City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL WEDNESDAY AUGUST 05, 2020 IN COMMUNITY CENTER 1. Mayor Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. Mayor Taylor led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Melanie D. Ryska, City Clerk, 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; Melanie D. Ryska, City Clerk; Andrea Bara, 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 provided an update on Sterling Heights’ Census response rate. He explained that the Census bureau has shortened the deadline for completion to September 30, 2020. He reinforced how important it is to complete the Census survey. Mr. Vanderpool noted that Sterling Heights ranks #2 in the Top Ten Cities Nationwide for response rates at 82.8%. He would like to go further with the amount of response rates. The canvasser’s are just starting, so those who have not submitted their Census, will get a visit. Mr. Vanderpool shared that you can still complete your survey online or by phone. It is very simple and only Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 2 takes minutes. He discussed the friendly challenge that Sterling Heights has with Centennial, Colorado with regards to response rates. Sterling Heights wants to take over the #1 spot currently held by Centennial, Colorado. Mr. Vanderpool highlighted that Michigan is faring very well as a state with regards to response rate, currently at 68.8%, number 5 nationwide. He also pointed out that there are not any other Michigan cities in the Top Ten. There are a number of cities in Michigan in our population category, such as Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Ann Arbor and so on, that are not making the list. Mr. Vanderpool commented that Sterling Heights is the 4th largest City in Michigan and knocking on the heels of Warren. Sterling Heights population is just a couple thousand residents less than Warren. The Census could bode well for Sterling Heights. He stated that there is a friendly competitive challenge going on with Warren. Mr. Vanderpool showed a video with Mayor Taylor and Sterling B discussing the Census challenge with Centennial, Colorado. Mayor Taylor called out to Mayor Stephanie Piko to challenge her to a friendly Census response rate competition. Mr. Vanderpool stated that Centennial is up for the challenge. Mr. Vanderpool stated the next topic in his report has to do with the 15-mile road intersection and Innovate Mound updates. He introduced Brent Bashaw, City Engineer. Mr. Bashaw stated that the 15 Mile and Ryan intersection was on a dubious list 10 years ago, ranked as one of the most dangerous intersections in Macomb County. That intersection was also ranked as one of the 20 most dangerous Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 3 intersections in Metro-Detroit. Mr. Bashaw highlighted the Intersection improvements from 2009-Current. In 2009, the first improvement was installation of right turn lanes. In fall of 2010, new signal heads were installed, hung from box fans that pushed the signals to the back of the intersection improving visibility. Also, push button ped heads were installed at pedestrian crossings tied to the traffic signals. In spring of 2013, dilemma-zone radar vehicle detection cameras were installed, which adjusts signals to green time when needed. In fall of 2013, mutual access creation was installed to allow cars to move more freely between stores without having to drive on a main road. In December of 2014, back plates with reflective boarders were installed on traffic signals. In fall of 2015, the intersection and all of the approaches were paved. In December of 2015, no left turn signs were installed at 5 drive approaches. In Summer 2017, a public education campaign was launched identifying sign markings. There was a presentation at the Chaldean Community Foundation. In fall of 2017 Fifteen mile road was paved. In December 2017, there was new pavement striping including left turn arrows. In summer of 2018, street signs were replaced. Mr. Bashaw stated that annual crashes were down 38% and severe crashes were down 44%. Sterling Heights is no longer on the County or Metro Detroit list of dangerous intersections. He state that future goals include continued access management by reducing the number of drive approaches and Community involvement via public meetings. Mr. Bashaw also conducted a safety study at Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 4 15 Mile Rd. east of Van Dyke due to increased pedestrian activity. The improvement goals include lighting improvements (complete), enhanced pedestrian crossing pavement markings and signage and a pedestrian refuge island for crossing. Mr. Bashaw discussed the Innovate Mound project history. He began writing the grant in fall of 2016, by the summer of 2017 he received Council support of the project and application. In the summer of 2018 the INFRA Grant award Notice was received for $98 million dollars, the first time nationwide that a local community received that type of grant. By the summer of 2019 the Federal funds were obligated and available for use. HNTB was hired in the fall of 2019 as the Project Management Consultant. Engineering is currently project planning and scoping for a design/build contract. Mr. Bashaw discussed the project scope: reconstruct nine miles of concrete pavement, add a fourth lane in each direction between 17 mile and M-59, improved traffic operations and safety, traffic signal modernization, drainage improvements, new street lighting, improved non-motorized connectivity (including a path on the west side of Mound) and aesthetic improvements. He also discussed adding enhanced pedestrian crossings. Mr. Bashaw reported planning completed to date included environmental studies, traffic operation analysis, traffic and safety analysis, access management, non-motorized report and a transit report. He stated the next steps are to finalize environmental studies and submit an environmental assessment. Mr. Bashaw stated that a lot of the engineering is done. The procurement will be a design build procurement. It allows the design to occur Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 5 during construction. The construction schedule is split into 3 segments: 2021, Segment 1 (M-59 to 18 Mile), Segment 2 (18 Mile to 14 Mile) and Segment 3 (14 Mile to 11 Mile). Mr. Bashaw gave an update on local roads. He stated that more than 50% are done and will be completed this calendar year. Mr. Bashaw thanked all of the residents for their patience during the construction. He discussed the County and State delays, and hoped to begin construction this year. Mayor Taylor thanked Engineer Bashaw and opened up questions from Council. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned if there was going to be a refuge island with flashing lights. Mr. Bashaw responded that there will not be a refuge island with flashing lights. Mr. Vanderpool stated that he did not have any other items on his report. 6. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider the application by MAG Automotive, LLC for an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate (IFEC) at 6015 Center Drive. He invited Mr. Luke Bonner, Senior Economic Development Advisor, to give a presentation. Mr. Bonner informed Council that MAG Automotive at 6015 Center drive was applying for an IFEC. He stated that there would be a $1.785 million dollar investment with the 18,000 sq. ft. addition, which increases the capacity of the facility to 130,000 sq. ft. This will allow MAG to increase their machine tooling operations. There will also be an additional $500,000 investment by MAG. Five new manufacturing jobs will be created and all current employees will be Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 6 retained at the location. A seven-year IFEC is recommended under the guidelines. The City and schools will gain new property taxes just over $180,000. Mr. Bonner introduced Art Fell, Vice President of Supply Chain Management, to speak to Mayor and Council. Mr. Fell thanked Mayor and Council for their consideration of the IFEC. He stated that MAG Automotive LLC consolidated to a central location in Sterling Heights in 2009. Mr. Fell discussed that there will be two phases of the new building. Phase one is 80% complete, and they will begin Phase two in the spring. He went on to say that MAG is part of a bigger company, a three million dollar company that has locations world wide. Mayor Taylor opened the Public Hearing for anyone to speak on this item. • Mr. Charles Jefferson – Plan to hire minorities • Ms. Raelanda Robinson – Amount of employees hired from Sterling Heights. Current number of employees from Sterling Heights. Mayor Taylor closed the Public Hearing. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution approving the application by MAG Automotive, LLC for an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate at 6015 Center Drive, parcel identification no. 10-10- 28-100-035, for a period of 7 years in accordance with the guidelines established by City Council, and the Mayor and City Clerk are hereby authorized to sign, as applicable, all documents required in conjunction with this approval. Councilwoman Schmidt thanked MAG for moving to Sterling Heights in 2009. She wished them well and is excited to see the expansion. She thanked them and wished them much success. Mayor Taylor congratulated and thanked MAG for their business in Sterling Heights and Mr. Bonner for his presentation. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 7 Yes: All. The motion carried. 7. ORDINANCE INTRODUCTIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to introduce an ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the City Code of Ordinances to modify the prohibition on planning commissioners serving on City boards and commissions. He invited Mr. Donald P. DeNault, Jr. Assistant City Attorney to give a presentation. Mr. DeNault, Jr. stated that this will be a very short presentation on an Ordinance that they have prepared. The ordinance will make a slight modification to the current section Chapter 2 of the City code that establishes the Planning Commission. The State of Michigan updated the Planning and Enabling act in 2008. Sterling Heights left in a sentence that prohibits Planning Commissioners from holding any other municipal office, other than a liaison to the ZBA. It was suggested that Planning Commissioners would like to volunteer their time in other ways. Mr. DeNault stated that the City Attorney’s Office recommends that the Planning Commissioners would be able to hold office in an Advisory Committee in the City, as to not put them in a position where they may feel conflicted in making determinations. Mayor Taylor thanked Mr. DeNault. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments or questions from the audience, but no one spoke. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to introduce an ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the City Code of Ordinances to modify the prohibition on planning commissioners serving on City boards and commissions. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 8 Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stated that this was very well explained. She does not believe that Planning Commissioners should be prohibited from serving on other boards, but they need to make sure that there is a good and diverse use of all of the applicants before doubling up on commissions. Mayor Taylor agreed that this is a good thing. He stated that there was a Member of the community that researched this and brought it to Council’s attention. He thanked the individual. Mayor Taylor also stated that he would like to go beyond the nine. He will be doing research to determine if there are other Boards and Commissions that can be opened up as well. Yes: All. The motion carried. 8. ORDINANCE ADOPTIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider adoption of an ordinance replacing Chapter 29 of the City Code of Ordinances to create the Sterling Heights Business Licensing Ordinance. He invited Melanie D. Ryska, City Clerk to give a presentation. Clerk Ryska stated that at the Regular meeting on July 21, 2020 City Council introduced and proposed a Business Licensing Ordinance, which would create a new general licensing system for brick and mortar businesses within the City. Administration recommends adoption with no changes to the text of the proposed ordinance. Based on feedback from Council members, Administration reevaluated the proposed seventy-five dollar fee and recommends a fee of sixty dollars per year to cover costs of the program. Ms. Ryska noted that businesses would not be required to pay a fee until March of 2022. She stated that City Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 9 Council would not formally establish a fee within the Appropriations Ordinance until July 01, 2021. This affords the City Council time to assess the initial licensing process, its associated costs and importantly the future business climate. The licensing fee will be reviewed annually through the Budget process. Ms. Ryska discussed the benefits to businesses by implementing the Business Licensing program. Businesses will be able to apply and update information online, this is a more efficient method to accommodate our mobile society. She also stated that Police and Fire will have the most up to date contact and alarm information. This helps businesses protect their assets. Businesses will enjoy free advertising with the public list that will be on the City’s website, including Business name, type address, web site and phone number. Ms. Ryska informed Council that the City will be able to better communicate with businesses in such areas as road construction, public safety issues and upcoming events. The City will also be able to inform businesses of grant opportunities. Administration is asking that City Council adopt the proposed Business Licensing Ordinance with the understanding that the businesses will not be charged a fee in 2021. City Council will adopt a fee in the 21/22 budget process. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments or questions from the audience, but no one from the audience spoke. Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to adopt the ordinance replacing Chapter 29 of the City Code of Ordinances to create the Sterling Heights Business Licensing Ordinance. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 10 Councilwoman Ziarko stated that the Business Licensing Ordinance benefits the Businesses, the City and residents. She commented that the directory is a great idea. Councilwoman Schmidt stated that it is very important for the Fire Department to know what they are going into in an emergency situation. She asked Ed Miller, Assistant Fire Chief Miller addressed Mayor and Council. Assistant Fire Chief Miller stated that the Business Licensing Ordinance is a good tool for the Fire Department and public safety. This would make it easier for businesses to update their information. Chief Miller stated that many times Fire goes to a business where the name is wrong on the outside, the business has changed, and how they are using the facilities has changed. He commented that this would give them the opportunity to keep up with the contacts of the businesses and educate the business owners on what they need to do when they change their processes, instead of it becoming a time when they are found in violation and build that rapport ahead of time. He also commented that the sharing of information would build good partnerships with public safety and the businesses, to help guide them when they change how they process things and what they are doing within their occupancy. Chief Miller commented that they are looking forward to the success of the Business Licensing program. Councilwoman Koski asked Clerk Ryska to go through the process of occupancy with a new business. She asked what the procedure be. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 11 Clerk Ryska stated that before the Business License would be issued, the owner would require a certificate of occupancy, which is done through the building department. She stated that many times the owner would get the Certificate of Occupancy and not follow through with the other requirements. She also stated that with the Licensing program, business owners would know what the requirements are and make it simple for them to abide by the requirements. Councilwoman Koski asked if the business owners could do this online. Clerk Ryska commented that this was correct. Councilwoman Koski asked Clerk Ryska once the business was registered, how would the system work with the Fire and other departments. Clerk Ryska responded by stating that the program is a three part process: one being the Ordinance to establish the program, two is the software piece BS&A, which was purchased last year. The Business Licensing module will speak to the Building Department, Treasury, Assessing, and any other required departments. There will be a central data base with information that the Police, Fire and all other City departments will have access to. The third piece is the online portion that will allow businesses to submit all of their information online that will populate the data base that is accessible to all departments. Councilwoman Koski asked who will look at it? Clerk Ryska responded that all departments will look at their section, but will be able to view all of it and communicate across departments. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 12 Councilwoman Koski is concerned that the business will submit the information, but who will look at it. Will there be a weekly bulletin going out, a daily thing that they will have to assign somebody in the department to look at it? Clerk Ryska responded that a notification is sent when a change is made in the online portal. There is a full time staff member dedicated to licensing who will get a flag to see what has changed, and will be able to process it from there. Councilwoman Koski also asked if the yearly registration will be something that the businesses will be charged for. The full amount. Clerk Ryska stated that is correct and that it is up to Council to make the final determination on the fee. Councilwoman Koski stated that she thinks the businesses should not be charged again unless there are changes made or a new occupant. She commented that this is a good ordinance and hopes that it is successful because it is needed. Councilman Radtke stated that he is glad that the fee was lowered but believes it is still too high and is a back door tax. He understands that the Fire Department wants up to date information, but stated when the Government comes to your door and says it is for your own good, it’s not a good strategy to have. He also commented that this will strong-arm business owners who still won’t comply. He worries about the rest of the ordinance which allows the City to close their business to get into conflict with the business owners even more. Councilman Radtke said that during COVID crisis just how difficult it is to police these Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 13 businesses. He thinks that this will cause more problems than it will solve. He stated that he will vote against it. Mayor Taylor stated that he had similar reservations himself. He assisted a business with an issue, in doing so it became apparent that there were a number of problems with the business that they were unaware of. Problems with storage of chemicals, fire hazards and the wrong suppression system. Mayor Taylor spoke with Luke Bonner, members of the Building Department, Fire Department and Mr. Vanderpool and he is comfortable with this ordinance and the process. He does have concerns with the cost, whether too much is being asked of the businesses. Based on a onetime fee being charged, that will not cover the yearly expenses. He stated that it would probably be better to charge the fee to the businesses rather than have the residents subsidize it. Every charge on a business does end up being passed on to consumers. Mayor Taylor commented that this is only sixty dollars a year and would not take effect until March of 2022. That will provide a full year of data what the program is costing and the fee could be set based on what the actual cost is. The fee is not set with this ordinance; the fee will actually be set as part of the City’s Appropriations Ordinance. The Mayor stated that he does have reservations about the ordinance, but overall, believes it is a benefit. He will be voting yes. Roll Call Vote: Yes: Koski, Schmidt, Sierawski, Taylor, Yanez, Ziarko No: Radtke. Absent – None. The motion carried. 9. CONSENT AGENDA Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 14 Mayor Taylor stated this item is consideration of the Consent Agenda. He opened the floor for public comments, but no one from the audience commented. Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented: A. July 21, 2020 Regular Meeting Minutes B. Bill Listing C. To purchase six (6) vehicles for use by city offices/departments through a Macomb County cooperative purchasing contract (Total expenditure of $146,593). D. To purchase a 2021 Freightliner M2 106 single-axle truck chassis with Henderson Mark IV dump body and accessories at pricing available through cooperative purchasing contracts (Total cost of $107,632). E. To purchase Stalker DSR 2X Radar and Stalker Lidar RLR vehicle speed measurement units at competitive pricing available through a state of Michigan cooperative purchasing contract (Total expenditure of $40,966). F. To purchase two (2) 2021 Ford Utility Police Interceptors for the Sterling Heights Police Department at pricing available through a Macomb County cooperative purchasing contract (Total expenditure of $69,638). G. To split an award of a bid for sign materials based on unit prices bid (Estimated annual cost of $53,500). H. To award a bid for rodent control services (Annual cost of $43,000). I. To purchase a Virtual Desktop Infrastructure foundation and professional IT consulting services (Total cost of $477,015 - 100% CARES Act grant funded). J. To purchase a virtual fax server license at pricing available through a State of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing contract (Total expenditure of $14,220 - 100% CARES Act grant funded). Yes: All. The motion carried. 10. CONSIDERATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider approval of memorandums of understanding between the City of Sterling Heights and Local #1557 of the International Association of Fire Fighters, MAP Police Clerical Employees Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 15 Association, and MAPE Technical/Office Union. He invited Mark D. Vanderpool, City Manager to give a presentation. Mr. Vanderpool stated he wished he had a more uplifting item to talk about, but this is important and beneficial to the employees. The employees are organized into eleven separate bargaining groups. Each group provides a funeral leave benefit to members. The current benefit provides for the employee to attend a funeral in a specific time period starting with the date of death. In the past several years, funeral leave has become a point of contention and frustration. Creating dissatisfaction for the employees and has resulted in the filing of multiple grievances. The funeral leave text in some of the CBA’s is over twenty- five years old and reflects a time when three day funerals for viewing were the norm. The trend now is for a shorter viewing time, and a growing trend in memorial services that are not conducted immediately following the passing. An outdated funeral leave that is contingent on having a funeral no longer makes sense and leaves many employees frustrated and in some cases, without a benefit whatsoever. The current benefit does not afford any time for bereavement, only if there is a funeral that was attended. If the death happens during a weekend the funeral leave begins then as these non-working days are counted to determine a time in which the employee is eligible for the benefit. If the death occurs during the week, the employee is eligible for more paid funeral leave. Lastly, the current benefit is intrusive and requires verification of the funeral. Mr. Vanderpool stated that there are a number of MOU’s negotiated and Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 16 in front of City Council. The changes are centered on greater certainty, greater flexibility, uniformity, being less intrusive and most importantly, consistent with best practices in the industry. The City has negotiated with Local #1557 of the International Association of Fire Fighters, a/k/a Sterling Heights Firefighters Association, MAP Police Clerical Employees Association, and MAPE Technical/Office Union. As a result of the negotiations an agreement has been reached. Mr. Vanderpool respectfully requests the approval of the MOU’s by City Council. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from the public, but no one from the audience commented. Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to approve the memorandums of understanding between the City of Sterling Heights and Local #1557 of the International Association of Fire Fighters, a/k/a Sterling Heights Firefighters Association, MAP Police Clerical Employees Association, and MAPE Technical/Office Union and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the memorandums on behalf of the City. Councilwoman Ziarko is grateful that all parties were able to reach an agreement, and thanked the parties for all of the hard work that was put in to reach the agreement. Yes. All. The motion carried 7/0. B. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider appointments to City of Sterling Heights boards and commissions. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from the public, but no one from the audience spoke. Zoning Board of Appeals Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 17 Moved by Radtke, Seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to appoint Aisha Farooqi to the Zoning Board of Appeals to a term ending June 30, 2023, 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 that this has been very well covered and that Ms. Farooqi would be a great Appointee. Councilwoman Ziarko stated that she will be voting no on this appointment. Not because of the applicant, but because of the process to get to this point. Councilwoman Schmidt stated that she will be voting no on this Appointment. Nothing personal against the potential appointee. She would like to have seen a thirty day postponement. There were other residents on the original list that this appointee was not on. It would have given residents that applied after the two week window a chance to be considered. Councilwoman Schmidt also stated that she didn’t think that all the potential candidates were vetted, so she will be voting no. Councilwoman Koski stated that she will also be voting no for similar reasons. She feels that this should have been postponed in order to take into consideration the additional applicants. Mayor Taylor stated that he will be voting in favor of this appointment. He has taken into consideration the other applicants who have applied and the overwhelming amount of people who have given their opinion on this item. Mayor Taylor stated that this first became an issue during the virtual meetings back in June. He stated that there has been enough time spent on this item and wouldn’t want any more time on it. Mayor Taylor stated that there is a qualified Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 18 candidate that has been nominated and he is very satisfied with the nomination and appointment tonight of Aisha Farooqi to the Zoning Board of Appeals. Roll Call Vote: Yes: Radtke, Sierawski, Taylor, Yanez No: Schmidt, Ziarko, Koski. Absent: None. The motion carried. Local Development Finance Authority Moved by Ziarko, Seconded by Sierawski, RESOLVED, to postpone the appointment to the Local Development Finance Authority to the August 18, 2020 Regular City Council Meeting. Yes. All. The motion carried. Youth Advisory Board Moved by Schmidt, Seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to appoint Fadie Arabo, Brendan Bailey, Emma Bowen, Emily Brenton, Muhtasim Chowdhury, Connor Hayes, Genevieve Myers, Ian Payne, Martina Polath, Ashley Popko, Rohit Ray, Faith Simon, Max Stefanski, and Amanda Young to the Youth Advisory Board to terms ending June 30, 2021, subject to the appointees meeting the qualifications set forth in Charter §4.03 and taking the oath of office within two weeks. Yes. All. The motion carried 7/0. 11. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from citizens. • Mr. Charles Jefferson – Percentage of spoiled ballots mailed vs spoiled at precincts; ZBA applicants that were not chosen; what is being done to protect the community from covid; property taxes for good community services. • Unidentified resident – Comments regarding the ethnic committee and the diversity and inclusion commission. • Ms. Brandy Wright – Served as an Election Inspector for the first time; appreciated the Clerk’s team and encouraged others to serve as Election Inspectors for the November Election. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 19 • Raelanda Robinson – Served as an Election Inspector; appreciated the work of the Clerk’s team to make everything a seamless and well- oiled process; spoiled ballots; need more voter education. • Unidentified resident – voiced extreme concern regarding incident that occurred on North Clinton River Trail through Dodge Park. 12. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool responded regarding the Covid cases. He stated there is a lot of information and links to the County Health and Human Services Department on the website where residents can see the locations they can get tested, including free locations that are convenient and nearby. Upon review of the stats from the State, the positivity rate for Michigan is one of the lowest in the country. There have been about 2.2 million tests in the State and the positivity rate is about 94,000, about 4.5%. The daily rate is below 3% and is trending downward. To be below 5% is really good. Some states such as Mississippi, are well over 20% positivity rate. Sterling Heights is also trending downward, which can be attributed to good compliance throughout the community. Mr. Vanderpool wanted to remind everyone that there is a lot of information still available on the website. Mayor Taylor asked for an update of the efforts of the City on the case the individual spoke of earlier. Mr. Vanderpool noted that the case is an ongoing police matter, therefore, he can not divulge a lot of details. The detective bureau of very aware of the case and continue their investigation. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 20 Councilwoman Ziarko inquired how many absentee ballots were mailed, how many voters returned them through USPS, and how many people used the drop boxes. Clerk Ryska first thanked those who worked at the election and spoke this evening. It was a struggle to get workers, at least half were new, and they did an outstanding job. The Clerk’s Office issued 25,017 absent voter ballots, received and tabulated 19,482. There were 8,194 voters at the precinct so 70% of the turnout was by absent voter ballots. Absent voter ballots are increasing exponentially. Additionally, this election yielded a 30% turnout, an increase from August 2016, where there was a 16.8% turnout. Clerk Ryska reported that 36% of absent voter ballots were returned by USPS, 36% returned at the City Hall / Police Station drop box; 7% at Fire Station 2; 5% at Fire Station 3; 7% at Fire Station 4, and 9% at Fire Station 5. There was an uptick in drop box usage from the time they were installed in the beginning of July to Election Day. Voters are utilizing them once they are aware of that they are there for their convenience. Councilwoman Ziarko questioned how many ballots were spoiled or invalidated that voted by absentee, versus the polls where voters could spoil their ballot and get a new one. Clerk Ryska noted that ultimately every ballot gets tabulated, however, she stated she does not have the number of voters who crossover voted and will report back. For voter education purposed, if there was crossover vote in the partisan section, and the voter clearly attempted to “correct” the mistake, the Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 21 ballot is duplicated, then the duplicated ballot is tabulated and the partisan section will count. Councilwoman Ziarko asked for clarification that we are not supposed to count the ballots until Election Day. Clerk Ryska confirmed that is correct. Councilwoman Ziarko felt it would be beneficial if we had a device that people could run their ballot through to make sure they didn’t make a mistake, that didn’t tabulate the ballot, only checked for mistakes. Then a voter could spoil their ballot and get a new one if there was a mistake. Maybe this device could be at the Election Center that was set up for this election, which provided phenomenal service to voters for their questions, to pick up their ballots or drop them off. She voiced concern that she wouldn’t want anyone to feel that they thought they voted but their ballot didn’t count. She wants to make sure that everyone has the opportunity to have their vote count. Councilwoman Ziarko inquired whether or not there is a follow up meeting with poll workers between now and November to get their feedback as to what voters may appreciate during this time of corona virus. Clerk Ryska noted that they do not ordinarily have a follow up meeting after an election, however, there is training prior to each election. She agreed that it would be a good idea to send a survey out to workers and that she will look into doing that. She does get feedback from Chair-people, however, it is a good suggestion to reach out to all workers. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 22 Councilwoman Ziarko believes November will be a record breaking election, whether it’s by absentee ballots or at the polls. Mayor Taylor asked for clarification on what happens to absent voter ballots that have crossover votes. Clerk Ryska stated on a Primary ballot voters can only vote in one party. If a voter votes in both parties, the partisan section is invalid. The non-partisan section is still counted. Mayor Taylor noted that might explain if the number of ballots counted is higher than if the total vote count of an individual race. Clerk Ryska confirmed that is correct. Mayor Taylor reaffirmed that does not spoil the non-partisan section. Councilwoman Koski asked how people can volunteer and when training will be for workers. Clerk Ryska stated that any registered voter of the State of Michigan who would like to volunteer to be an Election Inspector can visit the elections page of the city’s website to complete an application, email vote@sterling-heights.net, or call the Clerk’s office. Training for workers will be in October, a couple weeks before the election. Councilwoman Koski asked the best place to get election results. Clerk Ryska noted that the Macomb County Election website is going to have the most up to day results for the County and it does break down the votes cast in Sterling Heights. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 23 Councilman Radtke thanked the two volunteers present for all the work they did and all the volunteers that helped out at the election. He felt the City ran a very good election. He has a friend who is a state voting rights director for a non- profit and in Detroit several precincts did not open until 9:00 a.m. because they did not have enough employees. He noted that did not happen in Sterling Heights, everything opening and running. He commended everyone who helped out. He stated he was impressed when he stopped in a precinct to file a write-in declaration of intent for precinct delegate and everything went well. Councilman Radtke stated that Lansing City Clerk emails voters when their ballot is received and suggested that the city email voters prior to Election Day to remind them to return their ballot and when their ballots are received. That would lend peace of mind to people to ensure that their ballot was received. We had our results in quickly, Macomb Township did not get their results in until 7:00 a.m. Clerk Ryska stated that she never wants to disparage any other community, Macomb Township experienced technical difficulties with the equipment, they were not late because of their error. Councilman Radtke reported that the County Clerk held an absentee counting board for all communities that wanted to participate. He inquired whether or not that has been discussed in Macomb County. Clerk Ryska noted that that is a new piece of legislation that was recently approved. Macomb County may explore that option at a future date. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 24 Councilwoman Schmidt gave kudos to the Clerk’s department for their tireless hours to make sure the election ran smooth. Regarding volunteers, she inquired whether or not they get paid to work the election. Clerk Ryska confirmed that that workers do get paid a stipend to work Election Day. Councilwoman Schmidt reaffirmed that workers get paid to work the long day. She questioned whether or not precinct workers need to state a party preference on their application. Clerk Ryska affirmed that workers must designate a registered political party, Democrat, Republican, Green Party, Libertarian, etc. Applicants of any political party can work, however, a Republican and a Democrat must sign closing paperwork. Referring back to correcting ballots in the absent voter counting board if it voter intent was obvious, Councilwoman Schmidt asked if party watchers compare those ballots. Clerk Ryska stated that is a tricky question. Party Challengers are allowed to challenge the process, however, they do not have any decision making ability. Election workers, one Republican and one Democrat, follow a procedure to duplicate ballots. Councilwoman Schmidt reported that with more people out, there are more incidents of cars not giving the right of way to people and bikes at the library Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 25 driveway. She asked if something can be done, such as installing a pedestrian crossing sign. Mr. Vanderpool reported that Dodge Park from Utica to 17 Mile Road is a part of the traffic studies that are being conducted across the city. There are a number of point of conflict as the area becomes more congested. He noted he will pass on the suggestion to the Engineering department, who is coordinating the traffic analysis and they will add the suggestion to the list. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski commended the Clerk’s office on a job well done amidst the nationwide concern of the first big amount of absentee voting and how that was going to pan out. She was pleased to see the 30% turnout, which indicated that because the process is so easy, people voted that may not have voted in the past. She noted that the City did not pay for postage at this election, but the City will pay for postage at the General Election. Clerk Ryska confirmed. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski inquired if the Clerk’s office saves both the original and duplicated ballots from the absent voter counting board. Clerk Ryska confirmed the retention and explained the process of duplicating a ballot. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski felt it was important for people to know that the process is methodical. She thanked the voters for getting out and voting, noting that it is our right and privilege. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 26 Mayor Taylor thanked Clerk Ryska, all of the election workers, and all of the city personnel who play an integral role in running a smooth election. He then inquired whether or not the Clerk’s office keeps track of voter who requested just the primary ballot or just the general ballot. Clerk Ryska stated while they do not keep track of those specific numbers, if she had to make an educated guess, she would say that about 95% requested both elections and only a small percentage requested only one. Mayor Taylor noted the reports of problems with mail service and requested Clerk Ryska to share her meeting with Post Office officials on Election Day to address those concerns. Clerk Ryska reported that she and Mr. Vanderpool visited the Sterling Heights Post Office to meet with the new Post Master. Multiple deliveries were made to City Hall as ballots came into the facility, with the final delivery around 8:00 p.m. on Election night. They confirmed that no ballots were left behind. At each Election the Clerk’s staff also goes to the Post Office to collect any ballots that are not included in the daily delivery. Mayor Taylor congratulated everyone that won their election. He also thanked SHTV for their work on the Census video shown at the beginning of the meeting. Regarding the Census, Mayor Taylor noted that response rates are stuck at about 80%, which is not uncommon for larger cities at this period of the process. We can do better, there is a lot to gain. He urged residents to complete the Census if they have not already done so. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday August 05, 2020 Page 27 13. UNFINISHED BUSINESS There was no unfinished business. 14. NEW BUSINESS There was no new business. 15. CLOSED SESSION PERMITTED UNDER ACT 267 OF 1976 Mr. Kaszubski stated he has nothing tonight. 16. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to adjourn the meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 9:04 p.m. MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk