City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, MAY 17, 2022 IN CITY HALL 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; Carol Sobosky, Recording Secretary. 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the agenda as presented. Councilwoman Schmidt requested that Consent Agenda Item #8-R be moved to Consideration Item #9-B. Yes: All (on agenda as amended). The motion carried. 5. REPORT FROM CITY MANAGER Mr. Vanderpool announced the Sterling Heights Police Department Law Day Ceremony, which will be held on May 19, 2022, beginning at 10 a.m. at the north entrance to City Hall, will celebrate the contributions that the police officers make to the community. He added that in case of rain, the event will be held in the Council Chambers, and he stated anyone wanting additional information can go to the City’s website or call (586) 446-CITY. He stated their 43rd Annual Memorial Festivities will begin on Monday, May 30, 2022, at 9 a.m., with the ceremony held in the courtyard between City Hall and the Police Department. He explained the ceremony will feature remarks from the 2022 Grand Marshall Raymond Nadolski, Mayor Taylor, and Arts Commission Chairperson Jeanne Schabath. He added there is more information provided on the City’s website. He reminded everyone that the City offices will be closed on Monday, May 30, 2022, for Memorial Day, and refuse collection will be delayed one day throughout the week, with Friday’s collection being picked up on Saturday. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 2 Mr. Vanderpool reviewed the City’s firework restrictions, noting that state law prohibits the City from banning the use of consumer-grade fireworks on the following summer days: the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Memorial Day (but not Memorial Day itself), June 29 through July 4, July 5 (if it falls on a Friday or Saturday), and the Saturday and Sunday immediately preceding Labor Day (but not Labor Day itself). He stressed it is important that everyone comply with the City’s regulations, and on those days, fireworks can only be discharged between the hours of 11 a.m. and 11:45 p.m. The City’s ordinance requires fines and citations for any times outside of those specific dates and times. He explained they issue citations annually for fireworks discharged outside of those days and times, for improper litter, and for discharging fireworks on public property, including sidewalks and roads. He emphasized consumer-grade fireworks can only be discharged on private property, and he urged anyone interested in partaking in these activities to go to the City’s website to assure they do it safely and within the restrictions required by City ordinance. Mr. Vanderpool noted that every month they are focusing on highlighting various boards and commissions and the good work they are doing throughout the community, especially the volunteers who serve on those boards and commissions. He stated tonight they are highlighting their Historical Commission, and he introduced Library Director Tammy Turgeon, who will introduce the Historical Commission Chairperson to give the presentation. Library Director Tammy Turgeon stated she is the staff liaison to the Historical Commission, and she introduced their Chairperson, Brian Wojciechowski to give a report on what the Historical Commission has been doing and what they are planning for the future. Historical Commission Chairperson Brian Wojciechowski stated he works together with a great group of volunteers to preserve and promote the rich history and heritage of Sterling Heights. They are part of several historical associations, including the Macomb County Heritage Alliance, and the Historical Society of Michigan, and their primary goal is to help inform fellow residents about the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 3 history that has happened and continues to happen in this area they call home. He outlined the activities they do, including maintaining the displays at the Upton House Museum, providing tours of the Upton House Museum, conducting their historical programs, and maintaining their archives, and promoting, as well as preserving, local history. He provided some information on the Upton House, noting the Historical Commission is responsible for the display, cataloging, and organization of all the items throughout the home and museum. He showed pictures of some of the items in the museum. The first floor is modeled after a historic Victorian-era home, and the second floor has museum-style displays to help tell Sterling Heights history throughout the years. He showed slides depicting some of the displays throughout. They have a traveling history kit which they have produced, and it can be used by third and fourth grade students during their Michigan History curriculum so they can learn more about some of the historical events in the area. They maintain a display at the Community Center, updated on a regular basis. During 2021, they had 650 people visit the museum through required pre-registration tours