fair Parade (Aug 26) and DDA Block Party (Sep 14)

City Council approved the purchase of a Dual Auger System for the wastewater treatment plant and awarded an HVAC upgrade contract for City Hall. The council also approved the Corkpine Fairground Use Agreement and several board appointments.

• Approved purchase of Duperon DAS (Dual Auger System) not to exceed $98,000
• Awarded City Hall heating and cooling upgrade to Quality Heating and Cooling not to exceed $47,540
• Approved Corkpine Fairground Use Agreement for August 21-27, 2023
• Approved street closures for Corkpine Fair Parade (Aug 26) and DDA Block Party (Sept 14)
• Appointed Philip Chelekis to Vassar City Band Board (3-yr term)
• Appointed Justin Whitney as VAAS City Representative
• Appointed Dr. Brian Emrys to DDA (3-yr term)
• Accepted Jennifer Miller's resignation from DDA

Parks and Recreation

The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission will meet to approve the June 2023 minutes, hear public comment, and discuss ongoing projects. Key items include relocating the Disc Golf Park to the Fairgrounds and planning the Dog Park grand opening scheduled for August 3, 2023. The commission will also welcome returning member Robert McKay.

• Disc Golf Park relocation to Fairgrounds
• Dog Park grand opening planned for August 3, 2023
• Approval of June 2023 minutes
• Welcome returning member Robert McKay

The Board scheduled the official opening of the dog park for August 3 at 6:30 PM. Members discussed the relocation of the disc golf park to the Fairgrounds and the goal to install a music fence at Gazebo Park by August.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved June 2023 minutes
• Scheduled dog park opening for August 3 at 6:30 PM

DDA

The Vassar DDA is meeting to approve minutes and discuss ongoing projects, including 50/50 ticket sales at a July 26 concert, block party details, potential involvement in the Holly Jolly Festival, and the status of the Vet's Fountain. The committee has selected a student for the Government for Tomorrow program.

• 50/50 ticket sales at July 26 concert downtown
• Block party details, including info for August Car Show and potential September cruise-in
• Holly Jolly Festival: winter/Christmas festival with stations downtown, first weekend in December
• Government for Tomorrow: student selected
• Status of Vet's Fountain downtown

The DDA rescheduled the block party to September 14 and agreed to participate in the December Holly Jolly Event. The board also lowered the sale prices for DDA puzzles and posters. A collaboration meeting with city boards and business owners is tentatively planned for October 18.

• Lowered DDA puzzle price to $20 from $30
• Lowered DDA poster price to $15 from $20
• Moved block party date to September 14
• Approved participation in December Holly Jolly Event
• Approved June 2023 minutes

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is meeting to review and discuss Articles VII through X of the draft charter. The agenda includes routine items such as approval of minutes from the June 13 meeting. No votes or decisions are listed beyond the discussion item.

• Discussion of Articles VII to X of the draft charter
• Approval of June 13, 2023 regular meeting minutes

The Commission reviewed and edited Articles VII through X of the city charter. Members reached a consensus on the payment schedule for the Commission and the consideration of Articles 11-14.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved June 13, 2023 meeting minutes
• Article VII (7.1.1): Struck 'subject to confirmation by the Council'
• Article VIII: Struck 'Boards and Commissions' from the title
• Article IX: Approved all items as presented
• Article X (10.4): Struck requirement for Council to adopt a comprehensive ethics ordinance
• Consensus reached to consider Articles 11-14
• Consensus reached that Commission be paid annually each November until charter revision is complete

City Council

The City Council approved a bond ordinance to fund water supply system improvements and implemented a water rate increase starting September 2023. Three construction contracts for water mains, meters, and wells were tentatively awarded to Cooper Excavating, Michigan Pipe & Valve, and Cole, Inc.

• Approved Ordinance #2023-01 Bond Ordinance for water supply system improvements
• Approved water rate increases beginning September 2023
• Awarded $4,956,395.70 water distribution contract to Cooper Excavating
• Awarded $202,603.30 residential meter contract to Michigan Pipe & Valve
• Awarded $2,001,533 water supply contract to Cole, Inc
• Approved Consent Agenda including Parks & Rec re-appointments and car show road closure
• Approved June 5 and June 12 meeting minutes

DDA

The Vassar DDA is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss ongoing projects and business items. They will review the downtown grant event and Wednesday Night Market, plan 50/50 ticket sales and a block party, and decide on facade grants and fundraiser pricing for posters and puzzles.

• Downtown grant event on June 1 was poorly attended
• Wednesday Night Market had only three non-sponsor booths
• 50/50 ticket sales at July 26 concert, 5-8 PM
• Facade grants for new fiscal year to be decided
• Fundraiser pricing for 30 posters ($11 each) and 20 puzzles ($18 each)

The DDA established pricing for fundraiser items and decided to purchase shirts for members using independent funds. Members discussed the Downtown Grant results and proposed a joint meeting with city stakeholders to plan for the downtown area.

• Approved June 2023 Agenda
• Approved May 2023 Minutes
• Decided members will independently pay roughly $20 each for shirts
• Set fundraiser pricing at $30 per puzzle and $20 per poster
• Decided to gift a puzzle and poster to Mackenzie Clouse

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is meeting to discuss Articles 1-6 of the city charter. The agenda includes routine items like approving minutes from the March 14, 2023 meeting and administering the oath of office to newly appointed member Marian Whitney.

• Discussion of Articles 1-6 of the charter
• Oath of office for newly appointed member Marian Whitney
• Approval of minutes from March 14, 2023 regular meeting

The Commission reviewed and reached consensus on updates to the city charter, including residency requirements for office and election procedures. Changes were made to the structure of the Election Commission and City Council quorum requirements. Several sections regarding the Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem were eliminated.

• Administered Oath of Office to Marian Whitney
• Approved March 14, 2023 meeting minutes
• Set residency requirement for office or board appointment to at least 90 days
• Changed 'Public Safety Department' to Police and Fire Departments in Section 3.15
• Set general charter revisions to be submitted to electors every 20 years
• Created Election Commission consisting of City Clerk, one City Official, and one qualified Elector
• Set candidate nominating petition requirement to 10 signatures
• Defined City Council quorum as three members and 'Super' Majority as four members

City Council

The Vassar City Council met to consider one new business item: Resolution #2023-11. This resolution authorizes the city to claim a grant from the Protecting MI Pension program. The agenda included standard procedural items and public comment periods.

• Resolution #2023-11: Authorizes a claim for the Protecting MI Pension Grant

The City Council approved Resolution #2023-11 to apply for a state grant for municipalities with unfunded pension liabilities. The city is eligible based on a December 31, 2021 benchmark and could receive up to $337,000.

• Approved Resolution #2023-11 to authorize a claim for the Protecting MI Pension Grant

Parks and Recreation

The commission discussed progress on the disc golf park, dog park, and music fence. New equipment was ordered for the Memorial Fairgrounds and an AED for Ivan Middleton Hall.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved the March 2023 minutes
• Ordered new equipment for Memorial Fairgrounds
• Ordered new AED machine for Ivan Middleton Hall

City Council

The Vassar City Council will vote on consent agenda items including vendor payments and board minutes, consider appointments to the Charter Commission and Library Board, and discuss new business including Harper Park basketball court repairs, a resolution authorizing assessment of liens to city taxes, and FY23 year-end budget amendments. The meeting also includes public comment periods and a possible closed session for collective bargaining strategy.

• Harper Park basketball court repairs/reconstruction
• Resolution #2023-10 authorizing assessment of liens to city taxes
• FY23 year-end budget amendments
• Appointments: Marion Whitney (Charter Commission), Dealia Partridge (Library Board)
• Resignation: Jo-Linda Manus (Library Board)

The City Council approved tentative agreements with IUOE Local 324 and POAM. Council also authorized the replacement of the Harper Park basketball court and approved FY23 year-end budget amendments.

• Approved $18,300 proposal from Cooper Excavating for Harper Park basketball court replacement
• Approved Resolution #2023-10 to authorize assessment of liens to City Taxes
• Approved FY23 Year-End Budget Amendments
• Authorized City Manager to negotiate reduced fairgrounds fees with MT Pocket Pullers
• Approved Tentative Agreement with IUOE Local 324
• Approved Tentative Agreement with POAM

Parks and Recreation

The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing projects including the Disc Golf Park, Carpet Ball, Dog Park, and Music Fence. They will also consider business items such as the Sticks Park build, a new playground addition at Memorial Fairgrounds funded by a grant and local contribution, and a new AED machine for Ivan Middleton Hall. The agenda includes public comment and approval of previous minutes.

• Disc Golf Park construction timeline and grand opening updates
• Dog Park shade project not funded; seeking other funding avenues
• Sticks Park build scheduled June 3; DPW requests to handle installation
• Memorial Fairgrounds playground addition: grant from Michigan Baseball Foundation plus $2,500 from Canapa Valley
• New AED machine for Ivan Middleton Hall funded by Tuscola County Community Foundation

DDA

The Vassar DDA will discuss and decide on several downtown projects, including finalizing a QR code scavenger hunt plan, spending up to $1,000 on digitizing a map for the Puzzle Piece Project, and considering discontinuing the official Farmers Market. They will also plan the June 1 Block Party, revisit the status of the Vet's Fountain, and note upcoming 50/50 ticket sales at a July concert.

• QR code scavenger hunt proposal and Facebook page launch
• Up to $1,000 for digitizing Makenzie Clouse's map and printed media for Puzzle Piece Project
• Discussion to discontinue official Farmers Market
• Block Party on June 1, 5-7 PM, with food truck and musicians; Cork Pine Builders sponsorship offer
• 50/50 ticket sales reserved for July 26 concert downtown

The DDA approved funding for the Downtown Puzzle Project and established a scavenger hunt schedule. The board decided to discontinue the Saturday morning Farmers Market at T. North Pavilion but will proceed with Wednesday night markets. The Block Party was postponed to September 7.

• Approved up to $1,000 for art digitalization, puzzles, and posters (All in Favor)
• Discontinued Saturday morning Farmers Market at T. North Pavilion
• Approved proceeding with Wednesday night markets
• Postponed Block Party to September 7
• Set Downtown Puzzle Project scavenger hunt dates from May 23 to June 11
• Approved April 2023 Minutes (All in Favor)

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is meeting to discuss Articles 1-6 of the charter. The agenda includes routine items like approving the minutes from the March 14, 2023 regular meeting, but the main business is the discussion of these articles.

• Discussion of Articles 1-6
• Approval of March 14, 2023 regular meeting minutes

City Council

City Council approved the FY24 budget, general appropriations, and a millage rate of 17 mills. The council also approved several resolutions regarding MDOT permitting, charitable gaming, and MERS signatories. A request to waive rental fees for the MT Pocket Pullers was deferred pending a new fee schedule.

• Approved FY24 Budget (5-0)
• Approved Resolution #2023-05 setting FY24 Millage Rate at 17 mills
• Approved Resolution #2023-06 General Appropriations Resolution
• Approved Resolution #2023-07 for MDOT Annual Permitting
• Approved Resolution #2023-08 for Vassar Corkpine Fair Charitable Gaming License
• Waived Ordinance Section 54:8 to allow alcohol sales for Mud Runners and Vassar Rotary Club on specific dates
• Approved Resolution #2023-09 establishing authorized signatories for MERS
• Tabled rental fee waiver for MT Pocket Pullers pending a new fee schedule

DDA

The Vassar Downtown Development Authority will consider accepting a resignation, approving an additional payment for map design, and discussing ongoing projects like the Farmers Market and downtown grant. They will also discuss the Block Party and a maintenance contract for Timber Oaks Park.

• Resignation of Pamela Stefan from the DDA
• Additional payment to Makenzie Clouse for map design (already paid $350)
• Discussion of Block Party date and attractions
• Status of the Vet's Fountain downtown
• Approval of Timber Oaks Park Maintenance Yearly Contract (2023-2025)

The DDA decided to keep the Farmers Market at T. North and approved an additional payment for map artwork. The board also acknowledged the resignation of P. Stefan.

