Coldwater public meetings in 2021

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing regarding a request from Joseph and Sarah Renshaw. The petitioners seek a four-foot height variance and a characteristic variance to install an eight-foot-six-inch privacy fence in their secondary front yard.

• Variance ZBA21-04: Request for 8'6" maximum height privacy fencing at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr.
• Variance ZBA21-04: Request for characteristic variance to allow privacy fencing in a residential secondary front yard.

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals approved two variances for Joseph and Sarah Renshaw at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr., allowing a privacy fence up to 5.5 feet tall on a 2-foot berm (total 7.5 feet) and a privacy fence in the secondary front yard, despite code limits of 4.5 feet and 50% opacity. Both motions passed unanimously (5-0). The board also approved the November 17, 2021 minutes and excused absences.

• Approved height variance for fence up to 5.5 ft on 2-ft berm in secondary front yard (5-0)
• Approved variance to allow privacy fence in secondary front yard (5-0)
• Approved November 17, 2021 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Excused absences of Chairman Swan and Alternate Holbrook (5-0)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will consider several resolutions and agreements, including a proposed sale of additional land on N. Willowbrook Rd, health insurance changes, increased planning and zoning fees, and purchases of a lawn tractor and security cameras. The agenda also includes a presentation on the City and CBPU financial report for the year ending June 30, 2021, and routine consent agenda items.

• Resolution 21-98 and Purchase Agreement A21-25 for sale of additional land on N. Willowbrook Rd
• Resolution 21-97 and Agreement A21-28 for health insurance changes
• Resolution 21-95 to increase planning and zoning fees
• Resolution 21-99 for purchase of zero turn lawn tractor
• Resolution 21-100 for upgraded security camera system for Public Safety Building

The Coldwater City Council approved all items on the agenda, including a new health care plan, the sale of additional land on N. Willowbrook Rd, increased planning and zoning fees, and salary increases for the City Attorney and City Manager. All votes were unanimous (9-0).

• Approved Consent Agenda items 1-10 (9-0)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $396,180.55 (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-97 and Agreement A21-28 for health insurance changes (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-98 and Purchase Agreement A21-25 for sale of land on N. Willowbrook Rd (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-95 to increase planning and zoning fees (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-99 to purchase a zero turn lawn tractor (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-100 to purchase upgraded security camera system (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-101 for National Opioid Settlement Registration (9-0)

Historic District Commission

The Coldwater Historic District Commission held a regular meeting on December 8, 2021, with five members present. They approved the minutes from the September 20, 2021 meeting unanimously. No project reviews, old business, or new business items were discussed. The meeting included an informational presentation on the Main Street stakeholder meetings and updates.

• Approved September 20, 2021 minutes (5-0)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities held a special meeting on December 8, 2021, to interview two applicants for the Utility Director position. No action was taken during the meeting, and no other substantive decisions were made. The meeting was adjourned at 7:11 p.m.

• Conducted interviews with two applicants for Utility Director (no action taken)

Downtown Development Authority

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority is holding a special work session to kick off a Main Street baseline assessment and stakeholder meetings. Representatives from the National Main Street Center and Michigan Main Street will be present for this initial discussion. The agenda contains no voting items; it is a work session focused on this single new business item.

• Main Street Baseline Assessment and Stakeholder Meetings Kick-Off
• Attendance by National Main Street Center and Michigan Main Street staff

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority held a special work session on December 7, 2021. The board heard a presentation kicking off the Main Street Baseline Assessment and stakeholder meetings. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was adjourned at 9:35 a.m.

• Heard presentation on Main Street Baseline Assessment and stakeholder meetings kick-off
• Adjourned meeting at 9:35 a.m.

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on proposed changes to the Landscaping regulations in the City's Zoning Code (ZTA21-02). The commission will then forward a recommendation to the City Council for adoption. The agenda also includes approval of minutes from the previous meeting and public comments.

• Public hearing on Zoning Text Amendment ZTA21-02 to update Section 5.3 Landscape Requirements
• Proposed changes include new parking lot tree planting ratios and alternative compliance options
• Landscaping requirements would apply to nonconforming sites if building/parking footprints increase by 50%
• Trash dumpster screening and future phase landscaping rules are also proposed

The Planning Commission held a public hearing and unanimously approved proposed changes to the Landscaping regulations within the City of Coldwater Zoning Code. The changes include detailed requirements for landscaping in parking lots, planting strips, and trash dumpster screening, as well as alternatives and maintenance standards. The motion was made by Commissioner Cole, seconded by Commissioner Cameron, and passed 8-0.

• Approved the minutes of the November 15, 2021 regular meeting as presented.
• Excused the absence of Commissioner Dave Rumsey.
• Approved the proposed changes to the Landscaping regulations within the City of Coldwater Zoning Code, as presented.

Board of Public Utilities

The Board unanimously approved Resolution No. 21-97 and Agreement No. A21-28 to contract with the West Michigan Health Insurance Pool (WMHIP) as the new third-party administrator, forwarding it to City Council for final adoption. They also approved the sale of a transformer to Schmitz Foam for $27,500, a six-month contract extension for Maroa Farms, and purchases for clarifier equipment ($430,900 total) and two bucket trucks ($215,106 and $311,914). The consent agenda, including minutes and financial reports, was approved unanimously.

• Approved Resolution No. 21-97 and Agreement No. A21-28 to contract with West Michigan Health Insurance Pool (WMHIP), forwarded to City Council.
• Approved Asset Installment Purchase Agreement, Security Agreement, and Bill of Sale for $27,500 to sell transformer to Schmitz Foam.
• Approved First Amendment Power Purchase Contract and Termination Notice for Maroa Farms six-month extension.
• Approved purchase of primary clarifier equipment from Brentwood ($309,900) and installation from Mason ($121,000), total $430,900.
• Approved purchase of two Altec bucket trucks for $215,106 and $311,914.
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, financial reports, and bills.
• Adjourned into closed session for periodic evaluation and to consider exempt material under MCL 15.268(h).

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a regular meeting with a consent agenda of routine items, a report on bills and accounts, and a city manager's report. The main substantive item is a proposal to extend the lease and grant an option to purchase the property at 10 S. Monroe Street (Lefty's Lounge), which would be approved via Resolution No. 21-96 and agreements A21-16 and A21-17. The council will also enter a closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement.

• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-96 and approval of Commercial Lease Agreement No. A21-16 and Option to Purchase Agreement No. A21-17 for 10 S. Monroe Street (Lefty's Lounge)
• Approve bills and accounts totaling $169,227.21
• Receive Police Department Activity Report for 3rd Quarter 2021
• Receive quarterly 2021 MERS DB Statement
• Closed session to discuss collective bargaining agreement

The Coldwater City Council approved a consent agenda covering routine items, including minutes, reports, and a board appointment. The council also approved bills and accounts totaling $169,227.21 and placed the City Manager's report on file. In a roll call vote with one nay, the council adopted Resolution No. 21-96 and approved Commercial Lease Agreement No. A21-16 and Option to Purchase Agreement No. A21-17 for 10 S. Monroe Street (Lefty's Lounge). The council then entered a closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement and reconvened before adjourning.

• Approved Consent Agenda Items 1-7, including minutes, reports, and a DDA board appointment, by a 9-0 vote.
• Approved Bills and Accounts in the amount of $169,227.21 by a 9-0 vote.
• Approved and placed on file the City Manager's Report by a 9-0 vote.
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-96 and approved Commercial Lease Agreement No. A21-16 and Option to Purchase Agreement No. A21-17 for 10 S. Monroe Street (Lefty's Lounge); vote was 8-1 with Councilmember Machan voting nay.
• Approved entering a closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement by a 9-0 vote.
• Approved reconvening to the regular meeting by a 9-0 vote.

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals is holding a special meeting to review a request from Joseph and Sarah Renshaw for a 2-foot height variance and a characteristic variance to install privacy fencing up to 6 feet 6 inches in a residential front yard at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr. The board will also consider minutes from previous meetings and hear public comments. The meeting is scheduled for 4:30 p.m. on November 17, 2021.

• Public hearing on ZBA21-04: variance request for privacy fencing at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr.
• Request for 2-ft height variance from Section 5.13.C.1 and characteristic variance from Section 5.13.D.1
• Approval of minutes from September 29, 2021 special meeting
• Next meeting scheduled for December 15, 2021

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals held a procedural meeting, appointing Gordon Swan as chairman and Mike Eddy as vice chairman, both unanimously. The board also approved the September 29, 2021 special meeting minutes with a correction to the next meeting date. No public comments, hearings, or new business were conducted.

• Appointed Gordon Swan as chairman (5-0)
• Appointed Mike Eddy as vice chairman (5-0)
• Approved September 29, 2021 special meeting minutes with corrected next meeting date (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Special Land Use Permit request from CWBC Properties, LLC for a multi-family residential development at 421 & 427 N. Willowbrook Rd. in a C-4 General Business District. The commission will also review proposed changes to the Landscaping Ordinance. The agenda includes approval of the previous meeting's minutes and public comment periods.

• Public hearing for SUP21-20: Special Land Use Permit for multi-family residential at 421 & 427 N. Willowbrook Rd.
• Discussion of proposed changes to the Landscaping Ordinance in the City of Coldwater Zoning Code.
• Approval of minutes from the October 4, 2021 regular meeting.

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit for a 312-unit multi-family residential development at 421 & 427 N. Willowbrook Rd., with conditions including review of site details, landscaping, and soil erosion permits. The commission also approved a landscaping zoning text amendment (8-1) and the minutes of the October 4, 2021 meeting (9-0).

