City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2023 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. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 5. REPORT FROM CITY MANAGER Mr. Vanderpool explained that their City team collaborates with the State legislative team on a regular basis, and they have enjoyed bi-partisan support from their representatives. He stated that last week, he, along with Mayor Taylor and the City’s Economic Development Advisor, met in Lansing with Executive Director Quentin Messer of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the entire Macomb County legislative team. He explained the purpose of the meeting, which was to emphasize the importance of the defense industry to Sterling Heights and the surrounding area. He noted that over $6 billion of defense spending occurs in Macomb County every year, with a significant portion of that amount in Sterling Heights. He mentioned companies such as General Dynamic Land Systems, BAE Systems, DC3S, American Rheinmetall, along with their suppliers and subsidiaries, which have a strong impact in the City. Mr. Vanderpool explained that some critical defense-related decisions will be made in the ensuing months, and it is important that Sterling Heights is at the table in Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 2 these discussions. He assured they will continue to push to protect and grow the defense sector in Sterling Heights and across Macomb County. Mr. Vanderpool stated that today, the Governor signed into law House Bill 4084, which eliminates a very cumbersome process requiring small businesses to file paperwork to qualify for the Personal Property Tax Exemption. He noted that two longstanding businesses in the City unfortunately missed this obscure filing deadline, which would have cost them collectively $1.2 million and could have put their operations in jeopardy. He explained that the City’s Finance and Budget Director Jennifer Varney worked with the State legislative team to resolve the matter, not only for Sterling Heights but statewide, and she attended the bill-signing ceremony today with the Governor. He added that Sterling Heights was the only city at the bill- signing ceremony today. He also recognized State Representative Nate Shannon who sponsored the bill, and State Representative Thomas Kuhn, who supported the bill. He invited Representative Thomas Kuhn, representing District 57, to address the Mayor and City Council. State Representative Tom Kuhn expressed his appreciation to the Mayor and City Council members for being able to work with them to move Sterling Heights forward. He thanked the City for taking the lead on the Michigan Defense Center project, stressing the importance of their taking the lead and getting all of the groups together, both Republican and Democratic, and making it an important issue. He emphasized this was not moving forward until Sterling Heights took the lead. After serving twenty-eight years at the local level, he is aware of the openness and transparency of local government; however, he has unfortunately had a shock serving on the State legislature, where he has discovered it is not transparent. He is working on a number of bills that address openness and transparency, including a Freedom of Information Act bill that would include the governor and legislature, and he is working with many of the suggestions made by the City to improve the Freedom of Information Act. He appreciated how openly the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 3 City goes over their budgets, with the public knowing about it. He added that, in Lansing, everything is done secretly, and that needs to stop. He introduced a bill earlier this year that specifically addresses that issue, adding that their appropriation was $82 billion this year, and that should be able to be viewed in detail before they vote on it. He once again thanked the City for all they do, their feedback, and their responsiveness on so many issues, and he appreciated having this time to speak. Mr. Vanderpool stated they have been working hard in looking for grant funding available at federal and state levels, as well as from other resources. They have been able to successfully obtain tens of millions of dollars, and he cited some of the noteworthy grants, including the $10 million forthcoming grant for the Clinton River Road Corridor project, and $100 million at a federal level for the Mound Road Innovation project. He added that was the largest federal grant that went to a local agency in the United States. They currently have an outstanding grant application for North Van Dyke, which is a $26 million project. He is pleased to announce another exciting grant that will improve the wellness of the community, and he introduced Police Sergent Aaron Susalla to give the presentation. Sergent Aaron Susalla, on behalf of the Sterling Heights Drug-Free Coalition (SHDFC), explained their coalition works to educate, collaborate, and advocate to create an environment that is safe from substance abuse and misuse, and they are part of the solution. He introduced the SHDFC Executive Board, as well as the sector representatives. He thanked all