• Approved $150 additional payment to Makenzie Clouse for map design/artwork
• Decided to keep Farmers Market at T. North
• Acknowledged resignation of P. Stefan

City Council

The Vassar City Council will consider several items, including a road closure request, hydro grass seeding on W. Huron Ave, a wastewater treatment agreement with Buena Vista Township, a resolution for a charitable gaming license, Harper Park updates, and a city manager contract approval. They will also set a public hearing for the FY2024 budget and millage rate for May 1, 2023.

• Road closure: Enchanted Moon, North Main St from E Huron to Oak, June 30, 2023, 12pm-6pm
• Hydro grass seeding on W. Huron Ave (M-15)
• WWTP interlocal agreement with Buena Vista Township
• Resolution #2023-04 for Tuscola Youth Gymnastics charitable gaming license
• Harper Park MSHDA grant award and equipment

The City Council approved a contract extension for City Manager Andrew Niedzinski and established a shared wastewater plant supervisor agreement with Buena Vista Charter Township. Other actions included awarding a grass seeding contract and approving playground equipment for Harper Park.

• Approved employment contract for City Manager Andrew Niedzinski through June 30, 2027
• Authorized interlocal agreement with Buena Vista Charter Township to share a WWTP Supervisor (50% cost split)
• Awarded W Huron Hydro Grass Seeding contract to TimberOaks Lawn Service for $7,000
• Approved $19,211 purchase of playground equipment for Harper Park from Playgroundequipment.com
• Approved Resolution #2023-04 for Tuscola Youth Gymnastics Charitable Gaming License
• Scheduled FY2024 Budget second reading and public hearing for May 1, 2023
• Approved Consent Agenda with the removal of the road closure request for future discussion

Planning Commission

The Vassar Planning Commission is meeting to consider a special use permit for a home at 321 N. Cass Ave. to be converted into a two-unit rental, as required by the zoning district. The commission will also review the updated Capital Improvement Plan for 2023-2024. The agenda includes routine items like approval of minutes and public comment.

• Special use permit for two-unit rental conversion at 321 N. Cass Ave.
• Capital Improvement Plan 2023-2024 review

The Planning Commission approved a Special Use Permit for 321 N. Cass Ave and the 2023-2024 Capital Improvement Plan. The City Manager reported the start of the condemnation process for 626 Cass Ave.

• Approved Special Use Permit for 321 N. Cass Ave (unanimous)
• Approved 2023-2024 Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)

EDC

The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is meeting to consider its 2023-2024 budget, including updated revenue figures. The agenda also includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and public comment. No other substantive business items are listed.

• Review of EDC 2023-2024 budget with updated revenues
• Approval of February 2023 meeting minutes

The Economic Development Corporation approved the 2023-2024 budget. The budget was modified to include a $10,000 charge to the city's general fund.

• Approved 2023-2024 budget with $10,000 charge to city general fund (unanimous)

Vassar Charter Commission

The Vassar Charter Commission is holding its first meeting to organize itself. The agenda includes appointing a chairperson, approving a meeting schedule, and swearing in newly elected council members. No previous minutes exist, indicating this is an initial organizational session.

• Appointment of chairperson
• Meeting schedule approval
• Oath of office for newly elected council members
• No previous meeting minutes exist

The commission appointed Pamela Stillwell-Binder as chairperson and scheduled future meetings for the second Tuesday of each month at 5pm. Members agreed to use the Essexville Michigan Charter as a template for Vassar's charter. Specific articles regarding elections, officials, contracts, and tax limits will be edited and reviewed at the April 11, 2023 meeting.

• Appointed Pamela Stillwell-Binder as chairperson
• Scheduled future meetings for the second Tuesday of every month at 5pm
• Approved the agenda as presented
• Administered Oath of Office to Brandon Hutson

Parks and Recreation

The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to approve minutes and discuss ongoing projects, including a disc golf park, a dog park, and a music fence. The board will also review the 2023 park inventory. No final decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion and updates.

• Disc golf park: fundraising guidance and MSHDA grant funding for cement pads and signage
• Dog park: grants sought for canopies, quotes range from $20,000-$50,000
• Music fence: status update requested from L. Philo
• 2023 park inventory review
• Approval of February 2023 minutes

The board scheduled the installation of a new playground at White Birch for June 3. Members discussed ongoing projects regarding a disc golf park, dog park canopies, and a music fence, but no formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved the meeting agenda
• Approved February 2023 minutes
• Set June 3 as the date to install the White Birch playground

DDA

The Vassar DDA will approve February minutes and discuss ongoing projects, including adding a Wednesday night Farmers Market and paying $350 for downtown map artwork from DDA funds. They will also discuss the upcoming Block Party and social media presence for the DDA.

• Approval of February 2023 meeting minutes
• Add Wednesday night Farmers Market in conjunction with concerts
• Pay $350 design fee to Mackenzie Clouse for downtown map artwork from DDA funds
• Discussion of Block Party in April/May
• Potential social district downtown discussed

The DDA approved a $350 payment to Makenzie Clouse for map artwork. The board discussed filming dates for a downtown promo and the potential relocation of the Farmers Market to the library.

• Approved $350 payment to Makenzie Clouse for map painting
• Approved February 2023 meeting minutes
• Decided not to notify Farmers Market vendors or public regarding potential library relocation until further discussion

City Council

The Vassar City Council will consider a resolution in support of an appropriation request for a new public safety building to house both police and fire departments. They will also discuss a purchase of equipment for the wastewater treatment plant. The agenda includes routine consent items, board minutes, and an appointment. A closed session is scheduled for a personnel matter.

• Resolution #2023-03 supporting appropriation for new public safety building (police and fire)
• WWTP equipment purchase (incubator)
• Appointment of Ian Palmer to Planning Commission (term expires 2026)
• Consent agenda: February 2023 vendor listing, board minutes (DDA, EDC, Parks & Recreation)
• Closed session for personnel evaluation or discipline

The City Council approved a resolution to request state and federal funds for a new combined police and fire department building. The council also authorized an emergency purchase for wastewater treatment plant equipment and created a committee to negotiate the City Manager's contract.

• Approved Resolution #2023-03 to request state and federal funds for a new public safety building
• Authorized $6,374 emergency purchase of a WWTP lab incubator from North Central Laboratories
• Created Ad Hoc committee (Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tem) to negotiate City Manager Contract
• Approved appointment of Ian Palmer to Planning Commission (term expires 2026)
• Approved February 6, 2023 Regular and Closed meeting minutes
• Approved February 2023 Vendor Listing and various board minutes via Consent Agenda

EDC

The Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is meeting to consider its 2023-2024 budget and a request from the Tuscola County EDC. The agenda also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment, but no public hearings are scheduled.

• EDC 2023-2024 Budget review
• Tuscola County EDC Request
• Approval of October 2022 EDC minutes

The commission approved a payment request for the Tuscola County EDC. The 2023-2024 budget was discussed but no decision was made. Members also discussed an attorney letter regarding outstanding loans.

• Approved Tuscola EDC request payment (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved October 22 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on 2023-2024 Budget

Vassar Charter Commission

This is the inaugural meeting of the Vassar Charter Commission, as no previous minutes exist. The body will take oaths of office for newly elected members and approve the meeting schedule. No specific policy decisions, contracts, or ordinances are listed on the agenda.

• Oath of Office for newly elected members
• Approval of Meeting Schedule

Parks and Recreation

The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission is meeting to discuss ongoing projects, including fundraising for the Disc Golf Park and seeking grant funding for the Dog Park. They will also consider a proposal for adding up-cycled musical equipment to a park or public space. The agenda includes approval of minutes and public comment.

• Disc Golf Park: Connor McTaggart to begin fundraising again
• Dog Park: seeking grant funding via Tuscola County Community Foundation for canopies
• Proposal by Lenore Philo for up-cycled musical equipment in a park or public space

The commission reviewed fundraising efforts for a disc golf park and the arrival of equipment for the dog park. Members discussed a proposal to install music fences at three city parks and noted ongoing grant applications for playground equipment.

• Approved February 9, 2023 agenda
• Approved January 2023 minutes

DDA

The Vassar DDA is meeting to approve minutes, hear public comment, and discuss ongoing projects. Key items include finding an artist for a downtown grant puzzle project, planning a spring block party, and a reminder about a special public meeting on the Farmers Market. The agenda is mostly routine updates and discussion.

• Downtown Grant (March-May) — seeking artist for puzzle art; school and tech center declined, awaiting response from student Austin Nesbit
• Downtown Block Party planned for spring
• Special public meeting tonight at 6 PM to discuss Farmers Market
• Welcome new DDA member JoAnne Monchilov, owner of Little Wonders Resale Store and Living Life gifts at 139 E. Huron

The DDA approved the meeting agenda and the January 2023 minutes. Members discussed plans for a downtown block party in early May and potential relocation of the Farmers Market to the greenspace/Moore Drain area.

• Approved February agenda with amendments (all in favor)
• Approved January 2023 minutes (all in favor)

City Council

City Council approved FY23 6-month budget amendments and awarded a bridge inspection contract to Rowe Engineering. The council also authorized a grant application for police tasers and a memorandum of agreement for the School Resource Officer contract.

• Awarded bi-annual bridge inspection to Rowe Engineering for $1,750 (Motion carried)
• Approved Resolution #2023-02 for a $5,000 Par Plan Grant for police taser equipment (Motion carried)
• Authorized City Manager to sign MOA with Vassar Public Schools regarding SRO Contract (Motion carried)
• Approved FY23 6-month Budget Amendments for Deputy Treasurer position and water/sewer repairs (Motion carried)
• Approved January 9, 2023 meeting minutes (Motion carried)
• Appointed JoAnne Monchilov to DDA (Expires 2027)
• Appointed James Martin to Charter Commission (Expires upon completion)
• Appointed Brandon Hutson to Charter Commission (Expires upon completion)

Parks and Recreation

The Commission voted to move its monthly meetings from the fourth Thursday to the second Thursday of each month to avoid conflicts with the Downtown Summer Concert Series. Members discussed progress on the Disc Golf Park and Dog Park, including pending installations and funding efforts.

• Approved moving monthly meetings to the second Thursday of each month (All in favor)
• Approved September 2022 minutes (All in favor)
• Approved meeting agenda (All in favor)

DDA

The Vassar DDA is meeting to approve the agenda and December minutes, hear public comment, and discuss ongoing projects and business items. They will review a draft letter to downtown building owners about post-season lighting, a draft letter to Farmers Market vendors, and a plan for the Downtown revitalization grant with Todd Pride. The meeting also includes discussion of the Chamber of Commerce's current state.

• Downtown lighting project/Christmas decor
• Draft letter to downtown building owners
• Draft letter to Farmers Market vendors
• Downtown revitalization grant plan (QR codes, point tracking, puzzle/poster)
• Discussion of Chamber of Commerce state

The DDA approved a draft letter to businesses regarding the Downtown Lighting Project and established two sub-committees to manage lighting and the Buy Nearby revitalization grant. The board also agreed to a Farmers Market vendor letter pending a date change.

• Approved draft letter to businesses for Downtown Lighting Project
• Decided building owners will store lights for the following year
• Created Lighting Project sub-committee (C. Haubenstricker, J. Monchilov)
• Created Buy Nearby/MI Retailers Assoc. grant sub-committee (A. Barden, P. Mecham, A. McArthur)
• Approved Farmers Market vendor letter pending date change to Feb 8, 2023
• Approved December 2022 meeting minutes

City Council

The City Council voted to remove the mandatory requirement for residential water meter installation from the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Project and instead established a voluntary installation program. Council also approved funding for well repairs and compensation for the Charter Commission.

• Removed mandatory residential water meter installation from DWSRF project (4-1)
• Approved voluntary water meter installation program for residents (5-0)
• Approved $41,044.56 to Peerless Midwest for Well #6 repairs
• Approved Resolution #2023-01 for Charter Commission Compensation
• Approved December 5, 2022 meeting minutes
• Approved Consent Agenda