• Approved Special Land Use Permit SUP21-20 for 312-unit multi-family development (9-0)
• Approved landscaping zoning text amendment (8-1)
• Approved minutes of October 4, 2021 meeting with correction (9-0)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will consider several financial and administrative items, including notices of intent for 2022 capital improvement and water/wastewater revenue bonds, approval of an agreement regarding Union City's withdrawal from the Michigan South Central Power Agency, and proposed easements for the Garfield Drain District. The council will also consider amendments to various fees, including building, soil erosion, rental inspections, and planning/zoning fees. A presentation on downtown project and recruitment updates is also scheduled.

• Resolution No. 21-91: 2022 Capital Improvement Bonds Notice of Intent
• Resolution No. 21-92: 2022 Water Supply and Wastewater System Revenue Bonds Notice of Intent
• Agreement No. A21-27: Village of Union City Withdrawal from MSCPA
• Resolutions 21-76/77/78 and Drain Easement Agreements A21-22/23/24 for Garfield Drain District
• Ordinance No. 848 and Resolutions 21-93/94/95: fee amendments for building, soil erosion, rental inspections, and planning/zoning

The Coldwater City Council approved several routine items, including consent agenda items, bills, the City Manager's report, and multiple resolutions related to 2022 capital improvement and water/wastewater revenue bonds. The council also introduced an ordinance to amend building fees and adopted resolutions to adjust soil erosion, rental inspection, and planning/zoning fees, though the planning/zoning fee amendment was sent back to staff for further consideration. All votes were unanimous (9-0) except where noted.

• Approved consent agenda items 2-8 (9-0)
• Approved October 25, 2021 minutes (9-0)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $170,621.74 (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-91 for 2022 Capital Improvement Bonds (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-92 for 2022 Water Supply and Wastewater Revenue Bonds (9-0)
• Approved Agreement A21-27 for Union City withdrawal from MSCPA (9-0)
• Adopted Resolutions 21-76, 21-77, 21-78 and approved drain easement agreements A21-22, A21-23, A21-24 (9-0 each)
• Introduced Ordinance 848 for building fee schedule (9-0); adopted Resolutions 21-93, 21-94 for soil erosion and rental inspection fees (9-0); sent planning/zoning fee amendment back to staff

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will meet to consider several action items, including notices of intent for 2022 capital improvement and water/wastewater revenue bonds, the purchase of a Vermeer boring machine, dedicated service to Clemens Food Group, and the Village of Union City's withdrawal from the Michigan South Central Power Agency. The board will also receive a progress report on the Aspen Wireless fiber project and may enter closed session to discuss land acquisition. The consent agenda includes routine approval of minutes, departmental reports, and financial statements.

• 2022 Capital Improvement Bonds Notice of Intent
• 2022 Water Supply and Wastewater System Revenue Bonds Notice of Intent
• Vermeer Boring Machine Purchase
• Dedicated Service to Clemens Food Group
• Village of Union City Withdrawal from MSCPA

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved resolutions to issue up to $3.3 million in capital improvement bonds for lead service line replacement (to be forgiven by a Booker Fund grant) and up to $2.7 million in water supply and wastewater system revenue bonds, both forwarded to City Council. The board also approved purchasing a Vermeer boring machine for $177,736, agreements with Clemens Food Group LLC, and Agreement No. A21-27 for the Village of Union City's withdrawal from MSCPA. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Capital Improvement Bonds Notice of Intent for $3.3M (unanimous)
• Approved Water Supply and Wastewater System Revenue Bonds Notice of Intent for $2.7M (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Vermeer boring machine for $177,736 from Vermeer Midwest (unanimous)
• Approved agreements with Clemens Food Group LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Agreement No. A21-27 for Union City withdrawal from MSCPA (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including September 2021 financial reports and bills (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority will hold its regular October 2021 meeting, covering routine items like the monthly financial report and minutes, plus new business including a Tibbits update, a CEDAM fellow introduction, and a resolution setting 2022 meeting dates. The board will also discuss proposed changes to building improvement program guidelines and a request to fund illustrative paint scheme options. The agenda is largely procedural, with no major decisions listed beyond these items.

• Resolution 21-25: Approve 2022 DDA meeting dates (fourth Wednesdays, 8:00 a.m.)
• Proposed changes to Building Improvement Programs guidelines (rebate and loan pool)
• Request to fund illustrative paint scheme options
• Monthly financial report for September 2021 (fund balance $186,703.87)
• Tibbits Opera House update and CEDAM fellow introduction

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority approved Resolution No. 21-25 setting 2022 meeting dates (5-1), approved proposed changes to the Building Improvement Programs Guidelines (6-0), and approved a $1,625 proposal from Spooner Design Company for illustrative paint scheme options (6-0). The board also approved the September 2021 financial report and bills totaling $1,306.23 (6-0).

• Approved September 2021 financial report and bills of $1,306.23 (6-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-25 for 2022 DDA meeting dates (5-1)
• Approved changes to Building Improvement Programs Guidelines (6-0)
• Approved $1,625 for illustrative paint scheme options from Spooner Design Company (6-0)

City Council

The City Council will review resolutions regarding transmission rate changes and the elimination of telecommunications discounts. The agenda also includes proposals for purchasing vacant lots on Thompson Blvd and N. Willowbrook Rd.

• Resolution No. 21-88: CBPU transmission rate change
• Resolution No. 21-89: Elimination of telecommunications discount
• Agreement No. A21-26: Purchase of vacant lot at 68 Thompson Blvd
• Resolution No. 21-87: Sale or option to purchase vacant lots on Thompson Blvd
• Purchase Agreement No. A21-25: Sale of land on N. Willowbrook Rd

The Coldwater City Council approved the sale and/or option to purchase all remaining vacant lots on Thompson Blvd. via Resolution No. 21-87 and Agreement No. A21-19. A separate offer to purchase a single lot at 68 Thompson Blvd. died for lack of support. The council also adopted resolutions on transmission rates, telecommunications discount elimination, and other routine items.

• Adopted Resolution No. 21-88 on transmission rate change (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-89 eliminating telecommunications discount (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-86 opting out of Public Act 152 for 2022 (7-0)
• Approved sale/option of all remaining Thompson Blvd. lots via Resolution 21-87 and Agreement A21-19 (7-0)
• Introduced Purchase Agreement A21-25 for N. Willowbrook Road land (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-85 for State Disaster Contingency Fund Grant (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-90 for DMS service yard paving bid (7-0)
• Approved bills and accounts of $143,700.23 (7-0)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will consider several items, including whether to opt out of Public Act 152, a land offer on Willowbrook Road, a transmission rate change, and a progress report on the Aspen Wireless fiber project. The board will also review routine consent agenda items such as minutes, financial reports, and bills.

• Public Act 152 Opt-Out decision
• Willowbrook Road additional land offer
• Transmission rate change
• Water and wastewater certification exams
• Telecommunications discount

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities approved several items, including selling approximately 3.7 acres of property on Willowbrook Road to Coach Road Capital Partners, LLC for $30,000 per acre, and forwarding the agreement to City Council. The board also approved a resolution to opt out of Public Act 152 health insurance caps, updates to water and wastewater certification exam policy, eliminating a $10 telecommunications discount, and updating the Transmission rate tariff. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved sale of 3.7 acres on Willowbrook Road at $30,000/acre, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to opt out of Public Act 152 health insurance caps, recommended City Council adoption (unanimous)
• Approved updates to CBPU Policy PO-2.5 on Water and WRRF Certification Exams (unanimous)
• Approved eliminating the $10 telecommunications discount, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved updating the Transmission (Rate T) tariff, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, reports, and bills (unanimous)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a public hearing on closing out CDBG funding for Tasty Twist, consider extending a lease and option to purchase for 10 S. Monroe Street (Lefty's Lounge), and vote on a resolution for railroad improvement funds. They will also review routine consent agenda items and hear a police department presentation on traffic control.

• Public hearing on Resolution No. 21-83 to close out CDBG funding for Tasty Twist
• Consider introduction of Agreement No. A21-16 and A21-17 to amend and restate lease and option to purchase for 10 S. Monroe Street
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-81 for railroad improvement funds
• Bills and accounts totaling $171,900.59
• Police Department presentation on traffic control

The Coldwater City Council held a public hearing and unanimously adopted Resolution No. 21-83 to close out CDBG funding for Tasty Twist. The Council also approved the consent agenda, bills totaling $171,900.59, and a resolution for railroad improvements. A motion to introduce a lease amendment for 10 S. Monroe Street with an additional apartment completion requirement failed, but the original lease amendment and an option-to-purchase agreement were introduced for first reading.

• Approved Consent Agenda Items 1-7, including minutes, financial report, and board appointments.
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-83 to close out CDBG funding for Tasty Twist.
• Approved Bills and Accounts in the amount of $171,900.59.
• Approved and placed on file the City Manager's Report.
• Failed to introduce Agreement No. A21-16 with an additional amendment for two apartments (7 nays, 2 ayes).
• Introduced for first reading Agreement No. A21-16, the lease amendment for 10 S. Monroe Street (8 ayes, 1 nay).
• Introduced for first reading Agreement No. A21-17, the option to purchase 10 S. Monroe Street (8 ayes, 1 nay).
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-81 for railroad improvements.

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a special land use permit for an adult-use recreational marijuana grow facility at 211 W. Garfield Rd. They will also revisit a tabled request for a marijuana retail establishment at 55 S. Garfield Ave. and continue discussing potential amendments to the Landscaping Ordinance.

• Public hearing on SUP21-19: Special Land Use Permit for Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Grow Class C at 211 W. Garfield Rd.
• Old business: SUP21-18 for Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Retail at 55 S. Garfield Ave. (tabled from Sept. 7 meeting).
• Landscaping Ordinance amendments: staff to distribute draft framework.

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit for Salah Allaw to operate an Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Grow Class C at 211 W. Garfield Rd., with conditions including paved parking and administrative approval of a water retention program. The commission also approved a permit for Paul Schmitz to operate an Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Retail Establishment at 55 S. Michigan Ave., after a motion to deny failed. Chairman Miller resigned, and Aaron Garn was appointed as the new Chairman.

• Approved SUP21-19 for an Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Grow Class C at 211 W. Garfield Rd., with conditions.
• Approved SUP21-18 for an Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Retail Establishment at 55 S. Michigan Ave.
• Denied a motion to deny SUP21-18, which failed 3-4.
• Approved the minutes of the September 7, 2021, regular meeting.
• Excused the absences of Commissioners Jessika Cole and Salwa Alsuraimi.
• Appointed Aaron Garn as Chairman of the Planning Commission.
• Accepted Chairman Miller's resignation, effective October 5, 2021.

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities is holding a workshop to discuss the search for a new utility director. The agenda includes public comment periods and adjournment, with no other substantive items listed.

• Utility Director Search Discussion

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities held a workshop meeting on September 29, 2021, to discuss the Utility Director position search. No formal action was taken during the meeting, which adjourned at 5:59 p.m.

• Discussed Utility Director position search (no action taken)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a special meeting to consider a variance request from Joseph and Sarah Renshaw for their property at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr. The request seeks a 2-foot height variance and a characteristic variance to allow privacy fencing up to 6 ft 6 in in a residential front yard. The board will also review minutes from previous meetings. This is a public hearing where residents can comment.

• Public hearing on ZBA21-04: 2-ft height variance and privacy fence variance at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr.
• Review of minutes from July 18 and August 19, 2021 meetings
• Next meeting scheduled for October 20, 2021

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals denied a request from Joseph and Sarah Renshaw for a two-foot height variance and a characteristic variance to install six-foot-six-inch privacy fencing in the front yard at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr. The board voted 3-0 to deny the variance, citing failure to meet criterion B (necessity for preservation and enjoyment of a substantial property right). The meeting was a special session with only three members present after Vice Chairman Gordon Swan recused himself due to a conflict of interest.

• Approved minutes of August 18, 2021 regular meeting (3-0)
• Approved minutes of September 15, 2021 non-quorum meeting (3-0)
• Denied ZBA21-04 variance request for privacy fence at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr (3-0)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will vote on several property transactions, including a land lease at 231 S. Angola Road, an HVAC bid for a home at 17 Thompson Blvd., and the sale of a vacant lot at 68 Thompson Blvd. They will also consider authorizing bids for a new fire engine and approving easements for the Garfield Drain District. The agenda includes routine consent items and a city manager's report.

• Lease of vacant land at 231 S. Angola Road (Resolution 21-80, Agreement A21-15)
• HVAC bid for MSHDA home at 17 Thompson Blvd. (Resolution 21-79)
• Sale of vacant lot at 68 Thompson Blvd. (Sales Agreement A21-21)
• Authorization to seek bids for new fire engine (Resolution 21-82)
• Approval of drain easements for Garfield Drain District (Agreements A21-22, A21-23, A21-24)

The Coldwater City Council approved a lease of vacant land at 231 S. Angola Road (Resolution 21-80, Agreement A21-15), an HVAC bid for a home at 17 Thompson Blvd. (Resolution 21-79), and authorized preparing specs and seeking bids for a new fire engine (Resolution 21-82). The proposed sale of a vacant lot at 68 Thompson Blvd. (Agreement A21-21) died for lack of a motion. The council also introduced three drain easement agreements (A21-22, A21-23, A21-24) for first reading.

• Approved Consent Agenda items 1-4, including minutes and board reappointments.
• Approved Bills and Accounts totaling $185,811.95.
• Approved and placed on file the City Manager's report.
• Adopted Resolution 21-80 and approved Agreement A21-15 to lease vacant land at 231 S. Angola Road.
• Adopted Resolution 21-79 approving HVAC bid for MSHDA home at 17 Thompson Blvd.
• Item to sell vacant lot at 68 Thompson Blvd. (Agreement A21-21) died for lack of a motion.
• Adopted Resolution 21-82 to prepare specs and seek bids for a new fire engine.
• Introduced for first reading drain easement agreements A21-22, A21-23, and A21-24.

Historic District Commission

The Coldwater Historic District Commission will hold a regular meeting to review minutes, hear public comments, and discuss new business, including an update on the Downtown Development Authority Façade Improvement Program. The agenda includes no project reviews or old business items, and the meeting is expected to be largely procedural.

• Update on Downtown Development Authority Façade Improvement Program by Audrey Tappenden
• Approval of minutes from the May 17, 2021 regular meeting

The Coldwater Historic District Commission met on September 20, 2021, and approved the minutes from its May 17, 2021 meeting. No project reviews, old business, or new business items were considered. The commission received an informational update from Audrey Tappenden on the Downtown Development Authority's Facade Improvement Program, including program statistics and potential updates, as well as an update on the Main Street Select Level application. The meeting adjourned at 6:04 p.m.

• Approved May 17, 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Received update on DDA Facade Improvement Program (informational only)
• Received update on Main Street Select Level application (informational only)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a request by Joseph and Sarah Renshaw for a two-foot height variance and a characteristic variance to install privacy fencing in a residential front yard at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr. The board will also review minutes from the previous meeting. The agenda includes no other substantive items.

• Public hearing on ZBA21-04: 2 ft. height variance from Section 5.13.C.1 and characteristic variance from Section 5.13.D.1 for privacy fencing up to 6 ft. 6 in. in front yard at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr.
• Approval of minutes from August 19, 2021 regular meeting

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals met on September 15, 2021, but no quorum was present, so no official action was taken. The only agenda item, a request by Joseph and Sarah Renshaw for a height and characteristic variance to install privacy fencing at 24 Cheryl Ann Dr., was postponed without deliberation. The meeting was rescheduled for 4:30 p.m. on September 29, 2021.

• Postponed ZBA21-04 variance request for 24 Cheryl Ann Dr. to Sept 29, 2021 (no quorum)
• No action taken on August 18, 2021 minutes (no quorum)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will vote on several property transactions, including selling vacant land to Habitat for Humanity and other parcels, a proposed increase in residential garbage rates, and adoption of a social media policy. The agenda also includes routine consent items, bills totaling $332,721.51, and the city manager's report.

• Sale of vacant land at 29 Lawton Avenue to Habitat for Humanity (Resolution 21-70, Agreement A21-05)
• Sale of land on N. Willowbrook Road (Resolution 21-71, Agreement A21-14)
• Proposed sale of half of vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. (Agreement A21-20)
• Proposed sale/option to purchase all remaining vacant lots on Thompson Blvd. (Agreement A21-19)
• Resolution to amend residential garbage and refuse collection rates (Resolution 21-74)

Downtown Development Authority

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority is holding a special meeting to discuss a potential tenant for the property at 60 W. Chicago Street. The board will also review the August 2021 financial report and approve the minutes from the July 28, 2021 regular meeting.

• 60 W. Chicago Street tenant exploration discussion
• Financial report through August 2021
• Approval of July 28, 2021 meeting minutes

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority approved a motion to allow staff up to six months to work on a lease and financing to bring the Children's Museum of Branch County to 60 W. Chicago Street, and approved $150 for economic and demographic data. The board also approved the August 2021 financial report and bills totaling $5,220, and the July 28, 2021 meeting minutes. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved July 28, 2021 regular meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved August 2021 financial report and bills of $5,220 (6-0)
• Approved up to six months for staff to finalize lease and financing for Children's Museum at 60 W. Chicago, plus $150 for economic data (6-0)

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on a special land use permit for an adult-use recreational marijuana retail store at 55 S. Michigan Ave. They will also discuss potential changes to the city's Landscaping Ordinance and review a site plan for a retail building at 363 N. Willowbrook Rd.

• Public hearing for SUP21-18: Paul Schmitz requests special land use permit for adult-use recreational marijuana retail at 55 S. Michigan Ave.
• Discussion on potential changes to the City's Landscaping Ordinance.
• SPR21-03: Highwire Farms requests to construct a retail sales building at 363 N. Willowbrook Rd.

The Coldwater Planning Commission tabled a special land use permit for an adult-use recreational marijuana retail store at 55 S Michigan Ave until staff can report district annexation, zoning district creation, and property sale dates. The commission approved a site plan review for Highwire Farms to construct a retail sales building at 363 N Willowbrook Rd, with landscaping plan to be brought back for approval. A discussion on potential landscaping ordinance changes was held, with staff to return with a draft intent statement and waiver procedures.

• Tabled special land use permit for marijuana retail at 55 S Michigan Ave (9-0)
• Approved Highwire Farms retail sales building at 363 N Willowbrook Rd (9-0)
• Approved minutes of August 16, 2021 (9-0)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will hold its regular meeting, primarily addressing routine consent agenda items such as approving minutes, departmental reports, and financial statements. The regular agenda includes discussions on rules, rates, and regulations, a utility director search, and an update on the Aspen Wireless fiber project. No major decisions are listed on the agenda beyond these discussion items.

