Vassar public meetings in 2025
34 substantive meetings from 2025, with official agendas or minutes and plain-English summaries.
DDA
The Vassar Downtown Development Authority will vote on approving the December 2025 agenda and meeting minutes. The body is discussing the allocation of $15,000 for downtown Christmas lights and the allocation of $500 for winter-themed window painting.
- Approval of December 2025 agenda and November 2025 minutes
- Allocation of $15,000 for downtown Christmas lights
- Allocation of $500 for winter-themed window painting
- Discussion on the 2025 calendar of events
- Ribbon ceremony for Faith in Motion Dance center
The board approved adding $5,000 to the downtown Christmas lights project for 2025. It also approved $275 for a screening of “A Christmas Story” at the Vassar Theater, up to $25 for red‑ribbon ceremony supplies, and up to $50 for tree‑decoration equipment. The agenda and minutes were adopted without opposition.
- Approved $5,000 DDA contribution to Christmas Lights (all in favor)
- Approved $275 for "A Christmas Story" screening at Vassar Theater (all in favor)
- Approved up to $25 for Red Ribbon ceremony supplies (all in favor)
- Approved up to $50 for tree project supplies (storage totes and extension cord) (all in favor)
- Approved December agenda (all in favor)
- Approved November minutes (all in favor)
City Council
The Vassar City Council will adopt the November 3, 2025 regular meeting minutes and approve routine consent‑agenda items, including the November 2025 vendor listing. The council will hear board and commission minutes and appoint G. Kasper to a three‑year term on the Zoning Board of Appeals. New business includes consideration of several resolutions, notably the City of Vassar Recreation Plan 2030, MDOT performance, election results, generator maintenance, the 2026 public‑meetings calendar, and the FY2027 budget timeline.
- Adopt November 3, 2025 regular city council meeting minutes
- Approve November 2025 vendor listing (Consent Agenda)
- Consider Resolution #2025-18 – City of Vassar Recreation Plan 2030
- Consider Resolution #2025-17 – MDOT Performance Resolution for Municipalities
- Consider FY2027 budget timeline
The council approved the MDOT Performance Resolution, the Vassar Recreation Plan 2030, and confirmed the new City Charter with a 164‑yes to 89‑no vote, making it effective Jan 1 2026. It also approved a $18,151.65 five‑year generator maintenance contract, set the September 8 2026 council meeting date, and adopted the FY27 budget timeline.
- Approved MDOT Performance Resolution for Municipalities (motion carried)
- Approved Vassar Recreation Plan 2030 (motion carried)
- Approved Election Results confirming Proposed City Charter (164‑Yes, 89‑No) (motion carried)
- Approved 5‑year generator maintenance proposal from Cummins for $18,151.65 (motion carried)
- Approved 2026 meeting calendar with September 8 council meeting date (motion carried)
- Approved FY27 Budget Timeline (motion carried)
Parks and Recreation
The Parks and Recreation Board will approve the November agenda and September minutes. It will hold a public hearing on the Recreation Master Plan 2030. The board will discuss the status of DDA Christmas trees and set the winter meeting schedule.
- Approval of the November 2025 agenda
- Approval of the September 2025 minutes
- Public hearing on the Recreation Master Plan 2030 (Nov 13, 2025)
- Discussion of DDA Christmas trees still unplanted from last year
- Adoption of the Parks & Rec winter meeting schedule
The board approved the November agenda and the September meeting minutes. It opened and then closed the public hearing for the Recreation Master Plan 2030, and will distribute the plan to surrounding areas before presenting it to the City Council in February 2026. The DDA Christmas Trees will be placed in the community on December 1, with volunteers from the school, and the trees will be planted in spring 2026.
- Approved November agenda (all in favor)
- Approved September minutes (all in favor)
- Opened public hearing for Recreation Master Plan 2030 (all in favor)
- Closed public hearing for Recreation Master Plan 2030 (all in favor)
- Decided DDA Christmas Trees will be displayed Dec 1 and planted Spring 2026 (all in favor)
- Planned distribution of Recreation Master Plan 2030 to surrounding areas and council review Feb 2026 (all in favor)
DDA
The DDA will approve the November agenda and October minutes, review ongoing downtown projects, and consider funding for holiday decorations. It notes a $500 allocation for city window painting and adds $5,000 to the city’s $10,000 downtown Christmas lights effort. The board also discusses the December 6 tree‑lighting ceremony and placement of additional Christmas trees.
- $500 allocated for city window painting (Mackenzie Clouse)
- DDA contributes $5,000 to the city’s $10,000 downtown Christmas lights project
- Tree Lighting Ceremony scheduled for December 6, 2025 at 6:30 pm
- City Hall requests 5 Christmas trees to be placed and planted in spring
- Quarterly Business After Hours events letters sent to downtown businesses
The board unanimously approved the November agenda. They also unanimously approved the October meeting minutes. Members agreed to hold a White Elephant gift exchange at the next DDA meeting on December 10. Holiday plans were confirmed, including adding Cottage Inn and Link Learning to the Christmas lights, ordering Christmas trees, and winterizing the downtown fountain.
