City Council Regular Meeting (Budget)

City Council Regular Meeting (Budget) Madison Heights, Michigan April 13, 2026 A City Council Regular Meeting (Budget) was held on Monday, April 13, 2026 at 6:30 PM at City Hall - Council Chambers, 300 W. 13 Mile Rd. PRESENT Mayor Corey Haines Mayor Pro Tem William Mier Councilwoman Toya Aaron Councilman Sean Fleming Councilor Laurie Geralds Councilor Emily Rohrbach Councilor Quinn Wright ALSO PRESENT City Manager Melissa Marsh City Attorney Larry Sherman Deputy City Manager/City Clerk Cheryl Rottmann 43rd District Court Judge Keith Hunt 43rd District Court Administrator Sharon Arseneault Community and Economic Development Director Giles Tucker Finance Director Linda Kunath Fire Chief Greg Lelito Human Resources Director Christina McCaskey Library Director Vanessa Verdun-Morris Police Chief Brent LeMerise Public Services Director Sean Ballantine The invocation was given by Councilwoman Aaron and the Pledge of Allegiance followed. CM-26-73. Approval of the Agenda. Motion to approve the agenda. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Seconded by Councilor Wright. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. 1 CM 04-13-26 PRESENTATIONS: 2026 National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week Resolution Mayor Haines read the 2026 National Public Safety Telecommunicator's Week Proclamation and the City Council proclaimed April 12-18, 2026, as National Telecommunicator's Week in the City of Madison Heights. Mayor Haines presented Public Service Aides Kristin Trish and Andrea Torres with the proclamation and thanked them and all of the City's Public Service Aide's for their service to the city. 2026 National Animal Control Appreciation Week Proclamation Mayor Haines read the National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week Proclamation and City Council proclaimed April 12 - 18, 2026, as National Animal Control Officer Appreciation Week in the City of Madison Heights. He presented Animal Control Officer Justin Holland with the proclamation and thanked him for his service to the City. Fiscal Year 2027 Proposed Budget City Manager Marsh and Finance Director Kunath presented the Proposed FY 2027 Budget, which totals $68.9 million overall, with a General Fund allocation of $43.3 million. The budget reflects the first year the city has levied its full authorized millage under Proposal MH; however, due to Headlee and Proposal A rollbacks, the millage rate was reduced by 1.3% to approximately 24.9 mills. While the City’s taxable value has seen slight growth, revenues across all funds grew by only $432,000, as growth was offset by millage rollbacks and declining federal and state funding. Personnel services remain the City's largest expense, and the budget includes a net increase of 0.6 full-time equivalents, primarily due to the addition of a full-time CDL Driver for the Active Adult Center. It was noted that all eight city union contracts are currently expired and under negotiation, which may necessitate future budget amendments. Aligned with the City's 2027-2031 Strategic Plan, the budget prioritizes public safety, infrastructure, and quality of life. Key public safety initiatives include the continuation of the Co- Responder program through 2027, a $30,000 investment in fire inspection overtime, and $100,000 for a firewall upgrade to strengthen cybersecurity. Infrastructure investments focus on preserving existing assets, highlighted by a phased roof replacement for Fire Station #1 and $60,000 for police department carpet replacement. Quality of life enhancements include $780,000 for park improvements, with $500,000 dedicated to phased improvements at McGillivray Park, alongside continued support for tree planting, library Makerspace programs, and the expansion of recycling services to apartment communities. To ensure long-term financial sustainability, the City proposes a $7.8 million contribution to the Police and Fire Pension, which includes $4.3 million above the actuarially required contribution. The presentation also detailed Major and Local Street funds, which include $500,000 for sectional concrete replacement and road construction on Edward/Mandoline and John R Road. Residents will be asked to consider the R-4 millage Proposal in August 2026 to replace the expiring neighborhood road millage, which serves as the primary funding source for local residential streets. The Water and Sewer Fund is proposed at $15.4 million, incorporating an overall rate adjustment of 5.128% to maintain system integrity while keeping rates among the lowest in the region. Future 2 CM 04-13-26 budget considerations include declining cable franchise fees and the ongoing challenge of inflation outpacing state revenue multipliers. A public hearing and the final adoption of the budget and tax levy are scheduled for the May 11th regular City Council meeting. Councilman Mier noted the increase in capital outlay from $8.8 million to $10.3 million and acknowledged the budget constraints caused by declining cable franchise revenue and reaching the maximum tax rate. He specifically highlighted the necessary transition to cloud-based business software as a significant expense but one that would improve data sharing and help reduce office supply costs across departments. He commended the department heads and city administration for maintaining strong infrastructure despite rising costs. Councilor Aaron expressed strong support for the line item increasing funding for police and fire education and training. She emphasized that providing first responders with updated professional knowledge and the latest tools is an investment that supports every resident in Madison Heights. She also briefly noted her support for the continued co-responder program. Councilman Fleming inquired about the scope of the sectional concrete projects, asking how much road area could be covered with the allocated budget. He voiced concerns that many residential streets currently feel like "loose gravel" and argued that continuing to use hot patches is not a permanent solution. He advocated prioritizing the "worst of the worst" areas to ensure the most effective use of construction funds. Councilor Gerald requested a summary of the major capital outlay items, noting they comprise over 15% of the total budget. She also sought clarification on the funding plan for the McGillvray Park improvement project, as the $500,000 currently budgeted will not cover the total estimated cost of $1.7 to $1.9 million. Councilor Wright asked for confirmation that the Co-Responder program was included in the budget, which staff confirmed would be funded via opioid settlement revenues through at least FY 2027. He also requested clarification on the General Fund balance compared to the prior year’s amended budget. He praised the city’s proactive financial forecasting, noting that it allows the Council to identify and address "red flags" before they become crises. Mayor Haynes reflected on the significant improvement in the city's financial planning, moving away from where they only looked one year ahead to a long-term forecasting model. He credited the City Manager for this shift, noting it prevents the need for sudden budget amendments for major maintenance, such as roofs. He concluded by expressing pride in the budget and the leadership shown by department heads in working responsibly within established financial boundaries. MEETING OPEN TO THE PUBLIC: A representative from the Lessinger Elementary PTO invited the public to attend their second annual second annual craft show, a young entrepreneur showcase, this Saturday for 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. City Clerk Rottmann noted that resident Kevin Trabucchi submitted an email comment pertaining to the business practices of a nearby carwash and his support for decreasing lanes on John R. Clerk Rottmann noted that his email was distributed to the City Council. 3 CM 04-13-26 CM-26-74. Consent Agenda. Motion to approve the Consent Agenda, as read. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-75. 2026 Arbor Day Resolution. Motion to adopt the 2026 Arbor Day Resolution, as follows: RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF MADISON HEIGHTS, COMMITTING TO HONORING ARBOR DAY. WHEREAS, the City of Madison Heights remains committed to establishing and maintaining a strong tree canopy within the city; and WHEREAS, trees are proven to improve air quality, cut heating and cooling costs, moderate the temperature, produce life-giving oxygen, provide habitat for wildlife and reduce the erosion of topsoil by wind and water; and WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special day be set aside for the planting of trees, and WHEREAS, this holiday is called Arbor Day and in 2026 this holiday is nationally observed on April 24, 2026; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MADISON HEIGHTS, AS FOLLOWS: Recognizing that trees, in addition to all the benefits listed above, increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas, and beautify our community; and, On April 25, 2026 in honor of Arbor Day, the Environmental Citizens Committee will hold an informational presentation on tree planting and maintenance at the Recreation Division’s Annual Run for the Health of It 5K Race; and, The City Council and Staff remain dedicated to including tree replacements in future budgets including grant matches for any tree grants available; and, Furthermore, the City of Madison Heights urges all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day and to support efforts to protect our trees increasing the City tree canopy to promote the well- being of our community. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. 4 CM 04-13-26 CM-26-76. 2026 Work Zone Awareness Week Proclamation. Motion to adopt the 2026 Work Zone Awareness Week Proclamation, as follows: PROCLAMATION WHEREAS, National Work Zone Awareness Week is an annual spring campaign held at the start of construction season to encourage safe driving through work zones; and WHEREAS, the City of Madison Heights is embarking on another major road construction season, this work being vital for a safe, well-maintained road system for the benefit of our residents and visitors; and WHEREAS, we must protect construction, maintenance, and utility workers who courageously put their lives on the line to improve the safety and quality of life of those traveling on our roads; and WHEREAS, most work zone crashes are caused by inattentive or distracted drivers, and speeding is the leading cause of fatal work zone crashes; and WHEREAS, the 2026 theme “Safe Actions Save Lives” reminds us that our actions when traveling through work zones can have literal life-changing results; and WHEREAS, National Work Zone Awareness Week is an opportunity to raise awareness for worker and road user safety by planning ahead, reducing speeds, minimizing distractions, and expecting the unexpected when approaching and passing work zones; and WHEREAS, keeping everyone safe in work zones and on our roadways is a collective responsibility; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Mayor and City Council do hereby proclaim April 20-24, 2026, as Work Zone Awareness Week in the City of Madison Heights. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-77. Act 51 Street Adjustments Resolution. Motion to adopt the Act 51 Stree Adjustments Resolution, as follows: A Resolution Now therefore it is resolved: At a regular meeting of the City Council of Madison Heights, Michigan, held at the City Hall in the Council Chambers on April 13, 2026, the following resolution was offered by Councilor Rohrbach and supported by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. 5 CM 04-13-26  Whereas, the City of Madison Heights does wish to decertify/vacate a portion of Bellaire Avenue. This decertification/vacation of Bellaire Avenue is located between Hampden Street and its currently certified eastern terminus of Bellaire Avenue for a total decertification/vacation length of 138 feet; and Whereas, the City of Madison Heights does wish to decertify/vacate a portion of East Farnum Avenue. This decertification/vacation of East Farnum Avenue is located between its actual eastern terminus and a point 90’ east of its actual eastern terminus, for a total decertification/vacation length of 90 feet; and Whereas, the City of Madison Heights does wish to decertify/vacate a portion of Alden Street. This decertification/vacation of Alden Street is located between its actual southern terminus and a point 150 feet south of its actual southern terminus for a total decertification/vacation length of 150 feet. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-78. 2026 West Nile Virus Reimbursement Resolution. Motion to adopt the 2026 West Nile Virus Reimbursement Resolution as follows: RESOLUTION WHEREAS, upon the recommendation of the Oakland County Executive, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners has established a West Nile Virus Fund Program to assist Oakland County cities, villages, and townships in addressing mosquito control activities; and WHEREAS, Oakland County’s West Nile Virus Fund Program authorizes Oakland County cities, villages, and townships to apply for reimbursement of eligible expenses incurred in connection with personal mosquito protection measures/activity, mosquito habitat eradication, mosquito larviciding or focused adult mosquito insecticide spraying in designated community green areas; and WHEREAS, The City of Madison Heights of Oakland County, Michigan has incurred expenses in connection with mosquito control activities believed to be eligible for reimbursement under Oakland County’s West Nile Virus Fund Program. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, The Mayor and City Council of Madison Heights authorizes and directs its Public Works Supervisor, Chris Woodward, as agent for the City of Madison Heights, in the manner and to the extent provided under Oakland County Board of Commissioners 2026 Mosquito Smarts Program to request reimbursement of eligible mosquito control activity under Oakland County’s West Nile Virus Fund Program. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. 6 CM 04-13-26  Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-79. 27095 Park Ct Minor Home Repair Roof Replacement Project. Motion to waive the formal bidding procedures within section 2-256 of the Purchasing Ordinance and allow City staff to proceed with the 27095 Park Ct Minor Home Repair Roof Replacement Project for a cost of $18,450 plus any additional wood replacement costs if required by Michigan Building Code. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-80. Resolution in Opposition to Michigan House Bills 5529-5532 and 5581-5585 Regarding Local Municipal Zoning Authority. Motion to adopt the Resolution in Opposition to Michigan House Bills 5529-5532 and 5581-5585 Regarding Local Municipal Zoning Authority as follows: Resolution in Opposition to Michigan House Bills 5529-5532 and 5581-5585 Regarding Local Municipal Zoning Authority WHEREAS, Michigan House Bills 5529 through 5532 and 5581 through 5585 have been introduced in the Michigan House of Representatives and referred to committee for consideration; and WHEREAS, these bills propose significant statewide changes to local zoning and land use regulations that would preempt long-standing municipal authority to regulate development within local communities; and WHEREAS, Michigan has historically recognized that zoning and land use decisions are best made at the local level, where elected officials and planning bodies have the greatest understanding of community character, infrastructure capacity, and long-term development goals; and WHEREAS, the proposed legislation would impose additional requirements for studies, documentation, and administrative processes related to site plan review, which may create unnecessary delays, increase costs for applicants and municipalities, and function as unfunded mandates on local governments; and WHEREAS, the legislation would limit the authority of municipalities to establish and enforce zoning standards related to residential density, minimum home square footage, building spacing, parking requirements, and other development regulations that have been carefully adopted through local planning processes; and 7 CM 04-13-26  WHEREAS, the legislation would require municipalities to permit duplex housing on parcels currently zoned for single-family residential, thereby overriding locally adopted zoning ordinances and community planning decisions; and WHEREAS, municipalities must retain the ability to plan for responsible growth while ensuring that infrastructure systems-including water, sewer, roads, public safety services, and Drainage are capable of supporting additional development; and WHEREAS, the City of Madison Heights recognizes the importance of addressing housing availability and affordability, but believes that housing policy solutions should preserve meaningful local input and flexibility so that communities can respond to their unique needs and conditions; and WHEREAS, broad state preemption of local zoning authority risks undermining decades of community planning, infrastructure investment, and neighborhood stability. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of the City of Madison Heights strongly opposes the passage of Michigan House Bills 5529 through 5532 and 5581 through 5585, as these bills would significantly restrict the ability of local governments to responsibly plan for growth, manage infrastructure capacity, and protect the character and stability of their neighborhoods; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council urges the Michigan Legislature to preserve local zoning authority and work collaboratively with municipalities to address housing needs and development policy in a manner that respects local planning processes and avoids unfunded mandates; and BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Clerk is directed to transmit copies of this Resolution to the Governor of the State of Michigan, members of the Michigan House of Representatives and Michigan Senate representing residents of Madison Heights, and to other appropriate state officials and municipal organizations. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-81. City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of March 23, 2026. Motion to approve the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of March 23, 2026, as printed. Motion made by Councilor Rohrbach, Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Mier. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. 8 CM 04-13-26  CM-26-82. 2026 GLWA Contract Reopener - Amendment No. 5. Motion to accept Amendment Number 5 to the Water Service Contract between GLWA and the City of Madison Heights, and authorize the Mayor, City Manager, and Clerk to sign on behalf of the City. Motion made by Councilwoman Aaron, Seconded by Councilor Rohrbach. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. CM-26-83. Carbyne Adoption Agreement. Motion to approve the five-year PSAP Adoption Agreement between the City of Madison Heights and Carbyne for call-handling equipment in the amount of $290,731. Motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Seconded by Councilman Fleming. Voting Yea: Mayor Haines, Mayor Pro Tem Mier, Councilwoman Aaron, Councilman Fleming, Councilor Geralds, Councilor Rohrbach, Councilor Wright Motion carried. COUNCIL COMMENTS: Councilwoman Aaron congratulated her son on his upcoming graduation from Lamphere High School and his acceptance to Howard University. She informed the community that the "Water Wars" for the class of 2026 has begun, noting that residents should not be alarmed by students playing with squirt guns. Highlighting Autism Awareness Month, she shared her experience attending the "Autism in the Deep" sixth annual walk and emphasized the importance of supporting families and removing the stigma surrounding the diagnosis. Looking ahead to Mental Health Awareness Month in May, she announced a speaker series at the library on May 6th, and 18th focused on parenthood and caregiving. She also shared a personal account of assisting a client in crisis while she was away on spring break, underscoring the critical nature of mental health resources. Councilman Mier welcomed the arrival of warmer weather and reminded the community that baseball season begins on May 16th with the first pitch at 10:00 a.m. He noted several events occurring over the weekend, including the city's spring cleanup, drain stamping, and the Lessenger craft show. He also shared a personal update regarding his daughter-in-law’s baby shower. Councilor Wright requested that residents remain patient during the upcoming construction season, specifically citing ongoing work on 13 Mile and John R Road. He announced several upcoming events, including the Lantern Festival (Paradise Eve) on May 30th featuring live music and a limited parade, and the "Novels and Neighbors" book club discussion on June 9th. He expressed his enthusiasm for the Lessenger craft show and the start of the Little League season, concluding with a reminder for residents to "remember to be kind". Councilor Rohrbach promoted the "Run for the Health of It" 5K scheduled for April 25th, with registration available through the Recreation Department. She announced that the Environmental 9 CM 04-13-26 Citizens Committee would name the awardees for the native garden grants during the Arbor Day celebration on that same day. She explained that these grants help residents and schools establish native gardens, serving as a key component of the city's annual Arbor Day activities. Councilor Geralds commended Lessenger students for a successful cereal drive that collected 1,000 boxes for the Madison Heights food pantry. She shared information regarding the Memorial Day Remembrance concert on May 21st featuring the Motor City Brass Band and the sixth annual Juneteenth celebration at Civic Center Park on June 20th, with a flag-raising ceremony on June 19th. Additionally, she noted the Arts Board has scheduled 11 Wednesday night events for the season. Finally, she addressed a resident's concern regarding her phone use during meetings, clarifying that she uses the device for calendar updates and announcements rather than for prohibited communications. Councilman Fleming reported that he has requested the county extend the east-west light timing at Gardenia and John R to help alleviate construction-related traffic. He spoke in support of a council resolution opposing state house bills that would strip local municipalities of their zoning authority, arguing that land-use decisions should remain at the local level. Furthermore, he announced his intention to advocate for county funding to help offset the costs of the city's Co- Responder program and encouraged residents to contact County Commissioner Ann Erickson Gault to support this effort. Mayor Haines concluded the comments by recognizing the various department heads, directors, and court officials in attendance, thanking them for their extensive work on the city budget. He expressed appreciation for Lessenger’s volunteer opportunities that allow students to earn National Honor Society credits and reminded residents of the city-wide cleanup event hosted by the Environmental Citizens Committee. He offered final thanks to the City Manager and City Attorney for their roles in the budget process. ADJOURNMENT: Having no further business, Mayor Haines adjourned the meeting at 7:46 p.m. Corey K. Haines, Mayor Cheryl E. Rottmann, City Clerk 10 CM 04-13-26