• Consent agenda: approval of August 4, 2021 board minutes and July 1, 2021 MSCPA minutes
• Consent agenda: approval of July 2021 operation reports and financial statements
• Consent agenda: approval of bills and accounts for period ending August 31, 2021
• Discussion on utility director search
• Aspen Wireless progress report

The Board unanimously approved correcting the Solar Net Billing meter charges to align with each respective rate class, effective immediately, after an administrative oversight in July created a conflict with current rates. The Board also approved the consent agenda, which included minutes, departmental reports, financial statements, bills, and power supply cost projections. A workshop was requested to discuss the utility director search following Director Budd's resignation announcement. No public comments were received.

• Approved correcting Solar Net Billing meter charges to coincide with each respective rate class, effective immediately
• Approved consent agenda items including minutes, departmental reports, financial statements, bills, and power supply cost projections
• Scheduled a workshop within two weeks to discuss utility director replacement options

City Council

The City Council will consider the sale of a vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. and a portion of Carriage Circle Drive, as well as a lease for vacant land at 231 S. Angola Road. The meeting includes the approval of $321,654.09 in bills and accounts and the formal adoption of a resolution to return N. Hanchett St. to two-way traffic flow.

• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-65 and approval of Agreement No. A21-09 for the sale of vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd.
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-69 and approval of Sales Agreement No. A21-12 for the sale of a portion of Carriage Circle Drive.
• Consider introduction of Agreement No. A21-15 for the proposed lease of vacant land at 231 S. Angola Road.
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-67 regarding an amendment to the OPRA tax exemption certificate for 8 S. Monroe Street.
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-68 to return traffic flow on N. Hanchett St. to two-way.

The Coldwater City Council approved the sale of a portion of Carriage Circle Drive (Resolution No. 21-69 and Agreement No. A21-12) and introduced a lease agreement for vacant land at 231 S. Angola Road. A proposed sale of a vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. (Resolution No. 21-65 and Agreement No. A21-09) failed on a 4-5 vote. The council also approved the consent agenda, bills totaling $321,654.09, and an OPRA tax exemption amendment for 8 S. Monroe Street.

• Approved sale of Carriage Circle Drive portion (Resolution 21-69, Agreement A21-12) (9-0)
• Introduced lease agreement for 231 S. Angola Road (Agreement A21-15) for first reading (9-0)
• Denied sale of vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. (Resolution 21-65, Agreement A21-09) (4-5)
• Adopted OPRA tax exemption amendment for 8 S. Monroe Street (Resolution 21-67) (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 1-7 (8-0)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $321,654.09 (8-0)
• Approved and filed City Manager's report (9-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals denied a variance request from Birds of a Feather, LLC to install a 100-ft-tall freestanding sign at 894 E. Chicago St., which would have required an 85-ft variance from the city's 15-ft sign height limit. The board found the request failed to meet criteria B, C, D, and E of the zoning code, citing the property's unique landlocked status but also the city's uniform sign framework and lack of special privilege. The motion to deny passed unanimously (3-0).

• Approved minutes of July 21, 2021 regular meeting (3-0)
• Denied 85-ft sign height variance for 100-ft sign at 894 E. Chicago St. (3-0)

Planning Commission

The Commission is reviewing special land use permit requests for two new adult-use recreational marijuana retail locations. The meeting also addressed signage updates for an existing establishment and approved the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Special Land Use Permit request from Highwire Farms for retail at 363 N. Willowbrook Rd.
• Special Land Use Permit request from Exclusive Brands, LLC for retail at 599 E. Chicago St.
• Signage update for The Treehouse marijuana retail establishment at 894 E. Chicago St.
• Approval of the 2022 Planning Commission meeting schedule
• Approval of Joyology's Special Land Use Permit at 365 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. C

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved two Special Land Use Permits for adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishments: one for Highwire Farms at 363 N. Willowbrook Rd. (8-1) and one for Exclusive Brands, LLC at 599 E. Chicago St. (9-0), with conditions. The commission also recommended to the Zoning Board of Appeals that it would not have approved the previously granted Special Use Permit for The Treehouse at 894 E. Chicago St. if it had included a 100-foot-tall sign.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit for Highwire Farms adult-use marijuana retail at 363 N. Willowbrook Rd. (8-1)
• Approved Special Land Use Permit for Exclusive Brands, LLC adult-use marijuana retail at 599 E. Chicago St. with conditions (9-0)
• Recommended to Zoning Board of Appeals that Planning Commission would not have approved The Treehouse SUP with 100-ft sign (unanimous)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a regular meeting on August 9, 2021, to consider a consent agenda of routine items, approve bills totaling $197,896.61, and act on two proposals from City Manager Keith Baker: selling a vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. and purchasing a new salt storage building. The council will also discuss returning N. Hanchett Street to two-way traffic flow. Councilperson Rissman will attend remotely due to military duty.

• Consent agenda includes minutes from various boards, financial reports, and the Police Department Activity Report for Q2 2021
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-65 and Agreement No. A21-09 for the sale of a vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd.
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-66 for the purchase of a new salt storage building and improvements
• Discussion regarding the return to two-way traffic flow for N. Hanchett Street
• Bills and Accounts: $197,896.61

The Coldwater City Council approved returning N. Hanchett Street to two-way traffic (6-1), adopted a resolution for a new salt storage building, and approved routine consent items and bills. A proposed sale of a vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. was tabled for further consideration of deed restrictions.

• Approved return of N. Hanchett Street to two-way traffic (6-1)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-66 for new salt storage building (7-0)
• Tabled sale of vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. until next meeting (7-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items 1-9 (7-0)
• Approved Bills and Accounts of $197,896.61 (7-0)
• Approved and placed on file City Manager's report (7-0)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities approved contributing 25% of the cost for sanitary sewer improvements on Willowbrook Road if future apartment construction overwhelms capacity. The board also approved a farm lease for Angola Road property and accepted routine consent agenda items. No public comment was received.

• Approved 25% cost allocation for Willowbrook sanitary sewer improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Agreement No. A21-15 for Angola Road farm lease, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including June financial reports and bills (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority will hold its regular meeting on July 28, 2021, to discuss and potentially make a formal recommendation to the City Council regarding the direction of North Hanchett Street. The agenda also includes updates on the Tibbits Opera House, the Lofts at Milnes Plaza, and economic development initiatives. The meeting will also review the monthly financial report and approve the minutes from the June 23 meeting.

• Discussion and formal recommendation to Council on North Hanchett Street direction
• Tibbits Update from Christine Delaney
• Lofts at Milnes Plaza update from property manager Kimberly VanHorn
• Economic development update from Audrey Tappenden
• Monthly financial report review

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority voted 5-1 to recommend that City Council return N. Hanchett Street to two-way traffic flow, based on feedback from local residents and business owners. The board also approved the June 2021 financial report and bills totaling $16,071.51, and the minutes from the June 23, 2021 meeting. No other substantive decisions were made; other items were informational updates.

• Approved June 23, 2021 regular meeting minutes (6-0)
• Approved monthly financial report ending June 2021 and bills of $16,071.51 (6-0)
• Recommended to City Council return to two-way traffic flow on N. Hanchett Street (5-1)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a public hearing on an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act tax exemption for 27 Marshall St., LLC, and consider resolutions for refunding 2013 Rec/Aquatic Center debt, approving a social district permit recommendation for Two Bandits Brewing Company, and introducing sales agreements for vacant land to Habitat for Humanity and on N. Willowbrook Road. The agenda also includes routine consent items and a city manager's report.

• Public hearing on OPRA tax exemption for 27 Marshall St., LLC (Resolution 21-60)
• Resolution 21-63 for 2021 Capital Improvement Refunding Bonds of 2013 Rec/Aquatic Center debt
• Resolution 21-61 recommending Two Bandits Brewing Company's social district permit to MLCC
• Sales Agreement A21-05 for sale of vacant land at 29 Lawton Avenue to Habitat for Humanity
• Sales Agreement A21-14 for sale of land on N. Willowbrook Road

The Coldwater City Council approved an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA) tax exemption certificate for 27 Marshall St., LLC, and adopted a resolution for 2021 Capital Improvement Refunding Bonds related to the 2013 Rec/Aquatic Center debt. Both measures passed unanimously (9-0). The council also introduced sales agreements for the sale of vacant land at 29 Lawton Avenue to Habitat for Humanity and land on N. Willowbrook Road, and approved the consent agenda, bills totaling $136,559.77, and the City Manager's report.

• Adopted Resolution No. 21-60 for OPRA tax exemption at 27 Marshall St. (9-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-63 for 2021 Capital Improvement Refunding Bonds (9-0)
• Introduced Sales Agreement No. A21-05 for 29 Lawton Ave. sale to Habitat for Humanity (9-0)
• Introduced Sales Agreement No. A21-14 for N. Willowbrook Road land sale (9-0)
• Approved consent agenda items 1-7, including Resolution No. 21-61 for Two Bandits Brewing social district permit (9-0)
• Approved bills and accounts of $136,559.77 (9-0)
• Approved City Manager's report (9-0)
• Authorized signing of Coldwater Noon Rotary Club 100th Anniversary Proclamation (9-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing on a request from Birds of a Feather, LLC for an 85-foot sign height variance to install a 100-foot freestanding sign at 894 E. Chicago St. The board will also review minutes from its May 19, 2021 meeting. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing on ZBA21-03: 85-ft sign height variance for 100-ft sign at 894 E. Chicago St.
• Approval of minutes from May 19, 2021 regular meeting

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals tabled a request by Birds of a Feather, LLC for an 85-foot sign height variance to install a 100-foot freestanding sign at 894 E. Chicago St. The board voted 5-0 to table the item to allow the Planning Commission to review the request. The property, an adult-use marijuana retail establishment, lacks street frontage and has no legal right to existing US-12 signage. The board will reconsider the variance at a future meeting.

• Approved the May 19, 2021 regular meeting minutes as presented.
• Tabled ZBA21-03, the 85-ft sign height variance request, to allow Planning Commission review.
• Opened and closed the public hearing for ZBA21-03 with no public comments.

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission is holding a special meeting to consider a Special Land Use Permit for Joyology to operate an adult-use recreational marijuana retail store at 365 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. E. The agenda also includes approving the June 7, 2021 minutes and adopting a resolution setting the 2022 meeting schedule.

• Public hearing for SUP21-15: Joyology adult-use recreational marijuana retail at 365 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. E (C-4 General Business District)
• Resolution 21-23: setting the 2022 Planning Commission meeting dates
• Approval of minutes from the June 7, 2021 regular meeting
• Next regular meeting scheduled for August 16, 2021

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit for Joyology to operate an Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Retail at 365 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. C. The permit passed 8-1, with Commissioner Rumsey dissenting. The commission also approved the minutes of the June 7, 2021 meeting and adopted Resolution 21-23 setting the 2022 meeting dates.

• Approved the minutes of the June 7, 2021 regular meeting as presented (9-0).
• Approved Special Land Use Permit SUP21-15 for Joyology's Adult Use Recreational Marihuana Retail at 365 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. C (8-1).
• Adopted Resolution 21-23 approving the 2022 Planning Commission meeting dates (9-0).

City Council

The City Council will review $184,586.30 in bills and accounts and consider proposed electric rate adjustments via Resolution No. 21-45. The body will also decide on renewing the School Resource Officer services contract and approving a bid for concrete repairs to the Public Safety Building. Additionally, Council will consider the sale of Carriage Circle Drive and the purchase of a new police patrol vehicle.

• Approval of Bills and Accounts totaling $184,586.30
• Consideration of Resolution No. 21-45 for proposed electric rate adjustments
• Renewal of Contract for Provision of School Resource Officer Services (Resolution No. 21-56, Agreement No. A21-10)
• Approval of bid for replacement of concrete approach to Public Safety Building (Resolution No. 21-57)
• Request for approval to purchase a new police patrol vehicle (Resolution No. 21-58)

The Coldwater City Council approved a 2% economic salary increase for City Manager Keith Baker, retroactive to July 1, 2021, after he requested no more than that amount. The council also adopted Resolution No. 21-45 for proposed electric rate adjustments, and approved $15,000 in funding for Coldwater Community Schools for FY 2020-21, ending future funding for that program. All votes were 8-0.

• Approved Consent Agenda items 1-9, including minutes, financial reports, and Resolution 21-26 setting 2022 meeting dates.
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $184,586.30.
• Approved and filed the City Manager's report.
• Approved $15,000 funding for Coldwater Community Schools for FY 2020-21, ending future funding.
• Adopted Resolution 21-45 for proposed electric rate adjustments.
• Adopted Resolution 21-56 and approved Agreement A21-10 for School Resource Officer services.
• Adopted Resolution 21-57 for replacement of concrete approach to Public Safety Building.
• Adopted Resolution 21-58 for purchase of a new police patrol vehicle.

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will meet to consider several key items, including a resolution for electric rate adjustments, approval of engineering for water system improvements, and a water system reliability study and general plan update. The board will also establish meeting dates, appoint a committee for the director's annual performance review, and receive a progress report on the Aspen Wireless fiber project. The consent agenda includes routine approvals of minutes, departmental reports, and financial statements.

• Resolution No. 21-45, Electric Rate Adjustments
• Approval of Engineering for Water System Improvements
• Water System Reliability Study and General Plan Update
• Resolution No. 21-01, Establishing Meeting Dates for 2021-2022
• Aspen Wireless Progress Report

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved a 2% electric rate increase per year for the next three years, effective September 1, 2021, and forwarded Resolution No. 21-45 to City Council for adoption. The board also approved $291,300 for engineering design of water system improvements, including the Water Treatment Plant and projects on Washington Street, Perkins Street, and Michigan Avenue. Officers were reelected for 2021-2022, and the consent agenda, including minutes and financial reports, was approved.

• Approved 2% annual electric rate increases for three years, effective September 1, 2021, and forwarded Resolution No. 21-45 to City Council.
• Approved $291,300 for budget design and engineering of water system improvements (Water Treatment Plant, Washington Street, Perkins Street, Michigan Avenue).
• Reelected Chris Stevens as President, Scott Ohm as Vice President, and Nicki Luce as Secretary for 2021-2022.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes from June 2, 2021, and May/June 2021 MSCPA meetings, plus May 2021 financial reports and bills.
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-01 establishing meeting dates for 2021-2022.
• Reappointed Ohm and Machan to the committee for the Director's annual performance review.

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a public hearing on an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA) tax exemption for 27 Marshall St., LLC, and consider resolutions on purchasing Taser 7 equipment, amending the Smith and North Monroe Road contract, buying tax-foreclosed properties, and approving a social district permit. The consent agenda includes routine minutes and a funding request from Coldwater Community Schools.

• Public hearing on OPRA tax exemption for 27 Marshall St., LLC (Resolution 21-53)
• Purchase of Taser 7 equipment and accessories (Resolution 21-49)
• Amendment to Smith and North Monroe Road and Utility Improvements contract with Concord Excavating & Grading, Inc.
• Proposed sale of vacant lot at 69 Thompson Blvd. (Agreement A21-09)
• Bills and accounts totaling $40,663.05

The Coldwater City Council approved an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA) tax exemption certificate for 27 Marshall St., LLC, via Resolution 21-53. The council also approved several other resolutions, including a social district permit recommendation, a Taser 7 equipment purchase, and a contract amendment for road improvements. A request for $20,000 from Coldwater Community Schools was tabled until the next meeting.

• Approved Resolution 21-53 for an OPRA tax exemption certificate for 27 Marshall St.
• Approved Consent Agenda items 1-7 and 9, including minutes and board appointments.
• Tabled Item 8, a $20,000 funding request from Coldwater Community Schools, until the next meeting.
• Approved Bills and Accounts totaling $40,663.05.
• Approved Resolution 21-52 for a Charitable Gaming License for Coach Eby Youth & Family Center.
• Approved Resolution 21-54 recommending qualified licensees for a social district permit to the MLCC.
• Approved Resolution 21-51 to purchase up to two tax foreclosed properties from the State of Michigan.
• Approved Resolution 21-49 for the purchase of Taser 7 equipment and accessories.

Downtown Development Authority

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority is holding its regular June meeting to review the May minutes, approve the monthly financial report, and hear updates on council chamber upgrades, Tibbits Opera House, the Chamber of Commerce, the Visitors Bureau, and economic development initiatives. No votes are scheduled on new policy items; the agenda is primarily informational and procedural.

• Council Chamber Upgrades presentation by Pat Pool
• Tibbits Opera House update by Christine Delaney
• Chamber of Commerce update by Lori Hunt
• Coldwater Country Conference & Visitors Bureau update by Debra Yee
• Economic Development Initiatives update by Audrey Tappenden

The Coldwater Downtown Development Authority approved the regular meeting minutes of May 26, 2021, and the monthly financial report ending May 2021, including bills totaling $4,416.36, both by unanimous 7-0 votes. No old business was discussed. New business items were presented as updates only, including council chamber upgrades, Tibbits, Chamber, Visitors Bureau, and economic development initiatives. A resignation letter from Jennifer Wingard was read.

• Approved the Regular Meeting Minutes of May 26, 2021, as presented (7-0)
• Approved the monthly financial report ending May 2021 and bills in the amount of $4,416.36, as presented (7-0)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold public hearings on a drinking water project plan and a tax exemption for 8 S. Monroe St., then consider adopting the FY 2021-22 budget, including special funds and a bond resolution, and setting the millage rate. They will also vote on several resolutions and ordinances, including a building code fee schedule update, a public drinking prohibition amendment, and a settlement agreement.

• Adopt Resolution No. 21-47 for Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Project Plan
• Adopt Resolution No. 21-46: OPRA tax exemption for 8 S. Monroe St.
• Adopt FY 2021-22 budget (Resolutions 21-32, 21-33, 21-34) and set millage rate (21-35)
• Adopt Ordinance No. 846: Building Code Fee Schedule updates
• Adopt Ordinance No. 847: Amendment to prohibition on drinking in public areas

The Coldwater City Council approved the FY 2021-22 budget, including the general fund, special and operating funds, and a bond resolution, along with the city employee retirement fund millage rate. The council also adopted resolutions for a drinking water project plan, an OPRA tax exemption for 8 S. Monroe St., a demand response program, and a settlement agreement with PGS Resources. Additionally, the council set a public hearing for an OPRA application for 27 Marshall Street, adopted ordinances updating building fees and amending the public drinking prohibition, and approved transferring Englewood real estate to the Housing Commission for the RAD program.

• Adopted Resolution 21-32, FY 2021-22 Budget (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-33, Special and Operating Funds Budget (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-34, 2015 Unlimited Tax General Obligation Bond (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-35, City Employee Retirement Fund millage rate (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-47, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund Project Plan (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-46, OPRA tax exemption for 8 S. Monroe St. (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 846, Building Code Fee Schedule updates (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance 847, amendment to prohibition on drinking in public areas (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold public hearings on two special land use permits for adult-use recreational marijuana businesses: a retail store at 398 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. D and a Class C grow at 325 Jay St. The commission will also discuss the passage of an animal ordinance and the city council's decision not to issue moratoriums on marijuana grow and retail establishments.

• Public hearing: SUP21-13, Constantine Products, LLC, adult-use recreational marijuana retail at 398 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. D
• Public hearing: SUP21-14, Yuma Way, LLC, adult-use recreational marijuana grow Class C at 325 Jay St.
• Old business: Passage of animal ordinance as recommended by City Council on 5-24-2021
• Old business: No issuance of moratoriums by City Council on marijuana grow establishments
• Old business: No issuance of moratoriums by City Council on marijuana retail establishments

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved two Special Land Use Permits for adult-use recreational marijuana businesses: a retail establishment at 398 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. D (SUP21-13) and a Class C grow facility at 325 Jay St. (SUP21-14). Both approvals were subject to conditions in Ordinance 880 and Section 4.21 of the Zoning Ordinance. The commission also discussed but took no action on a possible moratorium on marijuana businesses, and directed staff to revisit landscaping regulations.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit for adult-use marijuana retail at 398 N. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. D (6-1, Rumsey dissenting)
• Approved Special Land Use Permit for adult-use marijuana grow Class C at 325 Jay St. (7-0)
• Approved minutes of May 3, 2021 meeting (6-1, Rumsey dissenting)
• Excused absences of Commissioners Alsuraimi and Cole (7-0)
• Directed staff to revisit landscaping ordinance (consensus, no formal vote)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will hold its regular meeting on June 2, 2021, covering routine consent items (minutes, reports, bills) and several regular agenda items. Key items include a Drinking Water State Revolving Fund project plan, a presentation on the 2021/2022 fiscal year budgets, a resolution on a Demand Response Program, a broadband service contract, a settlement with PGS Resources, and an update on the Aspen Wireless fiber project. The board will also hear a presentation from Dylan McFarland on an OJT experience and discuss Public Act 95.

• Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Project Plan
• Presentation of 2021/2022 Fiscal Year Budgets
• Resolution No. 21-44, Demand Response Program
• Broadband Service Contract
• PGS Resources Settlement

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Project Plan, the 2021/2022 fiscal year operating and capital budgets, and opted out of Public Act 95 for low-income energy assistance for fiscal year 2021/2022. The board also approved a single vendor contract for broadband services with CTS, a tentative $35,000 settlement with PGS Resources LLC, and amended Resolution No. 09-02 to approve Resolution No. 21-44 for a demand response program. All items were forwarded to City Council for final adoption or approval as applicable.

• Approved DWSRF Project Plan and forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved 2021/2022 fiscal year operating and capital budgets, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Opted out of PA 95 for fiscal year 2021/2022 (unanimous)
• Amended Resolution No. 09-02 and approved Resolution No. 21-44 for demand response program, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved single vendor broadband service contract with CTS (unanimous)
• Approved tentative $35,000 settlement with PGS Resources LLC, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a public hearing on the FY 2021-22 budget and consider several ordinances and resolutions, including amendments to animal control regulations, a downtown social district, and building code fee updates. The agenda also includes routine consent items and a request for a fair parade.

• Public hearing on FY 2021-22 budget
• Consider adoption of Ordinance No. 844 (animals) and No. 845 (animal control)
• Consider introduction of Ordinance No. 846 (building code fee schedule)
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-42 (Downtown Social District)
• Consider adoption of Resolution No. 21-43 (MDOT maintenance agreement for Four Corners Park)

The Coldwater City Council approved the consent agenda, adopted two animal-related ordinances (No. 844 and No. 845), introduced two ordinances for first reading (No. 846 on building code fees and No. 847 on drinking in public areas), and adopted resolutions for a downtown social district (No. 21-42) and an MDOT liability waiver for Four Corners Park (No. 21-43). All votes were unanimous (7-0). The FY 2021-22 budget was presented at a public hearing with no action taken.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-9 (7-0)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $52,561.98 (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 844 amending animal-related ordinances (7-0)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 845 amending Chapter 610 Animal Control (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance No. 846 for first reading on building code fee schedule (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-43 for MDOT liability waiver for Four Corners Park (7-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-42 creating a Downtown Social District (7-0)
• Introduced Ordinance No. 847 for first reading on drinking in public areas (7-0)

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals will hold a public hearing to discuss a zoning ordinance interpretation for 86 Preston St. and a dimensional variance for 28 Thompson Blvd. The board will also consider a resolution to set the 2022 meeting schedule.

• ZBA 21-01: Request for interpretation of zoning ordinance violations at 86 Preston St.
• ZBA 21-02: Request for a 4 ft. dimensional zoning variance for total side yardage at 28 Thompson Blvd.
• Resolution 21-22: Adoption of Zoning Board of Appeals meeting dates for 2022

The Coldwater Zoning Board of Appeals heard two cases. In ZBA 21-01, the board affirmed staff interpretations that a crane parked on a residential lot violated improper parking rules and that storing shipping containers violated permitted-use rules, but it did not uphold the interpretation that the containers were semi-tractor trailers. In ZBA 21-02, the board approved a variance to reduce the side yard setback from 18 to 16 feet at 28 Thompson Blvd. The board also adopted its 2022 meeting dates.

• Affirmed staff interpretation that crane parking violated zoning (5-0)
• Did not uphold staff interpretation that containers were semi-tractor trailers (0-5)
• Affirmed staff interpretation that container storage violated permitted uses (5-0)
• Approved variance for 16-ft side yard at 28 Thompson Blvd (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 21-22 for 2022 meeting dates (5-0)

Historic District Commission

The Coldwater Historic District Commission is holding a special remote meeting to review a project by Caywood Propane Gas, Inc. to restore the commercial facade and replace windows at 8 S. Monroe St. The meeting also includes approval of minutes from the April 14, 2021 regular meeting. Public comments will be taken via phone or email.

• Project review HDC21-01: Caywood Propane Gas, Inc. to restore first-floor facade, replace 2nd & 3rd floor windows, construct rear balconies, and renovate rear facade at 8 S. Monroe St.
• Approval of minutes from April 14, 2021 regular meeting
• Public comment periods at beginning and end of meeting

The Coldwater Historic District Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for Caywood Propane Gas, Inc. to restore the front facade, replace windows, add a rear balcony, and renovate the rear facade at 8 S. Monroe St. The motion passed unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included approval of the April 14, 2021 minutes.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 8 S. Monroe St. facade restoration, window replacement, rear balcony, and rear facade renovation (4-0)
• Approved April 14, 2021 minutes as presented (4-0)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a regular meeting on May 10, 2021, to consider a range of items including a proposed 90-day moratorium on new municipal marijuana licenses, a US-12 road diet resolution, and a budget workshop for FY 2021-22. The council will also vote on a consent agenda covering routine approvals, a public hearing on CDBG funding closeout, and several other resolutions and agreements.

• Resolution No. 21-37: 90-day moratorium on new municipal marihuana licenses and special land use approvals for retailers and grows in the industrial district
• Resolution No. 21-17: US-12 Road Diet
• Resolution No. 21-36: Setting public hearing for FY 2021-22 budget
• Agreement No. 21-07: Transfer of Englewood real estate title to Housing Commission for RAD program
• Bills and Accounts: $375,217.65

The Coldwater City Council approved a consent agenda with 18 routine items, adopted resolutions for the Aqua Pit CDBG grant close-out, US-12 road diet, and other measures, and introduced ordinances on animal control. They also approved second budget amendments for FY 2020-21 and set a public hearing for the FY 2021-22 budget. A moratorium on new marihuana licenses was discussed but not acted upon.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-18 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-29 for Aqua Pit CDBG grant close-out (unanimous)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $375,217.65 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-17 for US-12 road diet (unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance 844 amending animal-related ordinances (unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance 845 amending Chapter 610 Animal Control (unanimous)
• Approved second budget amendments for FY 2020-21 (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-36 setting public hearing for FY 2021-22 budget (unanimous)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will hold an electronic regular meeting on May 5, 2021, to conduct business including discussion of Union City's withdrawal from the Michigan South Central Power Agency, the MISO capacity auction, a land offer from Willowbrook, a solar RFP, and an Aspen Wireless progress report. The board will also administer the oath of office to Travis Machan and hold a budget workshop after the meeting.

• Village of Union City withdrawal from MSCPA
• MISO Capacity Auction
• Willowbrook Land Offer
• Solar RFP Discussion
• FY 2021/2022 Budget Workshop

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved selling 14 acres on Willowbrook Road at $30,000 per acre, forwarding the request to City Council for authorization. The board also approved the consent agenda, including March 2021 financial reports and bills. Director Budd reported on the tentative agreement for Union City's withdrawal from MSCPA, MISO capacity auction results, and discussed solar RFP options. No public comments were received.

• Approved sale of 14 acres on Willowbrook Road at $30,000/acre, forwarded to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including March 2021 operation reports, financial statements, and bills (unanimous)
• Discussed Union City withdrawal from MSCPA; formal adoption pending future meeting
• Discussed solar RFP options for city-owned property; staff to investigate
• Noted MISO capacity auction Zone 7 cleared at $5.00/MW-day for 2021/2022

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold public hearings on three Special Land Use Permit requests for adult-use recreational marijuana facilities: a grow operation at 127 Industrial Ave., a retail store at 355 S. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. F, and a process/retail operation at 290 Butters Ave. The meeting will be conducted remotely via Zoom due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with public comment accepted by phone or email.

• Public hearing for SUP21-10: Yuma Way, LLC, adult-use recreational marijuana grow (Class C) at 127 Industrial Ave.
• Public hearing for SUP21-11: Northeast Alternatives, Inc., adult-use recreational marijuana retail at 355 S. Willowbrook Rd. Ste. F.
• Public hearing for SUP21-12: Galenas Michigan, LLC, adult-use recreational marijuana process and retail at 290 Butters Ave.
• Approval of minutes from April 19, 2021 meeting
• Remote meeting procedures and public comment instructions

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved three special land use permits for adult-use recreational marijuana facilities: a grow operation at 127 Industrial Ave., a retail store at 355 S. Willowbrook Rd., and a processing/retail facility at 290 Butters Ave. The commission also voted to request a 90-day moratorium on new grow and retail licenses in the industrial zone.

• Approved special land use permit for Yuma Way, LLC adult-use marijuana grow Class C at 127 Industrial Ave. (9-0)
• Approved special land use permit for Northeast Alternatives, Inc. adult-use marijuana retail at 355 S. Willowbrook Rd. (8-1)
• Approved special land use permit for Galenas Michigan, LLC adult-use marijuana processing and retail at 290 Butters Ave., with site plan and odor mediation plan required (9-0)
• Requested City Council place 90-day moratorium on future grow licenses in industrial zone (8-1)
• Requested City Council place 90-day moratorium on future retail licenses in industrial zone (8-1)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a public hearing on closing out CDBG funding for the Aqua Pit project, consider several resolutions including street closures for the Rotary anniversary and Memorial Day events, and discuss the FY 2021-22 budget. The consent agenda includes routine items like minutes, an investment report, and a farmers market request.

• Public hearing on Resolution No. 21-29 to close out CDBG funding for Aqua Pit
• Resolution No. 21-28 for temporary closure of S. Hanchett Street on August 14, 2021 for Rotary 100th anniversary
• Resolution No. 21-31 for temporary closure of US-12 on May 31, 2021 for Memorial Day events
• Resolution No. 21-17 regarding US-12 Road Diet
• FY 2021-22 budget workshop discussion

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a remote special meeting to consider a special land use permit for a single-family residence at 87 W. Pearl St. and a zoning text amendment to regulate non-household animals in residential areas. They will also receive a DDA update and discuss the configuration of N. Hanchett St. The meeting is conducted electronically due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Special Land Use Permit SUP21-09 for single-family residential use at 87 W. Pearl St.
• Zoning Text Amendment ZTA21-01 to regulate non-household animals in residential areas
• DDA update from Audrey Tappenden
• Discussion of N. Hanchett St. configuration

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved a Special Land Use Permit for Jason Salinaz to operate a single-family residential use at 87 W. Pearl St., a former salon building in the C-2 Central Business District. The commission also approved a zoning text amendment to regulate non-household animals, allowing limited hobby animals like chickens and rabbits on residential properties. Both decisions passed with majority votes, with one commissioner dissenting on the animal ordinance.

• Approved Special Land Use Permit SUP21-09 for single-family residential use at 87 W. Pearl St. (7-0)
• Approved Zoning Text Amendment ZTA21-01 to regulate non-household animals, allowing hobby animals and up to two bee hives on residential properties (6-1, Cole dissenting)

Historic District Commission

The Coldwater Downtown Historic District Commission will hold an electronic regular meeting on April 14, 2021, to conduct routine business. The agenda includes approving minutes from a prior meeting, considering a resolution for the 2022 meeting schedule, reviewing a staff summary on demolition by neglect, and discussing the 2020 annual report. Public comments will be accepted via phone.

• Resolution 21-24 regarding 2022 meetings of the Downtown Historic District Commission
• Staff summary on demolition by neglect and potential commission actions
• 2020 annual report review
• Approval of minutes from July 8, 2020 meeting

The Coldwater Historic District Commission held an electronic meeting via Zoom on April 14, 2021, with four members present. They approved the July 8, 2020 minutes and adopted Resolution No. 21-24 setting the 2022 meeting schedule. Two informational presentations on demolition by neglect and the 2020 annual report were given with no action taken.

• Approved July 8, 2020 minutes (4-0)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-24 for 2022 meetings (4-0)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a regular remote meeting to consider several property-related resolutions, including an easement for 8 S. Monroe Street, the sale of a vacant lot at 28 Thompson Blvd., and an MDOT liability waiver for Four Corners Park improvements. The agenda also includes routine consent items, approval of bills totaling $175,019.07, and a discussion on continuing virtual meetings.

• Resolution No. 21-12 and easement Agreement No. 21-03 for 8 S. Monroe Street
• Resolution No. 21-19 and sales Agreement No. A21-04 for vacant lot at 28 Thompson Blvd.
• Resolution No. 21-21 for MDOT liability waiver for Four Corners Park improvements
• Approval of bills and accounts: $175,019.07
• Discussion on continuation of virtual meetings

The Coldwater City Council approved the sale of a vacant lot at 28 Thompson Blvd. and adopted several resolutions, including an easement for 8 S. Monroe Street and an MDOT liability waiver for Four Corners Park improvements. All votes were unanimous. The council also discussed continuing virtual meetings and resident concerns about parking and a store closing.

• Adopted Resolution No. 21-12 and approved easement Agreement No. 21-03 for 8 S. Monroe Street (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-19 and approved sales Agreement No. A21-04 for vacant lot at 28 Thompson Blvd. (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-21 for MDOT liability waiver for Four Corners Park improvements (unanimous)
• Approved Consent Agenda Items 1-7 (unanimous)
• Approved Bills and Accounts totaling $175,019.07 (unanimous)
• Approved and placed on file the City Manager's report (unanimous)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will hold a regular meeting to consider several action items, including an agreement with Aspen Wireless for technical support, a bid recommendation for the Michigan Avenue Substation inspection and maintenance, and recognition awards. The board will also discuss the budget and receive a progress report on the Aspen Wireless fiber project. Public comment will be taken at the beginning and end of the meeting.

• Aspen Wireless FTTP Technical Support Services Agreement
• Michigan Avenue Substation Inspection and Maintenance Bid Recommendation
• RP3 Award
• Safety Award of Excellence
• Budget Workshop Discussion

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities approved a technical support services agreement with Aspen Wireless for Tier 3 support and fiber-to-the-premises assistance. They also approved a $35,490 bid from Turner Electrical Services LLC for five-year preventative maintenance of the Michigan Avenue substation. The board set its annual budget workshop for May 5, 2021, and received reports on awards and staff changes.

• Approved the FTTP Technical Support Services Agreement with Aspen Wireless, authorizing the Director to execute it.
• Approved the bid from Turner Electrical Services LLC for Michigan Avenue substation inspection and maintenance at $35,490.
• Approved the consent agenda, including minutes, financial reports, and pension plan statements.
• Scheduled the annual strategic budget workshop for May 5, 2021, after the board meeting.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:58 p.m.

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a remote regular meeting on March 22, 2021, to consider several resolutions and an ordinance, including a bid award for the Four Corners Park project, a revision to the solar net billing program, and water and wastewater rate adjustments. The council will also discuss a declaration to continue remote meetings, receive presentations on Council Chamber upgrades and the 2020 Neighborhood Services Department report, and enter a closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement. The agenda includes routine consent items and a city manager's report.

• Resolution No. 21-14: Four Corners Park project bid award
• Ordinance No. 843: Solar Net Billing program revision (Chapter 1044)
• Resolution No. 21-13: Water and Wastewater rate adjustment
• Resolution No. 21-18: Declaration of State of Emergency to continue remote meetings
• Bills and Accounts: $176,240.48

The Coldwater City Council approved a $478,933 bid from Parrish Excavating for the Four Corners Park project, adopted Ordinance No. 843 revising the solar net billing program, and adopted Resolution No. 21-13 adjusting water and wastewater rates. The council also approved Resolution No. 21-18 to continue remote meetings under a state of emergency, and entered closed session to discuss a collective bargaining agreement. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Consent Agenda items 1-5, including minutes and board appointments.
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $176,240.48.
• Approved and filed the City Manager's report.
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-14, awarding the Four Corners Park bid to Parrish Excavating for $478,933.00.
• Adopted Ordinance No. 843, amending solar net billing program rules.
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-13, adjusting water and wastewater rates.
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-18, declaring a state of emergency to continue remote meetings.
• Entered closed session to discuss collective bargaining agreement.

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a remote special meeting to consider three Special Land Use Permit requests for adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishments on E. Chicago St. The commission will also review its 2020 annual report and approve minutes from the February 1 meeting. Public comments will be taken by phone or email.

• SUP21-05: Birds of a Feather, LLC – adult-use marijuana retail at 894 E. Chicago St.
• SUP21-06: JABBS, LLC – adult-use marijuana retail at 553 E. Chicago St.
• SUP21-07: Revolution Strains, LLC – adult-use marijuana retail at 710 E. Chicago St.
• 2020 Annual Report review
• Approval of February 1, 2021 meeting minutes

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved special land use permits for three adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishments: Birds of a Feather, LLC at 894 E. Chicago St., JABBS, LLC at 553 E. Chicago St., and Revolution Strains, Inc. at 710 E. Chicago St. The approval for Revolution Strains also rescinded a previously granted permit for 740 E. Chicago St. All approvals were subject to requirements in Ordinance 880 and Section 4.21 of the Zoning Ordinance. Commissioner Dave Rumsey voted against the first two permits.

• Approved special land use permit for Birds of a Feather, LLC to operate an adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishment at 894 E. Chicago St. (8-1, Rumsey dissenting).
• Approved special land use permit for JABBS, LLC to operate an adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishment at 553 E. Chicago St. (8-1, Rumsey dissenting).
• Approved special land use permit for Revolution Strains, Inc. to operate an adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishment at 710 E. Chicago St. (unanimous).
• Rescinded the previously approved special land use permit for Revolution Strains, Inc. at 740 E. Chicago St. (unanimous).
• Approved the minutes of the February 1, 2021 regular meeting (unanimous).
• Excused the absence of Commissioner Salwa Alsuraimi (unanimous).

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will consider several bid awards for infrastructure projects, including Western Avenue resurfacing and Sauk River Drive improvements, plus a new police patrol vehicle and a solar net billing ordinance change. They will also discuss the sale of a vacant lot and an easement for a Monroe Street property, along with the annual recreation report and fund balance projects.

• Resolution 21-10: Western Avenue resurfacing project bid award
• Resolution 21-11: Sauk River Drive improvements project bid award
• Resolution 21-15: Oak Grove Cemetery storage garage bid award
• Resolution 21-16: Purchase of new police patrol vehicle
• Ordinance 843: Solar Net Billing program revision

The Coldwater City Council approved using approximately $830,000 of fund balance for Fiscal Year 2021-2022 to proceed with plans for downtown restrooms, additional sidewalks, soccer fields, a canoe/kayak launch, and Four Corners Park. The council also adopted resolutions for road and cemetery projects, introduced agreements for property sales and easements, and introduced an ordinance revising the solar net billing program. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $830,000 fund balance for Proposal A projects (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-10 for Western Avenue resurfacing bid (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-11 for Sauk River Drive improvements bid (unanimous)
• Introduced sales Agreement A21-04 for vacant lot at 28 Thompson Blvd (unanimous)
• Introduced easement Agreement A21-03 for 8 S. Monroe Street (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-15 for Oak Grove Cemetery storage garage bid (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 21-16 for new police patrol vehicle purchase (unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance 843 for solar net billing program revision (unanimous)

Board of Public Utilities

The Board is scheduled to discuss water and wastewater rate adjustments and revisions to the Solar Net Billing Program. The meeting agenda also includes a bid recommendation for the Sauk River Drive water main replacement.

• Water and Wastewater Rate Adjustments discussion
• Solar Net Billing Program Revisions discussion
• Sauk River Drive Water Main Replacement Bid Recommendation
• Council Chamber Upgrade Presentation
• Aspen Wireless Progress Report

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities unanimously approved water and wastewater rate adjustments, forwarding Resolution No. 21-13 to City Council. It also approved revisions to the Solar Net Billing Program, forwarding Ordinance No. 843 to City Council, and awarded a $581,746 bid to Parrish Excavating, Inc. for the Sauk River Drive water main replacement. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved water and wastewater rate adjustments, forwarded Resolution No. 21-13 to City Council (unanimous)
• Approved Solar Net Billing Program revisions, forwarded Ordinance No. 843 to City Council (unanimous)
• Awarded $581,746 bid to Parrish Excavating, Inc. for Sauk River Drive water main replacement (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including minutes, reports, and bills (unanimous)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council will hold a regular remote meeting to consider several items, including first budget amendments for FY 2020-2021, a zoning ordinance amendment (Ordinance No. 842) to expand administrative site plan review, extension-granting, and home occupations, and a policy amendment for poverty exemptions. The council will also receive the 2020 Annual Police Department Report and discuss electric capacity with the CBPU director, followed by a closed session on electric capacity and pricing.

• First budget amendments for FY 2020-2021
• Ordinance No. 842: amend Planning and Zoning Code for administrative site plan review, extensions, home occupations
• Resolution No. 21-09 and Policy No. P21-01: poverty exemption application policy amendment
• 2020 Annual Police Department Report by Joseph Scheid
• Electric capacity discussion with CBPU Director Jeffrey Budd

The Coldwater City Council approved several routine items and adopted Ordinance No. 842, which amends the Planning and Zoning Code to expand administrative site plan review, extension-granting for approved actions, and home occupations. The council also approved the first budget amendments for FY 2020-2021, a policy on poverty exemptions, and a $114,384.32 bills payment. A proposed sales agreement for a 200-unit apartment project at 600 West Chicago Street was withdrawn by the developer, and no further action was taken.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-3 (minutes) (unanimous)
• Approved bills and accounts of $114,384.32 (unanimous)
• Approved first budget amendments for FY 2020-2021 (unanimous)
• Adopted Ordinance No. 842 expanding administrative site plan review, extensions, and home occupations (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-09 and Policy No. P21-01 on poverty exemptions (unanimous)
• Approved and filed City Manager's report (unanimous)
• Entered closed session to discuss electric capacity and pricing (unanimous)

City Council

The Coldwater City Council is holding a special joint meeting with the Planning Commission to discuss the vision for the west side of the city, specifically including 600 W. Chicago Street. The meeting is remote, with public comment taken by phone. No formal decisions are listed on the agenda; it is a discussion item.

• Discussion of vision for west side of Coldwater, including 600 W. Chicago Street
• Remote meeting with public comment via toll-free numbers
• Joint meeting with Planning Commission

At a special joint meeting, the Coldwater City Council and Planning Commission reached a consensus that the undeveloped greenspace at 600 W. Chicago Street should not be developed into a large apartment complex. They discussed alternative uses such as a park, trails, soccer field, marina, garden, band shell, or ice arena, but took no formal action. The meeting was otherwise procedural, with no public comments and no other decisions.

• Consensus reached to not develop 600 W. Chicago St. into a large apartment complex
• Discussed alternative uses including park, trails, soccer field, marina, garden, band shell, ice arena

City Council

The Coldwater City Council approved the purchase of a body camera system for the police department and introduced Ordinance No. 842 to expand administrative site plan review, extension-granting, and home occupations. The council also tabled a proposed land sale agreement for 600 W. Chicago Street for two weeks and rejected Resolution No. 21-08 after a closed session on collective bargaining.

• Adopted Resolution No. 21-07 for police body camera system (unanimous)
• Introduced Ordinance No. 842 for zoning code amendments (unanimous)
• Tabled Agreement No. A21-01 for sale of 600 W. Chicago Street (unanimous)
• Rejected Resolution No. 21-08 (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items 1-9 (unanimous)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $125,755.64 (unanimous)
• Approved City Manager's Report (unanimous)
• Entered closed session for collective bargaining (unanimous)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities will hold a remote meeting to discuss routine reports and several ongoing projects. Key items include a power supply cost adjustment discussion, a six-month financial review, and progress reports on the Butters Avenue Substation and Big Boy Lift Station construction. The board will also consider a sponsorship request from Tibbits and discuss electric capacity.

• Tibbits Sponsorship Request
• Power Supply Cost Adjustment Discussion
• Six Month Financial Review
• Butters Avenue Substation Construction Progress Report
• Big Boy Lift Station Construction Progress Report

City Council

The Coldwater City Council approved routine items including consent agenda, bills, and a snow plow truck purchase, but tabled the proposed sale of vacant land at 600 W. Chicago Street until the next meeting. The council also received the annual fire department report as a presentation only.

• Approved consent agenda items 1-4 (minutes, investment report, board appointment) (unanimous)
• Approved bills and accounts totaling $92,935.31 (unanimous)
• Approved and placed on file the City Manager's Report (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution No. 21-05 for purchase of snow plow truck (unanimous)
• Tabled introduction of Agreement No. A21-01 for sale of vacant land at 600 W. Chicago Street until Feb. 8, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Public Utilities

The Coldwater Board of Public Utilities held a remote meeting to review routine financial reports and construction updates for major infrastructure projects. The agenda includes progress reports on the Butters Avenue Substation, Big Boy Lift Station, and Aspen Wireless, along with a decision on purchasing a tractor and rotary cutter. The meeting was held via telephone and video conferencing due to state emergency orders regarding COVID-19.

• Construction progress report for Butters Avenue Substation
• Construction progress report for Big Boy Lift Station
• Progress report for Aspen Wireless project
• Purchase of a tractor and rotary cutter
• Review of Vendor Managed Inventory (VMI) system

Planning Commission

The Coldwater Planning Commission will hold a remote meeting to consider three special land use permit requests: converting a former funeral home at 27 Marshall St. into a seven-unit apartment building, and opening adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishments at 351 and 352 S. Willowbrook Rd. The commission will also take public comments and approve minutes from the previous meeting.

• Special land use request by Southern Michigan Bank & Trust to convert 27 Marshall St. into a 7-unit multi-family dwelling
• Special land use request by Lume Cannabis for an adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishment at 351 S. Willowbrook Rd.
• Special land use request by Green Peak Industries for an adult-use recreational marijuana retail establishment at 352 S. Willowbrook Rd.
• Public hearings for all three special land use requests
• Remote meeting via phone and video due to COVID-19 state of emergency

The Coldwater Planning Commission approved three special land use permits: one for a seven-unit multi-family dwelling at 27 Marshall St., and two for adult-use recreational marihuana retail establishments at 351 and 352 S. Willowbrook Rd. All votes were unanimous. The commission also approved the minutes from the December 7, 2020 meeting with corrections.

• Approved special land use permit for multi-family dwelling at 27 Marshall St. (unanimous)
• Approved special land use permit for Lume Cannabis retail at 351 S. Willowbrook Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved special land use permit for Green Peak Industries retail at 352 S. Willowbrook Rd. (unanimous)
• Approved December 7, 2020 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)