- Approved November agenda (unanimous)
- Approved October minutes (unanimous)
- Agreed to hold White Elephant gift exchange at Dec 10 meeting
- Added Cottage Inn to Christmas lights downtown
- Added Link Learning to Christmas lights downtown
- Christmas trees ordered by C. Haubenstricker for Dec 1
- Winterization of downtown fountain scheduled
- A. Barden and C. Haubenstricker to determine placement for Big Snowman
City Council
The Vassar City Council will adopt the October 6, 2025 regular meeting minutes and approve routine consent‑agenda items, including the October 2025 vendor listing. Board and commission minutes from the DDA (Sept 10, 2025) and ZBA (Oct 7, 2025) will be noted. The council will also discuss a proposal for new lighting at Ivan Middleton Hall.
- Adopt October 6, 2025 regular city council meeting minutes
- Approve October 2025 vendor listing
- Approve routine consent‑agenda items
- Review DDA board minutes from Sept 10, 2025 and ZBA minutes from Oct 7, 2025
- Consider new lighting proposals for Ivan Middleton Hall (IMH LIGHTING PROPOSALS.PDF)
The council approved the meeting agenda and adopted the October 6, 2025 minutes. A motion limited public comment to three minutes per speaker and approved the consent agenda. The council awarded the lighting contract for Ivan Middleton Hall to Callahan Electric for $8,077.50. The meeting was adjourned at 8:10 p.m.
- Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
- Adopted October 6, 2025 regular minutes (motion carried)
- Limited public comment to 3 minutes per speaker (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda (motion carried)
- Awarded lighting contract for Ivan Middleton Hall to Callahan Electric for $8,077.50 (motion carried)
- Adjourned meeting at 8:10 p.m. (motion carried)
DDA
The Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will approve a $5,000 contribution to the city’s $10,000 downtown Christmas lights program and a $500 allocation for downtown window painting. It will also review plans for the tree‑lighting ceremony on December 6, 2025, and discuss placement options for the seasonal Christmas trees. Additional items include maintenance of Abele’s pots and the downtown fountain.
- $5,000 DDA contribution to the city’s $10,000 downtown Christmas lights effort
- $500 allocated for downtown window painting
- Tree Lighting Ceremony scheduled for December 6, 2025 at 6:30 pm
- Discussion of Christmas tree placement (pots or building boxes)
- Fountain maintenance schedule: tree removal and stump grinding
The board approved the October agenda and the September 2025 minutes unanimously. DDA allocated $200 for refreshments at the Quarterly Business After Hours event and $500 for the downtown window‑painting project. The board approved a $5,000 DDA contribution (with a $10,000 city contribution) for the downtown Christmas lights, designating Cottage Inn and Link Learning to be lit. A motion to spend up to $800 for a new fountain pump also passed unanimously.
- Approved October agenda (unanimous)
- Approved September 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved $200 for refreshments at Quarterly Business After Hours event (unanimous)
- Allocated $500 for downtown window‑painting project (unanimous)
- Approved $5,000 DDA contribution for downtown Christmas lights (unanimous)
- Approved $10,000 city contribution for downtown Christmas lights (unanimous)
- Approved up to $800 for new fountain pump (unanimous)
ZBA
The Vassar Zoning Board of Appeals will discuss a request to rezone the property at 999 E Huron Ave. Public comment is scheduled, with participants limited to five minutes each. A letter of opposition from a resident named Decker is attached for review.
- Request to rezone 999 E Huron Ave.
- Public hearing notice for the rezoning request
- Letter of opposition from Decker
The board considered a request to rezone 999 E. Huron Ave from commercial/light industrial to multi‑unit residential for seniors. After testimony and discussion, Board members Whitney and Grimshaw moved and seconded a motion to not approve the change. Both members voted affirmative, and the motion carried, denying the zoning change. The meeting was then adjourned.
- Denied zoning change for 999 E. Huron Ave
- Adjourned the meeting
City Council
The Vassar City Council will discuss a study on the wastewater treatment plant’s limited capacity, presented by the Spicer Group. They will also consider disposing of the Fairgrounds horse corral as an asset. Routine consent agenda items, including the September 2025 vendor list and adoption of the September 8, 2025 meeting minutes, will be approved. A presentation will recognize Derrick Kip Keinath for 30 years of service with the fire department.
- WWTP limited capacity study – Spicer Group proposal (VASSAR_WWTP CAPACITY STUDY_LETTERAGR.PDF)
- Disposal of assets – Fairgrounds horse corral (DISPOSAL OF ASSETS.PDF)
- Adoption of September 8, 2025 regular city council meeting minutes
- September 2025 vendor listing
- Recognition of Derrick Kip Keinath for 30 years of fire service
The council approved the agenda addition for disposal of assets, adopted the September 8, 2025 minutes, and approved the consent agenda. It authorized the interim city manager to sign a Letter of Agreement with the Spicer Group for a wastewater‑treatment‑plant capacity verification study costing no more than $10,500. The council also approved the disposal of the fairgrounds horse corral, to be sold at auction. All motions carried.
- Approved agenda addition for Disposal of Assets (motion carried)
- Adopted September 8, 2025 regular meeting minutes (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda (motion carried)
- Authorized interim manager to sign Letter of Agreement with Spicer Group for WWTP capacity verification study (cost ≤ $10,500) (motion carried)
- Approved disposal of fairgrounds horse corral, to be sold at auction (motion carried)
Parks and Recreation
The Vassar Parks and Recreation board will continue its Master Plan discussion and review the attached community survey results. Members will consider a proposal for new plantings at Veterans Memorial Fountain Park, including possible pine trees. If time permits, the board will discuss a Christmas tree donation from the Downtown Development Authority. The meeting also includes routine approvals of the agenda and June 2025 minutes, and a public comment period.
- Continue Master Plan discussion
- Review community survey results (VASSARRECSURVEYDATA9JUNE25.PDF)
- Consider planting proposal for Veterans Memorial Fountain Park
- Discuss DDA Christmas tree donation (if time allows)
- Public comment (five‑minute limit per speaker)
The board voted to approve the September 2025 agenda and the June 2025 meeting minutes, with all members in favor. The meeting was then adjourned at 7:35 pm. No other substantive actions were taken.
- Approved September 2025 agenda (all in favor)
- Approved June 2025 minutes (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:35 pm (all in favor)
DDA
The DDA board will discuss updates on the Rock the River project and the fountain maintenance schedule, including tree removal and stump grinding. They will review Christmas tree placement suggestions from Parks and Rec. The agenda notes the City’s $10,000 contribution for downtown Christmas lights, with the DDA choosing Cottage Inn as the lighting site. Ongoing event planning such as Frosty Fest and window paintings for $500 are also mentioned.
- City will contribute $10,000 to downtown Christmas lights; DDA selected Cottage Inn for lighting
- Makenzie Clouse agreed to complete window paintings for $500
- Fountain maintenance: trees removed, stumps ground, discussion on tree replacement
- Rock the River project – request for thoughts and updates
- Christmas tree placement suggestions attached from Parks and Rec
The board approved the September 2025 agenda and the June 2025 minutes, both unanimously. A motion added the School Volunteer Project to the agenda, also passed unanimously. The DDA set aside $500 for the City Window Painting project and tabled the Frosty Fest 5K for next year. Several members were assigned follow‑up tasks for upcoming holiday events.
- Approved September 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved June 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Added School Volunteer Project to agenda (unanimous)
- Allocated $500 to City Window Painting project (no vote recorded)
- Tabled Frosty Fest 5K for next year (no vote recorded)
- B. Fisher to contact Cottage Inn about downtown Christmas lights (task assigned)
- A. Barden to discuss Christmas Tree Boxes vs. pots with C. Haubenstricker (task assigned)
- A. Barden to request landscape proposal from Abele’s for fountain maintenance (task assigned)
City Council
The City Council will review quotes for rail trail culvert repairs and a public viewing notice for the city charter. The body will also consider a street closure for the Vassar Public Schools Homecoming Parade.
- Quotes for Rail Trail Culvert repair
- Street closure for Vassar Public Schools Homecoming Parade on October 10, 2025
- Charter Public Viewing Notice
- Appointment of Chris Haines to the Vassar City Band Board for a 3-year term
The council approved the agenda and adopted the August 4, 2025 meeting minutes. It approved the consent agenda, vendor listing, and appointed Chris Haines to the Vassar City Band board for a three‑year term. The council approved the notice for public viewing of the 2025 City Charter revision to be published in the Tuscola County Advertiser. It approved awarding the rail trail culvert repair to Cooper Excavating for a 48‑foot storm culvert, not to exceed $66,710.
- Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
- Adopted August 4, 2025 regular minutes (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda (motion carried)
- Approved August 2025 vendor listing (motion carried)
- Appointed Chris Haines to Vassar City Band board, 3‑yr term (motion carried)
- Approved public viewing notice for 2025 City Charter revision (motion carried)
- Approved award of rail trail culvert repair to Cooper Excavating, up to $66,710 (motion carried)
Planning Commission
The Vassar Planning Commission will convene to approve the August 2025 meeting agenda and minutes from June 2025. The meeting includes a public comment period, training and discussion on ordinances and variances, and comments from commission members and the city manager.
City Council
The City Council will consider several operational requests, including a proposal for a sled hill and liability insurance bids for FY26. The body is also reviewing a request to waive conduct ordinances for alcohol sales at the fairgrounds.
- Request to waive Ordinance Section 54:8 for Mud Runners to sell alcohol at Fair Grounds on September 22, 2025
- MDOT request for a Letter of Support regarding Grant Street closure
- Proposal to complete Sled Hill
- Comparison of liability insurance premium bids from 3 carriers for FY26
- Appointment of C Grimshaw to the ZBA for a 3-year term
The council excused Mayor Pro-Tem Fabbro and Councilor McTaggart and approved the agenda, July 7 minutes and consent agenda. It approved a $17,295 quote from Cooper Excavating to complete the sled hill and awarded MMRMA the FY26 liability insurance contract for $98,415. No action was taken on the fairgrounds fundraiser request or the MDOT letter of support.
- Excused Mayor Pro-Tem Fabbro and Councilor McTaggart (motion carried)
- Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
- Approved July 7, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda (motion carried)
- Approved Cooper Excavating sled hill quote $17,295 (motion carried)
- Awarded MMRMA city liability insurance FY26 for $98,415 (motion carried)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:39 pm (motion carried)
DDA
The Downtown Development Authority is reviewing the 2025 calendar of events and downtown maintenance. The body is discussing funding for holiday lighting and preparations for Frosty Fest.
- City plan to contribute $10,000 for downtown Christmas lights
- Proposed $500 payment to Makenzie Clouse for Frosty Fest window paintings
- DDA selection to light up Cottage Inn for the holidays
- Review of Parks and Rec suggestions for Christmas tree placement
- Discussion of fountain maintenance and replacement of removed trees
City Council
The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding alley vacations and consider resolutions to vacate portions of N. Sherman St and an alley in Block D. The body will also review the adoption of a proposed Future Land Use Map.
- Public hearing for alley vacation
- Resolution #2025-15 to vacate a portion of N. Sherman St
- Resolution #2025-16 to vacate an alley in Block D, North’s Addition
- Adoption of the 2025 Proposed Future Land Use Map
- Appointment of Gary Kasper to the Planning Commission for a 3-year term
The council approved the vacation of a portion of N. Sherman Street (Resolution #2025-15). It also approved the vacation of an alley in Block D, North's Addition (Resolution #2025-16). The council adopted the updated zoning map, changing the industrial park from heavy to light industrial and authorized distribution to surrounding townships. Additional actions included excusing absent Councilor McTaggart, approving the agenda and consent items, appointing Gary Kasper to the Planning Commission, and adjourning the meeting.
- Excused Councilor McTaggart (motion carried)
- Approved agenda as presented (motion carried)
- Approved June 2, 2025 minutes (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda (motion carried)
- Appointed Gary Kasper to Planning Commission, 3‑year term
- Vacated portion of N. Sherman St. (Resolution #2025-15) (motion carried)
- Vacated alley in Block D, North's Addition (Resolution #2025-16) (motion carried)
- Adopted new zoning map reclassifying industrial park to light industrial and authorized distribution (motion carried)
Planning Commission
The Planning Commission will meet to review the final draft of the Future Land Use Map. The body will also vote on the approval of the meeting agenda and the March 2025 minutes.
- Review of the Final Draft of the Future Land Use Map
The Planning Commission unanimously approved the June 2025 agenda and the March 2025 meeting minutes. It also unanimously recommended that the City Council adopt the final draft of the Future Land Use Map and mail copies to neighboring townships for review.
- Approved June 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved March 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
- Recommended Council adopt Final Draft of Future Land Use Map and mail copies to neighboring townships (unanimous)
Parks and Recreation
The commission will continue discussions regarding the Master Plan and review community survey results. The body will also discuss a Christmas tree donation from the DDA if time permits.
- Master Plan discussion
- Review of community survey results
- Discussion of DDA Christmas tree donation
The Parks and Recreation Commission unanimously approved the June 2025 agenda and the April 2025 minutes. It decided to plant the DDA Christmas trees at the Fairgrounds near the horse barns and around Ivan Middleton Hall, assigning Zach to mark locations and Andrea to coordinate planting dates with Corey Haubenstricker.
- Approved June 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved April 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved planting DDA Christmas trees at Fairgrounds near horse barns and around Ivan Middleton Hall
- Assigned Zach to mark tree planting locations
- Assigned Andrea to follow up with Corey Haubenstricker to set planting date
DDA
The Downtown Development Authority is reviewing the 2025 calendar of events and downtown beautification. The body will discuss coordinating Christmas light installations and the purchase of additional planters for Main Street.
- Downtown Christmas lights: City contribution of $10,000 and DDA budget of $5,000
- Recommendation to purchase five additional pots for Main Street at $115 each ($575 total)
- Frosty Fest planning, including the Frosty 5K and window paintings by Makenzie Clouse
- Maintenance plan for the fountain and pots in Vet's Park
- Coordination with Parks and Rec regarding placement of Christmas trees
The board approved adding the Rock the River donation to the agenda and approved the June 2025 agenda and May 2025 minutes unanimously. They approved ordering five additional Abele pots. The Rock the River event was budgeted at $2,500, with $2,000 committed to the Shifters Car Club and $500 held back.
- Added Rock the River donation to agenda – approved (all in favor)
- Approved June 2025 agenda with addition – approved (all in favor)
- Approved May 2025 minutes – approved (all in favor)
- Approved purchase of five Abele pots – approved (all in favor)
- Set Rock the River event budget at $2,500, with $2,000 commitment and $500 retained – decided
City Council
The City Council will hold a public hearing on vacating a portion of N. Sherman St and discuss vacating an alley for a new public safety building. The body is also considering funding applications for home rehabilitation and N. Cass Avenue maintenance.
- Public hearing for the vacation of a portion of N. Sherman St
- Resolution #2025-11 and #2025-12 regarding alley vacation in Block D, North's Addition for a new public safety building
- Resolution #2025-10 for MSHDA Community Development Block Grant program application
- Resolution #2025-14 for N. Cass Avenue rehabilitation funding via Transportation Economic Development Fund Category B
- Resolution #2025-13 authorizing assessment of liens to city taxes
The council voted to vacate a portion of N. Sherman Street and an alley in Block D to allow construction of a new public safety building. It also approved the application for a $150,000 state community‑development grant and a request for $385,000 to fund rehabilitation of N. Cass Avenue. Additional actions included adopting the employee handbook update, authorizing tax liens on unpaid utilities, and approving year‑end budget amendments.
- Vacated portion of N. Sherman St from E Huron Ave to N Sheridan St for public safety building (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution 2025-10 to apply for $150,000 MSHDA Community Development Block Grant (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution #2025-11 confirming recommendation to vacate alley in Block D for new public safety building (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution #2025-12 to hold public hearing on alley vacation at July 7, 2025 (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution 2025-13 authorizing assessment of liens to city taxes for unpaid utilities (motion carried)
- Approved 2025 Employee Handbook update adding 10 days paid paternal leave (motion carried)
- Approved FY25 year‑end budget amendment requests (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution #2025-14 to request $385,000 funding for N. Cass Avenue rehabilitation, with $200,000 city match (motion carried)
DDA
The DDA will discuss a $10,000 city contribution to light Huron Ave for Christmas, and review ongoing projects including fountain opening and seasonal events. The meeting also includes approval of minutes and public comment.
- City to contribute $10,000 for downtown Christmas lights on Huron Ave
- Fountain opening planned for late May
- Abeles pots delivery expected late May
- Quarterly Business After Hours event to be scheduled for summer
- Frosty Fest mentioned as an ongoing project
The Downtown Development Authority approved the May 2025 agenda and the April 2025 minutes, both unanimously. It voted to increase the fountain‑related budget to $2,750. It also approved scheduling tree removal at Vet’s Park through Tress R Us.
- Approved May 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved April 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Increased fountain budget to $2,750 (unanimous)
- Scheduled tree removal through Tress R Us at Vet’s Park (unanimous)
City Council
The Vassar City Council will hold public hearings and consider adopting the FY2026 budget, including setting millage rates and general appropriations. The council will also consider vacating N. Sherman Street and an alley to allow construction of a new Public Safety Building, and discuss demolishing a silo at 112 N. Sherman Street. Other items include a street light assessment increase for 16 parcels in the Industrial Park and appointments to the Charter and Planning Commissions.
- Public hearing and consideration of increasing street light assessment from $553 to $687.50 for 16 parcels in the Industrial Park
- Adoption of FY2026 budget via resolutions setting millage rates and general appropriations
- Resolution to vacate N. Sherman Street from E. Huron to N. Sheridan for a new Public Safety Building
- Resolution to initiate vacation of an alley in Block D, North's Addition for the same building
- Discussion and direction on demolishing a silo at 112 N. Sherman Street
The council approved the FY2026 budget, setting the city millage rate at 17 mills and adopting the General Appropriations for the year. It also increased the streetlight assessment for 16 industrial‑park parcels to $687.50 and approved the vacation of N. Sherman Street and an alley to allow construction of a new public safety building. Additionally, the council awarded the demolition of the silos at 112 N Sherman Street to Adamo for up to $213,120.
- Approved FY2026 budget (Yes: Fabbro, Armstrong, Damm)
- Approved increase in streetlight assessment to $687.50 for 16 industrial‑park parcels
- Approved Resolution setting city millage rate at 17 mills
- Approved General Appropriations Resolution for FY2026
- Approved vacating portion of N. Sherman St from E. Huron to N. Sheridan for new public safety building
- Approved public hearing on N. Sherman St vacation scheduled for June 2, 2025
- Approved vacating alley in Block D for new public safety building
- Awarded silo demolition contract at 112 N Sherman St to Adamo for up to $213,120
Parks and Recreation
The Vassar Parks and Recreation Commission will kick off a revision of the city's Parks and Recreation Master Plan, guided by Arthur Mullen of Wade Trim. Discussion items include reviewing the recreation and resource inventory, a draft community survey, goals and objectives, and a nonmotorized vision plan with maps. The commission will also consider a DDA Christmas tree donation if time allows.
- Kick off revision of Parks and Recreation Master Plan with Arthur Mullen (Wade Trim)
- Review recreation and resource inventory from the 2021-2025 plan
- Review draft community recreation survey
- Discuss nonmotorized vision plan with two maps showing destinations in Vassar and region
- Discuss DDA Christmas tree donation
The Parks and Recreation Commission approved the April 2025 agenda and the January 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous consent. The commission decided to include a younger age bracket in the upcoming public survey and assigned J. Whitney and Z. Fish to promote it at the middle and high schools. The survey link and QR code will be posted on the city website and may appear in the May City Newsletter if timing permits.
- Approved April 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved January 2025 minutes (unanimous)
- Decided to include younger age bracket in public survey (decision)
- Assigned J. Whitney and Z. Fish to promote survey at MS/HS (decision)
DDA
The DDA will discuss offering the Facade Grant again this year with up to $5,000 in funding, noting this amount was omitted from the FY2026 budget. They will also finalize plans for the first Business After Hours event at Break Shot Bar on April 16, with a $500 budget. New members Paul Whitney and John Schmiegel will be welcomed.
- Discussion of offering Facade Grant up to $5,000 for FY2026 after budget omission
- First DDA Business After Hours at Break Shot Bar on April 16 with $500 budget
- Ongoing project: Lights over Main St. update by A. Barden
- 2025 calendar of events including quarterly Business After Hours and Frosty Fest
- Welcome to new members Paul Whitney (LINK Learning) and John Schmiegel (Break Shot Bar)
The board unanimously approved the April 2025 agenda and the March 2025 minutes. A motion to adjourn the meeting was also passed unanimously. No other formal decisions were recorded.
- Approved April 2025 agenda (all in favor)
- Approved March 2025 minutes (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
City Council
The Vassar City Council will consider scheduling a public hearing for a proposed increase in the per-parcel streetlight assessment for the Industrial Park to $687.50, along with a budget hearing for fiscal year 2026. Other new business includes reviewing repair bids for the cemetery chapel, a resolution to vacate Sherman Street, and an amendment to ballot language for the city charter revision. The council will also make appointments to the DDA and Parks & Recreation boards.
- Public hearing to be scheduled for proposed streetlight assessment increase to $687.50/parcel in Industrial Park
- FY26 budget hearing scheduling and second read to be considered
- Resolution #2025-03 initiating vacation of Sherman Street
- Resolution #2025-04 amending ballot language for proposed city charter revision
- Cemetery chapel repair bids from Corkpine Builders and IRD Homes
The council approved an agenda addition to consider Resolution #2025-04, which amends the ballot language for the proposed charter revision and shifts the election date to November 2025. It also scheduled a second reading and public hearing for the FY26 budget on May 5, 2025, and set a public hearing for increasing the industrial‑park streetlight assessment to $687.50 per parcel on the same date. The council awarded the Riverside Cemetery chapel repair contract to Corkpine Builders for $16,450 and initiated the procedure to vacate a portion of N. Sherman Street for a new public‑safety building.
- Approved agenda addition for Resolution #2025-04 (motion carried)
- Scheduled FY26 budget second reading and public hearing for May 5, 2025 (motion carried)
- Scheduled public hearing on industrial‑park streetlight assessment increase to $687.50/parcel for May 5, 2025 (motion carried)
- Awarded Cemetery Chapel Repair Project to Corkpine Builders for $16,450 (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution #2025-03 to initiate street vacation procedure for N. Sherman Street (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution #2025-04 amending charter‑revision ballot language, moving ballot to November 2025 election (motion carried)
- Adopted March 3, 2025 regular council minutes (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda items as presented (motion carried)
EDC
The Vassar EDC will discuss a defaulted loan for Enchanted by Cathy Floral Design and hold a budget workshop. The meeting also includes approval of agenda and minutes from September 2024, along with public comment and ongoing project updates.
- Default of EDC loan: Enchanted by Cathy Floral Design
- Budget workshop for upcoming fiscal planning
- Approval of September 2024 meeting minutes
- Public comment period for non-hearing items
The council approved the March 2025 agenda and the September 2024 meeting minutes, both with all members in favor. They authorized the sale of flower coolers to the Vassar Rotary Club for $1. A motion to approve the budget also passed unanimously.
- Approved March 2025 agenda (all in favor)
- Approved September 2024 minutes (all in favor)
- Approved sale of flower coolers to Vassar Rotary Club for $1 (all in favor)
- Approved budget (all in favor)
- Adjourned meeting at 7:12 PM (all in favor)
Planning Commission
The Vassar Planning Commission will discuss updates to the Future Land Use Map, review the Capital Improvement Plan, and conduct a site plan review for I.V.Y Pizza at 542 State Rd. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from June 2024 and a public comment period.
- Discussion of Future Land Use Map with study session memo
- Review of Capital Improvement Plan
- Site plan review for 542 State Rd (I.V.Y Pizza) with zoning permit
- Approval of June 2024 planning minutes
The Planning Commission approved the Capital Improvement Plan and a site plan for 542 State Rd. Both motions passed unanimously. The meeting also included approval of the agenda and minutes from June 2024.
- Approved Capital Improvement Plan (unanimous)
- Approved site plan for 542 State Rd. (unanimous)
Parks and Recreation
The Parks and Recreation Commission will discuss updates to the Parks and Rec Master Plan, including survey questions, a recreation resource inventory, goals and objectives, self-evaluation, and nonmotorized connectivity. They will also approve the March 2025 agenda and January 2025 minutes, take public comment, and seek new commission members.
- Discussion of recreation survey questions for community input
- Review of existing recreation facilities inventory
- Self-evaluation of the commission's performance on the last plan
- Nonmotorized connectivity vision plan linking Vassar to Millington, Fairgrove, Caro, and other areas
- Call for new commission members
DDA
The Downtown Development Authority will discuss the development and approval of the FY 2026 Budget and Maintenance plan. The body will also review ongoing projects and schedule a business event.
- FY 2026 Budget development and approval
- Fountain maintenance including tree removal and cleaning costs
- Abele pots summer weekly maintenance and collection schedule
- Funding for completion of downtown lighting on Main St.
- Scheduling April Business After Hours event at Break Shot Bar
The Vassar DDA approved the FY 2026 budget of $48,775, with all members in favor. The board also decided to hold Business After Hours events quarterly, starting April 16 at Break Shot Bar. Discussion on the 2025 Calendar of Events was tabled until the April meeting.
- Approved FY 2026 budget of $48,775 (all in favor)
- Decided to hold Business After Hours quarterly, first event April 16 at Break Shot Bar
- Tabled 2025 Calendar of Events discussion until April meeting
City Council
The Vassar City Council will consider a resolution to put charter revision approval on the August 5, 2025 ballot and authorize a grant application for security cameras in the North Lot. They will also discuss engaging Berthiaume & Co for financial audits for FY2025-2027, professional services for Oak Street rehabilitation, and appoint Paul Whitney to the Economic Development Corporation for a six-year term.
- Consideration of Resolution #2025-02 approving ballot language for a special election on August 5, 2025 for charter revision approval
- Consideration of Resolution #2025-01 authorizing a Michigan Township Participating Plan (Par Plan) Risk Reduction Grant application for cameras in North Lot
- Consideration of financial audit engagement with Berthiaume & Co for FY2025-2027
- Consideration of professional services for Oak Street proposed rehabilitation and engineering services
- Appointment of Paul Whitney to the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) for a 6-year term
The Vassar City Council approved Resolution #2025-02, placing charter revision on the August 5, 2025 special election ballot. They also authorized a $29,800 engineering contract for Oak Street/Cass Avenue rehabilitation, approved a grant application for a downtown camera system, and extended the financial audit agreement through FY27.
- Approved Resolution #2025-02 approving ballot language for charter revision (motion carried)
- Authorized $29,800 preliminary engineering services contract with Fleis & Vandenbrink for Oak Street/Cass Avenue (motion carried)
- Approved Resolution #2025-01 authorizing PAR Plan Risk Reduction Grant application for downtown camera system (motion carried)
- Approved financial audit agreement with Berthiaume & Co through FY27 (motion carried)
- Approved consent agenda including February vendor listing, DDA minutes, and Paul Whitney EDC appointment (motion carried)
- Approved February 3, 2025 regular meeting minutes (motion carried)
DDA
The Vassar Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will discuss a request from Vassar Veterans to help fund the installation of a Vietnam Memorial. The board will also review the 2025 budget and maintenance plan for pots and the fountain.
- Donation request for Vietnam Memorial in Vet's Park based on Grace Monuments quote
- 2025 budget and maintenance plan for pots and fountain
- Replacement of overhead light bulbs on N. Main Star Bridge
- Appointment of Paul Whitney to the DDA
- Departure of JoAnne Monchilov from the DDA
The DDA approved allocating up to $100 to update plaques on a repurposed trophy for the Christmas tree decorating contest. They also discussed ongoing projects, including contacting the interim city manager about reinstating the Budget & Maintenance Plan for pots and fountain, and considered a request from Vassar Veterans for a Vietnam Memorial, with a decision deferred until after budget review. Member changes were noted, with JoAnne Monchilov leaving and Paul Whitney joining.
- Approved February 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved November 2024 minutes (unanimous)
- Approved up to $100 for trophy plaque updates (unanimous)
City Council
The Vassar City Council will consider several action items, including a silo demolition at 112 N. Sherman Street, amendments to the FY25 six-month budget, and architect proposals for a public safety building from Kibbe & Assoc and TSSF Architects. They will also appoint Bryan Banks to the Planning Commission and recognize a student's winning name for the new sled hill, Cass River Crest, with a $250 prize. Consent agenda items include vendor payments and parks commission minutes.
- Consideration of silo demolition at 112 N Sherman St
- Consideration of FY25 6-month budget amendments
- Review of architect proposals from Kibbe & Assoc and TSSF Architects for public safety building
- Appointment of Bryan Banks to Planning Commission
- Award of $250 grand prize to Aden Burns for naming sled hill 'Cass River Crest'
The council awarded the silo demolition project at 112 N Sherman St to North American Dismantling for $211,500, which includes $6,500 for rail insurance. It also approved FY25 6-month budget amendments and awarded architectural and engineering services for the Public Safety Building to Kibbe & Assoc for an estimated $409,050. The meeting was otherwise procedural, including approving minutes, agenda, and consent agenda.
- Awarded silo demolition project to North American Dismantling for $211,500
- Approved FY25 6-month budget amendments
- Awarded architectural and engineering services to Kibbe & Assoc for $409,050
- Approved January 6, 2025 regular meeting minutes
- Approved consent agenda including vendor listing and Parks & Recreation minutes
- Appointed Bryan Banks to Planning Commission
- Excused Councilors Armstrong and Mecham from the meeting
Parks and Recreation
The board is preparing for an April 2025 meeting with Wade and Trim to review the Parks and Rec Master Plan. Members are discussing brainstorming goals and priorities in February and March. The board also received a suggestion regarding sponsorship signs for the dog park fence.
- Parks and Rec Master Plan review meeting set for April 2025 with Wade and Trim
- Proposal for business and memorial sponsorship signs for the dog park fence
- Resignation of member Courtney Farmer
The Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission approved the January agenda and November 2024 minutes. They discussed the Parks & Rec Master Plan, awaiting guidance from Wade Trim. A fundraising idea for dog park signs was proposed, and the board plans to apply for an MSHDA MI Neighborhood grant for park improvements. Courtney Farmer's resignation was announced.
- Approved January 2025 agenda (unanimous)
- Approved November 2024 minutes (unanimous)
- Accepted resignation of Courtney Farmer
- Planned to apply for MSHDA MI Neighborhood grant for park upgrades
DDA
The Vassar DDA will consider a request from the Vassar Veterans to help fund a Vietnam Memorial in Vet's Park. They will also discuss the 2025 budget and maintenance plan for downtown pots and fountain, and address replacing bulbs on the Star Bridge lights. Planning for a Cocoa Walk event in early 2025 and updates on previous projects are also on the agenda.
- Request from Vassar Veterans for donation toward Vietnam Memorial installation (quote from Grace Monuments provided)
- Discussion of 2025 budget and maintenance plan for downtown pots and fountain
- Star Bridge/lights overhead on N. Main: many bulbs need replacement
- Cocoa Walk event planned for February+ 2025 downtown
- Paul the Barber plaque has been placed
City Council
The Vassar City Council will vote on an interim city manager employment agreement and consider a proposal for marijuana odor detection services. They will also review naming submissions from school children for a new sledding hill on S Water Street and a fencing estimate for that hill and the dam. Routine items include adopting December meeting minutes and approving the December vendor listing.
- Consideration of interim city manager employment agreement
- Proposal for professional services for marijuana smell identification (odor detection)
- Naming of new sledding hill on S Water Street based on school children submissions
- Fencing estimate for the new sled hill and dam
- Presentation: 2nd Annual Battle of the Bulb Contest winner (Terry and Amy Mocny, 605 N Water St)
The Vassar City Council approved an employment agreement with Interim City Manager Ben Guile, who will work 5-10 hour days per week with a 6-month evaluation. The council also approved a $3,200 proposal for marijuana smell identification services, fencing for the new sled hill and a flood gate, and selected four names for the sled hill contest.
- Approved Interim City Manager Employment Agreement with Police Chief Ben Guile
- Approved $3,200 proposal from Great Lakes Environmental Testing LLC for marijuana smell identification
- Approved Michigan Fence Company proposal for sled hill fence ($5,438) and flood gate fence ($1,954)
- Selected 4 names for new sled hill contest: Cass River Crest, Cooper Hill, Vulcan Slide, Vulcan's Peak
- Approved consent agenda including December 2024 vendor listing
- Approved December 2, 2024 regular meeting minutes
- Approved December 18, 2024 special meeting minutes
- Excused Mayor Damm from meeting