aside from the two open house events they held. He advised that tours are available from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. every Wednesday, and they are back to hosting open houses the second Sunday of every month from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. He added that they also hold open houses during Sterlingfest and Sterling Christmas, with group tours available by appointment. He talked about their tours, including an audio tour available through a QR code posted on a sign outside the house. They recently introduced a video tour of the upstairs of the house. The Commission also leads workshops and programs to help educate and involve the citizens of Sterling Heights in its history. The Commission’s efforts shifted to online programs and videos because of the pandemic limiting their in-person availability, and he thanked Sterling Heights TV, as well as Commission Member Cynthia Appleton for her scriptwriting and research in preparation of the videos. He added that these videos have generated over 9,000 views on YouTube and Facebook. They are now getting back to in- person programs, starting tomorrow with an in-person appraisal program, where Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 4 people can bring their personal treasures and have them appraised. He added, however, that program is already at capacity. A Gravestone Cleaning and Maintenance Program is going to be done in partnership with the University of Michigan-Flint. They also maintain a register of historic homes in Sterling Heights, so homes produced before 1950 are eligible for being added to their list of historic homes and businesses. One of their other archives is maintaining the Upton House Museum collection. As of 2021, they have cataloged everything they have in the Upton House Museum’s collection, including everything on display as well as in storage. They have started to slow down their efforts in assessing new items and are only determining things that are of value to the City, the Museum, or the collection. He outlined some of the more recent items they have acquired, including pieces from Sarah and Frank Upton. Mr. Wojciechowski explained they also look at more modern elements of history, and because of the pandemic, they had their “History Today” program, where they collected written work and arts from students in the area and used those to find out how they were dealing with the Covid 19 pandemic. This was on display at the Community Center through last September. They are also working with the Department of Natural Resources and the Michigan History Center to replace and update the weathered Holcombe Beach Marker displayed in front of Heritage Junior High School. He thanked everyone for the opportunity to provide this report and welcomed everyone to visit the Upton House. Mr. Vanderpool stated this concludes his report, and he added that they will be continuing to highlight boards and commissions through the rest of the year. He noted the work they are doing is most impressive. 6. PRESENTATIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this to acknowledge and accept a donation of a Remote Methane Leak Detector from Heath Consultants, Inc. He invited Fire Chief Kevin Edmond to give the presentation. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 5 Fire Chief Kevin Edmond introduced Acting Fire Marshall Bryan Richter, who has been instrumental in bringing this technology to the department and helping him coordinate this donation. Acting Fire Marshall Bryan Richter stated that Heath Consultants, of Houston, Texas, a leader in safety and natural gas infrastructure utilities, has graciously donated a Remote Methane Leak Detector-First Responder (RMLD-FR) to the Sterling Heights Fire Department. He explained this detector will allow their firefighters to access emergent and non-emergent situations from a safer distance than their current practice. From the time Patrick Jacobs, National Sales Director for Heath Consultants, reached out to him until they worked through the details, he had the opportunity to look over a year’s worth of past runs for service, and he has determined that they would have used this detector in that time about 160 times. The cost of this equipment is over $15,000, and not only is Heath Consultants covering the cost of this detector for the City, but Midwest Sales Consultant Adam Hooper is also going to come in and train all their firefighters on all three shifts on the usage of the detector. He introduced Mr. Jacobs, and he thanked him for this donation. Patrick Jacobs, National Sales Director for Heath Consultants, stated they are a family-owned business out of Houston, Texas. He added that this is an American- made product, and Regional Sales Director Adam Hooper will be training the firefighters and supporting the product. Adam Hooper, Regional Sales Representative/Midwest Region for Heath Consultants, Inc., provided some information on their company as well as the instrument they are donating. He showed the instrument and explained how it works. Fire Chief Edmond stated he is proud of the work that Acting Fire Marshall Bryan Richter has done, and he is confident this technology will go a long way for them. He thanked the Council for allowing them to accept this donation. Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Yanez, RESOLVED, to acknowledge and accept the generous donation by Heath Consultants, Inc., of the Remote Methane Leak Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 6 Detector – First Responder model to the Sterling Heights Fire Department at a value of $16,200. Councilwoman Ziarko thanked the representatives from Heath Consultants for this generous donation, and for coming all the way up to Michigan from Texas to present it. Mayor Taylor thanked Heath Consultants for their generous donation. He stressed they take their firefighters’ safety very seriously and want to do everything they can to protect them and keep them safe. He was confident this equipment will help to keep them safe, and he also thanked them for their generous offer of training. Yes: All. The motion carried. 7. ORDINANCE ADOPTIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider adoption of an ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article III, Division 13 of the City Code to reduce the number of members appointed to the Youth Advisory Board and change the timing for annual reporting to the City Council. He opened the floor for comments from the audience, but no one spoke. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Radtke, RESOLVED, to adopt the ordinance amending Chapter 2, Article III, Division 13 of the City Code to reduce the number of members appointed to the Youth Advisory Board and change the timing for annual reporting to the City Council. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stated they had a lot of conversation on this at the last meeting, and the Youth Advisory Board Liaison had indicated how this will work well in their plan based on how many members generally attend the meetings. She is confident this will work nicely. Mayor Taylor thanked Youth Advisory Board Liaison Marissa Russo for all the work she does for that board. He also thanked Councilman Yanez who was instrumental in planning a field trip to Lansing and a tour of the Capitol Building for the Youth Advisory Board tomorrow. He added he, along with other members of Council, will be attending that field trip as well. He is impressed with the work the Youth Advisory Board does, and it is encouraging to see the involvement they have with Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 7 the next generation of leadership. He hoped this will be a great way to take a big step forward for this Board. Yes: All. The motion carried. 8. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Taylor stated this item is consideration of the Consent Agenda, with the omission of Item 8-R, which is now Consideration Item 9-B. He opened the floor for public comments.  Cynthia Bjornson – member of CommUNITY Alliance; thanked Mayor Taylor and City Council for adopting the resolution designating the month of June as Pride Month in the City of Sterling Heights; stated it is a time to recall the trials the LGBTQ+ community has endured and celebrate the triumphs of trailblazing individuals who fought and continue to fight for full equality.  Unidentified speaker – thanked Council for designating June 3 as National Gun Violence Awareness Day in the City of Sterling Heights and to encourage the wearing of orange on this day to honor and support those impacted by gun violence; provided background on this day and talked about the average of 87 school shootings each year in the United States from 2013 to 2021, resulting in average of 28 dead and 59 wounded from school shootings; cited other recent incidents across the country.  Sanaa Elias – would like more information about resolution designating the month of June as Pride Month; expressed opposition to flying the LGBTQ+ flag, we do not fly the Christian flag, etc.; concerned about creating division by paying attention to one group over another; questioned whether there was a resolution for National Day of Prayer; should not fly flags other than those designated by the U.S. and the State of Michigan. Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the Consent Agenda as amended: A. To approve the minutes of the Special Meeting of April 26, 2022. B. To approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of May 4, 2022. C. To approve payment of the bills as presented: General Fund - $685,560.00, Water & Sewer Fund - $5,129,264.20, Other Funds - $989,377.60, Total Checks - $6,804,201.80. D. RESOLVED, to accept the proposal by D/A Central, Inc., 13155 Cloverdale, Oak Park, MI 48237, for building and fire alarm, video security, door access, audio/visual and general low voltage system installation and repair services for a two-year period and authorize the City Manager to extend the terms and conditions of the proposal for two additional one-year terms upon mutual agreement and sign all required documents on behalf of the City. E. RESOLVED, to: (A) Accept the proposals by Wade Trim Associates, Inc., 500 Griswold Street, Suite 2500, Detroit, MI 48236 and Hanka Advisor, LLC, PO Box 1510, Bowie, MD 20717, for professional grant sourcing and grant writing services; and, (B) Authorize the City Manager to sign all required documentation on behalf of the City; and, (C) Authorize a budget amendment from American Rescue Plan Fund Reserves in the amount of $30,000. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 8 F. RESOLVED, to purchase two (2) 2022 Chevrolet Tahoe 4WD police vehicles from Berger Chevrolet, 2525 28th Street, S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 48512, at pricing available through a State of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing contract, #071877001077, in the amount of $77,984, and authorize a fiscal year 2021/2022 budget amendment of $77,984 to fund an advance purchase using Capital Fund reserves. G. RESOLVED, to purchase Trenchless Technology Rehabilitation and Related Products and Services from Corby Energy Services, Inc., 6001 Schooner Street, Belleville, MI 48111, on an “as needed” basis at pricing available through an OMNIA Partners national cooperative contract, RFP 22-04, through February 28, 2025, with the option to extend the terms and conditions for two available one-year options, should the award be extended on the same terms and conditions by the host agency. H. RESOLVED, to purchase the outdoor fitness facility, inclusive of Greenfields Outdoor Fitness, Inc., equipment, accessories, site development, and installation services, from Michigan Playgrounds, LLC., d/b/a Midstates Recreation, 1279 Hazelton-Etna SW, Pataskala, OH 43062, at pricing available through Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract #070721- GRN at a total cost of $234,201. I. RESOLVED, to purchase a Pierce Enforcer PUC Fire Pumper and accessories from Pierce Manufacturing, Inc., 2600 American Drive, P.O. Box 2017, Appleton, WI 54912, at pricing available through a Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract, #113021-PMI-1, in the amount of $672,849, authorize the City Manager to sign all documents required in conjunction with this purchase, and authorize a budget amendment of $672,849 for fiscal year 2021/22 for the advance purchase from Capital Fund reserves. J. RESOLVED, to purchase construction and utility castings from EJ USA, Inc., 301 Spring Street, East Jordan, MI 49727, at unit pricing available through the Oakland County Purchasing Program, contract #005621, through February 28, 2024. K. RESOLVED, to accept the proposal by Kone, Inc., 11864 Belden Court, Livonia, MI 48150, for elevator inspection and maintenance services and authorize the City Manager to exercise the option to extend its terms and conditions an additional two-year period and sign all required documentation on behalf of the City. L. RESOLVED, to waive the competitive bidding requirement in accordance with City Code Section 2-217(A)(9)(b) and purchase tickets for local sports and entertainment events through the Parks and Recreation from Broadway in Detroit, 3011 W. Grand Blvd., Suite 100, Detroit, MI 48202, Olympia Entertainment, Inc., 2211 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, 313 Presents, 2525 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48201, for the period May 17, 2022 through May 5, 2025. M. RESOLVED, to: (A) Award the bid for thirty-three (33) 5-11 Tactical CAMS 3.0 tactical bags to Wisecom Technologies, Inc., 4500 Forbes Blvd., #200-W14, Lanham, MD 20706, at unit prices bid for a total cost of $9,710.25; and (B) Reject all bids received for the 5-11 Tactical SOMS 3.0 tactical bag; and, (C) Award the bid for seventy-seven (77) First Tactical 180022 Specialist Rolling Duffle 90L tactical bags to Drellishak & Drellishak, Inc., d/b/a Pro Tech Sales, 1313 West Bagley Road, Berea, OH 44017, at unit prices bid for a total cost of $13,244; and (D) Authorize a budget amendment from account 101.301.305.751.001 (General Fund, Police Administration, Operating Supplies – Fed Funds) in the amount of $22,954. N. RESOLVED, to waive the competitive bidding requirement in accordance with City Code Section 2-217(A)(9)(b) and purchase banquet and catering services associated with Parks and Recreation Department programs from Kristina’s Catering, 46727 Van Dyke, Shelby Township, MI, Century Banquet Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 9 Center, 33204 Maple Lane, Sterling Heights, MI, Jet’s Pizza, 40808 Ryan Road, Sterling Heights, MI, Boston Market Catering Manager – Michigan (Regional Service), and My Pizza Place, 11570 15 Mile Road, Sterling Heights, MI, for the period May 17, 2022 through December 31, 2023. O. RESOLVED, to: (A) Award a bid for the 2022 Sidewalk Replacement Program, City Project #22-385, to Luigi Ferdinandi & Son Cement Co., Inc., 16481 Common Road, Roseville, MI 48066, at unit prices bid, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign all documents required in conjunction with this project on behalf of the City; and, (B) Adopt the resolution as required by §48.6(E) of the City Code for those properties included within the 2022 Sidewalk Replacement Program, City Project #22-385. P. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution designating June 3, 2022, as National Gun Violence Awareness Day in the City of Sterling Heights and to encourage the wearing of orange on this day to honor and support those impacted by gun violence. Q. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution designating the month of June 2022 as “Pride Month” in the City of Sterling Heights and encourage all residents, businesses, and community organizations in Sterling Heights to celebrate the valuable contributions of LGBTQ+ community and members who enrich the diversity and vitality of the City. R. This item was pulled from the Consent Agenda and made Consideration Item 9-B on tonight’s agenda. S. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution establishing new polling locations from election conducted in the City of Sterling Heights. T. RESOLVED, to adopt a resolution approving the temporary relocation of polling places for precincts 25, 26, 33, and 37 for the August 2, 2022, Primary Election, as recommended by the City Clerk. U. RESOLVED, to set the public hearing on Tuesday, June 21st, 2022, at 7:00 p.m. regarding the application by Philip Ruggeri, for and on behalf of Tony Gallo and Sterling Landings 3, LLC, for a Planned Unit Development on approximately 2.25 acres situated on the north side of Irving Road, east of Van Dyke, PPUD21-0002. Yes: All. The motion carried. 9. CONSIDERATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider nominations to City of Sterling Heights Boards and Commissions. He opened the floor for comments from the audience, but no one spoke. Mayor Taylor explained there are several boards and commissions that are up for nomination this evening. Planning Commission Mayor Taylor stated there are three mayoral appointments to be made to terms ending June 30, 2025. He explained that due to not being able to find this information, he requested a postponement of this item to the Tuesday, June 7, 2022, Council meeting. Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to postpone the nominations to the Planning Commission to the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 10 Yes: All. The motion carried. Board of Ordinance Appeals I Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to nominate James Mandl, Kathleen Martin, Justin Smith, and Michael Stickney for consideration as appointees to the Board of Ordinance Appeals I at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. Board of Ordinance Appeals II Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to nominate Ben Ancona and Lauren Tackett for consideration as appointees to the Board of Ordinance Appeals II at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. Board of Review Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to nominate Kimberly Legarski and Mark Magni for consideration as appointees to the Board of Review at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. Pension Board General Employees Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to nominate Richard Weller for consideration as an appointee to the General Employee Pension Board at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. Pension Board Police and Fire Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to nominate John Lamerato and Robert Maleszyk for consideration as appointees to the Police and Fire Pension Board at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried. Zoning Board of Appeals Councilman Radtke stated that, without objection, he would like to nominate three individuals at the same time. Mayor Taylor objected and requested they be taken one at a time. Moved by Radtke, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to nominate John Fenn for consideration as an appointee to the Zoning Board of Appeals at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Councilman Radtke stated Mr. Fenn has done an excellent job on the Zoning Board of Appeals, he highly values his role and is very engaged, so he would like to support his reappointment. Yes: All. The motion carried. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 11 Moved by Radtke, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to nominate David Graef for consideration as an appointee to the Zoning Board of Appeals at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Councilman Radtke stated Mr. Graef has been an excellent member of the Zoning Board of Appeals, he is thoughtful and does a great job, and he is happy to renominate him. Yes: All. The motion carried. Moved by Radtke, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to nominate Stephanie Jackson for consideration as an appointee to the Zoning Board of Appeals at the June 7, 2022 Regular City Council meeting. Councilman Radtke stated Ms. Jackson is currently an alternate on the Zoning Board of Appeals, having previously served on the Eastpointe Zoning Board of Appeals. He added that her father was the previous mayor of Eastpointe, and he felt she will be a welcome addition moving up from the alternate position to this Board. Mayor Taylor explained that he will be voting no, not because he does not think Ms. Jackson would do a good job. He added she clearly has the support of the Council, and he feels she would do a good job, but he commented that Eric Castiglia is currently doing a good job on the Zoning Board of Appeals, and he would vote to reappoint Mr. Castiglia. He is aware that Mr. Castiglia has made a name for himself in local GOP politics, and he understands that some members of Council had some concerns with his involvement. He reiterated his opinion that Mr. Castiglia is doing a good job, and he would like to see him retain his seat on the Zoning Board of Appeals. Councilman Radtke clarified he is not supporting the reappointment of Eric Castiglia, not because of any partisan politics, but it is because of some personal statements Mr. Castiglia made in public, and he cited a specific instance. As a result, he does not feel Mr. Castiglia can be unbiased in his role on this Board. Councilwoman Koski stated she would like to talk with Mr. Castiglia before she votes for someone else, because she felt he has done a fairly good job. She assured it is nothing against Ms. Jackson, but she would like to talk with Mr. Castiglia first Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 12 to confirm whether he should continue serving on this Board, so she will be voting no on this motion. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stated she will be continuing to vote for Mr. Castiglia, adding he has done a good job. She commented that she was made aware that Mr. Castiglia was misinformed when he made the statement to which Councilman Radtke referenced. She explained that Ms. Jackson is a lovely person and has done a good job, she will continue to vote for Mr. Castiglia. Councilwoman Schmidt requested clarification that this is a nomination only tonight, so they can change it at the next meeting. Mr. Kaszubski confirmed that is correct. Roll Call Vote: Yes: Yanez, Ziarko, Radtke, Schmidt. No: Sierawski, Taylor, Koski. The motion carried. B. Mayor Taylor stated this was previously Consent Agenda Item 8-R, which is to adopt a resolution to recognize and congratulate the Sterling Heights High School Band Program on the milestone of its 50th Anniversary. He opened the floor for comments from the audience, but no one spoke. Councilwoman Schmidt stated she pulled this item stated she was part of this band program for a solid eight years, serving on the Executive Board for seven of those years. She stressed it is a hardworking group of students, parents, and staff, and they deserve the recognition for all the hard work they put into it. She congratulated them on their success and wished them well in the next fifty years. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to adopt a resolution to recognize and congratulate the Sterling Heights High School Band Program on the milestone of its 50th Anniversary. Yes: All. The motion carried. 10. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from the audience.  Sanaa Elias – stated she would like to see the Council provide answers to residents who bring forth legitimate questions or concerns; suggested the answers be provided at the next meeting if they cannot be answered immediately; indicated she asked if they have ever had a resolution for National Prayer Day, but she did not receive an answer.  Sanford Williams – questioned whether there are any updates on allowing marijuana dispensaries or zoning for them in the City. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 13 11. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool addressed the question about under what conditions the City decides to fly certain flags. He explained they have three flag poles on City property, and it is within City Council’s authority to designate certain activities, initiatives, or causes to support and appropriately fly related flags. He cited the recent example of the Ukrainian flag the City Council directed Administration to display, and through a resolution, they designated the flying of the Pride Month flag. The City Council has either directed Administration and/or adopted a related resolution. He did not recall the specific questions Ms. Elias had indicated she raised, but he recommended if she has any follow-up questions that they were not able to answer at a council meeting, she is welcome to contact them, and they will be happy to follow up with any questions. He stated they pride themselves on getting back to residents. Mr. Vanderpool informed that the Marijuana Facility Task Force has met once. He had shared with City Council and the audience the structure of that task force and the scope of service on which they will be working over the next few months. He added their draft report is expected to be completed later this year, which they will share with City Council, and the City