City Council Regular Meeting

City Council Regular Meeting Madison Heights, Michigan January 09, 2023 A City Council Regular Meeting was held on Monday, January 09, 2023 at 7:30 PM at Fire Station #1 - Training Room - 31313 Brush Street. PRESENT Mayor Roslyn Grafstein Councilwoman Toya Aaron Mayor Pro Tem Mark Bliss Councilman Sean Fleming Councilor Emily Rohrbach Councilman David Soltis Councilor Quinn Wright OTHERS PRESENT City Manager Melissa Marsh Assistant City Attorney Tim Burns City Clerk Cheryl Rottmann The invocation was led by Mayor Grafstein and the Pledge of Allegiance followed. PRESENTATIONS: 2022 Fire Department Awards Fire Chief Lelito presented the 2022 Fire Department Awards as follows: Unit Citation Fire Marshal Biliti Firefighter Lecluyse Captain Dwyer Firefighter Rutter Lieutenant Gilson Firefighter Roberts Lieutenant Shepherd Firefighter Chapman Lieutenant Brown Firefighter Fiscelli Lieutenant Sirvio Firefighter Stern Lieutenant Garvey II Firefighter Ceglarz Lieutenant Arnold Firefighter Kelly Firefighter Kadjan Firefighter Christy Award of Merit Captain Powers Lieutenant Brown Lieutenant Arnold Firefighter Toll Firefighter Chapman 1 01-09-23  Firefighter of the Year Karl Bayly MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: Martha Covert stated that she hoped everyone had a nice holiday. She spoke in support of National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and thanked the City's firefighters as well. She thanked Anna for the holiday video and sought clarification on Council filling in on boards and commissions to meet quorum. CONSENT AGENDA: Councilman Fleming requested Item #4, Amendment to Human Relations and Equity Commission be removed from the Consent Agenda. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to approve the Consent Agenda as read. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-01. FY 2023-2028 Capital Improvement Plan. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to receive and file the FY 2023-2028 Capital Improvement Plan as presented. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-02. Jennifer Zmarzlik – Resignation for the Arts Board, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and Downtown Development Authority. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to accept the resignation of Jennifer Zmarzlik from the Arts Board, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and the Downtown Development Authority and declare the seats vacant. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. 2 01-09-23 CM-23-03. Retirement Corrective Action Plan 2022-23. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to approve the Police and Fire Retirement System Corrective Action Plan 2022-23 Application of Compliance as presented. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-04. City Council Special Meeting Minutes of December 5, 2022. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to approve the City Council Special Meeting minutes of December 5, 2022, as printed. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-05. Special City Council Meeting Minutes of December 12, 2022. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to approve the City Council Special Meeting minutes of December 12, 2022, as printed. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-06. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of December 12, 2022. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to approve the City Council Regular Meeting minutes of December 12, 2022, as printed. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-07. Amendment to Human Relations and Equity Commission Resolution. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to adopt the resolution amending the Human Relations and Equity Commission as follows: 3 01-09-23  AMENDMENT TO THE RESOLUTION PROVIDING FOR THE CREATION, MEMBERSHIP, STRUCTURE, AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A HUMAN RELATIONS AND EQUITY COMMISSION TO ADVISE THE CITY COUNCIL ON HUMAN RELATIONS AND DIVERSITY RELATED ISSUES AND TO RECOMMEND POLICIES, PROGRAMS, SERVICES, AND EVENTS THAT ENHANCE HUMAN RELATIONS AND CULTURAL DIVERSITY THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY. WHEREAS, Madison Heights is a city of diverse races and cultures, religions and beliefs, experiences and traditions and has a cultural life, economy, livability, and neighborhoods that have been enriched by this growing diversity; and, WHEREAS, the existence of a thriving and diverse community has also raised complex questions about how to build a truly inclusive city; and, WHEREAS, the principles of representative democracy require that the interests of all people be heard and considered in the establishment and administration of ordinances and policies, and in governing of the City; and, WHEREAS, the community will benefit from the creation of an advisory commission, focused on cultural and racial relations, with a mission to create greater cohesion in our community by promoting mutual respect, dignity, and open communication among all people; and, WHEREAS, the City of Madison Heights strives to promote and foster goodwill, and through cooperation and conciliation among all groups and segments of the population, to eliminate and prevent within its boundaries, (i) discrimination, segregation, or separation because of race, color, national origin, religion, alienage, sexual orientation, gender identity or other classifications that have historically been used to discriminate against people; (ii) to promote nonviolence, tolerance and human rights, and (iii) to seek equal justice, equal opportunity and equal dignity without prejudice; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the City Council of the City of Madison Heights, Michigan, hereby creates an advisory commission to be called the Human Relations and Equity Commission (HREC). BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the purpose of the HREC is to advise the City on human relations and diversity related issues to recommend policies, programs, services and events which enhance human relations and cultural diversity throughout the community, in accordance with the following: 1. The HREC (also referred to as the “Commission”) shall be comprised of nine regular voting members and three alternate members who shall all be residents of Madison Heights, with appointments focused on a diverse representation of the City’s residents. Voting members shall be as follows: 4 01-09-23  a. One member from among the members of city council and eight members and three (3) alternate from the residents of the city-at-large. In the case of the delegate from the city council, the city council may designate an alternate city council delegate who shall sit only in the absence of the regularly appointed city council delegate and who shall have the same authority and powers as such regularly appointed city council delegate. b. Three non-voting student members shall be appointed by the staff liaison and shall serve as long as they are willing and a student at a school located in Madison Heights. c. A chair and Vice-chair shall be elected annually by the membership. d. Voting members shall serve without pay. e. Terms of resident members are two (2) years. Councilmember appointments are two (2) year terms until the next Regular City Council election. f. Alternates shall serve as ex-officio members meaning they on the boards or commissions in the absence of regular voting members. Alternate members are encouraged to attend all the meetings to stay up to date on issues; they are not voting members and, in the event of a full board or commission could not make motions or vote on issues but may be involved throughout the meeting in the full discussion. 4. Attendance by 50% or more of the current membership of the commission shall constitute a quorum for the transaction of business. Any action of the commission shall require concurrence of the majority of the quorum present at the meeting. In the absence of an at large voting member, an at large alternate member shall take the absent at large voting member’s place for purposes of that meeting and shall count toward quorum. 5. In addition to conducting its meetings, the Commission shall specifically have the following powers and duties: a. Serve in an advisory capacity to the City Council on human relations, diversity, and equity related issues. b. Serve as a resource and an advocate on behalf of marginalized people and/or marginalized groups residing in the community. c. Review current City policies, practices, and activities. d. Recommend, as it deems necessary and proper, items for the City Council agenda to revise City policies, procedures, and activities to ensure the fair, equitable and equal administration and enforcement of policies and to be bring to the City Council’s attention issues of concern. e. Work to promote good community relations and foster cross-cultural understanding between the City’s Police Department and marginalized people and/or marginalized groups. 5 01-09-23  f. Work to promote the City as a diverse and unique place that prioritizes quality of life of our residents. g. Hold educational seminars and public social events to foster cross-cultural understanding, support for migrants and refugees, and to celebrate and preserve the diversity of cultures and the diversity of opinions that make the City of Madison Heights a great place to live. Educational seminars and public social events shall be non-partisan in nature, not discriminate against any one demographic of the population in regard to their political, social, or religious beliefs. h. Cooperate with other groups based in the City, whose purpose is the same or substantially the same to the Commission’s purpose as described herein. i. The HREC shall have access to data, information, and materials concerning City policies, practices or activities as it deems necessary to further its purpose; provided, however, this information shall not include personnel files, confidential information, or other information protected by City codes and policies, state or federal laws, unless expressly so directed by City Council after consultation with the City Attorney. Further, it is not intended for the HREC to be a quasi-judicial body, an oversight board, or a body whose primary function is to receive or investigate individual complaints. j. The views of individual HREC members shall be considered the views and opinions of those members and will not necessarily reflect the opinions, official policies or positions of the Commission or the City and shall not be used by others without the express written permission of the City. k. This resolution shall be effective on the date adopted and supersedes prior resolutions on this issue. Further, the City Crime Commission shall be reconstituted as a separate commission. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-23-08. 2023 Boards and Commission Workplans. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Seconded by Councilman Fleming, to approve the Work Plans for the 2023 Calendar year for the following boards: Arts Board, Crime Commission, Environmental Citizens Commission, Historical Commission, Library Advisory Board, and Human Relations and Equity Commission. Mayor Pro Tem Bliss reviewed the Arts Board workplan noting that it includes increasing visual arts in community; enhancing cultural community involvement; and facilitating performance arts. 6 01-09-23  Councilman Fleming reviewed Crime Commission workplan stating it includes community engagement through guest speakers and hosting a police townhall; holding a cyber-crime prevention seminar; expanding the bike rodeo; and having a police working dog presentation. Councilor Rohrbach discussed the Environmental Citizen Committee workplan. She noted their plan includes sustainability and energy planning; continued promotion of natural environment and ecosystems; pollinator protection; and conducting resident and business education and awareness. Mayor Pro Tem Bliss noted that the Historical Commission workplan includes experiencing Madison Heights through the historical rooms improvements; bringing awareness and recognition of past community leaders of Madison Heights; and preserving Madison Heights history through digitization. Councilor Rohrbach stated that the Human Relations and Equity Commission’s workplan includes continuing the monthly book club and develop opportunities for outreach to the community and in schools; advise Council on diversity and inclusion issues as opportunities arise; participate in Juneteenth in a meaningful way; and prepare and sell community cookbooks. Councilwoman Aaron reviewed the Library Advisory Board workplan stating that it includes hosting a grand reopening celebration; holding a National Library Week gala fundraiser; promotion of library services and a Plan Speaker Series; and create opportunity for collaboration with other City board and commissions. Voting Yea: Mayor Grafstein, Councilwoman Aaron, Mayor Pro Tem Bliss, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilman Soltis, Councilor Wright Motion carried. COUNCIL COMMENTS: Councilwoman Aaron wished everyone a Happy New Year. She stated that she had a nice holiday and shared some of her personal highlights of the season. She stated that her biggest joy was to be able to help a family so they would not go without a Christmas. She stated that she does not make any New Year resolutions, but instead is making a personal strategic plan for her goals. Everything she does in 2023 will be with intention and in support of her strategic plan. It is National Clean Off your desk day and National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day so thank you to all those that serve and know that she supports and appreciates them for their hard work. She expressed her condolences to Mayor Pro Tem Bliss on the passing of his grandmother. Mayor Pro Tem Bliss congratulated all the firefighters honored this evening and gave a shout out to our law enforcement officers as well. He also thanked our board and commission members for all their work and for donating their time and talent to the City. He commented that it may be nice to give out awards to our board and commission members. He stated that this morning was his grandmother's funeral and noted that she is the reason his family has always been active in the community. She instilled a sense of volunteerism into his father and himself and he dedicated this meeting to his grandmother's memory. 7 01-09-23 Councilor Wright expressed condolences to Mayor Pro Tem Bliss and his family. He acknowledged all our law enforcement and thanked them for keeping us safe. He congratulated all the firefighters honored this evening. The City has some fine public safety employees that care about the community. He noted that the Active Adult Advisory Board does some awesome work including hosting a Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner as well as judging the holiday light competition. Kudos to them for the work being done. He commented that he is excited for HREC work and invited all to a Peace Vigil that is being held on January 16th at 6 p.m. at the gazebo. Let us focus on peace. Assistant City Attorney Burns had no comments this evening. City Manager Marsh encourage anyone with interest to apply to serve on any of the City boards and commissions. The next round of applicants will be considered in February and there are student seats as well. The deadline for the art contest to displaying your work at City Hall is January 27th. The Arts Board will be picking the pieces to be displayed. The Women’s Club is accepting old tablets and cell phones. She noted the City is still seeking applicants for the Charter Revision Committee. City Clerk Rottmann noted the next round of applicants for City boards and commissions will be considered in February. If you are interested in serving, please fill out an application on the City’s website. Councilor Rohrbach hopes everyone had a Happy Holiday and a wonderful New Year. Thank you to the firefighters and police officers on National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day. Thank you for what you do for our city. She expressed condolences to the family of Barbara Geralds, a pillar of our community. Barbara Geralds was a leader in every way and lead by example and with kindness and grace. She noted that donation in her honor would be accepted by the Women’s Club. She invited everyone to a Martin Luther King Day Vigil and if you have an opportunity, do something good. Wednesday nights in February are the Coffee Concerts and they will be held at the Reserve at Red Run. Councilman Fleming voiced his condolences to the Geralds and Bliss families. He noted that he will attend the candlelight vigil. Our firefighters have done a great job and he thanked them for their service. January 20th is wear blue for National Trafficking Awareness Day. He commented that the requirement for Real ID has been postponed until February 2025. Councilman Soltis stated his condolences to the Bliss family. Congratulations to the Fire Department on their awards this evening - they always do a fantastic job. He announced that he is scheduled to put on his second Child Abuse and Neglect report at the next council meeting. Mayor Grafstein articulated her condolences to the Bliss and Geralds families. Barb Geralds will be missed. Barb Geralds always had a kind word to say and really was a matriarch of this city; her heart goes out to the family. Thank you to all of our law enforcement officers for their services and our firefighters and please keep them in your prayers. Monday is the MLK vigil, and she is hoping for a good representation from both Council and the public. She stated Council has had discussions on Charter changes and the ability to cancel a meeting should it be necessary. She is requested that September 25th meeting be rescheduled due to Yom Kippur and stated that she wants our meeting calendar to also reflect the diversity of our city. The next meeting will be in the new Council Chambers on January 23rd. 8 01-09-23 ADJOURNMENT Having no further business, Mayor Grafstein adjourned the meeting at 8:36 p.m. Roslyn Grafstein Cheryl E. Rottmann Mayor City Clerk 9 01-09-23