City Commission - Regular Session
Regular MeetingGrand Rapids, MI · September 19, 2023
Minutes
OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS
OF THE
City Commission
OF THE
CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN
Regular Session, September 19, 2023
CALL TO ORDER
Commission was called to order by Mayor Rosalynn Bliss at 5:30 PM
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Bliss, Commissioner O’Connor, Commissioner Ysasi,
Commissioner Perdue, Commissioner Robbins, Commissioner Knight
Absent: Commissioner Moody (Excused)
The roll was called by the City Clerk.
Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Perdue.
Yeas: Bliss, O’Connor, Ysasi, Perdue, Robbins, Knight
Excused: Nathaniel Moody
Motion to excuse Commissioner Moody
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
On the motion of Com. Jon O’Connor, supported by Com. Drew Robbins, the
reading of the minutes of the Regular Session of September 5, 2023 was
waived and said minutes were Accepted as presented. Carried.
PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS
92913 Result: Referred to Committee on Appointments.
Communication from James Maioho regarding their resignation from the Vital
Streets Oversight Commission.
92914 Result: Received and Filed.
Communication received from Mark Baker regarding street lighting.
92915 Result: Received and Filed.
Communication received from Celia Thaxter regarding street lighting.
92916 Result: Received and Filed.
Communication received from Lucas Leverett regarding a recent
communication and ordinances.
REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS
1
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 2
92917 Result: Received and Filed.
Comptroller’s report for the period of August 23, 2023 through September 5,
2023 in the amount of $37,063,619.72.
92918 Result: Received and Filed.
Treasurer’s report for the period of August 23, 2023 through September 5,
2023.
CONSENT AGENDA:
A. CONSENT AGENDA
92919 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
Adoption of the following items under the consent agenda.
B. COMMITTEE ON APPOINTMENTS
C. FISCAL COMMITTEE
92920 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS, Grand Rapids Pride Center, 343 Atlas Avenue, S.E.,
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49506, has applied to the Bureau of State Lottery for a
Bingo/Raffle License and, as part of the required licensing procedure, has
requested recognition as a local civic organization from the City Commission
pursuant to MCLA 432.103a(i)(ii); therefore,
RESOLVED that the City Commission hereby finds that, to the best of
its knowledge, Grand Rapids Pride Center exists as a non-profit organization
which conducts a major portion of its activities within the City of Grand Rapids
and, therefore, hereby officially recognizes Grand Rapids Pride Center as a
local civic organization pursuant to MCLA 432.103a(i)(ii).
92921 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS, The Fountain Hill Center for Counseling and Consultation
of 534 Fountain Street, NE, Grand Rapids, MI 49503, has applied to the
Bureau of State Lottery for a Bingo/Raffle License and, as part of the required
licensing procedure, has requested recognition as a local civic organization
from the City Commission pursuant to MCL 432.103a(i)(ii); therefore
RESOLVED that the City Commission hereby finds that, to the best of
its knowledge, The Fountain Hill Center for Counseling and Consultation exists
as a non-profit local civic organization which conducts a major portion of its
activities within the City of Grand Rapids and, therefore, hereby officially
recognizes The Fountain Hill Center as a local civic organization pursuant to
MCL 432.103a(i)(ii).
3 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
92922 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
RESOLVED that the Comptroller’s Office is hereby authorized to pay
ERS International $19,175.00 for the extrication training provided through the
2020 FEMA – AFG Grant.
92923 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
RESOLVED:
1. That the City Commission authorizes the acceptance of a continued grant
award for the benefit of motor vehicle theft prevention program for the
ATPA portion of $671,878 with a local match of $314,486; and
2. That the awarded Grant CATT 22-24 between the City of Grand Rapids
and the Auto Theft Prevention Authority be approved, and the Mayor is
authorized to execute said agreement and related documents upon
approval as to form by the City Attorney.
92924 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS, the City of Grand Rapids and the Interurban Transit
Partnership maintain a long-standing relationship for operation of the DASH
bus service and desire to continue their operating partnership; therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That a three-year contract between the City and the Interurban Transit
Partnership, for operation related to the DASH bus service, which was
approved as to form by the City Attorney, be approved and made effective
October 1, 2023; and
2. That the Mayor is authorized to execute the aforesaid agreement on behalf
of the City of Grand Rapids, after approval of same by the City Attorney;
and
3. That expenditures are authorized in an amount not to exceed $9,300,000
to cover operating expenses and contract terms; and
4. That the City Comptroller is hereby authorized and directed to make
payment, in amounts and to said payees, as the Mobile GR Department
requests in connection with the aforesaid services.
92925 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 4
WHEREAS:
1. The City of Grand Rapids operations have several Compressed Natural
Gas (“CNG”) vehicles in the fleet for delivering services; and
2. The Interurban Transit Authority (“The Rapid”) recently constructed a
CNG/RNG fueling station for their bus fleet and is willing to sell CNG/RNG
fuel to the City; and
3. A long partnership exists between the City and The Rapid; and
4. Entering a fueling agreement benefits the City operations in terms of costs
and efficiencies; therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That City Commission hereby authorizes a fueling agreement with The
Rapid for purchasing CNG/RNG fuel in an annual not to exceed amount of
$150,000 for a one-year term with two one-year renewals; and
2. That the Mayor is authorized to execute such agreement with The Rapid in
a form approved by the City Attorney; and
3. That the City Comptroller is hereby authorized and directed to make
payments to said payee for fueling services of City vehicles.
92926 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. The City has administrative services agreements with Blue Cross Blue
Shield of Michigan and Delta Dental which expire this year on 12/31/2023;
and
2. The City’s Health Insurance Request for Proposal Review Team has
extensively reviewed bids and has made its recommendation here within;
therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That the City Commission hereby approves a new three-year contract with
Priority Health as the third party administrator for medical benefits and
allows them to pay claims upon authorization from the City; and
2. That the City Commission hereby approves a new three-year contract with
Disclosed Rx as the pharmacy benefits manager and allows them to pay
claims upon authorization from the City; and
5 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
3. That the City Commission hereby approves a new three-year contract with
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan as the third party administrator for
vision benefits and allows them to pay claims upon authorization from the
City; and
4. That the City Commission hereby approves a new three-year contract with
Delta Dental as the third party administrator for dental benefits and allows
them to pay claims upon authorization from the City; and
5. That the Mayor is authorized to execute such contract(s) subject to review
and approval by the City Attorney.
92927 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. The City of Grand Rapids Water System is seeking approval to execute
Lease Agreements between the City and Verizon to utilize the Knapp and
Leonard Water Tanks, located at 1856 Herrick Ave NE; 2723 Leonard St
NW in the City of Grand Rapids, MI.; and
2. That the terms of the agreements were for six five (5) year terms, and
Verizon requests to renew the leases for five-year terms for an additional
30 years; and
3. That the new annual site lease payments will take effect November 17,
2023, at a rate of $48,050; the annual fee shall increase 10 percent every
five years. Funds shall be deposited in Water Supply System account
number 5910-536-1000-6671; therefore
RESOLVED that the Mayor is authorized to execute the Lease
Agreements with Verizon to utilize the Knapp and Leonard Water Tanks in a
form approved by the City Attorney.
92928 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
RESOLVED:
1. That City Commission Proceeding No. 92640 of June 13, 2023, is hereby
rescinded; and
2. That an Agreement is approved between the City and Hotel & Leisure
Advisors for a feasibility assessment of Indian Trails Golf Course; and
3. That the Agreement is for an amount not to exceed $79,800; and
4. That the Mayor is authorized to execute the agreement on behalf of the
City in a form to be approved by the City Attorney.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 6
92929 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
RESOLVED:
1. That an agreement between the City and Mel Trotter Ministries for personal
storage program operations in an amount “not-to-exceed” Two Hundred
Thousand Dollars ($200,000) is hereby approved; and
2. That the agreement period shall be from October 1, 2023, through
September 30, 2024; and
3. That upon approval as to form by the City Attorney, the Mayor is authorized
to execute said agreement, related documents and necessary
modifications and extensions of time.
92930 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
RESOLVED:
1. That the City accepts a grant award in the amount of $6,600,000 from the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the FFY 2022
Lead-Based Paint Hazard Reduction Program; and
2. That an agreement between the City and the U.S. Department of Housing
and Urban Development for the FFY 2022 Lead-Based Paint Hazard
Reduction Program be approved, and the City Manager or his designee, is
authorized to execute said agreement and any amendments thereto in a
form approved by the City Attorney; and
3. That contractual agreements and/or memoranda of understanding may be
executed with organizations to carry out activities specified in the grant
agreement, and the Mayor is authorized to execute said agreements; to
approve extensions to periods of performance and non-substantial project
amendments; and other necessary documents related to the grant in a
form approved by the City Attorney.
92931 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. On June 21, 2022 (Proceeding No. 91805), the City Commission approved
awarding a contract to McGraw Construction, Inc. and authorizing
expenditures in connection with the project Structural Repairs at LaGrave
Fire Station.
2. On September 5, 2023 (Proceeding No. 92900), the City Commission
approved an increase in the scope of work and authorizing expenditures to
the contract with McGraw Construction, Inc. in connection with the project
7 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
Structural Repairs at LaGrave Fire Station.
3. It is necessary to supplement the project budget for Structural Repairs at
LaGrave Fire Station by transferring previously approved budget amounts
of $24,100.00 from Capital Improvement Fund Project accounts; therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That the aforesaid Budget Substitution in the amount of $24,100.00 for
Structural Repairs at LaGrave Fire Station be approved and the Budget
Office is authorized to execute the transfer on behalf of the City.
92932 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. On July 25, 2023 (Proceeding No. 92778), the City Commission approved
awarding a contract to Allied Mechanical Services, Inc. and authorizing
expenditures in connection with the project Replacement of North Header
Flowmeter at Market Avenue Pump Station; and
2. It is necessary to supplement the project budget for Replacement of North
Header Flowmeter at Market Avenue Pump Station by transferring
previously approved budget amounts of $464,324 from the Sewer System
Fund Infrastructure Investment Project account; therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That the aforesaid Budget Substitution in the amount of $464,324 for
Replacement of North Header Flowmeter at Market Avenue Pump Station
be approved and the Budget Office is authorized to execute the transfer on
behalf of the City.
92933 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. On August 8, 2023 (Proceeding No. 92834), the City Commission
approved an agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation
and authorized expenditures in connection with the project Reconstruction
of State Street from Lafayette Avenue to Madison Avenue.
2. It is necessary to supplement the project budget for Reconstruction of
State Street from Lafayette Avenue to Madison Avenue by transferring
previously approved budget amounts of $296,337.05 from the Water
System and Sewer System Funds Infrastructure Investment Project
accounts; therefore
RESOLVED:
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 8
1. That the aforesaid Budget Substitution in the amount of $296,337.05 for
Reconstruction of State Street from Lafayette Avenue to Madison Avenue
be approved and the Budget Office is authorized to execute the transfer on
behalf of the City.
92934 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS, the Fiscal Committee has considered the attached bids;
therefore
RESOLVED that contracts be prepared between the City and the
following vendors, and that the Mayor be authorized to sign the contracts on
behalf of the City, as follows, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney:
1. USALCO, LLC
One-year term contract with two, one-year renewal options for the “as-
needed” purchase of bulk aluminum sulfate for the Lake Filtration Plant
from USALCO, LLC for an annual “not-to-exceed” amount of $482,000.00;
the estimated three-year total amount is $1,446,000.00.
FURTHER RESOLVED that the Purchasing Agent be authorized to
proceed with awards to the following vendors:
2. Graybar Electric Company
Voss Lighting
One-year term contracts with two, one-year renewal options for the
purchase of lighting and electrical supplies for Citywide use as follows:
Graybar Electric Company MiDEAL #18000000463 $60,000.00
Voss Lighting NCPA #02-83 $60,000.00
The total annual “not-to-exceed” annual amount requested for all contracts
is $120,000.00; the estimated three-year total annual “not-to-exceed”
amount is $360,000.00. The individual contract amounts by vendor are
expected to be adjusted based on need and use, but will not exceed the
aggregate total approved.
D. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
92935 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS, it is necessary to approve a Construction Agreement, and
accept a Public Utilities Easement for the construction of public sanitary sewer
and water main facilities in connection with Sanitary Sewer and Water Main in
Braeburn Street (Braeburn Plat); therefore
RESOLVED:
9 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
1. That the aforesaid Construction Agreement between the City of Grand
Rapids, Grand Rapids Charter Township and Koetje Builders & Developers
LLC (Developer) be approved and that, upon approval as to form by the
City Attorney, the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to execute said
Agreement on behalf of the City; and
2. That the City accept a Public Utilities Easement for the construction and
maintenance of public utilities from the following property owner, with
description of the aforesaid Easement and for the nominal considerations
as noted, which were paid by the developer.
Koetje Builders & Developers LLC $1.00
547 Baldwin Street
Jenison, MI 49428
4770 Braeburn Street SE, Parcel No. 41-14-36-228-003
3. That the City Clerk is hereby authorized and directed to record the
aforesaid Easement with the Kent County Register of Deeds.
92936 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS, a proposal was received on August 30, 2023 for the
following project:
Reconstruction of Lyon Square from the Grand River to Monroe Avenue
(hereinafter referred to as the “Project”)
and Rockford Construction Company (Rockford) submitted a proposal of
$10,321,660; therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That the proposal of Rockford be accepted and that, upon approval as to
form by the City Attorney, the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized to
execute the professional services agreement for the Project on behalf of
the City.
2. That total expenditures for the Project be authorized in an amount not to
exceed $12,462,996 which includes the costs of the professional services
agreement, construction phase services including inspection by
Progressive, previously authorized design phase services by Progressive,
testing, administration, and contingencies. Said amount of $12,462,996 to
be charged to the applicable DDA and Capital Improvement Fund codes
and KCDC.
3. That the City Comptroller is hereby authorized and directed to make
payment, in amounts and to said payees, as the City Engineer or his
designee requests in connection with the Project.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 10
4. That the City of Grand Rapids, pursuant to Section 1.150-2 of the Treasury
Regulations promulgated pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986,
as amended, declares its intent to reimburse itself the costs of the Project
and other related costs in an amount not to exceed $12,462,996 through
the issuance of tax-exempt bonds.
5. That a copy of this resolution be available for inspection at the City Clerk’s
Office, 2nd Floor, City Hall, 300 Monroe Avenue N.W., Grand Rapids,
Michigan 49503.
92937 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. The City has received Michigan Department of Transportation
Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grants in connection with the
following project:
Improvements in Covell Avenue from Lake Michigan Drive to Bridge Street and
from Richmond Street to Walker Avenue and in Ken-O-Sha Industrial Park
Drive from Eastern Avenue to Easterly End
(MDOT Contract No. 23-5358)
(hereinafter referred to as the “Project”)
2. It is necessary to enter into an agreement with the Michigan Department of
Transportation in connection with the Project and to authorize expenditures
in connection therewith; therefore
RESOLVED:
1. That the City enter into an agreement with the Michigan Department of
Transportation for the Project and that, upon approval as to form by the City
Attorney, the Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to execute the
same on behalf of the City.
2. That expenditures for the local share of costs for the Project be authorized
in an amount not to exceed $678,265 which includes the costs of the
construction contract, previously authorized design phase services by
Holland Engineering Inc. (Holland), construction phase services including
inspection by Holland, traffic safety and street lighting force account
work/public information program, administration, and contingencies. Said
amount of $678,265 to be charged to the applicable Vital Streets Fund
code.
3. That the City Comptroller is hereby authorized and directed to make
payment, in amounts and to said payees, as the City Engineer or his
designee requests in connection with the Project.
11 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
92938 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
WHEREAS:
1. The City of Grand Rapids has adopted the core principles of asset
management in its ongoing process of maintaining, upgrading and
operating its physical assets cost-effectively, based on a continuous
physical inventory and assessment of its local and major streets networks
including bridges; and
2. Act 325 of the State of Michigan Public Acts of 2018 requires that local
road agencies submit an asset management plan for roads, bridges and
related transportation infrastructure; and
3. The City of Grand Rapids has been following, and will continue to follow,
the core principles of asset management in the ongoing maintenance and
rehabilitation of its transportation assets; and
4. The City of Grand Rapids has an approved Transportation Asset
Management Plan dated September 2020 for pavements, bridges,
stormwater and traffic signal assets for the process of maintaining,
upgrading and operating these physical assets under the City’s jurisdiction
and is required every three years to update, accept and submit said plan,
therefore;
RESOLVED:
1. That the City Commission hereby accepts the Transportation Asset
Management Plan, September 2023.
E. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE
92939 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
RESOLVED, that a special meeting of the City Commission is
scheduled to be held at City Hall, City Commission Chambers, 300 Monroe
Avenue NW, Grand Rapids on Tuesday, October 31, 2023 at 9:00 am, and the
City Clerk is directed to publish notice of same in accordance with the Open
Meetings Act, PA 267 of 1976, as amended.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 12
ORDINANCES
92940 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Ysasi.
Yeas: Bliss, O’Connor, Ysasi, Perdue, Robbins, Knight
Excused: Nathaniel Moody
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND MAP 45 OF CHAPTER 61 OF TITLE V
OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS, THE ZONING
ORDINANCE
ORDINANCE NO. 2023 - 42
THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS DO ORDAIN:
Section 1. That 1935 Breton Road SE located on Map 45 of Chapter
61 of Title V of the City Code of Grand Rapids be rezoned from SD-NOS
(Special District-Neighborhood Office Service) to MCN-C (Mid-20th Century
Neighborhood-Commercial) with a Conditional Rezoning Agreement to
facilitate the construction of an urgent care medical clinic.
The property is described as follows:
1935 Breton Road Se /41-18-04-477-027
Part of the Southeast 1/4 of Section 4, Town 6 North, Range 11 West,
described as commencing on the West line of Breton Road at a point 150 feet
North of the Northwest corner of Breton Road and Burton Street; thence North
200 feet along the West line of Breton Road parallel with the East line of said
Section; thence West 207 feet parallel with the South line of said Section;
thence Southerly parallel with the East Section line to a point 150 feet North
from the North line of Burton Street; thence East parallel with the South Section
line, 207 feet to the point of beginning.
92941 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Perdue.
Yeas: Bliss, O’Connor, Ysasi, Perdue, Robbins, Knight
Excused: Nathaniel Moody
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND MAP 25 OF CHAPTER 61 OF TITLE V
OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS, THE ZONING
ORDINANCE
ORDINANCE NO. 2023 - 43
THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS DO ORDAIN:
Section 1. That Map 25 of Chapter 61 of Title V of the City Code of
Grand Rapids be amended to facilitate a Major Amendment to a Planned
Redevelopment District to construct a cardiovascular ambulatory surgery
center at 2984 Bradford Street NW.
13 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
The property is described as follows:
2984 BRADFORD ST NE (41-14-22-400-057)
PART OF SE 1/4 COM 14.0 FT S 89D 37M 34S E ALONG E&W 1/4 LINE
FROM NW COR OF NE 1/4 SE 1/4 TH S 0D 11M 40S E PAR WITH E 1/8
LINE 275.54 FT TH N 89D 37M 34S W 14.0 FT TH S 0D 11M 40S E 63.0 FT
TH N 89D 37M 34S W 52.75 FT TH S 0D 11M 40S E 104.57 FT TH SELY
265.34 FT ALONG A 435.0 FT RAD CURVE TO LT /LONG CHORD BEARS S
17D 40M 09S E 261.25 FT/ TH S 0D 11M 40S E 179.10 FT TO NLY LINE OF
HWY I-96 TH N 66D 52M 20S W ALONG NLY LINE OF SD HWY 647.85 FT
TH NWLY 322.13 FT ALONG NLY LINE OF SD HWY ON A 26,570.05 FT RAD
CURVE TO RT /LONG CHORD BEARS N 66D 31M 30S W 322.13 FT/ TH N
44D 37M 27S E 82.48 FT TH N 64 D 33M 03S E 162.45 FT TH N 71D 34M
22S E 41.50 FT TH N 85D 10M 53S E 68.33 FT TH N 89D 34M 16S E 124.12
FT TH N 89D 40M 09S E 88.35 FT TH N 0D 22M 40S W 341.39 FT TO E&W
1/4 LINE TH S 89D 37M 36S E ALONG E&W 1/4 LINE 354.36 FT TO BEG *
SEC 22 T7N R11W 8.85 A. SPLIT 12/15/2004 FROM 41-14-22-400-046.
Section 2. As provided in Section 5.12.12.F. of the Zoning Ordinance,
that the following provisions are an integral part of this Ordinance:
1. That the application and plans submitted by the applicant and signed,
dated and stamped by the Planning Director, shall constitute the approved
plans, except if plan elements do not meet ordinance requirements and/or
as amended in this resolution.
2. That the use shall operate according to the application and per testimony
as recorded in the Planning Commission minutes.
3. That a Land Use Development Services (LUDS) permit, building permit,
and all other required permits be obtained from the City of Grand Rapids
prior to construction, demolition, or operation.
4. The required parking for the proposed facility is modified to 3 spaces per
1,000 sq. ft. of gross floor area.
5. That transparency shall be reduced consistent with the submitted
elevations.
6. That the NOS Zone District shall be assigned for the purposes of sign
regulations.
7. That the applicant participate in a cost sharing agreement with the City for
infrastructure improvements in the vicinity of the project.
8. That the proposed use will comply with all other applicable City ordinances
and policies and all State laws.
9. That this approval shall take effect as required by the City Commission
approval in accordance with Section 5.12.12.G. of the Zoning Ordinance.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 14
92942 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Robbins.
Yeas: Bliss, O’Connor, Ysasi, Perdue, Robbins, Knight
Excused: Nathaniel Moody
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND MAP 29 OF CHAPTER 61 OF TITLE V
OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS, THE ZONING
ORDINANCE
ORDINANCE NO. 2023 - 44
THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS DO ORDAIN:
Section 1. That Map 29 of Chapter 61 of Title V of the City Code of
Grand Rapids be amended to rezone 1058 Butterworth Street SW from the SD-
IT (Special District-Industrial Transportation) Zone District to the TN-LDR
(Traditional Neighborhood-Low Density Residential) Zone District.
The property is described as follows:
1058 Butterworth Street SW / 41-13-26-456-002
LOT 26 & E 1/2 OF LOT 28* LAMB & TOREN WEST SIDE ADDITION
92943 Result: Adopted.
Mover: O’Connor. Supporter: Perdue.
Yeas: Bliss, O’Connor, Ysasi, Perdue, Robbins, Knight
Excused: Nathaniel Moody
ORDINANCE NO. 2023 - 45
THE PEOPLE OF THE CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS DO ORDAIN:
Section 1. That the following constitutes amended additions to the
designated line items of Section 1 of Ordinance 2023-15, the Budget of the City
of Grand Rapids for Fiscal Year 2024, as amended.
General Operating Fund
Previously Approved Resources 186,273,435.49
Other -
From (To) Fund Balance 2,509,230.00
Total Amended Resources 188,782,665.49
Previously Approved Appropriations 186,273,435.49
Contingent (242,661.79)
General Admin Subsidies 242,661.79
Fire Department 1,574,078.00
General Administration 935,152.00
Total Amended Appropriations 188,782,665.49
Downtown Improvement District-Snowmelt Fund
15 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
Previously Approved Resources 187,592.00
Other -
From (To) Fund Balance 72,100.00
Total Amended Resources 259,692.00
Previously Approved Appropriations 187,592.00
Requested Changes 72,100.00
Total Amended Appropriations 259,692.00
Other Grants Fund
Previously Approved Resources 20,294,671.53
Other 5,220,260.00
From (To) Fund Balance -
Total Amended Resources 25,514,931.53
Previously Approved Appropriations 20,294,671.53
Requested Changes 5,220,260.00
Total Amended Appropriations 25,514,931.53
61st District Court Grants Fund
Previously Approved Resources 1,383,523.72
Other 86,094.60
From (To) Retained Earnings -
Total Amended Resources 1,469,618.32
Previously Approved Appropriations 1,383,523.72
Requested Changes 86,094.60
Total Amended Appropriations 1,469,618.32
Capital Improvement Fund
Previously Approved Resources 51,861,216.33
Other 7,331,946.79
From (To) Fund Balance -
Total Amended Resources 59,193,163.12
Previously Approved Appropriations 51,861,216.33
Requested Changes 7,331,946.79
Total Amended Appropriations 59,193,163.12
Parks Operating Fund
Previously Approved Resources 10,165,559.00
Other 243,250.00
From (To) Fund Balance (211,250.00)
Total Amended Resources 10,197,559.00
Previously Approved Appropriations 10,165,559.00
Requested Changes 32,000.00
Total Amended Appropriations 10,197,559.00
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 16
Motor Equipment Capital Fund
Previously Approved Resources 17,814,256.04
Other -
From (To) Retained Earnings 4,142,000.00
Total Amended Resources 21,956,256.04
Previously Approved Appropriations 17,814,256.04
Requested Changes 4,142,000.00
Total Amended Appropriations 21,956,256.04
Facilities Management Capital Fund
Previously Approved Resources 3,711,769.06
Other -
From (To) Retained Earnings 2,255,383.00
Total Amended Resources 5,967,152.06
Previously Approved Appropriations 3,711,769.06
Requested Changes 2,255,383.00
Total Amended Appropriations 5,967,152.06
Result: Adopted.
Mover: Robbins. Supporter: Perdue.
Yeas: Bliss, O’Connor, Ysasi, Perdue, Robbins, Knight
Excused: Nathaniel Moody
Motion to give this ordinance immediate effect
PUBLIC HEARINGS
92944 Result: Closed.
Public hearing on a proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 155, “Animals,” of
Title IX of the Code of the City of Grand Rapids.
92945 Result: Closed.
Public Hearing to consider an ordinance to amend Section 9.63 of Article 5 of
Chapter 151 “Nuisances” of Title IX of the Code of the City of Grand Rapids.
92946 Result: Closed.
Public Hearing to consider an ordinance to amend Section 9.857.155 of
Chapter 170, "Municipal Civil Infractions," of Title IX of the Code of the City of
Grand Rapids.
92947 Result: Referred to Committee of the Whole.
Public Hearing to consider a Transformational Brownfield Work Plan for the
$147 million Factory Yards redevelopment project located at 565, 573, 640,
655, 835, and 943 Godfrey Avenue SW, 700 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE,
and 615, 620, and 644 Chestnut Street SW.
17 CITY COMMISSION SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
92948 Result: Referred to Committee of the Whole.
Public hearing to consider an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District,
pursuant to P.A. 146 of 2000, for 655 Godfrey, LLC at 655 Godfrey Avenue
SW.
92949 Result: Referred to Committee of the Whole.
Public hearing to consider an application for a twelve-year Obsolete Property
Rehabilitation Exemption Certificate, pursuant to P.A. 146 of 2000, for 655
Godfrey, LLC at 655 Godfrey Avenue SW.
92950 Result: Closed.
Public hearing to consider past performance and future needs of housing and
community development programs.
DOCUMENTS FILED
92951 Result: Received and Filed.
Letter agreement confirming the arrangements for Crowe LLP to provide
consulting services submitted for the public record.
92952 Result: Received and Filed.
Contractual Agreement with How 2 Media submitted for the public record.
92953 Result: Received and Filed.
Bid document from Great Lake Environmental Center, Inc. for Lab Analysis
submitted for the public record.
92954 Result: Received and Filed.
City of Grand Rapids Neighborhood Fund Match Agreement documents
submitted for the public record.
92955 Result: Received and Filed.
Document from Community Rebuilders submitted for the public record.
92956 Result: Received and Filed.
Housing and Community Development Programs document submitted for the
public record.
92957 Result: Received and Filed.
Factory Yards Transformational Brownfield Project document submitted for the
public record.
92958 Result: Received and Filed.
Animal Control Ordinance Amendments Public Hearing document submitted for
the public record.
92959 Result: Received and Filed.
"Commission Night Out First Ward" document submitted for the public record.
SEPTEMBER 19, 2023 CITY COMMISSION 18
ADJOURNMENT
Commission adjourned at 7:00 PM
JOEL H. HONDORP
City Clerk
Agenda
CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19, 2023
5:30 PM – GOEI CENTER, 818 BUTTERWORTH ST SW
Welcome to the Grand Rapids City Commission Meeting. This session is the final process in the
consideration of the items listed on the following agenda. All of these agenda items have been thoroughly
reviewed and discussed in the various Standing Committees of the City Commission which meet on
Tuesday morning. To view supporting documents for agenda items, please visit:
www.grandrapidsmi.gov/commission
Persons who need reasonable accommodation to participate, are asked to contact the City Clerk’s Office
at 616-456-3010 or cityclerk@grcity.us.
Expected Meeting Procedures
1. Depending on the meeting there can be multiple opportunities for public
comment.
These are the planned opportunities for this meeting:
-The First is for any issue you would like to bring to the attention of the
Commission
-The Second is for specially scheduled required public hearings
2. You may only speak once on each issue.
3. All comments are to be limited to 3 minutes.
4. City Commission meetings are to be a safe place for everyone involved,
as such:
-No clapping, cheering, or holding up of signs
-Please refrain from swearing, name calling and/or making derogatory
comments directed toward a person’s race, religion, nation of origin, etc.
5. Do not request or expect comment from the Commission.
6. Please turn OFF cellular phones.
I. CALL TO ORDER
II. MOMENT OF SILENCE
III. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
IV. ROLL CALL
V. STAFF FACILITATION OF RESIDENT ENGAGEMENT WITH CITY DEPARTMENTS AND
COMMISSIONERS
VI. PUBLIC COMMENTS - The agenda provides for public comment on any other matters citizens
may wish to bring to the attention of the City Commission. (Please limit comments to 3 minutes.)
1. Public Comments
VII. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
1. City Commission - Regular Session - Sep 5, 2023 2:00 PM
VIII. COMMENTS BY COMMISSIONERS
IX. PETITIONS AND COMMUNICATIONS - Communications addressed to the City Commission
are distributed to all members and are acknowledged for information, or are referred to a
committee or staff for follow up.
1. Communication from James Maioho regarding their resignation from the Vital Streets
Oversight Commission
2. Communication received from Mark Baker regarding street lighting.
3. Communication received from Celia Thaxter regarding street lighting.
4. Communication received from Lucas Leverett regarding a recent communication and
ordinances
X. REPORTS OF CITY OFFICERS - The City Manager, City Attorney, City Clerk, City Treasurer,
and City Comptroller may submit reports or information directly to the City Commission for
consideration.
1. Warrant for August 23, 2023 thru September 5, 2023
2. Treasurer’s Report for Period of August 23, 2023 through September 5, 2023
XI. CONSENT AGENDA AND REPORTS OF STANDING COMMITTEES:
A. COMMITTEE ON APPOINTMENTS The Committee considers and makes recommendations
on appointments to the City's various boards and commissions.
B. FISCAL COMMITTEE The Committee considers and makes recommendations on matters
referring to bids, claims, and other financial matters of the City .
1. Resolution recognizing Grand Rapids Pride Center as a Local Civic Organization
2. Resolution recognizing The Fountain Hill Center as a Local Civic Organization
3. Resolution authorizing payment of $19,175 for 2020 FEMA – AFG Grant Funded
Training
4. Resolution accepting the continuation of a grant award of $986,364 from the Auto Theft
Prevention Authority (ATPA)
5. Resolution approving a new contract with the Interurban Transit Partnership for operation
of the DASH bus service between October 1, 2023 and September 30, 2026 with a total
cost not to exceed $9,300,000
6. Resolution authorizing a Compressed Natural Gas ("CNG") Renewable Natural Gas
("RNG") Fueling Agreement with The Rapid in an annual not to exceed amount of
$150,000
7. Resolution approving new three-year contract awards for health insurance administration
through Priority Health, prescription drug administration through Disclosed Rx, vision
insurance administration through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and dental
insurance administration through Delta Dental with an administration cost of $3,880,279
8. Resolution authorizing Lease Agreements with Verizon to utilize the Knapp and Leonard
Street Water Tanks for Communication Purposes
9. Resolution rescinding and replacing Proceeding No. 92640 to authorize an agreement
with Hotel & Leisure Advisors for a feasibility assessment of Indian Trails Golf Course in
an amount not to exceed $79,800
10. Resolution authorizing an agreement with Mel Trotter Ministries for an amount not to
exceed $200,000 for personal storage program operations
11. Resolution accepting a $6.6 million grant award and approving an agreement with the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for the FFY 2022 Lead-Based
Paint Hazard Reduction Program
12. Resolution authorizing a Budget Substitution of $24,100 for LaGrave Fire Station
Structural Repairs
13. Resolution authorizing a Budget Substitution of $464,324 for Market Ave Pump Station
North Header Flowmeter
14. Resolution authorizing a Budget Substitution of $296,337.05 for State St from Lafayette
to Madison
15. Bid List Resolution for September 19, 2023
C. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE The Committee considers and makes
recommendations on matters concerning public service, public improvements, streets, traffic
and public buildings.
1. Resolution approving a Construction Agreement and accepting Public Utilities Easement
for Braeburn Plat
2. Resolution awarding a Professional Services Agreement for Construction Management
services with Rockford Construction Co. for Lyon Square in the amount of $10,321,660
with total amount not-to-exceed $12,462,996
3. Resolution approving an agreement with the Michigan Department of Transportation
(MDOT) for Improvements In Covell Avenue and Ken-O-Sha Industrial Park Drive and
authorization of $678,265 for the local share of the project costs
4. Resolution accepting the Transportation Asset Management Plan
D. COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE The Committee considers all matters that are desired to be
deliberated in committee by the full City Commission. Most ordinances and licensing matters
are brought before this committee.
1. Resolution scheduling special meeting of the City Commission on October 31, 2023
XII. ITEMS REMOVED FROM CONSENT
XIII. ORDINANCES TO BE ADOPTED
1. Consideration of a conditional rezoning agreement to facilitate the construction and operation
of an urgent care clinic at 1935 Breton Road SE
2. Consideration of a Major Amendment to a Planned Redevelopment District at 2984 Bradford
Street NE
3. Consideration of an ordinance rezoning 1058 Butterworth Street SW to the TN-LDR
(Traditional Neighborhood-Low Density Residential) Zone District
4. Ordinance amending Section 1 of the Budget Ordinance 2023-15 for Fiscal Year 2024
(Amendment No. 3)
XIV. CITY COMMISSION RESOLUTIONS - Resolutions to be deliberated by the City Commission but
which come directly to the City Commission rather than from one of the Standing Committees.
XV. PUBLIC HEARINGS - Public hearings are scheduled to allow citizens to speak on subjects
which will be before the City Commission for action at a future date. Speakers may address the
Commission once on each hearing.
1. Public hearing on a proposed ordinance to amend Chapter 155, “Animals,” of Title IX of the
Code of the City of Grand Rapids
2. Public Hearing to consider an ordinance to amend Section 9.63 of Article 5 of Chapter 151
“Nuisances” of Title IX of the Code of the City of Grand Rapids
3. Public Hearing to consider an ordinance to amend Section 9.857.155 of Chapter 170,
"Municipal Civil Infractions", of Title IX of the Code of the City of Grand Rapids
4. Public Hearing to consider a Transformational Brownfield Work Plan for the $147 million
Factory Yards redevelopment project located at at 565, 573, 640, 655, 835, and 943 Godfrey
Avenue SW, 700 Martin Luther King Jr. Street SE, and 615, 620, and 644 Chestnut Street SW
5. Public hearing to consider an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation District, pursuant to PA 146 of
2000, for 655 Godfrey, LLC at 655 Godfrey Avenue SW
6. Public hearing to consider an application for a twelve-year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation
Exemption Certificate, pursuant to PA 146 of 2000, for 655 Godfrey, LLC at 655 Godfrey
Avenue SW
7. Public hearing to consider past performance and future needs of housing and community
development programs
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
CITY COMMISSION
GLOSSARY OF TERMS
TERM DEFINITION
Adjournment To close the meeting.
Adopt To accept or approve; i.e., an ordinance, a resolution, a motion, etc.
Amend To modify; i.e., an ordinance, a resolution, a motion, etc.
Call to Order Formal opening of a meeting.
City Charter Legal document establishing a municipality (city).
City Commission Local form of government consisting of the Mayor and six Commissioners.
City Officers Includes: Mayor, President of the City Commission, City Manager, City Attorney,
City Treasurer, and City Clerk.
Consent Agenda Matters listed as Consent Agenda items are considered to be routine or matters
of unanimous consent by the City Commission. There will be no separate
discussion of these matters, and they will be enacted by one motion.
Executive Session A meeting in which the proceedings are of a confidential nature. Only members
and invited guests may attend, and all are honor-bound to maintain
confidentiality.
Motion A proposal that the Commissioners take a specific action or stand on an item
being presented to the City Commission.
Ordinance A piece of legislation enacted by a municipal authority.
Postpone A motion to postpone is made if the City Commission needs more time to make
a decision. A postponement cannot go beyond the next session.
Quorum Number of voting members who must be present in order that business can be
legally transacted.
Recess Short intermission within a meeting.
Recognize / Obtain the Floor Acknowledgement by the presiding officer of the City Commission that a
member has the right to address the assembly.
Rescind (Repeal) Allows the City Commission to repeal an action previously taken; i.e.,
ordinances, etc.
Resolution A decision by the City Commission to do or not to do something.
Robert’s Rules of Order A guide to fair and orderly meeting procedures.
Suspend the Rules This motion is used when the City Commission wants to do something that
violates its own rules. The motion does not apply to an organization’s bylaws,
local, state, or national law; or fundamental principles of parlia-mentary law. An
appropriate suspension of the rules, used on occasion by the City Commission,
would be a motion to change the agenda.
Table, Lay on the This motion puts aside an item, and everything adhering to it, currently being
presented to the City Commission. The item remains “on the table” until taken
off.
Table, Take (Remove) from the The motion to Take from the Table is used when the City Commission wants to
continue considering a motion that was Laid on the Table earlier in the present
session or in the previous session of the City Commission. When a motion is
Taken from the Table, it has everything adhering to it exactly as it was when it
was Laid on the Table.
Revised: 06-30-2014 Source(s): Robert’s Rules of Order
City Commission Standing Rules
CITY OF GRAND RAPIDS COMMISSIONERS
Jon O’Connor joconnor@grcity.us 616-456-3035
First Ward
Drew Robbins drobbins@grcity.us 616-456-3035
Milinda Ysasi mysasi@grcity.us 616-456-3035
Second Ward
Lisa Knight lknight@grcity.us 616-456-3035
Nathaniel Moody nmoody@grcity.us 616-456-3035
Third Ward
Kelsey Perdue kperdue@grcity.us 616-456-3035
Revised: 01-07-2023