Council will choose what they want to do with the final report. Councilman Radtke stated he is looking forward to the field trip tomorrow to the State Capitol to take the tour, and he thanked Councilman Yanez for setting it up. He felt it will also be great for the Youth Advisory Board members. He stated that, without objection, there are two resolutions he would like added to their agenda packet next month. The first is a resolution recognizing Asian-American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, which is traditionally in June. The second would be a resolution honoring the fortieth anniversary of Vincent Chin’s murder, and he provided a brief background on Vincent Chin, who was murdered by some auto workers in Michigan as a result of anti-Asian hate due to layoffs in the auto industry. He explained that Rebeka Islam, who lives in Sterling Heights and serves as the Chair of the APIA Task Force in Michigan, reached out to him with a draft Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 14 resolution asking the Sterling Heights City Council to honor it. He hopes they will be able to work with their CommUNITY Alliance and other boards and commissions to think about some educational elements to both of those resolutions. There were no objections from Council on Councilman Radtke’s request. Councilwoman Schmidt gave thanks to Community Relations, the Sterling Heights Police and Fire Departments, and the Warren Consolidated Schools for presenting a program at Sterling Heights High School last week entitled “Every Fifteen Minutes,” a video addressing drunk driving that was presented to the students. She stressed this subject becomes a prominent topic during prom/graduation season, even though it happens all year round. She stated she watched the video that the City presented, it was very emotional, impactful, and the students were “shook up” after watching it. She thanked all involved for this good program, and she hoped other school districts will participate in this as well. Councilwoman Ziarko agreed with Councilwoman Schmidt, noting she heard many compliments about the program from the staff at Sterling Heights High School, one of those compliments being from a counselor, who indicated they hope it will happen again next year. She requested a resolution for Juneteenth if they do not already have it planned. Mr. Vanderpool stated a resolution for Juneteenth is already scheduled for the next meeting. Councilman Yanez acknowledged the donated equipment to the Fire Department, adding that technology shows how far the fire service has come. He recalled when he first started in fire service, they were “considered less than a man” if they wore their air pack when fighting a fire, whereas now, they would not think twice about wearing their air pack into a fire or any other dangerous situation. These improvements are all because of life safety, not only for the citizens but also the workers. He greatly appreciated the donation of that device and anticipated they may eventually have more than one because it is a tool that saves lives. He pointed out he is wearing an orange tie this evening to support of the resolution Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 15 they passed on National Gun Violence Awareness Day. He requested that the City light The Halo orange on June 3 in recognition of this cause. He stressed they have to keep this conversation going regarding gun violence. Mayor Taylor believed The Halo is scheduled to be lit up orange on June 3 and June 4 for this cause. Councilman Yanez stated he felt flying the Ukrainian flag was the right thing to do, but he added he is not deaf to the comments expressed by Ms. Elias. He emphasized that, while flying a flag at half-staff in the event of the death of a state representative or senator is a nice tribute to their families, he felt the United States flag needs to fly high all the time, especially when the country is in distress. He understands there are some flags that some citizens are not comfortable with, and they are citizens and taxpayers as well. He suggested they have a deep discussion when they decide what flags they are going to fly. He stated he has always supported the rights of everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community, but he questioned whether they should fly that flag in June, the Christian flag at Easter, the Muslim flag during their holiday, etc. He felt they can have a further discussion about this at another time. Councilman Yanez appreciated his colleagues looking forward to the Capitol tour. He stressed government does not work without people, and students need to understand there are careers in government other than being an elected official. He indicated young people need to consider jobs in public service, although it is not a popular choice. He explained they will be taking this group of young people tomorrow who will meet legislators, but they will hear from people who work in government every day. He thanked State Representatives Nate Shannon and Diana Farrington, as well as State Senator Michael McDonald, for hosting their young constituents. Councilwoman Koski pointed out they were asked by a resident tonight about answering the audience’s questions. She thought they respond in some fashion to these questions when they are asked, and she asked Mr. Vanderpool how these questions are handled. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 16 Mr. Vanderpool replied they try to do the best they can to respond at the meeting, but there are times when they must research an issue and get back to the resident. They do not have a form where they post back online, but they normally follow up with emails or letters to the residents, and Council is provided that information as well. He stated unfortunately in Ms. Elias’ case, he is not sure what happened. Councilwoman Koski stated there is a Strategic Planning meeting in June, and she inquired as to whether this will be addressing only the ARPA funding. Mr. Vanderpool replied they are up to seventeen action items, with a growing list, so he urged them to be cautious about adding more items. He stated they can continue to talk about whether there is a better way to address the audience questions. Councilwoman Koski felt they may need to address this as a Council as to whether they want to respond during the Consent Agenda when audience members speak about items on that agenda, and whether there should be a format for responding to questions that require further research. She suggested they can leave their contact information so they can get an answer. She suggested they look at their rules of procedure to determine which flags they will allow to be flown, and how they get a resolution to support a project. She further suggested this could be discussed following a slower meeting or at a strategic planning session. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski appreciated some council members are wearing orange, although she stated she does not own any orange clothing; however, she supports the concerns regarding gun violence. She stated those committing these violent acts have some mental health issues. There are more guns in this country than there are people, and many people can own guns safely. They need to continue to improve mental health and prevent those who should not have guns from having them in their hands. She agreed that they should tighten up what flags they fly and how they fly them. Mayor Taylor stated he is proud to support the gun violence resolution and felt it is time to look at the fact the United States is the only civilized nation on the earth that goes through this problem and has three hundred million guns. He stressed Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 17 other nations suffer from mental health issues, criminal tendencies, and with people who are inclined to hurt others, but this is the only nation that celebrates guns, making them a hobby, sport, and culture. He felt this will continue to repeat itself until they get serious about it. Mayor Taylor addressed Ms. Elias’ concerns about unanswered questions, noting they try to answer all questions at the meeting, and if they cannot answer, they request the person provide their contact information to the City Clerk or City Manager. He cited some examples of rhetorical questions that are comments phrased in the form of questions, but he felt they handle responding to questions well. He pointed out their cell phone numbers, and email addresses are all published on the website, and many of the Council members are active on Facebook, which is where a lot of questions get asked and answered. He added they also have See-Click-Fix and the newsletter, as well as other ways to contact City Administration or City Council. He acknowledged their method is working, and although they may be able to improve on it slightly, he did not feel they need an entirely new policy. Mayor Taylor addressed the issue of flags, noting that the City Council represents the residents of Sterling Heights, and if they feel strongly enough a certain flag should fly, he felt that is the way the residents’ voices are heard. As leaders, they must lead boldly, although he felt there is a difference in supporting different groups of people versus supporting religions. He is not aware that they have taken a stance on a religion at any time, and he commented that honoring the LGBTQ+ community is different from picking a religion to honor. He is comfortable with their flag flying next to the American flag, adding that, to him, the rainbow flag represents American people. Mayor Taylor stated he hopes to see everyone at the Memorial Day parade, which will be in person for a full-scale event this year. 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 Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, May 17, 2022 Page 18 Mr. Kaszubski stated there is nothing for tonight. 15. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to adjourn the meeting. The motion carried. The meeting was adjourned at 8:21 p.m. MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk