City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 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. Mayor Taylor indicated they are having technical difficulties with the live broadcast this evening, but it is simulcast on the City’s Facebook page, the audio is working for anyone who was trying to watch it live on television, and it will be telecast throughout the week at the normal broadcast times. 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; 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 stated that in observance of Veteran’s Day, the city offices will be closed for business on Wednesday, November 11, 2020, and the closures include City Hall, the Library, Parks & Recreation, Community Center, Senior Center, Nature Center, DPW Recycling Center and the Court. He added the Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 2 normal hours of operation will resume on Thursday, but there will be no change in their refuse collection schedule. Mr. Vanderpool reminded everyone that Sterling Heights Pride and SHINE (Sterling Heights Initiative for Neighborhood Excellence) Day will be this Saturday, November 7, 2020. He explained this program was started over a decade ago and the idea is to do whatever they can to help individuals who are unable to do so to maintain their homes so neighborhoods can continue to look good and property values continue to remain strong. They host one of these days each fall and one each spring, and they clean up between thirty to fifty homes, from raking leaves and trimming bushes to mowing grass and in some cases, painting sheds. They need as many volunteers as possible, and he urged those interested to call 586-446-CITY (2470). He expressed his appreciation to Utica Van Dyke Towing for their sponsorship of the program, providing coffee, donuts, and refreshments. The event starts this Saturday at 9:30 a.m. at First Church, 39400 Dequindre. Tools and necessary supplies will be provided, and it takes approximately two-and-a-half hours. It is very rewarding, and the residents who are the beneficiaries of the program are very appreciative of the work of the volunteers. Mr. Vanderpool introduced Interim Fire Chief Ed Miller, who will recognize a special person in the Fire Department who was recently honored with an award. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 3 Interim Fire Chief Ed Miller stated he is honored and privileged to talk about Fire Inspector Kevin Fergerson and his recent successful achievement in becoming a Certified Fire Investigator through the International Association of Arson Investigators. He explained this certification addresses the standards and evaluates and supports the professional qualifications of a fire investigator following NFPA standards for professional qualifications. He stressed this is not easy, and this is the first person in the Sterling Heights Fire Department who has achieved this recognition. Fire Inspector Fergerson took it upon himself to go through the application process, he was scrutinized through his training education and experiences, took and passed a comprehensive exam that was accredited through the National Board of Fire Service Professional Qualifications, which is a body that sets the benchmark for competency in professional standards in fire service. He is one of 67 who was awarded this in the State of Michigan, and one of 2,900 in the United States. He noted the efforts raised the bar in their Fire Prevention Division, noting Fire Inspector Fergerson has encouraged all of the other investigators to become part of the International Association of Arson Investigators, and the Department is encouraging them to seek the same certification to benefit the City with having competent, qualified fire investigators. He recognized and thanked Fire Inspector Fergerson for his accomplishments, his motivation, and his inspiration to other inspectors to do the same. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 4 Fire Inspector Kevin Fergerson expressed his appreciation and gratitude to the City Manager, Mayor, and City Council for acknowledging this award. He stated it is been a privilege to serve this community over the last twenty-five years. He also expressed his appreciation to Interim Chief Miller, former Chief Martin, Fire Marshal Shawn Allen, and former Fire Marshal Mike Bauss for their confidence in him and pushing him to excel. He noted their motto is “Our family helping yours”, and he added he very much feels like a family member within the fire service of Sterling Heights. He thanked everyone once again. Mr. Vanderpool continued his report by thanking City Clerk Melanie Ryska and her team of over 400 election workers for the amazing job they did preparing for yesterday’s general election. They have reached a historic high of nearly 100,000 registered voters, with over 70,000 voting in yesterday’s election. He noted that final vote tabulations are still ongoing throughout the State of Michigan, but Sterling Heights was one of the first large cities to report results at approximately 6:30 a.m. this morning. He stressed the team worked around- the-clock to ensure tabulations were not only accurate but timely. He stated there is a reason why Clerk Melanie Ryska was recently named Clerk of the Year by the State of Michigan, stressing that her leadership ability is second to none. He stated her efforts involve commanding a small army of election workers, as well as coordination with almost every department and discipline in the entire City. He clarified the hard work was evident not only yesterday but over the last few months in preparation for the primary election and thereafter, with Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 5 countless nights where she and her staff members were working late and throughout weekends. He added that she and her staff have dedicated an enormous amount of time to this cause, and he thanked them for their exemplary work throughout this entire election process. Ms. Ryska thanked everyone, and admitted that, while her job can be very difficult at times, she loves Elections. She stressed she has an amazing team supporting her, and the election was a “whirlwind”, with historic numbers. They have been working seven days a week to make sure they were ready and prepared to tabulate over 40,000 absentee ballots and to prepare their forty- five precincts for Election Day. She stated that at their Election Center across the street, they had between 550 to 700 walk-in absentee ballot requests daily. They registered 453 people yesterday on Election Day. She provided some of the statistics, noting they have 99,258 registered voters and they issued 42,276 absentee ballots, which is up from just over 15,000 four years ago. Voters returned 40,667 of those absentee ballots. She explained there was a team of about 90 election inspectors working all through the day and night yesterday in this room to count the absentee ballots. She is happy to report that, while the results were reported later than some other elections, it was much earlier than other states and communities that were having difficulties. She addressed some questions regarding absentee ballots and whether or not they counted. She assured that anyone can go online to www.mi.gov/vote and see that their ballot was returned, and she emphasized if it was returned, it was Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 6 counted. She added her team of 90 Absent Voter Counting Board members wanted her to relate to everyone that every vote was counted. She clarified that any results they see on www.sterling-heights.net are all unofficial results and they will remain unofficial until the close of canvass. She thanked the over 400 election inspectors at their AV Board and their forty-five precincts, as well as over 100 city employees, including directors, managers and others who also worked at the election. She thanked Mr. Vanderpool who helped out at the Election Center yesterday because they were so busy. She stressed she could not have done it without their help, and although the City offices were closed to the public yesterday and although it was an inconvenience for some residents, it was a tremendous help for Elections. She thanked everyone involved. Mayor Taylor stated he heard from a lot of the people who voted, and he heard no complaints. He stressed this was a well-run, well-organized professional operation and greatly benefitted the residents. The huge number of voters this year presented a challenging situation for the Clerk’s staff, as well as for the residents, but watching how Ms. Ryska and her staff handled it was incredible. Councilwoman Ziarko commended Ms. Ryska for a well-run election, noting that the hard work was not just this week, but also the fact that they mailed over 33,000 absentee voter ballots. She commented that watching these organized teams come together to make sure all of those ballots were mailed and in peoples’ hands by a specific date was amazing. She commended Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 7 Councilwoman Schmidt for coming up with the suggestion of multiple drop boxes, and it was beneficial to all. She stated that she and Councilwoman Schmidt were able to observe this room yesterday, and she explained the process they witnessed, emphasizing the efficiency and fairness, with a Republican and a Democrat required to be at each table. She explained the workers were sequestered in the room until 8:00 p.m. and cell phones were forbidden, with an emergency number provided for anyone trying to reach the workers. She even witnessed a worker in the Democratic party, who had to use the restroom and had to find a Republican to go with her so that they could assure that the other was not sharing any confidential information with anyone. She stressed it is a legal, secure process, and everyone is required to follow the same rules. She commended the Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson for doing an awesome job in unprecedented times, and she felt they can all be proud of the process, although she clarified she does not have a problem with anyone having a different opinion of the process. Councilman Yanez congratulated Fire Inspector Kevin Fergerson, adding that he worked with Inspector Fergerson for many years and commented that he is a very dedicated, hard-working employee who is a great dad and family man as well. He congratulated and thanked Ms. Ryska and her entire staff, as well as all of the volunteers, for all of the hard work they did to pull this election off almost flawlessly, and he thanked everyone who participated in the voting. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 8 Councilwoman Schmidt echoed Councilman Yanez’s sentiments about Ms. Ryska’s leadership and how it resonates with her staff. She stressed Ms. Ryska is a great leader and inspires others to do well because she does it flawlessly. She commented on how well all of the election workers, both Democrats and Republicans, got along and enjoyed each other’s company while doing what they needed to do. She stated it was a long day, with the first shift working from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and the second shift came in at 2:30 p.m. and had to stay until the end, yet they all took it seriously and did a great job throughout the entire day. She noted when the U.S. soldiers send their absentee ballots, they are on a sheet of paper, and two people, one Democrat and one Republican, go through each of those ballots and transcribe them onto a formal ballot so they can be read by the machines. Anything questionable has to be reviewed by both, to determine the intent. She stressed it was so impressive and she appreciated having that experience. She witnessed some of the lines of people registering to vote and getting absentee ballots in the days leading up to the election, and she commented there were very few complaints about waiting because people wanted to be part of the process. She suggested that people should not wait to the last week prior to the election to register to vote. She thanked Ms. Ryska and her entire team for everything they have done. Councilman Radtke stated it was amazing to see everyone come out and vote, and he felt everyone was stunned at the amount of people who registered, Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 9 those who voted absentee, and those who came to the polls. He hoped they can come up with some ideas to adapt to the new normal, which is that absentee ballots will be a higher priority in going forward, and not have people waiting outside for hours. He congratulated Ms. Ryska and her staff for doing a great job, and he thanked all of the volunteers who helped. Councilwoman Koski commended Ms. Ryska and her staff for doing a fantastic job. She saw the lines and how quickly they were moving, and the fact that they had 400 election inspectors plus staff. She referred to Ms. Ryska as “Wonder Woman”. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski emphasized that the City truly appreciates Ms. Ryska, her staff, and volunteers. She stated the cornerstone of their democracy is the ability to vote and to have it be counted. She stressed that Clerks maintain that democracy, which is the bottom-line difference between this country and so many other types of governments. She added that the City is so fortunate to have a Clerk who is the best in the state, and she is in awe of Ms. Ryska’s ability not only as Clerk but as a wonderful person to keep her cool and devote the time and effort that she puts into this responsibility. She thanked Ms. Ryska for her amazing achievement. Mayor Taylor thanked the Council for their comments. He felt they have learned a lot in this election, and he was confident that the entire city will be better prepared the next time in handling absentee ballots. He felt this will motivate the legislature to make changes so they can do what they need to in Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 10 order to get the results out sooner, although he stressed accuracy is most important. He commended Ms. Ryska for the phenomenal job. Mr. Vanderpool stated that concludes his report this evening. 6. PRESENTATIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this item is to acknowledge and thank Utica Van Dyke Service, LLC for the donation of eight bicycles and two laptops to the Sterling Heights Police Department’s 2020 National Night Out. He invited Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski to give a presentation. Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski stated he would like to honor Utica Van Dyke Towing for their generosity over the years. He provided some history of their company over the last twenty years, when they started as a small Shell gas station at the corner of Utica Road and Van Dyke and are now a large family- run business. He honored their work and dedication in sponsoring the Police Department’s National Night Out, which was held last month. He stated they were supposed to have it in the summer as they usually do, and most cities canceled their event because of COVID. He explained the City held a virtual format on Facebook Live and had 17,000 people click, like, comment or forward their National Night Out, and a lot of that was due to prizes being given away. Utica Van Dyke Towing donated eight bicycles and two laptop computers, and the pictures of these items were posted. He emphasized there is no doubt those gifts got the residents involved in this event in a big way. He commented that Utica Van Dyke Towing has been sponsoring and helping out at other events, including previous Pride and SHINE days when they donated Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 11 coffee and donuts, the Veteran’s event they buy Holiday pizza, and they give and have done this their entire career. He stressed they are great partners with the City and with their tow contract, and the Police Department could not ask for anything more for the service they offer, which is phenomenal. He pointed out that COVID has been brutal on small businesses, and this is a small family- run business. He explained that Sterling Heights went months with zero accidents on some days, where they usually average fifteen to twenty accidents a day, and that hurts a business that tows vehicles, so this business has struggled like a lot of other businesses, and to give so generously is a testament to their family to continue to give. He congratulated and thanked Utica Van Dyke Towing for their help and their generous donations. Mr. Dino Juncevic stated they are very appreciative to be part of a great City and are pleased to give a small donation back to the residents. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to acknowledge and thank Utica Van Dyke Service, LLC for its generous donation of bicycles and laptops to the Sterling Heights Police Department’s 2020 National Night Out. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stated she has known the Juncevic family for over twenty years, and they are dear friends of her as well as her family. She added they are great partners to the City and are constantly giving, not only in their outward donations but also in ways people do not even know about. She thanked them for their generosity. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 12 Councilman Yanez agreed with Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski, noting there is so much this family does that does not get advertised, and he felt this is a great opportunity to say thank you for everything they have done. Councilwoman Ziarko pointed out that Utica Van Dyke Towing is located next to DPW, so they will now have a building adjacent to them. She thanked them for all they do for the community. Mayor Taylor stated it is great to have people like the Juncevic family in the community to make Sterling Heights the great place it is. He thanked them for this donation, and he hoped next year they will be able to hold their traditional “National Night Out” event. He thanked both gentlemen from Utica Van Dyke Towing for being here tonight. Yes: All. The motion carried. B. Mayor Taylor stated this item is a Nice Neighbor Award presentation and he invited Councilwoman Ziarko to present the award. Councilwoman Ziarko stated this another presentation in the Nice Neighbor program, which honors homeowners and businesses that improve the quality of life for the neighbors. She stated the Community Relations Department is proud to be presenting the Honorable Joseph Toia and his wife, Theresa, as recipients of the Nice Neighbor Award. She informed that these individuals founded Friends of Foster Kids in 2008, and she provided some history on this 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. After they learned there were more than 1,200 children in foster care and most would not be receiving Christmas gifts, Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 13 they started this organization, with the help of family, friends, and other donors, which currently serves the needs of foster children in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties, and have since delivered over 200,000 Christmas gifts to nearly 15,000 foster children, and the expanded their scope of services to include young adults who are too old for the foster care system but still need some help. She explained she first became aware of this organization during her yoga class, where one of their volunteers and part-time employees took the yoga class and would announce some of their needs. She noted Ms. Christina Taylor organized a group of about twenty people one night to wrap gifts, and she stressed the gifts they are giving these children are not luxuries but are needs. She added that she cannot say enough about this program and all they do. She urged people to help out with this organization, and she presented this award to the Hon. Joseph and Theresa Toia. Hon. Joseph Toia thanked the City on behalf of Friends of Foster Kids. He thanked the City for welcoming them into this community, and he added that having a permanent location at the northeast corner of 17 Mile and Van Dyke, adjacent to Burlington Coat Factory, gives them an opportunity to bring awareness to the foster children in this community who are there because they have been removed from their homes as a result of neglect or abuse. He added they are good kids in bad situations and thanked the City for giving them the exposure they need to help serve the needs of these children. He stated the Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 14 center is COVID-19 compliant, and all protocols are in place to assure safety for their volunteers. He added they need volunteers and donors. Ms. Theresa Toia requested that people call them and take a child’s wish list. They have over 400 lists already, with approximately 500 more lists in her possession, and they continue to come in. She suggested if anyone wants to make a difference in the life of a child, this is a way to do it. She noted they cannot control where they came from and where they were last year, and they will not be able to control where they will be next year, but she stressed they can make a difference right now. She replied to inquiry those interested can call (586) 307-GIFT (307-4438). She thanked the City for the award. Judge Toia stated there are 13,000 foster children in the State of Michigan, and they average about 900 in Macomb County. Last year they had about 14,000 children between Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties for the Christmas program, and about 70 children in the graduate program. He pointed out they were not able to hold their fundraisers due to COVID, so the need has not gone away, and the need for volunteers and donors is even greater than before. He urged people to become a Friend for Foster Children, and he talked about the passion of the volunteers they have. He thanked Councilwoman Ziarko for nominating them for this award. Mayor Taylor thanked the Toia’s for choosing Sterling Heights and making this city their home. He stated it is one of the more impressive organizations they have seen in their city because it started in the Toia’s house, where they were Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 15 buying gifts for who they could. He added it is heartwarming and touching to see how it has grown. Mayor Taylor also congratulated the Judge, who won the election yesterday, and he added they are glad to have him on the bench in Macomb County. Judge Toia replied to inquiry that their website is www.friendsoffosterkids.org and they also have a Facebook page. He noted they are also on Instagram and Twitter. C. Mayor Taylor stated this item is a Nice Neighbor Award presentation and he invited Councilwoman Ziarko to present the award. Councilwoman Ziarko stated she felt everyone should volunteer because it offers a way to connect to others, it is good for the mind and body, it can advance a career, and it brings fun and fulfillment.to life. She explained it is easy to start because it is just a matter of picking something that you like to do. She explained this Nice Neighbor Award is being presented to an exceptional volunteer, Ms. Rose Lotito. Councilwoman Ziarko commented that she has known Ms. Lotito for many years. She was honored at the Henry Ford Medallion Ball held in early March before everything closed down and was given special recognition for her volunteerism. She is a Sterling Heights resident who has been a volunteer at Tony V’s coffee bar within the Henry Ford Macomb Hospital for ten years, and in that time, has donated nearly 2,400 hours to assisting and comforting hospital visitors with a strong does of warmth, kindness, and compassion. She retired in 2007 from the Van Dyke Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 16 Public School District, where she worked for 33 years as a school cook and custodian, and Councilwoman Ziarko mentioned some of the other volunteer work in which she takes part. Councilwoman Ziarko stated that although the volunteer work is done in a neighboring community, Ms. Lotito is a resident of Sterling Heights, and when she goes somewhere else, she represents the City, and they should be proud of the work she does. Councilwoman Ziarko presented Ms. Lotito with the Nice Neighbor Award. Ms. Rose Lotito thanked the City of Sterling Heights, although she did not feel she deserves the recognition because she enjoys everything she does. She reiterated her appreciation and thanked the Mayor and City Council. Mayor Taylor thanked Ms. Lotito and stressed they appreciate all volunteerism because it is so important. Councilman Radtke recalled meeting Ms. Lotito on a very hot day when he was knocking on doors and was sweating from the heat. She invited him in to sit in her air-conditioned home and provided him with a glass of cold water. He stressed she is a wonderful member of the community, and she is well- deserving of this award. 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider the application by Ground Effects, LLC for an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate (IFEC) at 7000 Nineteen Mile Road. He invited Assessing Coordinator Julie Geldhof to give a presentation. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 17 Assessing Coordinator Julie Geldhof stated she is here with representatives from Ground Effects LLC in an effort to obtain an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption for them. They are applying for a real property investment of $3,031,122 at 7000 19 Mile Road, where they have a five-year lease on the building. They are currently located at 7566 Metropolitan Parkway, with 350 manufacturing jobs that will remain there. The renovation of the existing 106,700-square-foot building will provide upfitting services to FCA Sterling Heights SHAP, located two miles south. The investment will create 90 new manufacturing jobs in the city. She informed that Ground Effects is a leading supplier to the automotive industry and installation of custom components and accessories. Their commitment is to provide the customer with a product of the highest quality standards and lead the industry with new designs and techniques, and based on these factors and the expectations that this project will generate production activity in the high-tech innovative use of products and technology which will contribute to protection and sustainability of the environment, the Assessing Department is recommending approval of the application for a five-year-term IFEC. She introduced Mr. Joel Dawson, Operations Manager of Ground Effects LLC, and a representative from their developer. Mr. Joel Dawson stated they have already hired 32 employees at this location and were just awarded additional business of 80 build packages for FCA. They Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 18 have approximately $1 million in equipment investment in this facility, and there will be more coming. Mayor Taylor opened the public hearing, but no one spoke. Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Moved by Radtke, seconded by Yanez, RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution approving the application by Ground Effects LLC for an Industrial Facilities Tax Exemption Certificate at 7000 Nineteen Mile Road, Parcel #50-10-10-09-202- 005, for a period of 5 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. Councilman Radtke thanked them for bringing their business to this city. He pointed out that they are investing in the City of Sterling Heights, and in return, the City will invest in them. Mayor Taylor wished Mr. Dawson well and thanked him for locating in Sterling Heights. He urged him not to hesitate to contact the City if he needs anything from them. Yes: All. The motion carried. 8. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Taylor stated this item is consideration of the Consent Agenda. He opened the floor for public comments, but no one spoke. Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended: A. To approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of October 20, 2020. B. To approve payment of the bills as presented: General Fund - $1,030,465.75, Water & Sewer Fund - $1,867,947.33, Other Funds - $4,849,153.86, Total Checks - $7,747,566.94. C. RESOLVED, to purchase computer equipment from Access Interactive, LLC, 46665 Magellan Drive, Novi, MI 48377, through the Midwestern Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 19 Higher Education Commission cooperative purchasing program, contract #MHEC-07012015, at a cumulative cost of $67,927.50. D. RESOLVED, to purchase 33 Scott self-contained breathing apparatus and 18 Scott air cylinders from West Shore Fire, Inc. 6620 Lake Michigan Drive, Allendale, MI 49401-0188, at unit prices bid for a total cost of $207,117 and approve a budget amendment for $84,800 from Capital Fund reserves to carry forward unspent funding from the fiscal year 2019/20 budget. E. RESOLVED, to purchase VMware and Veeam annual licenses for software maintenance from Access Interactive, 46665 Magellan Drive, Novi, MI 48377, for a one (1) year period at a cumulative annual cost of $48,778.88. F. RESOLVED, to amend the purchase of body cameras from WatchGuard, Inc., 415 E. Exchange Parkway, Allen, TX 75002, to substitute the V300 model, with software and licensing and accessories, for the Vista HD model approved at the September 15, 2020 regular meeting, at pricing available through the State of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing contract, #171-180000001059. G. RESOLVED, to: A. Approve the Publications Contract between the City of Sterling Heights and J Kraemer Designs, LLC, in accordance with City Code §2- 227(A) for the period November 4, 2020 to August 31, 2023, with an option to have the City Manager renew the agreement for a period not to exceed three years upon mutual consent and on the same terms and conditions; and B. Authorize the City Manager to execute all documents required in conjunction with this approval. H. RESOLVED, to award the bid for large diameter fire supply hose to Apollo Fire Equipment, 12584 Lakeshore Drive, Romeo, MI 48065, for a one (1) year period at unit prices bid. I. RESOLVED, to award the bid for the Leica RTC360 digital laser scanner package to NOAR Technologies, 303 E. 14 Mile, Clawson MI, 48017, at a total cost of $90,394, and authorize a budget amendment in the amount of $2,294 using Federal Forfeiture Fund reserves. J. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution authorizing issuance of not to exceed $15,000,000 in Limited Tax General Obligation Capital Improvement Fund Bonds, Series 2021. K. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution authorizing issuance of not to exceed $18,000,000 in Michigan Transportation Fund Bonds, Series 2021. Yes: All. The motion carried. 9. CONSIDERATION Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 20 A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider a request to transfer ownership of an escrowed 2019 Class C liquor license, with Sunday Sales (PM) permit, from Nickles Investments, LLC to Las Tortugas Taqueria and Market, LLC, and transfer location from 29765 Groesbeck Highway, Roseville, MI to 40850 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, MI, with new Sunday Sales (AM) permit. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Radtke, RESOLVED, that the request to transfer ownership of an escrowed 2019 Class C liquor license, with Sunday Sales (PM) permit, from Nickles Investments, LLC to Las Tortugas Taqueria and Market, LLC, and transfer location from 29765 Groesbeck Highway, Roseville, MI to 40850 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, MI, with new Sunday Sales (AM) permit, be considered for approval. Mayor Pro Tem Sierawski stated she is excited for this restaurant to open. She stated she has been going to their restaurant in Shelby Township, and she commended them on their authentic Mexican food. She stated the food is wonderful and so are the people. She felt the liquor license will elevate their restaurant to a higher level. Councilman Radtke questioned their hours of operation, and he invited the petitioner to speak about their restaurant. Mr. Jesse Rojas, applicant, stated they started their business at a small location in Shelby Township. They outgrew that facility and moved to 21 Mile and Van Dyke, where they have been located for the last six years. They have now outgrown that location as well, so they were looking for a new location. They found exactly what they were looking for at 18 Mile and Van Dyke, so they are excited to be in the City. Their hours of operation will be from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 21 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sundays. He added that they will be closed on holidays and the following day in many instances. They intend to get a Class C license, and he explained they renovated the facility. They have 15 employees and anticipate hiring more, and he assured they will make sure everyone goes through the TIPS (Training for Intervention ProcedureS). Councilman Radtke stated they are excited to see an established business move into the City. He is anxious to stop by. Mr. Rojas replied to inquiry that they opened on Friday. Mayor Taylor congratulated them on their opening, and he has heard very good things about their restaurant. Yes: All. The motion carried. B. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider an appointment to City of Sterling Heights Youth Advisory Board. He opened the floor for comments from the audience, but no one spoke. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to appoint Diya Tattitali to the Youth Advisory Board to a term ending June 30, 2021, subject to the appointee meeting the qualifications set forth in Charter §4.03 and taking the oath of office within two weeks. Yes: All. The motion carried. 10. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from citizens. • Mr. Chris Dib – expressed concern about his summer water bill; compared it to last year’s bill and usage increased about 29 units; Water Department came out to change the meter but still concerned. • Mr. Steve Bilan – mentioned a Cadillac Escalade travelling north on Van Dyke hit a buck; usable meat was donated to homeless vets; credited Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 22 Mr. Joe Judnick for helping out; questioned support of veterans by council. • Mr. Charles Jefferson – addressed earlier mention of volunteers; concerned about discrimination in volunteer positions; thanked the City for their election process and commended Ms. Ryska, staff, volunteers, and those who stood in line to register to vote. • Ms. Brandi Wright – poll worker; thanked Ms. Ryska and her team for all of her hard work; thanked Mr. Vanderpool for helping at their precinct. 11. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool stated he would like to follow up with the individual to had concerns about his water meter and indicated he would be happy to talk with him after the meeting. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski expressed gratitude for the passing of the two proposals on the ballot, “4 & 400”. This opens the ability to be a part of city government, not only making it easier for City Council but for all residents, especially those who have never run for office. She noted that obtaining 400 signatures during a pandemic will still be a struggle, but it is attainable, and if that had not been voted through, they would have had to get 1,100 signatures in order to get on the ballot. She pointed out that they are not collecting them at the poll, where people are known to be registered voters, so they are getting them from places where people may sign them and not be registered voters. For that reason, they actually have to obtain at least 300 to 400 additional signatures to make sure they have enough, which is extremely difficult. She added that the four-year terms are good for the City and will eliminate the extra election cycle, giving more money back to the City. She thanked the Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 23 residents for voting to pass these proposals. She addressed the citizen’s comment about supporting veterans, and emphasized her husband is a veteran, and her son is a Marine. She stated her family donates to veteran’s groups all the time, and she would be happy to help Mr. Bilan. She advised he will have to let her know what he needs. Councilman Radtke thanked all of the residents who came out and exercised their right to vote. He addressed the citizen’s comment about supporting veterans, and he stated his father fought three tours of duty in Vietnam and is now suffering from Agent Orange-related lung cancer that will eventually take his life, all because of his service to this country. He stated he is highly insulted by the insinuation that he does not support veterans. Councilwoman Ziarko noted that the Clerk’s Office and Election Center was open until 8 p.m. on the evening of the election. She questioned whether they have always been open until 8 p.m. and, if so, whether it is a state regulation or could they possibly close around 4 p.m. Ms. Ryska replied they are required to be open until 8 p.m. so that voters can clear up issues with absentee ballots or register to vote. Councilwoman Ziarko stated in talking to the volunteers yesterday, they indicated they hope she will keep the shifts for the next election because they liked the idea that they could be here for a set amount of time and leave when the next shift came in. Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 24 Councilman Yanez emphasized SHINE Day is a very important day for their City, and the beneficiaries of the program need the help and are very appreciative. He stressed it makes the City look better, but they need volunteers. He indicated he will be there and is looking forward to seeing everyone. He questioned Mr. Vanderpool as to whether they will be holding their any type of Veteran’s Day program this year in light of the COVID pandemic. Mr. Vanderpool replied that it will be a virtual event next Wednesday. They have information on their website, and the event will be live-streamed on Facebook. The participants involved in the ceremony will be meeting in this room and they will have a normal schedule of events, but unfortunately, the general public is not invited. He reiterated that everyone can participate virtually. Councilman Yanez thanked everyone who came out to vote. He pointed out yesterday was a beautiful day, but in the days leading up to the election, when people were waiting in long lines to register and obtain absentee ballots, the weather was not as cooperative, yet very few people left the line. He was appreciative of everyone who came out to celebrate their democracy by casting their votes. Councilwoman Koski addressed the comments from the citizen regarding donations to veterans, and she stated her husband has been Commander of a veteran’s group here in Sterling Heights for many years. He is at an age now where he no longer can participate, but when he was Commander, they made Regular City Council Meeting Wednesday, November 4, 2020 Page 25 many donations to that group. She noted she donated her expensive work suits so they could sell them and make money for their post or for the people who needed it. She planned on donating again, but after the comments made this evening, it will be to a veteran’s group other than Mr. Bilan’s group. Mayor Taylor stated he knows Mr. Bilan’s heart is in the right place and he is a veteran trying to help other veterans, which is admirable work. He stressed there are a number of worthy causes and numerous ways people can spend their money for these good causes. Mayor Taylor thanked the residents for voting, adding they had great participation. He noted they now have 33,490 residents on their permanent absentee ballot list, and he is inspired to see this level of enthusiasm. He thanked Mr. Vanderpool for providing City Council with constant updates through the process as well. 12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS There was no unfinished business. 13. NEW BUSINESS There was no new business. 14. CLOSED SESSION PERMITTED UNDER ACT 267 OF 1976 Mr. Kaszubski stated he has nothing tonight. 15. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to adjourn the meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. The meeting adjourned at 8:28 p.m. MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk