City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2019 IN CITY HALL 1. Mayor Michael C. Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. Mayor Taylor led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Judy McHale, Clerk Coordinator, gave the Invocation. 3. Council Members present at roll call: Deanna Koski, Michael V. Radtke Jr., Maria G. Schmidt, Liz Sierawski, Michael C. Taylor, Henry Yanez, Barbara A. Ziarko. Also Present: Mark Vanderpool, City Manager; Marc D. Kaszubski, City Attorney; Judy McHale, Clerk Coordinator; Carol Sobosky, Recording Secretary. 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the Agenda as presented. Yes: All. The motion carried. 5. REPORT FROM CITY MANAGER Mr. Vanderpool reminded that the City of Sterling Heights will hold its fourth annual State of the City Address on Friday, September 27, 2019 at the AMC Forum 30 Theater. He explained that attendees will hear from Mayor Taylor on current projects and future initiatives. The event begins at 8 a.m. and those interested can contact the Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce and Industry at (586) 731-5400 for more information or to register. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 2 Mr. Vanderpool announced that the Department of Public Works is hosting two fall waste collection events at the Public Works Building, located at 7200 18 Mile Road. The first will be for hazardous waste disposal on Saturday, September 21, 2019 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., and the second will be Shred Day on Saturday, September 28, 2019 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. He noted that these events, which were both very popular when they were held in the spring, are coming back this fall. He added that the DPW building will be under construction in the spring so the ability to host the spring events may be questionable; therefore, they want to get them in this fall. Mr. Vanderpool stated the Sterling Heights Fire Department will hold the Fire Department Awards Night at 6 p.m. on Friday, October 4, 2019 in the City Hall Council Chambers. He added the public is welcome to attend. The Fire Department will be holding its annual open house from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, October 6, 2019 at Fire Station #4, located on 15 Mile Road, across from the Sterling Heights High School. He encouraged residents to join the Fire Department at that event for a festival of fun and fire safety events, and he outlined some of the anticipated activities. He thanked the City’s Fire Union Local 1557 and local businesses donating time, goods and services to continue this event, and he thanked the firemen and paramedics who will be on site because they are donating their time. Mr. Vanderpool expressed pride in announcing that the talented team from Sterling Heights TV is up for several awards through the Central State’s Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 3 Regional Alliance for Community Media. This year’s Philo Awards ceremony will be held in Grand Rapids on October 17, 2019. Mr. Dan Rizek is being recognized as a winner in the promotional category of ReCreating Recreation, and also Year 1 in a PSA category for Election Day and also a finalist for the Comedy Humor category of “Carol the Barrel.” Mr. Vanderpool recognized Mr. Bob Sergott for being recognized in the Music Video category for Sterling Heights Police Department’s “Happy” video, which can be seen on the Sterling Heights Police Department’s Facebook page. He noted these are well- deserved awards, noting their products are first-class, prime-time material, and he thanked and congratulated Mr. Rizek and Mr. Sergott. Mr. Vanderpool stated they are pleased to present a new program this evening being offered to businesses throughout the City to help fund clean energy enhancement at no cost to the City of Sterling Heights. He introduced Mr. Bali Kumar, Chief Executive Officer of Lean and Green Michigan and invited him to speak about this exciting program. Mr. Bali Kumar explained that Lean and Green Michigan administers the PACE program around the state and in the county. He stated PACE stands for Property Assessed Clean Energy and is based on a law passed by Michigan legislature that allows for long-term low fixed-interest loans to commercial, industrial, multi-family, non-profit and agricultural properties so they can undertake energy efficiency water conservation or renewable energy upgrades to their properties without incurring any up-front costs. He explained the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 4 savings has to more than pay off the loan per statute for projects that are large enough. He explained the details of how the program is run and the advantages, citing specific examples of how this can be a financial benefit while conserving energy at the same time. He stated the loan stays with the property, so if the property is sold, the next property owner must continue to pay it until it is paid off, and he detailed examples of projects that would be eligible for this program. Mr. Kumar showed a map of the jurisdictions they cover, noting they currently have 42 local governments they cover, and he estimated that to date, they have covered over $35 million in financing. He explained the process of determining eligibility, stressing their organization does a lot of the work. He cited a couple of developments that have obtained funding through PACE, including the Garfield Metro Building in Clinton Township and The Whitney Restaurant on Woodward in Detroit, and he provided details on both. He urged those interested in more information on this can go to www.leanandgreenmi.com or call (313) 444-1474. He offered to answer questions. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned whether someone interested in building a green, multi-family condominium development would be eligible for this program, noting that the condominiums would be individually owned. Mr. Kumar replied that generally, the answer would be no, although there may be a creative “yes” if the homeowner’s association owns some portion of it, such as a gym or community space. They would be willing to look at it. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 5 Mayor Taylor questioned whether the Special Assessment drops off when the term of the loan expires. Mr. Kumar replied affirmatively, adding that sometimes the property owner can prepay after three or four years of the special assessment, but that is subject to the terms of the financing contracts. Mr. Vanderpool concluded his report by stating that the good news is City Council does not have to take formal approval to participate because Macomb County has qualified as an eligible PACE county. He stated the City will start marketing this program and will have a web page that has already been developed, as well as sending out an email to all businesses throughout the City. They will also be working with the Chamber of Commerce to market the program and doing some direct mailing to businesses as well. The webpage contains more information and has direct links to the PACE website as well, where the application can be obtained online. He concluded they are excited to begin the program and added this is one more tool in their toolbox for economic development. 6. PRESENTATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is a presentation of the Eighteenth Recipient of a Sterling Heights Fire Department’s Survival Coin, and he invited Fire Chief Chris Martin to make the presentation. Fire Chief Martin stated he is honored to be here tonight with another great story of survival. He provided a brief background on the event that took place on July 13, 2018, where Mr. Robert Raffin was golfing with his friends at Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 6 Plumbrook Golf Course and suddenly collapsed, suffering from cardiac arrest. He proceeded to explain the details of the events that followed, from Mr. Raffin’s golf partners starting CPR, through the quick actions of the paramedics and hospital staff, the triple bypass surgery, all the way to Mr. Raffin’s full recovery and discharge from Henry Ford Macomb Hospital. He noted Mr. Raffin would not be here tonight without the efforts of so many who were involved. He invited Mr. Raffin to come up and receive the Eighteenth Survival Coin, presented by Sgt. Tom Grady and Firefighter Lance Stevens. Mr. Raffin stated he is touched, noting his wife has been in America for four years and they have a five-month-old son at home. He thanked everyone who was involved in saving his life, including hundreds of doctors. Chief Martin referred to the “chain of survival”, and Mr. Raffin had referred to the hundreds of people who had a part in his care, but he stressed it is the three individuals who started CPR first and foremost that made it possible for Mr. Raffin to have a chance to survive. He presented Dr. James Caris, Mr. John Broses and Mr. Russ Buzo, who were Mr. Raffin’s three golf partners who started the CPR, with the Sterling Heights Fire Department’s Exceptional Civilian Service Award. Dr. James Caris spoke on behalf of the three recipients of the Exceptional Civilian Service Award, stating it is never something you want to have to experience, and it is difficult when it is someone you know personally, but he Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 7 stated they reacted, started CPR and called 911. He commended the Fire Department for their wonderful service. Chief Martin stated the Survival Coin is an excellent program and it brings together the responders with those who suffered the cardiac arrest. He noted this is the eighteenth time in the last three years since they started the program. He explained that the firefighters more frequently respond to other emergencies. He noted there is a stroke occurring every forty seconds in America, and a fatal stroke occurring every four minutes. He showed “before” and “after” CT scans of a stroke victim from a recent run, where doctors at Beaumont Hospital were able to get in and open the clot, and they can only do that with a quick response from paramedics and quick recognition of the signs and symptoms of a stroke, communication and fast transport to the hospital. The person had a very good outcome because of it. He stated the same holds true for heart attacks, where there is a blockage, and quick response and care are of the utmost importance. He invited Ms. Naomi Ishioka, of Beaumont Troy, and Dr. Anthony Bonfiglio, of St. John Macomb, to speak. Ms. Naomi Ishioka, a Sterling Heights resident and nurse at Beaumont for over twenty years, stressed that she could not be happier with the excellent care she sees coming into the Emergency Room every day that the City’s paramedics and firefighters provide to the City’s residents. She stated she was in the emergency room when the stroke patient referred to by Chief Martin was brought in. She stated his family members recognized there was something Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 8 wrong, and they called 911. She added in Sterling Heights, a 911 call means there will be a truck arriving within three to five minutes, which she considered phenomenal and much faster than the average response time in many other communities. She provided some details of his treatment that resulted in a positive outcome for the patient. She noted that Beaumont and Henry Ford are registered stroke centers and stressed there are a lot of great hospitals in the area, adding that the Fire Department is the link from the home to the closest hospital, and people should know and be able to recognize stroke symptoms so they can help to save lives. Dr. Tony Bonfiglio, Chief of the Emergency Department at St. John Macomb in Warren, thanked Chief Martin for inviting him to speak this evening. He stressed early CPR and early defibrillation are two things that can save people without a hospital, and in the instance of the situation that led to the Survival Coin presented this evening, everything worked perfectly. He credited the Fire Chief and his providers, adding he is glad to see there are survivors and paramedics being recognized this evening. He explained that paramedics call ahead to the hospital to alert them they are on their way so the hospital is ready for them when they arrive. The City of Sterling Heights and their firefighters were recognized by the American Heart Association. They provide a Mission Lifeline Award to recognize systems of care from the time a person picks up the phone and calls 911 to the time they are in the Emergency Department or Cath Lab. He explained this is their first year so they were only Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 9 eligible for the Silver award, but they received it with ease, and he anticipated they will receive the Gold award next year, which would make them the third community to receive that level. He stressed they are proud of the achievements of the Fire Department’s paramedics, saving lives every day, and he added it is a pleasure to work with Chief Martin and his providers to integrate this care and help the people of Sterling Heights and surrounding communities. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from Council. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stated she is a nurse and agreed it is extremely important to know how to administer CPR. She explained there are many opportunities to learn, and she hopes there will eventually be an opportunity for Sterling Heights Fire Department to offer instruction to residents. Hospitals and the Red Cross currently offer CPR training. She congratulated all those who participated, and to the staff of the local emergency rooms who take care of the patients. She commented that she lost her father two weeks ago to what was most likely a stroke. She stressed that recognizing the symptoms and quick treatment can save lives. She thanked all involved for doing a great job. Councilman Radtke stated he is glad to see Mr. Raffin today, and he stressed Sterling Heights has one of the best fire departments in the State. He reminded there is a ballot issue coming up, and people can vote the way they want, but he felt the care the firefighter paramedics provide is lifesaving. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 10 Mayor Taylor thanked all who were involved in this, starting with the quick action of Mr. Raffin’s golf partners. He was glad to see Mr. Raffin here tonight, adding it is also great to see the work done by dispatchers, firefighters, nurses, doctors and all involved. He added he has no doubt that it is worth it to keep these services going, noting it is difficult to put a price on a life. He wished Mr. Raffin and his family well, and he thanked Dr. Bonfiglio and Nurse Ishioka for taking the time to attend tonight to provide some information. B. Mayor Taylor stated this is to adopt a resolution congratulating Sterling Heights High School for being recognized as a 2019 Academic State Champ by Bridge Magazine. He invited Dr. Robert Livernois, Superintendent of Warren Community Schools, to make the presentation. Dr. Robert Livernois thanked the City for the strong partnership they have with both police and fire in their schools, noting that half of the Warren Consolidated Schools are situated in Sterling Heights. He noted they made the recent decision to connect their cameras with the Police Department, and he informed that Chief Martin was recently at their Career Prep Center talking to EMT students about careers in EMT and firefighting. He explained they have a practice of keeping the Board informed any time there is an emergency at the school, and he stated they have used Sterling Heights quite often since September 3 for numerous issues. He stressed they are thankful for the services provided to their schools, and he stated his personal opinion that it would be in this community’s best interest to support the millage renewal in Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 11 November, noting that all of the life-saving examples tonight reflect what makes Sterling Heights a great city. He introduced Board of Education Trustee Carl Weckerle, Trustee Brian White, as well as Mr. Craig Miller, who is principal of Sterling Heights High School, and Mr. John Bernea, Chief Academic Officer. He explained that Bridge Magazine had ranked two of the high schools in Warren Consolidated Schools in the top ten of all high schools in their category, and one of those is Sterling Heights High School. He presented a banner to the City Council, designating the ranking of Sterling Heights High School as one of the top ten academic state champs for 2019. He indicated with over 500 school districts in Michigan, this is an extraordinary recognition. He explained that about five years ago, they decided to “pare down” what they expected their teachers to do so they could concentrate on academic areas that matter most. He felt this philosophy is what has brought them back here four or five years in a row. He recognized the efforts of their teachers and all of the support staff for the students in their schools. He stressed Warren Consolidated Schools is a great place for people to send their children. Mayor Taylor accepted the banner presented by Dr. Livernois. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution congratulating Sterling Heights High School for being recognized as a 2019 Academic State Champ by Bridge Magazine. Councilwoman Schmidt stated she could not be prouder, crediting the staff but especially the man in the lead who cares about the kids, staff and community. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 12 She noted that she is a parent of graduates from this school district and works for the school district as well, commenting that they have awesome kids and staff. She stressed that without the support of the community, they could not do what they do. She thanked and congratulated Mr. Miller and his staff at Sterling Heights High School. Councilman Radtke stated that, as a proud graduate of Cousino High School, he commended Dr. Livernois and those responsible for doing a great job. He felt it is a great school and urged people to consider moving here and enrolling their children in this school. He thanked them for their hard work. Councilwoman Koski agreed with her fellow council members that Sterling Heights has fantastic schools, noting her family moved to Sterling Heights fifty years ago. She stated all three of her sons attended schools in the Warren Consolidated School District, and she now has three grandchildren who are attending an elementary school in that district, with one grandson who graduated from that district. She congratulated Dr. Livernois and his staff on the good work they have done to keep this a fantastic school district. Councilwoman Ziarko congratulated all involved who have worked together to achieve this success. She was grateful that they appreciate the partnership as much as the City appreciates them. She credited the Board of Education as the guiding force behind almost everything that happens, and she congratulated them on this achievement. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 13 Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stressed that education makes a difference, so it means even more to live in Sterling Heights and have such an excellent program. She thanked Dr. Livernois, Mr. Miller and the Board members for changing lives and making them better, adding that is making for a better community. She felt they could not ask for a better partnership. Mayor Taylor congratulated Dr. Livernois, Mr. Miller and the Board members. He recognized the inaugural eight members of the new Youth Advisory Board who are sitting in the front row, and he explained they are looking to fill this Youth Advisory Board with about twenty students who have to be residents of Sterling Heights. He urged the Board and the Principal to pass that information along to the students so they can take advantage of their skills and talents. Yes: All. The motion carried. 7. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Taylor stated this item is consideration of the Consent Agenda. He invited public comments from the audience. • Mr. Bob Moffa – requested a correction to the September 3, 2019 Council minutes. Mayor Taylor clarified that Mr. Moffa can talk about whether there were errors in the way the minutes were presented, but he cannot dictate what he wants the minutes to say. He explained that someone may have misspoke or misunderstood a question, but if the minutes accurately reflect what that person said at the meeting, they should not be changed because they are a record of what was said. He advised that if Mr. Moffa feels there is a technical, Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 14 incorrect description in the minutes, he can inform the Council; however, if he feels it contains bad information and he disagrees, he did not feel they should be delving into it. • Mr. Moffa – continued to dispute the minutes and was called out of order. Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented: A. To approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 3, 2019. B. To approve payment of the bills as presented: General Fund - $839,677.08, Water & Sewer Fund - $4,620,762.25, Other Funds - $5,663.296.89, Total Checks - $11,123.736.22. C. RESOLVED, to purchase Armor Express Triton III tactical vest systems and accessories from Central Lake Armor Express, Inc., PO Box 516, Central Lake, MI 49622, at pricing available through the General Services Administration cooperative purchasing contract #GS-07F-0153T, in the amount of $27,890.80. D. RESOLVED, to purchase twenty (20) model X26P Tasers, with accessories, from Axon Enterprise, Inc., 17800 N 85th Street, Scottsdale, AZ 85255, at pricing available through the State of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing program, contract #071B4300067, in the cumulative amount of $30,448 and authorize a budget amendment from State Forfeiture funds. E. RESOLVED, to purchase a Universal Forensic Extraction Device system from Digital Intelligence, Inc., 17165 West Glendale Drive, New Berlin, WI 53151, at pricing available through a General Services Administration cooperative purchasing contract, #GS-35F-0681R, in the amount of $15,155.66. F. RESOLVED, to purchase one Motorola APX 4500 800 MHz dash- mounted mobile radio, one Motorola XPR5550E VHF dash-mounted mobile radio, two Motorola APX 6000 800 MHz portable radios, and accessories from Motorola Solutions Inc., 1301 East Algonquin Road, Schaumburg, IL 60196, at pricing available through the State of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing program, contract #071B2200101, in the amount of $14,455.05, and approve a budget amendment from General Fund reserves in the amount of the purchase price. G. RESOLVED, to purchase a 2020 Ford F-350DRW regular truck chassis and cab rom Signature Ford – Lincoln, 1960 E. Main St., Owosso, MI Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 15 48867, at pricing available through a Macomb County cooperative purchasing contract, #21-18, in the amount of $32,544. H. RESOLVED, to purchase three (3) Life Fitness Integrity DX Powermill Climbers from Life Fitness LLC, 9525 West Bryn Mawr Avenue, Rosemont, IL 60018, at pricing available through a GSA purchasing contract #GS-03F-120DA, at a total cost of $16,431.33, and authorize a budget amendment in the amount of $16.431.33 from general fund reserves to carry the expenditure forward from fiscal year 2018/2019. I. RESOLVED, to award the bid for Glock handguns to Michigan Police Equipment Co., 6521 Lansing Road, Charlotte, MI 48813, at a net cost after trade-in allowance of $44,415. J. RESOLVED, to approve the Service and License Agreement between the City of Sterling Heights and Pivot Point Partners LLC, 4235 Scioto Parkway, Powell, OH 43065, for a one-year term and authorize the City Manager to extend the term for one additional year on the same terms and conditions and execute all required documentation on behalf of the City. K. RESOLVED, to set a public hearing on Tuesday, October 15, 2019 at 7:00 p.m. regarding the application by Shuert Industries, Inc. for an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate at 6600 Dobry Drive. Yes: All. The motion carried. 8. CONSIDERATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider publication of the preliminary agenda for Sterling Heights City Council meetings in the official city newspaper at an estimated annual cost of $5,000. He invited Mr. Vanderpool to give a presentation. Mr. Vanderpool explained that at the August 6, 2019 City Council meeting, Councilman Radtke inquired about bringing forth a budget amendment for the cost associated with publication of the preliminary agendas for City Council meetings in the Sterling Heights Sentry, the official city newspaper. He noted the proposal of a budget amendment was prompted by residents who do not have internet access to view the completed agenda on the City’s website. He Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 16 explained that the City Clerk’s office previously published the preliminary agenda, but this practice ended due to the lead-time required by the paper, and the subsequent incompleteness and inaccuracy of the preliminary agenda as published. He informed that the lead-time prior to publication in the Sentry is one week before the publication date, and provided the example of tonight’s meeting, where the preliminary agenda would have been published on September 11. The City Clerk would have had to submit the preliminary agenda for publication on September 4, which was one day after the previous regular meeting. He stressed that on that date, the agenda is incomplete and substantially amended over the course of the next eight days, when it is finalized the Thursday prior to the meeting. There is a lot that occurs with that agenda in those eight days, including items that are added and items that are deleted or amended. Administration concluded it was not very meaningful to publish the preliminary agenda. He stated that the other factors considered by City Clerk were the legal requirements and cause for publishing. He stressed there is no state law, local charter or ordinance requirement for publishing a preliminary agenda, noting that the City currently posts the agenda on their website, as well as on the bulletin board at City Hall by the Clerk’s office. The finalized agenda is posted on the Friday prior to the meeting. They estimate the annual cost to publish the agenda would be approximately $5,600. After reviewing this further, they concluded there is a more effective alternative to provide those who wish to have a final agenda and do not have internet access Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 17 and are unable to physically come into City Hall, and he suggested the following. Through Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which states in part that a person has a right to subscribe to future issuances of public records that are created, issued or disseminated on a regular basis, a subscription could be requested, valid for up to six months at the request of the subscriber and renewable thereafter. He suggested that for the cost of postage, any subscriber lacking access but who wants the completed agenda can have it sent to their home prior to the regular City Council meeting, and the request for subscription can be handled at the office of City Clerk. He pointed out the alternative not only provides residents with a more complete agenda but would also be a substantial savings to the City. He added that the City can also broadcast the completed agenda on Sterling Heights TV, as well as post copies at the Sterling Heights Public Library, Senior Center and the new Community Center that will be opening early next year. He concluded that the Administration is respectfully recommending that the alternative be promoted to address the needs of individuals who wish to see a final agenda but are not able to do so electronically. He felt the alternative recommendation presents a win-win opportunity, and he offered to address comments or questions. Mayor Taylor opened the floor to the public for comments or questions, but there were none. Motion by Radtke, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to not publish the preliminary agenda for Sterling Heights City Council meetings in the official city Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 18 newspaper at a cost of $4,400 and amend the Fiscal Year 2019/20 Budget increasing the City Clerk publishing account 11717216-902000. Councilman Radtke explained he brought forth this request because he had concerns that certain members of the city who do not have internet access are not able to view the agendas. They have wireless routers in the library that are almost always checked out, and those create hotspots in which to use the internet. After going through this process and discussing this with Administration and seeing that because they use a paper of record that publishes on a weekly basis, it is almost not worth spending the money to publish it in the paper. He suggested that, rather than having those interested in receiving it fill out a FOIA request, the City Clerk could keep a list of people who want to subscribe to the agendas by mail, and they should be mailed free of charge to residents who want to subscribe to the mailing of the City Council agendas. He calculated that would be two mailings per month, and it would cost less than $4,400. He added this would eliminate the excuse for anyone to say they did not have any way of seeing the agenda. He recommended that people who have the ability to see the agenda online can continue to access it that way, but this is for those who do not have internet access or the ability to get the agenda. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned when Mr. Vanderpool indicated the agenda would be broadcast on Sterling Heights TV, whether the intent is to broadcast the agenda only and not all of the backup information. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 19 Mr. Vanderpool replied they currently include a complete package of material electronically, so anyone who has internet connection can see the agenda as well as the backup that goes with it. They have multiple opportunities on Sterling Heights TV to scroll the agenda, but it would not include the backup material because that can often range from 300 to 500 pages. Mayor Taylor felt this is a good resolution, but Councilman Radtke is recommending that the City pay for the postage rather than charge those who are requesting the mailings. Mr. Kaszubski replied to inquiry that his concern is the postage if they are going to send the entire package. Councilman Radtke confirmed they would only be mailing the agenda but not the backup material. Mayor Taylor confirmed it would just be the agenda. Mr. Kaszubski inquired as to what the cost will be on an annual basis. Mayor Taylor replied that cost will depend upon how many sign up. Mr. Vanderpool did not feel there will be a huge demand for this service. He felt if the City Council would set a cap of an amount not to exceed $250 or $500, whatever their prerogative, that would cover ten or twenty individuals making this request. They can reevaluate it during the budget process if they have more individuals requesting the service, placing the amount over the cap. Mayor Taylor commented that $1,500 is approximately one-third of the amount they were going to spend if they were to publish, so with Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 20 approximately 27 meetings a year, that would be about $13.50 per year per request. He recommended they go forward with a $1,500 cap and look at it again next year to determine if that is an accurate amount. Councilwoman Ziarko stated she has no objection to that recommendation, noting that if anyone is within 300 feet of something that is on an agenda item, they are already notified. She felt this will provide a broader scope for people who may not live within the 300 feet. Mr. Kaszubski recommended the motion on the floor be withdrawn and a new motion made to amend the budget. Councilman Radtke withdrew his motion, and Mayor Taylor withdrew his support. Moved by Radtke, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to approve a Budget Amendment for the 2019-2020 Budget year to allow agendas to be mailed to residents who sign up at City Hall, not to exceed $1,500.00 in the current budget year. Yes: All. The motion carried. B. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider appointments to City of Sterling Heights Boards and Commissions. He opened the floor for public comments, but no one from the audience commented. Mayor Taylor stated the first appointment is to the Citizens Advisory Committee/CDBG, which is for an open seat to a partial term ending June 30, 2025, with City Council’s power of appointment. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 21 Moved by Radtke, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to appoint Shawn Taylor to the Citizens Advisory Committee/CDBG to a term ending June 30, 2025, subject to the appointee meeting the qualifications set forth in Charter §4.03 and taking the oath of office within two weeks. Councilman Radtke stated he was recommended by Administration, and he felt he will do a great job. Yes: All. The motion carried. Mayor Taylor stated the second appointment is to the Local Development Finance Authority, which is an open seat to a partial term ending June 30, 2020. It is a mayoral power of appointment. Mayor Taylor stated he has a candidate but would like to confirm with him first, so he would like a postponement until the October 1, 2019 meeting. Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to postpone the appointment to the Local Development Finance Authority to the October 1, 2019 regular City Council meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. Mayor Taylor explained they have twenty open positions for a Youth Advisory Board, with a number of candidates present this evening. They have ten recommended appointments, and they can appoint all of these in one action. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Radtke, RESOLVED, to appoint Emma Bowen, Miranda Davis, Connor Hayes, Ian Payne, Asley Popko, Rohit Roy, Faith Simon, Max Stefanski, Amanda Young and Korey Zelda to the Youth Advisory Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 22 Board to a term ending June 30, 2020, subject to the appointees meeting the qualifications set forth in Charter §4.03 and taking the oath of office within two weeks. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski was pleased that these appointees came forward, noting there are still twelve positions open and they are accepting recommendations, although she cautioned that a recommendation should be made with the consent of the one being recommended. She felt it is important to hear the perspective of the youth, emphasizing that it is their city and they need to voice their ideas. She thanked them for volunteering and giving of their time and efforts. Councilman Radtke stated he is impressed by the qualifications and resumes of the appointees, as well as their willingness to serve their city. He felt it is exciting because they will have a voice on how to shape the City for the future. He thanked them for their service to the community. Councilwoman Koski congratulated the appointees. She indicated that when the Youth Advisory Board holds their meetings, they will have the opportunity to make requests of Council, and she encouraged them to request to have delegates attend the Michigan Municipal League meetings with the Mayor to better see issues that affect the City of Sterling Heights. She urged them to ask their friends to apply if they feel they would be interested. Mayor Taylor stated they have put this Board together because the Council is interested in what the youth have to say. They want to know the issues that Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 23 are important to the youth, and what the City can do about those concerns. He indicated there will be some structure, but they will not be “babysat” so this will be their Board to create the policy, determine the direction and work on policies and issues that are important to them. Yes: All. The motion carried. The students each introduced themselves and stated the name of the high school they attend. The Council members stepped to congratulate the new appointees and a group photo was taken. 9. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from citizens. • Mr. Bob Moffa – ReCreating Recreation and the bike path from Delia Park to Beaumont Hospital Parking Lot; funding of “Say Yes to Sterling Heights” Committee. • Ms. Deanne Elms – Director of Domestic Violence Program at Turning Point; reported that October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. • Ms. Stephanie Harris – representative of Turning Point’s Survivor Speaker Bureau; provided information on recognizing domestic violence; explained “Power and Control Wheel.” • Ms. Jazmine Early – driveway approaches that are redone when streets are resurfaced; recognized Constitution Day. 10. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool stated he had nothing further to report this evening. Mr. Kaszubski stated he had nothing further to report. Councilwoman Ziarko recalled in the past, the City Council has adopted a Resolution for Domestic Violence Awareness Month, and she hoped that they will be able to do it at their first meeting in October. She felt this is important topic, and in looking at the information distributed, many people feel it is a Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 24 “live-in” situation; however, at times, this type of abuse can be found in the workplace. She thanked the representatives from Turning Point for being present this evening and hoped her colleagues will agree with her on adopting a Resolution for the first meeting in October. Councilwoman Schmidt stated that since the Tim Horton’s building on Schoenherr and Moravian is bricked, she inquired as to the status of the promise made at the time of approval that the intersection will have a designated left-turn arrow. Mr. Vanderpool replied to inquiry that is still part of the project but it will be the last component. The developer is required to make some roadway improvements, and the County will come in to re-signal that entire intersection. He stated he does not have a timeline on this but will report back to City Council. Councilman Radtke stated he is glad it is Constitution Day. He reminded the audience of the First Amendment to the Constitution, and he cited a portion of it, noting that they need to honor the Constitution and its Amendments. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski thanked the representatives from Turning Point who attended and spoke this evening. She agreed that domestic violence is not just something between intimate family members, but it can take place in a work or school situation, stressing that any type of power or control is abusive. She felt it is extremely important that everyone understand that, and she hoped that the Resolution they will be adopting will highlight that. She commended Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 25 Turning Point for doing so many wonderful things, saving lives on an exponential level, including the ripple effect on the children, women and men who may have been saved will change the dynamic in this community. Mayor Taylor mentioned today is Constitution Day and Citizenship Day. He attended a New Citizen’s Welcome at the Chaldean Community Foundation this afternoon and was excited to attend on behalf of the City. He noted Ms. McHale was there helping the new citizens register to vote and providing them information on participating in the 2020 Census next year. He estimated there were about thirty to forty new citizens, and in speaking with the Chaldean Community Foundation, that was about 10% of the 400 new citizens that have gone through the program at the Chaldean Community Foundation this year. Mayor Taylor thanked the representatives from Turning Point for speaking this evening. He mentioned that City Council generally adopts a Resolution and take the ribbon pins. He assured it is something they take seriously in Sterling Heights, and there is a ceremony in which he participates at Beaumont Hospital, referred to as “The Silent Witness Program,” which is open to the public. He stated it is a moving program where they hear from a survivor of domestic violence, and he added the survivors are brave and strong. He agreed Councilwoman Ziarko’s suggestion of adopting a Resolution recognizing October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month is very good, and he felt that should be able to be on the first agenda in October. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, September 17, 2019 Page 26 Mayor Taylor stated he welcomed Mayor Ester Hamor from the City of Sorsogon in the Phillipines, which is a sister city to the City of Sterling Heights. She and her delegation from her city came to visit, providing gifts, sharing stories about their town, bringing delicious food and sharing their culture. He thanked the Mayor and her delegation for coming so far to Sterling Heights to visit this community, adding he enjoyed the time she and her delegation were here. 11. UNFINISHED BUSINESS There was no unfinished business. 12. NEW BUSINESS There was no new business. 13. CLOSED SESSION PERMITTED UNDER ACT 267 OF 1976 There was no closed session this evening. 14. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, to adjourn the meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m. MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk