City Council
Regular MeetingManistee, MI · February 12, 2019
Minutes
MANISTEE CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION
MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 12, 2019
The Manistee City Council met in a work session on Tuesday, February 12, 2019 at 7:00 p.m.,
Council Chambers, City Hall, 70 Maple Street, Manistee, Michigan 49660.
MEMBERS PRESENT: Dale Cooper, Lynda Beaton, Roger Zielinski, Michael Szymanski,
James Grabowski and Erin Pontiac
MEMBERS ABSENT: Robert Goodspeed
ALSO PRESENT: City Manager, Department Directors, and Public
Public Comments None
PRESENTATION OF FIRE CAPTAIN PROMOTION. – Public Safety Director Tim Kozal – Postponed
DISCUSSION ON FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS. – City Manager Thad Taylor and Public
Safety Director Tim Kozal – City Manager Thad Taylor and Public Safety Director Tim Kozal
updated Council on current staffing issues in the Fire Department. Kozal explained that the
newly hired firefighter is an EMT and will be attending paramedic training beginning in April
while another firefighter has experienced a non-work related injury requiring him to be off
work for an indefinite period of time. Kozal stated that he is considering hiring an additional
firefighter in an effort to maintain full staffing levels. There will be additional overtime costs
during the orientation and training periods for the new firefighters.
CONSENSUS: Council supports and appreciates staff’s efforts to maintain staffing levels.
PRESENTATION OF QUARTERLY STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATES. – City Manager Thad Taylor – City
Manager Thad Taylor led the discussion on the Strategic Plan updates.
Progress highlights included these areas:
Working on alternate locations for the recycling center
Discussions with CSX Railroad and State Legislators regarding railroad relocation
Working with DDA interim director reviewing TIF plan
County Planner attended RRC training
Council Work Session – February 12, 2019 Page 1
Preparing new property cards for redevelopment properties
Moving forward with asset management plan to be presented at next Work
Session
RRCA is updating the master building plan and received its liquor license
Met with Consumers Energy looking at energy efficiency opportunities
Scheduled reconstruction for Twelfth Street this summer
CONSENSUS: Council felt that good progress is being made on the Strategic Plan and directed
staff to make some edits to more accurately reflect the current City relationship with AES.
DISCUSSION ON 2019 CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. – Public Works Director Jeff Mikula and
Engineer of Record Shawn Middleton – Public Works Director Jeff Mikula presented
information on 2019 construction projects for the City of Manistee and responded to questions
Council had regarding the upcoming projects. Total costs for all combined construction is $21.5
million.
Construction projects include the following:
RD Projects: General Wastewater Improvements
o Phase IA – 2019 Wastewater Collection System Rehabilitation
o Phase IB – 2019 Storm and Sanitary Sewer Improvements
o Phase IIA – 2019 Wastewater Collection System Improvements
o Phase IIB – 2019 Clean Water Recovery Facility Improvements
12th Street – US31 to Maple Street Reconstruction
Marina Docks and Riverwalk Seiche Repairs
Pilot Drinking Water Project
OTHER – Councilmember Szymanski asked if there was any follow up with our congressional
representatives regarding the recent alcohol ban on area rivers. City Manager Taylor
commended Manistee County Commissioner Jeff Dontz on his efforts to address this issue and
attain a one year postponement on the ban.
Mayor Zielinski stated that he will be attending a DDA meeting on February 13, 2019 and asked
fellow councilmembers to let him know if they have any input to contribute to that upcoming
meeting.
Adjourned at approximately 7:58 pm.
Lora Y. Laurain
Deputy Clerk
Council Work Session – February 12, 2019 Page 2
Agenda
MANISTEE CITY COUNCIL
WORK SESSION AGENDA
Tuesday, February 12, 2019 - 7:00 p.m. - Council Chambers, City Hall
I. Call to Order.
II. Work Session Items.
a.) PUBLIC COMMENTS ON WORK SESSION RELATED ITEMS.
b.) PRESENTATION OF FIRE CAPTAIN PROMOTION. – Public Safety Director Tim
Kozal.
c.) DISCUSSION ON FIRE DEPARTMENT OPERATIONS. – City Manager Thad N.
Taylor and Public Safety Director Tim Kozal.
d.) PRESENTATION OF QUARTERLY STRATEGIC PLAN UPDATES. – City Manager
Thad N. Taylor.
e.) DISCUSSION ON 2019 CONSTRUCTION PROJECTS. – Public Works Director Jeff
Mikula and Engineer of Record Shawn Middleton.
f.) OTHER.
III. Adjourn.
TNT:cl
Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
Timeframe / Champion
Status
Goal - Economic Development and Jobs
Strategy - 1.1 Manistee County Economic Development
1.1.1 County-Wide Strategic Plan: AES / Thad
Using existing master plans, strategies, DDA plans and other pertinent plans, the AES will develop an initial County-Wide Economic Development
Strategy, much as we have participated in developing for recreation. This plan will include an identification of:
Significant assets that can be leveraged for development, including vacant buildings. Ongoing
Development gaps that must be filled to support development (infrastructure, housing, etc.) along with an identification of how those gaps can be filled
if known. To Council 9/19/17
Zones within the county that are prime for industrial, commercial, agricultural and other uses. Ongoing
An identification of economic development priorities by type throughout the County. To Council 9/19/17
Incentives that ae available to support attainment of economic development priorities. Ongoing
An action plan for addressing gaps and achieving priorities. Ongoing
AES will develop and broadly distribute a one-stop process for businesses of any size to address issues or opportunities beginning with a single point of
contact. This will include the network of agencies, programs and services available to provide site selection assistance, capital financing, regulatory program
support, employee recruiting and training and others. Ongoing
No updates from AES.
Strategy - 1.2 Industrial Park
1.2.1 SET Denise / AES
Present the SET Economic Development Strategy which will underscore the three emerging growth opportunities that have the greatest competitive and Ongoing
comparative economic potential: Agribusinesses, Energy, and Advanced Materials.
Present to Council, for their decision, to participate in SET:PRIME (Powering Rural Investment by Mapping Energy) as the second community to look To Council 9/19/17
towards creating jobs within the Energy Industrial Sector.
Provide the City with data sheets so that staff (Planning/Zoning) has an understanding of the economic potential of the targeted industrial sectors.
Waiting for documentation from AES.
No updates from AES.
1.2.2 Manufacturing Strategy Ongoing Denise / AES
Present the Manufacturing Plan with a focus on the recommendations about the port.
Develop a port marketing strategy based on Manufacturing Plan recommendations.
No updates from AES.
1.2.3 Enter/Exit Survey for Permit Applications: Denise / Thad
Component of RRC certification was that customer service surveys for site plan review be developed. These surveys are given to applicants for commercial Completed
properties.
1.2.4 “Packaging” the Industrial Park
Identify all vacant parcels in both industrial parks. Denise / AES /
Develop a standardized form to catalog specific traits of each vacant parcel, i.e. utilities available, size, location, parcel number, etc. Completed Thad
Populate the standardized form for each vacant parcel. Completed
Develop a packet that has the standardized form, map of parcel, contact information for interested parties. Completed
Make the packet available on the City’s and AES’s website and give information to MEDC for their marketing use. On City’s website. Ongoing
Compiled data, prepared maps and individual parcel information pages for both Lake Michigan and Renaissance Park properties. City webpage under Completed
Developers Resource Guide provides a brief narrative for the Lake Michigan Industrial Park and site map has been updated. Renaissance Park information is
also listed on the City webpage.
Need to review Lot 6 of Lake Michigan Industrial Park (recycling center) to determine if the entire parcel is needed for future expansion of the recycling
center. The property could be split to create a new parcel for sale. Working on alternate locations for the recycling center, which could free up the land for
future sale and reduce recycling program costs.
Determine what additional information is needed for marketing the industrial parks. What information should be updated on the City’s webpage. Need to Completed
determine if a realtor/broker should be marketing the site on behalf of the City. Determine if this requires City Council input / approval.
Aggressively work to respond to MEDC New Site Search notifications by utilizing the Industrial Parks directory. Ongoing
Provide the City with critical information to include in the Industrial park pro forma produced by the Planning/Zoning Department. Critical information
STRATEGIC PLAN QUARTERLY UPDATE – FEBRUARY 2019 PAGE 1
Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
needed includes capacity specifications on: infrastructure, utilities, water, broadband as well as quality of life information.
Prepared a Marketing Packet for Renaissance Park and adjoining industrial properties. Have the marketing information for the two industrial properties in
the industrial park in the city completed. Gave copies to Tamara at AES in June, reached out on 9/20/17 and asked for response following week. Drafted Completed
RFP to contract with a realtor/broker to sell the properties.
RFPs for broker services for Renaissance Park and adjacent properties mailed to realtors, ad in newspaper, and posted on website 1/16/18. Completed
Coldwell Banker Commercial Premier selected as Broker for marketing of properties. Completed
Marketing packets are on web page and Coldwell Banker Commercial Premier have copies for interested buyers.
1.2.5 Survey Existing Industrial Park Occupants
Compiled mailing list, drafted survey and cover letter prepared. Pending, provided information to AES to review. Completed Denise / AES
Compiled mailing list, drafted survey, and cover letter prepared. Gave copies to Tamara at AES in June, reached out 9/20/17 asked for a response following Completed
week.
Mailed out surveys 1/18/18 – two responses received, second request mailed out 4/4/18. Completed
1.2.6 New Industrial Park Occupants
Identify appropriate uses for each parcel based on zoning allowances. Denise / Thad /
Research businesses/industries that are consistent with appropriate uses. AES
Send packet developed for strategy 1.2.4 to targeted businesses/industries.
Follow-up contacts with targeted businesses/industries.
Staff has spoken with three separate parties about Lots 11 & 12 in the Lake Michigan Industrial Park this past year. Two expressed interest but decided not Sold 12/29/2017
to proceed. One party stated the minimum 4,000 sq. ft. building requirement as a reason not to move forward with their project. Review Zoning requirements
with Planning Commission to determine if the building size requirement should be reduced.
Work with partners (City Planning/Zoning) to populate ZoomProspector and Opp sites.
Work with partners to understand the target emerging growth opportunities within the region.
Begin a discussion about economic gardening: an entrepreneur orientated, growing the economy from within, strategy that targets state 2 (businesses with 10
or more employees) companies by helping them with strategic issues and providing them with customized help and data.
On 9/12/17 spoke with a developer who is looking at a marijuana cultivation grow facility that may be interested in the industrial park properties. Drafted
RFP for a broker/realtor to market the sites.
Last two lots in City industrial park have sold / RFPs for real estate broker mailed for industrial properties in Manistee Township.
Coldwell Banker Commercial Premier selected as Broker for marketing of properties in Manistee Township 3/6/18; working with owner of Lot 12 & 13 on
special use permit.
Manistee Township properties are listed for sale through Coldwell Banker Commercial Premier. Owner of Lot 12 & 13 is in the process of selling the
property to another potential marihuana grower, working with new developers on the special use permit process.
Strategy - 1.3 Transportation of Goods
1.3.1 Port Strategy AES
1.3.2 Rail Relocation Ongoing Thad / AES
Review Manistee Area Rail Relocation Feasibility Study from April, 2008. Completed
Attend meetings with the railroad(s) and other interested parties as facilitated by the Alliance for Economic Success. Met with railroad representatives on One meeting held
8/23/18. No substantial progress made. Scheduling meeting with Senator Peters and Stabenow staff to discuss funding opportunities. Met 10/22/18
Coordinate City resources as appropriate.
Identified a senior railroad official that may be of assistance moving forward.
Conference call with CSX Railroad to gauge interest in rail relocation. 1/23/19
Meeting with State Legislators to discuss and update progress on railroad relocation. 2/11/19
1.3.3 Rail Infrastructure Completed AES
AES has initiated discussion with the rail line about the location, status and options for rail infrastructure. Marquette Rail is collaborating with owner CSX
to further these discussions.
Strategy - 1.4 Linking Training and Jobs
Strategy - 1.5 Downtown Revitalization
1.5.1 Support of Plans/Ideas Ongoing – all topics DDA / Thad /
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Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
Review the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) 2017-2020 Strategic Plan. AES
Identify specific focus areas and strategies of the Strategic Plan that the City can provide assistance and/or partner with the DDA.
Assign City staff and/or City boards and commissions to provide the necessary assistance.
1.5.2 Support Collaboration DDA / Thad
Continue regularly scheduled meetings with the DDA Executive and Economic Development Director. Meeting as needed
Continue to provide support to the DDA Executive and Economic Development Director in efforts associated with economic development efforts in the
DDA District. Ongoing
Continue to include the DDA Executive and Economic Development Director in economic development efforts within the City, outside of the DDA District,
that may have an impact on the DDA District. Ongoing
Communications / support now through the DDA Board Chair and Interim DDA Director.
1.5.3 Support the TIF Renewal Ongoing DDA / Thad
Review the City and DDA strategic plans to determine common goals. Initial staff meeting
Use the common goals to structure a draft TIF renewal strategy. 9/28/17
Develop a draft TIF plan and seek input and support from the DDA Board and City Council. Met with DDA TIF Committee for initial discussion. DDA 1/9/18
Board and City Council had a joint meeting on 8-14-18 to discuss draft TIF plan.
Make changes if/as necessary to the draft TIF plan and develop the final plan.
Submit the final TIF plan to the required agencies/boards for approval.
Once the required agencies/boards have approved, begin implementation of the plan.
Reviewed plan with Interim Director and DDA is reviewing suggested recommendations.
Strategy - 1.6 Redevelopment Ready Implementation
1.6.1 Implementation Ongoing Denise
How do we measure achievement? April 27, 2017 staff went to Lansing for a meeting with RRC and MML staff for the communities that have received
RRC Certification. Discussed technical assistance that is available and spoke with the new Real Estate Development Specialist about marketing sites.
Meetings are proposed quarterly or semi-annually, will continue to attend and utilize resources available.
Continue to use best practices for development. Biannual progress report sent to RRC on 8/2/17. Meeting held 8/29/17 with Pablo Majano (new RRC
contact) and Dan Leonard with our development team. As a RRC certified community we will have access to Zoom Prospector for marketing sites. Will
contact Jim Davis, Real Estate Development Specialist at MEDC who will provide information on how many sites we are allowed to place on Zoom
Prospector and their procedure for updating information. Tyler Leppanen will be included in the conference call so he can oversee properties in the DDA.
Continue to use Best Practices for development. Biannual progress report sent to RRC on 1/11/18. Continue to work with contacts at RRC; several meetings 1/11/18
and conference calls last quarter with the RRC Team.
Continue best practices, marketing information for publication in Opportunity Michigan publication was sent in July. MEDC/RRC assisted with renderings
for three properties in the downtown and participated in the Chamber of Commerce Developer Day on August 10. RRC Certification assisted with being
selected for the Project Rising Tide program; kickoff August 10.
County Planner attended online RRC training.
Preparing new property cards for properties added during annual joint meeting. Will be provided to the State for inclusion on Zoom Prospector.
Goal - City Infrastructure and Facilities
Strategy - 2.1 City Owned Assets
2.1.1 Building Asset Management Plan Ed / Mark/
The draft building asset management plan (BAMP) is largely complete. It has been in process for some time and needs to be reviewed by City staff and our Jeff/Spicer
electrical, mechanical and plumbing vendors of record to make sure the information is current and as complete as possible. Estimated firm completion is
now December 2018 which will allow for consultation with vendors of record and Mark, since he will be caught up from medical leave. Project is moving Est Comp 12/2018
forward with additional metrics to be measured. Spicer and vendors of record will assist with evaluations. 09/2019
Presenting to council at March work session.
Strategy - 2.2 Ramsdell Theatre
2.2.1 Management Evaluation Ongoing Ed / RRCA
The Ramsdell Regional Center for the Arts (RRCA) is reporting to the City Council quarterly or as requested. The RRCA Board has met its fundraising goal
for FY 2017 and FY 2018. It is actively pursuing an annual giving campaign for the current fiscal year. The RRCA has hired part-time administrative
assistant to free up time for the Executive Director to continue and increase fundraising. Fundraising strategy is being refined.
The board will be updating the master building plan over the next several months.
The RRCA received its permanent liquor license in December 2018.
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Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
Strategy - 2.3 Infrastructure Development/Property Acquisition
Identify gaps in infrastructure that are impediments to redevelopment and economic growth, overall and site specific. Thad / AES
Identify target property(s) that should be the focus for redevelopment purposes as economic development drivers.
Develop a matrix that will prioritize and focus efforts to close the identified infrastructure gaps and target property(s) based on project complexity,
community needs and other similar criteria.
Research available funding opportunities to address the identified infrastructure gaps and acquisition of target property(s).
Identify private development groups that the City can partner with to share redevelopment costs for infrastructure needs and property acquisition costs at
target property(s).
When City and private development group(s) reach accord on a partnership for infrastructure, move forward on the redevelopment/economic development
projects (s).
Need to meet with AES and revisit the strategy.
No update and/or meeting with AES.
Strategy - 2.4 Technology
2.4.1 Electronic Payments Completed Ed
The City currently offers auto-debit for water and sewer bills and may expand that for tax bills. The City currently accepts credit cards at the boat launch
auto-attendant, Ramsdell Theatre, Marina and online for water payments. The recent procurement of a new financial management suite will allow for better
online payment experience and credit card payments at the counter for a variety of items. The City is working with Point & Pay which is fully integrated
with BS&A.
2.4.2 Broadband Ongoing AES
AES has been working with Michigan Connect who is compiling data from the survey conducted late 2016 to understand demand. The report generated will
direct next steps. We will continue to work with USDA-RD, MEDC and others to understand the availability of financial resources to attain this strategic
goal.
No update from AES.
Strategy - 2.5 Energy Efficiencies
2.5.1 Opportunity Evaluation Ongoing Ed / Mark
The City continually looks for opportunities to save energy. We have been switching existing lighting to LED as opportunities arise (for example, Council
Chamber lights were replaced with LED and we are exploring LED options for the Ramsdell Theatre). As utility incentives present themselves, they are
looked at to see if they are a good fit for the City. Options to replace fluorescent lights at City Hall with LED are being explored. City Hall boilers have been
replaced.
Consumers Energy is doing a review of all city accounts/meters.
Exploring grant opportunities to perform an energy audit. Met with Consumers Energy Municipal Account Rep to seek out assistance with energy reduction
efforts.
2.5.2 Energy Efficiency Plan Evaluation Est Comp Ed / Mark
City staff will review the previous report(s) and compile a list of what has or has not been completed. Much has been accomplished. 7/2018
Reports have been gathered and will be reviewed to see what has been accomplished. Estimated completion is now July after Mark returns from medical
leave as his involvement is needed.
Completed and published. Completed
Strategy - 2.6 Streets
2.6.1 Funding Ongoing Ed / Jeff / Spicer
Currently use Act 51 funds and Small Urban.
Leverage new developments/projects for grant applications.
Council has prioritized Capital Improvement funds and money from the general fund. Contributed additional dollars from oil and gas for local street
reconstruction.
Local street mill and fill projects to be bid in February with spring construction. Under construction. Property proceeds will be used to add segments this Completed
summer.
Awarded $375,000 Small Urban Funds to reconstruct Twelfth Street from Maple to US-31 in 2019. Design efforts will begin. Design in process. Contract
Bid by MDOT in March, construction summer 2019.
Our five-year Transportation Improvement Plan (TIP) which is updated annually identifies funding for streets from a variety of sources including the State, Headlee TBD
STRATEGIC PLAN QUARTERLY UPDATE – FEBRUARY 2019 PAGE 4
Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
general fund, capital improvement fund and grants. The Street Asset Management Plan is also due for its five-year update. The increased Act 51 funding Council Budget
from the State resulting from tax changes the legislature enacted has and will help street funding significantly. However, there still exists a funding gap that Discussion
must be closed to make meaningful progress on our overall network. The street ad-hoc committee recommended exploring a Headlee override millage to
help fix streets once the TIP had been in place for a few years and progress was shown. The TIP was discussed at the August 8, 2017 Council work session
and the consensus was to “bring back dollars needed to address street problems and options for an expanded street improvement plan for Council.”
$200,000 allocated from the Oil and Gas Fund for a local street reconstruction project in 2019. Leveraging these funds and sewer asset management plan to
reconstruct several bocks of local streets on the north side in 2019.
Leveraging utility upgrades. Section of Twelfth Street and Kosciusko upgraded in 2018. Sections of Fifth, Ramsdell, Sixth, and High Streets to be upgraded
in 2019 for installation of a new sewer conveyance to the WWTP.
Applied for a MDOT Category F grant to reconstruct a block of Sixth Street and Engelmann (Sixth to Eighth) in 2019. Not awarded grant.
2.6.2 Evaluation Ongoing Jeff / Spicer
Street network is evaluated annually utilizing a PASER analysis. Network is then updated from collected data.
TIP updated annually on a rolling 5 year projection. Candidates are visually inspected, core sample taken to evaluate base conditions.
Budgeted Local Street mill and fill projects are scheduled for spring of 2018. Completed
2.6.3 Maintenance/Repair/Upgrade Ongoing Jeff / Spicer
Streets are swept through the summer.
Catch basins are cleaned on a three-year revolving basis. MDOT contracted DPW to clean catch basins along US-31 this year. Investigating
tracking/scheduling software as part of the SAW grant to increase efficiency. Purchased software, implementation in 2019.
Winter maintenance includes plowing and salting. Sand applications have been reduced to hard pack areas when temps drop below 10o Fahrenheit. Salt
usage has been decreased by 50% with new equipment, improved techniques, and pre-wetting with brine made in house. That translates into $50,000 savings
annually which then gets used for paving projects.
Annual crack sealing program began in September with rented equipment and labor from DPW. Staff were trained and completed the work timely and
efficiently. Material on hand should be sufficient to complete candidates in 2018.
Asset management plan recommends light maintenance before rehab or reconstruction. TIP includes a blended approach to spread work out around town and
capitalize on funding opportunities. The Five-Year Plan will be updated near the end of 2018.
Strategy - 2.7 Safety at Public Facilities
2.7.1 Protocols Ongoing Tim
Evaluate current safety protocols.
Utilize resources and technology effectively and carefully to ensure ongoing safety – identify short and long term goals to effectively meet the needs of the Completed
community and City employees. Established several new cameras outside of City Hall that are recorded to assist the community with the “Safe Exchange Summer 2017
Zone.” It will also serve as an extra level of security for the building. Installed a camera in the lobby to the police department. Established Red Med Box 1/2018
medication disposal program in Police lobby. Allows for policy outlined controls on disposal of unwanted medication.
Develop proactive measures and re-evaluate annually to include site assessment. Hosting CRASE: Citizens Response to Active Shooter events for City
employees in the spring. CRASE training conducted April 30, 2018.
Establish methodology and supportive training for City employees. Researching defensive training for paramedics. Completed PPCT training with the Fire 1/2018
Department January 2018.
2.7.2 Policies/Procedures Tim
Evaluation of current City and departmental safety policies. Partnering with all departments to create service delivery policies that are reflective of the City’s
mission and values while providing efficient and effective services. Updated and implemented several policies within the Police Department and Fire Winter 2017-18
Department to better protect and serve the citizens. These include Police Use of Force and Fire Department vehicular emergency response.
Budgeted for accreditation through the Michigan Association of Chiefs of Police. This will allow a complete supervised overhaul of the Police Department’s
Policy and Procedures. After completion the Department will maintain accreditation annually.
Development / implementation of several new policies winter of 2018.
2.7.3 Leading Practices Tim
Assess techniques and leading practice in safety measures for public safety facilities.
Promote ongoing efforts for proactive and reactive activities that will assist in preventing, educating, enforcing and reducing loss from criminal activity and Ongoing
job injuries. Developed a county-wide Law Advisory group established to meet monthly to discuss methods, trends and training that will assist the City,
their facilities and the County as a whole. Working with local chiropractor to implement healthy practices to implement at work. Working with local Winter 2017-18
nutritionist on providing comprehensive literature on healthy meal planning.
Update the City’s emergency preparedness plan to include a comprehensive strategy that focuses on risk reduction. Working with Manistee County
Emergency Manager on updating the County’s Emergency Operation Plan (EOP). Manistee County EOP signed and approved winter 2018.
STRATEGIC PLAN QUARTERLY UPDATE – FEBRUARY 2019 PAGE 5
Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
Goal - City Beaches, Parks and Recreation Areas
Strategy - 3.1 Cleanliness and Universal Accessibility
3.1.2 Parks Maintenance Management Plan Ongoing Jeff
Public restrooms are cleaned Monday-Friday. Concessionaires, fish cleaning are responsible for each facility. Overtime used on weekends between
Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Parks mowed as necessary. Collected leaves in the fall. Repairs made as soon as possible, as detected, or reported by public.
Adopt-a-Park has assisted in trash pickup, small projects.
Parks Department identifies an upgrade and completes each year with staff and utilizing budgeted funds.
Installing automatic locks on all bathrooms in City parks. Installation in process.
3.1.3 Enforcement/Safety Ongoing Jeff / Tim /
Video surveillance has been a useful tool. Parks Comm
Vandalism reported to Police and complaints are created. Repairs submitted to insurance. New video cameras installed downtown to assist with enforcement
/ investigations, fall 2018
Maintain signage and foot patrols to ensure compliance and enforcement with laws and ordinances governing City beaches and provide necessary safety
devices on both Lake Michigan beaches which may include the use of cameras.
Proactive patrols to continue with documentation of time spent and enforcement activities if warranted. Unmarked patrols to assist with enforcement as
time permits. Foot patrols continue on the Riverwalk, First Street and Fifth Avenue beach pavilion areas. Utilized Police Department Polaris for visible
patrols on City beaches. Underage drinking grant sponsored proactive U/C patrol on City beaches for underage drinking violations.
Parks Commission to develop safety plan for City beaches.
Parks Commission researching additional safety considerations.
Strategy - 3.2 Boating Facilities
3.2.1 Boat Launches Ongoing Jeff / Tim
Arthur Street was rehabbed and in very good condition. Pay tube has added some revenue. Erosion repairs completed in August.
First Street docks are in good condition, ramp surface will need to be repaired 5-10 years. A section of dock ramps rehabilitated this winter by the parks
staff.
Ninth Street received two grants for a major overhaul. City match not available. DPW rehabbed in-house. No launch fees charged. Acquisition of Morton 10
acre parcel will assist in future improvements.
The parking lot at First Street Beach requires resurfacing and a new curb cut along the west side.
3.2.2 Explore the Shores Ongoing Denise / Jeff
Very successful in the past in receiving grants for upgrades.
If match money identified, could look at capital upgrades along the Riverwalk.
Staff will continue to work with the Explore the Shores county-wide initiative.
Forwarded list of sites to Tim Ervin on 6/5/17 that included installation of a stage at First Street Beach (Rock & Blues fundraiser), Fifth Avenue parking
lots, and Consumers Property by WWTP.
3.2.3 Fee Based Boating Program Completed Ed / Jeff / Tim
The boat launch raised its rates a few years ago and a pay tube was installed at Arthur Street boat launch. The State of Michigan controls the fees that can be
charged for slips at the Marina. The key to stability at the Marina is to drive more boater traffic through marketing. Harbormaster Tim Kozal is exploring
raising the rates at the Marina one level higher on the State-approved rate schedule. In October Harbor Commission endorsed moving 2018 slip rates to
Level D.
Evaluate our fee based boating program in order to understand how to make them more effective.
Proactive patrol ensuring the use of the fee based system. Enforcement administered as necessary. Since inception over 20 tickets issued for failure to
purchase parking pass.
Market through technology the fee based system – Facebook.
Gas and diesel pricing is evaluated no less than weekly to ensure we are optimizing our pricing.
Request to DNR Waterways to expand seasonal rentals, winter 2018.
Strategy - 3.3 Park Facilities and Amenities
3.3.1 Budgeted Prioritization Completed Jeff
Currently this is completed in-house with suggestions from the Parks Commission.
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Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
3.3.2 Tennis Courts Ongoing Jeff
Sands Park courts require reconstruction. We have sought out USTA grants. Match money is an issue. MAPS responsible for 50% of maintenance and
capital costs. Held initial meeting Sands Park Control Board. Will submit for grants in the future. Preliminary discussions include exploring a joint
application when the new recreation grant program is announced by the Manistee Community Foundation.
Sands Park Control Board met and supported the joint application to the Community Foundation for Sands Park tennis courts. Application was submitted
and awaiting approval to submit a full application. Application to resurface First Street tennis courts was submitted but not awarded.
First Street courts in fair condition. DPW completed sand removal and regraded last spring. Fencing upgrades completed this spring. Future plans include
constructing barrier free walkways and screening material installed on fences to block wind and sand migration.
Fifth Avenue courts are concrete and seldom used. Sand migration is an ongoing concern. Striping has been started to allow use for Pickleball.
3.3.3 Beach Parking Lots Ongoing-waiting for Jeff
First Street parking lots at the softball fields and Lions Pavilion were rebuilt approximately 20 years ago and are in good shape. Additional parking additions funding
are recommended.
The First Street pier parking lot is in poor condition and requires measures to reduce sand migration and control storm water flows.
Fifth Avenue upper lot is in poor condition (west side) and is under sized. A concept plan has been drafted to reduce sand migration and increase parking
spaces by 30%. Berm removed last spring by DPW. West edge of parking lot expanded with new aggregate base and paving to remove congestion in traffic
movement. Planning to seal the lot and restripe in the spring of 2019.
3.3.4 Food Service Ongoing Jeff
First Street concessions have been run very well the past two seasons. Entered into a three-year contract to continue.
New three-year contract with North Country Concessions for Fifth Avenue Beach. Began operations in early July. Slow season, vendor plans to add
equipment and expand menu. Assisting to facilitate possible partnering with North Channel Brewery.
Strategy - 3.4 City Recreation Plan
3.4.1 City Parks Commission Ongoing Jeff
Parks Commission had two members move outside of the City and hasn’t had a quorum in three months. Ordinance amendment to address membership is in
process. Ordinance amendment approved, two new members appointed, one pending.
When meetings resume, they will be working to update the Parks brochure, prioritize capital projects for future grant applications, research beach safety
items, and discuss private events within the parks.
3.4.2 Review and Update Ongoing Jeff / Denise
The plan is reviewed on a five-year basis to meet MDNR requirements for grants. Plan was last updated in 2016.
Will assist the Parks Commission with any proposed changes/amendments to the Parks and Recreation Plan.
Strategy - 3.5 Leveraging Beach Facilities for Events
3.5.1 Event Ideas Ongoing Thad/Chamber/
Establish a working group comprised of City staff, parks Commission members, Chamber of Commerce staff/volunteers and DDA staff/members. DDA/Jeff
Group to meet and brainstorm ideas for events and/or activities that lend themselves to the City’s beaches.
Identify feasible events/activities and an organization(s)/business(s) that is capable of organizing each specific event/activity.
Prioritize the events/activities and target 1-2 for implementation.
Identify a specific location for the targeted event/activity and select a timeframe that does not conflict with any other scheduled use of the area.
Support the event with appropriate advertising and staffing if/as necessary.
Working group to meet after the initial event(s) to constructively review the event to determine strengths/weaknesses for the specific event and lessons
learned for future events.
At the conclusion of the constructive review determine if the specific event should continue.
At the conclusion of the constructive review determine if the concept of using the beaches for events should continue.
Increased interest in holding weddings, etc. at our facilities. Last summer we assisted in a wedding held at First Street Beach. It did not utilize City services
and was well received. We also assisted the Catamaran Racing Association on their weekend event. DPW services were minimal and positive comments
were received from the group. We will look for additional opportunities to bring people to the community.
Need a system to reserve and make public aware of status.
A Committee has been exploring the construction of a permanent stage/concert venue at First Street Beach. Conceptual plans, cost estimates and potential
funding sources will be presented in the future. Draft concepts presented to Council in September. A feasibility study is recommended to properly size the
venue and consider sources of funding, capital expenditures and future revenue sources.
Draft RFP for outdoor performance venue is nearing completion.
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Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
Goal - Financial Stability and Continuous Improvement
Strategy - 4.1 Financial Stability
4.1.1 Forecasting Ongoing Ed
The annual budget incorporates three-year financial projections. The annual capital improvement plan looks out six years for required or desired capital In Place
improvement projects. Forecasting methodology and presentation continues to evolve. The new financial management system has given us some additional Completed
reporting capabilities that will be useful in this process and will allow Department Heads real-time access to their financial data. The CFO is working on
upgrading the Water & Sewer forecasting model.
4.1.2 Oil and Gas Revenue Ongoing Ed
The Oil and Gas Board meets quarterly and reviews the portfolio with the investment advisor. Performance has been satisfactory. Additional benchmarking In place
has been added. The CFO receives all transaction notices and communicates with the investment advisor as needed.
Oil and gas production has resumed after a period of shutdown and royalties are being generated.
Portfolio is being positioned for an expected economic slowdown in the future.
4.1.3 Budget Structure Ongoing Ed / Thad
City Manager and CFO to review existing budget format and structure to identify any areas that could improve.
If areas are identified research how other communities structure their budgets in those particular areas.
Incorporate changes as appropriate.
The budget structure was altered significantly two years ago. Administration is constantly evaluating the document to enhance it and improve readability and
understandability. The new financial management software will add additional automation to the budget process and will impact the preparation and
appearance of the budget.
The FY 2019 budget document incorporated some changes to improve readability, based on a review of several other communities’ budgets and using the
new accounting software. Future budgets will continue to evolve.
FY 2020 Budget will have enhanced capital improvement sections.
Strategy – 4.2 Service Efficacy
4.2.1 Benefits Ongoing Thad / Ed
City Manager and CFO to review City’s existing benefit package.
Provide each Department Director details on their department’s specific benefit package and task them with researching benefit packages of departments in Ongoing as part of
comparable municipalities. police and fire
Department Directors to develop a document detailing how the City’s benefit package compares/contrasts with comparable municipalities. negotiations
Department Directors will provide a recommendation on whether or not the benefits package is competitive.
City Manager and CFO will review the information and recommendations of the Department Directors and evaluate. Met with CFO & PSD to discuss
upcoming police & fire contract negotiations. Developing list of comparable communities & will obtain their labor agreements to review benefit packages.
Four-year contract with the Fire Union approved by City Council on September 4, 2018.
Concurrent with the research of the Department Directors the City Manager and CFO will perform an internal review of the benefits based solely on
sustainability.
Based on the information provided relative to compatibility and sustainability, the City Manager and CFO will make recommendations for change.
Recommended changes will be instituted consistent with current labor agreements and opportunities. Personnel Manual
The City routinely communicates with peers regarding benefit structure and levels. This is also reviewed as union contracts come up for negotiation. The 6/2018
city also internally evaluates it benefit structure and recommends changes as needed to respond to fiscal challenges. The City is also updating its Employee
Policies and Procedures Manual which may result in some benefit changes once adopted. 3/2018
RFP issued for Insurance Broker and Employee Benefit Consultant for our health, dental, vision and wellness programs. Completed
A presentation on our pension will be made at the February work session. After the MERS Council work session, the consensus was to explore moving all 6/2018
new hires in the non-union division to a defined contribution plan. On 10-16-18 Council agenda.
A new health insurance broker/consultant was selected and resulted in the City switching from BCBS to Priority Health with about a 10% savings.
Council decided to put all new hires in the Non-Union and Department Head groups into a Defined Contribution plan and close the MERS Non-Union
Defined benefit division to new hires.
Goal - Intergovernmental Relationships
Strategy - 5.1 Collaboration
5.1.1 Intergovernmental Relationships Ongoing Thad
Develop a list of appropriate counties and cities for collaborative efforts.
Reach out to the identified counties and municipalities to determine if they are interested in participating in a meeting to discuss possible collaborative
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Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
efforts.
If there is interest, schedule a meeting or meetings.
5.1.2 Service Sharing Ongoing Thad
Identify areas in which the City might share services with other units of government.
Develop a priority list of service sharing opportunities.
Determine which specific unit of government represents an appropriate service sharing opportunity.
Present the information to Council to determine if there is interest in moving forward.
If Council expresses interest, contact the appropriate units of government to determine if they are interested in meeting to discuss service sharing
opportunities. County Commissioners and City Council took action to approve a contract for the County Planner to provide planning and zoning services to
the City effective 10/1/18.
Conduct meetings as appropriate to explore opportunity(s). Meeting with Manistee Township and Filer Township representatives to discuss strengthening
and expanding current collaborative efforts.
If there is agreement that service sharing is an opportunity and appropriate, move forward toward implementation.
Met with Filer Township and Manistee Township officials and fire department members to discuss possibilities for increased collaboration. Second meeting
scheduled for 10-8-18.
Working to establish a date for meeting with City, Filer Township, and Manistee Township to discuss fire authority.
5.1.3 County Wide Discussions AES / Thad
Work with AES to determine format, agenda, audience and appropriate venue for discussion.
AES will convene meetings involving the City and neighboring townships and facilitate those meetings toward building a common agenda that reflects 9/2017
opportunities for economy of scale and service sharing.
No update from AES.
5.1.4 Reaching Out Ongoing City Council
Goal - Housing, Homelessness and Senior Citizens
Strategy - 6.1 Housing
6.1.1 Manistee Housing Commission Ongoing AES
No update from AES.
6.1.2 Housing Strategy Ongoing AES
AES will seek funding (approximately $6,000) to enable completion of a housing assessment of the type that is customarily done for developers and
financial institutions to quantify the type of housing that can be reliably developed to support workforce and other needs. Based on our work in other
counties and the region, the analysis provided through this kind of work is needed to provide the evidence investors/developers need to justify allocation of
their resources.
No update from AES.
Project Rising Tide scheduling educational component on housing in Manistee (availability, property conditions, average prices, or rental requirements).
Gather data from past housing developments (lessons learned) and use the data to do developer outreach for the community, promote potential properties,
resources, community expectations and needs.
6.1.3 Homelessness Ongoing Thad
Research ongoing efforts in the County to address homelessness.
Reach out to involved organizations to determine how the City can assist.
Provide assistance where/as appropriate.
6.1.4 Century Terrace Thad / Dept
Meet with the City of Manistee Housing Commission Executive Director to discuss establishing a working group of City staff, Housing Commission Completed Director
management and residents of Century Terrace to discuss any ongoing issues the City might be able to address. Met with Housing Commission Executive
Director and it was agreed to expand working group to include a resident from each of their housing groups. Waiting for Executive Director to identify the
individuals and then a meeting will be scheduled.
Meet with the working group and develop a prioritized list of issues appropriate for City involvement.
Assign City staff to each issue and task them with developing an action plan.
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Quarterly Update – February 2019
City of Manistee City Council Strategic Plan Implementation 2017-18
Once action plans are developed meet with the working group to discuss and/or refine the action plans.
Once there is consensus on the action plans, implement the plans.
Strategy - 6.2 Blight
6.2.1 Ordinance Enforcement Ongoing Tim / City
Work cooperatively with the City Police, Blight Officer, City Attorney and other code enforcement departments to proactively identify and address blighted Attorney
properties with the intent on bringing each property into compliance with ordinance and neighborhood standards.
Develop a reporting system that is informative and effective. Blight now a team approach with administrative oversite. Data now imputed in Completed
spreadsheet for team policing approach. Summer 2017
Maintain living spreadsheets to accurately document initial contact, follow-up, action plan and possible enforcement. New methodology and oversite Ongoing
implanted for quick access and reporting. 3/2018
Communicate with City Attorney’s Office regularly on reoccurring blight situations. Aforementioned proactive enforcement has allowed for
remediation prior to judicial citation. Continuing enforcement of violations of abandoned and junk auto ordinance. Continued interdepartmental
cooperation with the City Attorney to address unsafe abandoned houses.
Budget for seasonal part-time ordinance enforcement priorities.
STRATEGIC PLAN QUARTERLY UPDATE – FEBRUARY 2019 PAGE 10
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