Council members for their continued support of this Coalition. He introduced the Drug Free Coalition Project Coordinator Elizabeth Cupolo. DFC Project Coordinator Elizabeth Cupolo stated she is an employee of CARE of Southeastern Michigan and was afforded the opportunity to join the Sterling Heights Drug Free Coalition as the Project Coordinator because of this grant. She introduced Kayla Dadswell, Director of Substance Use Prevention Services at CARE of Southeastern Michigan, and she added that Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 4 Dominique Schroeder is Chief Program Officer at CARE of Southeastern Michigan. She announced that CARE of Southeastern Michigan, in partnership with the Sterling Heights Drug Free Coalition, was awarded the Drug Free Community Support Program Grant from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, with the grant totaling over $600,000 over the next five years. The Coalition will be provided with $125,000 per year, and the purpose of this grant is to support coalitions such as the SHDFC, whose mission is to reduce youth substance use. She stated the SHDFC is the second coalition in Macomb County to be awarded this grant, so it is a big achievement. Ms. Cupola explained the two goals of the grant: 1) Increase capacity by establishing and strengthening collaboration among community stakeholders to address youth misuse; and 2) To reduce substance use and over time, reduce adult substance use by addressing the risk factors that can cause substance use, and promote the protective factors that minimize them. She highlighted the great things the Coalition has already been doing, including Red Ribbon Week, Black Balloon Day, Tobacco Vendor Checks, and she explained some details of these events. She noted there are upcoming events, and anyone interested in more information can go online to www.facebook.com/sterlingheightsDFC. She welcomed anyone interested in attending their meetings, noting they meet the second Monday of every month at 5:30 p.m. in the upper-level conference room at the Sterling Heights Police Department. She advised their next meeting is scheduled for January 8, 2024. Ms. Cupolo presented a check for this grant to the Coalition, and a photo was taken of the Mayor, Council members, and members of the Coalition who were present this evening. Mr. Vanderpool talked about the roadwork projects that are wrapping up for this season and invited City Engineer Brent Bashaw to provide an update on Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 5 the completed projects, as well as a preview of some of the upcoming projects for the next year. City Engineer Brent Bashaw thanked everyone for their patience, noting they try to coordinate the projects, but there were a lot of them this year. The projects started early, and he noted the Mound Road Construction project continued this year, along with eight major road projects. They also had thirty- five local road reconstruction projects that were completed, with the vast majority of these as part of the Safe Streets Initiative. He added that seventeen local roads were reconstructed through the Annual Local Road Reconstruction program, and he showed some before-and-after photographs of some of these projects. Mr. Bashaw also talked about the Sectional Repair Program for Local Roads, noting that eighteen roads were improved through this program, and some examples were shown. Mr. Bashaw reviewed the major road projects, providing some detail on each: • 14 Mile Road - began May 1 and completed September 21; provided new asphalt surface and provided much of the curbing and road approaches; included two major intersections, including Schoenherr Road and Maple Lane; resurfaced over two miles. • Schoenherr Road – began April 27 and completed August 29 as part of a multi-year plan to resurface from 15 Mile Road to M-59; provided new asphalt surface and some curb replacement. • Metro Parkway Concrete Repair – began June 13 and completed at the end of July; between Dodge Park and Schoenherr. • Plumbrook Road Reconstruction – began on April 10 and completed October 24; new asphalt pavement on 2.3 miles; included safety improvements, such as reconfiguration at Utica Road intersection; also included over 3,500 linear feet of sidewalk construction and 301 trees planted; upcoming work will include 17 Mile/Plumbrook mast arm signal upgrade to start within a week or two, as well as supplemental street lighting and opening of bike lanes in the spring. • Metro Parkway Resurfacing – began July 24 and completed on November 16; provided new asphalt surface, new curbing, and new concrete approaches between Mound and Ryan. • Ryan Road Resurfacing – began August 14 and completed November 14; provided two miles of asphalt resurfacing, curb repairs, concrete approach replacement, and sidewalk construction along the last of the sidewalk gaps in this section. • Maple Lane – scheduled to start after the 14 Mile Road project was completed (October 9) and completed November 20; included pulverizing existing asphalt base, repurposing it as road base; included installation of sidewalk to complete gaps on east side; turf restoration Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 6 with planting of approximately ninety new trees will be completed in the spring. • Innovate Mound project – continued this year; all roadway pavement in Sterling Heights has been completed; median has been completed and put to grade; landscaping north of Metro Parkway has made great progress, with landscaping continuing until December 15, weather permitting; anything not completed will be done in the spring; provided updates for 2024 plans including installation of DTE polies and utility transfers on east side of roadway, making way for a pathway along west side of Mound Road, to be completed in 2024; median landscaping south of Metro Parkway will be completed next year. Mr. Bashaw indicated the Innovate Mound Road project will extend to I-696 in Warren, with all paving done this year. They will be two months of work on a culvert starting in January, but that is south of Twelve Mile Road. He noted that they will be reconstructing the 17 Mile Road bridge over Plumbrook, east of Van Dyke, which will begin shortly. He advised that 17 Mile Road will have to be closed for three to four months at some point during the year, although he does not currently have a date for that closure. He added that Moravian will also be one of their projects for next year. Mr. Bashaw summarized that in 2023, they completed nine major road projects, thirty-five local road projects for a total investment of $71.3 million. He provided the website for those interested in more information: www.sterling-heights.net/conezone and text updates are available by going to www.sterling-heights.net/notifyme. Mr. Vanderpool stated this concludes his report this evening. Mayor Taylor thanked Mr. Bashaw being here tonight to present an update on the road projects. He also thanked Representative Kuhn for being here tonight, adding the City has been fortunate to have State Representatives and other representatives at the county and federal level who are very accessible to their residents. He appreciated the efforts they are making towards transparency, and he appreciated the regular updates he receives from Representative Kuhn. 6. PRESENTATIONS Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 7 A. Mayor Taylor stated this is a swearing-in ceremony for new Sterling Heights Police Officers, and he invited Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski to make the presentation and swear in the new officers. Chief Dwojakowski explained that hiring police officers in the State of Michigan is extremely difficult, with a lot of departments getting zero applicants. The Macomb County Police Academy normally houses about forty-two to forty-five students; however, in the last session, they had twenty- one graduates. This means all of the communities are fighting for those candidates. He emphasized that all five of the officers being sworn in this evening came from other departments, and Sterling Heights definitely gained from this. He informed that there will be two more hires, possibly three, coming up in January. Chief Dwojakowski welcomed and introduced John-Mark Branch, Max Eckhout, Danny Delly, Erin Loomis, and Kelly Dupuis, providing a brief summary on each of their education and extensive work backgrounds. He pointed out how fortunate they are to have these police officers here with resumes that are stellar. He thanked them for making the decision to leave their previous departments to come here to Sterling Heights. He swore in the officers, and each officer in turn thanked the City and the Police Department for the opportunity to serve the people of Sterling Heights, and they thanked their family and friends for their support. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski welcomed the new police officers, noting she comes from a law enforcement family. She emphasized that law enforcement is the heart and soul of the city, and they are proud to be such a safe city. She is proud they are here, and she looks forward to meeting them all personally. Councilwoman Schmidt welcomed the new police officers to the “family,” stressing that they are a family here in Sterling Heights. She assured them that the community supports them one hundred percent, so they have the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 8 tools to do their job to the best of their ability. She requested they all stay safe, and she thanked them for coming to Sterling Heights. Councilman Radtke commended Chief Dwojakowski for producing the best candidates. He welcomed the new officers to Sterling Heights, and stressed how impressed he was with their resumes. He is confident that they will meet the high expectations demanded of them, and he added the City will give them what they need to be successful. He requested they stay safe, do their jobs with honor and integrity, and he is confident they will be here a long time. He is proud to have them in Sterling Heights, and he thanked them for making the decision to come here. Councilwoman Koski welcomed the new officers, and she thanked them for choosing Sterling Heights. She stated the City believes in making sure they have the proper equipment to keep themselves safe so they can keep the community safe. She is pleased to see the addition of two more female police officers. She wishes them all a safe career, and assures they have the City’s support. Councilwoman Ziarko congratulated the new officers and is glad they chose Sterling Heights. She is confident they will love working in this community, and they truly are family. She urged them to reach out if they need anything, and the City will be happy to help them. She noted mention was made that Officer Loomis’s sister is present this evening and works for Sterling Heights, but she pointed out that her dad, Ray, is also here and worked for the City for many years, so she recognized him for the years of service he provided for the City. Councilman Yanez agreed with his colleagues that the people of this community love their police department. He agreed with Councilman Radtke that they will be held to a very high standard, but he is confident they will all meet that standard. He retired from the Sterling Heights Fire Department, having worked here for eighteen years, and he emphasized this is a great city to work for. He recalled being told by the first Fire Chief he worked under that Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 9 they are the ambassadors for the City, and whether the people they come in contact with are residents or non-residents, the police officers and firefighters may be the first contact they have ever had with a city official in this City. He pointed out they have already represented other communities and organizations, so they are well aware of that. He emphasized this is a great job, and he felt when their career is over, they will be glad they made this move. He congratulated and thanked them for choosing Sterling Heights. Mayor Taylor agreed this is a great group of hires, and he is proud to have them here. He addressed the family members of the new officers, urging them to continue to support their loved ones who are now part of the Sterling Heights Police Department. He stressed they are doing heroic work that matters, and they are protecting the City, doing honorable and good work. The meeting recessed at 7:46 p.m. and reconvened at 7:50 p.m. 7. ORDINANCE INTRODUCTIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider introduction of the first amendment to the Appropriations Ordinance for the 2023/24 fiscal year. He invited Finance and Budget Director Jennifer L. Varney to give the presentation. Finance and Budget Director Jennifer Varney stated she is here this evening to introduce the first amendment to the Appropriations Ordinance. She reminded that they normally amend the budget twice a year, once in December and once toward the end of the fiscal year. She advised that this amendment is primarily carrying forward unspent funding from last year’s budget, as well as incorporating grant funding and things City Council has approved since the budget was adopted. Ms. Varney explained that in the amended budget, the General Fund Expenditures increased about $900,000, or 0.7 percent, with the main increases being the reappropriation of expenditures from last year amounting to about $300,000, grant-funded expenditures, including sobriety court funding and firefighter physicals, and they have added the Assistant Fire Chief position, and an additional police officer position that is backfilling the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 10 position transferred to the DEA Task Force. She added that the police officer position is partially grant-funded for three years. She advised that General Fund revenues increased by $640,000, or 0.5 percent, due to grant revenue of about $350,000, and about $220,000 more in property tax reimbursement than estimated. She explained the net result of these changes is a Use of Fund Balance of about $260,000; however, $320,000 is from expenditures approved last year and is being carried forward. At the next Council meeting, it will be shown that the City actually contributed about $1.6 million more to General Fund balance than was in the amended budget. She emphasized they still have a very healthy General Fund balance at $35 million, or just under 28 percent of expenditures. Ms. Varney explained that other city funds are being adjusted by approximately $47 million, with $23.7 million of unspent road project funds and $7 million in unspent capital funds being carried forward. She added that $12.8 million is to formally appropriate the remaining ARPA expenditures. They had been budgeting ARPA expenditures as the projects were brought to Council, but State Revenue Sharing has a one percent allocation that requires that ARPA expenditures be obligated by the end of 2023. The federal requirement is that they are obligated by the end of 2024; however, in order to get the extra one percent, or approximately $11,000, they have to appropriate the ARPA funds by the end of this year. She clarified this does not mean they cannot transfer the funds, change what they are budgeted, etc., but it is getting them formally budgeted to receive the additional revenue sharing. Ms. Varney provided a summary of the ARPA projects, including the road projects for Plumbrook Road Resurfacing and Ryan Road Concrete Repairs. An additional road project, as part of the ITC Corridor project in the reconstruction of Edison Court, has not yet started. She outlined the park projects, and indicated they are still working on land acquisition in the south end of the City, as well as land acquisition at Riverland. She stated the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 11 Community Garden is in the planning stages, as well as the Lakeside Island bridge. All of the neighborhood improvement projects are in process, and sidewalk gap funding is being used on Maple Lane, Mound Road, Clinton River, and M-59. The tree inventory was completed last year, and the additional funding will be used in combination with the Urban Forestry Grant the City received, for a total of about $1.4 million. The Household Assistance programs have been very successful, and nearly all of the allocated dollars for those have been spent. Ms. Varney talked about the other projects that were completed, and she outlined those expenses. They have reserved about $2.5 million for land purchases throughout the City, many of which are in progress. They were allocated $19.8 million, and they have earned about $600,000 in interest on those funds, for a total of $20.4 million available. With this budget amendment, $20.2 million will be appropriated, leaving a small amount unallocated, as well as future interest earnings yet to be received. Ms. Varney concluded her presentation, noting this is the first reading of the Appropriations Ordinance, which is scheduled for adoption at the December 19, 2023 meeting. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for public comment, but no one spoke. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to introduce the first amendment to the Appropriations Ordinance for the 2023/24 fiscal year. Councilwoman Ziarko commented that this was explained very well, and she has no questions. Councilman Radtke questioned whether the land acquisition, as part of the ARPA funds, is still part of the southern Community Center program, including the grant from the State of Michigan. Mr. Vanderpool replied they have two portions. One is $1 million from ARPA, and they have a $1 million grant from the State of Michigan. They were successful in getting the legislation changed to provide them with more latitude, noting the previous $1 million for recreational purposes in the south end was tied to a very specific site. They have a $2 million allocation for that Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 12 purpose but are still looking for the appropriate site and various options to find the ideal project. Councilman Radtke questioned when the money from the State is required to be allocated. Ms. Varney replied that the grant from the State was just allocated in the last budget, but she is not sure when it is required to be reallocated. They have been talking about it, although they had another idea that fell through. Councilman Radtke questioned whether this will be discussed at the Strategic Planning Meeting in January. Mr. Vanderpool replied it is not formally on the agenda, but there will be time at Strategic Planning for Council members to mention any topics they wish to discuss. He added they can spend more time researching the time limitation, and they may have some updates by that time. Councilman Radtke strongly suggested that this be added to the Strategic Planning meeting. He added that this is the last project of ARPA funds that does not have direction, and he expressed concern, especially after Warren Consolidated Schools pulled out of the agreement they had with the City. He expressed frustration and wants to make sure these funds are allocated and that the project comes to fruition, yet he does not feel it is getting the attention it deserves. He hopes they will produce a good plan within the allotted time frame. He offered no objections to the budget, noting they have created some new positions, including a new Deputy Fire Chief and a police officer position. He wants to make sure Strategic Planning is used to strategically plan and that this project is fulfilled. Mr. Vanderpool stated he is not sure he has clear direction on what Councilman Radtke wants added to the Strategic Planning agenda. It is City Council’s prerogative to add any items they would like, but they need time to add them. He assured if there is consensus to add it, he would be happy to do so, although others may have other ideas for additional items of discussion. He pointed out they can discuss it during the general discussion. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 13 Ms. Varney explained they had to file paperwork with the State for that appropriation as well as the Lakeside reappropriation of $3 million, and that had to be filed by the end of November with Representative Shannon’s office. That was done, and when they receive the official paperwork for the grant award, they will then know the rules as to when that money has to be spent. Councilman Radtke requested that, without objection, this be added to the Strategic Planning agenda for January so it can be discussed. Mayor Taylor questioned what Councilman Radtke would specifically like to see on the agenda for the discussion. Councilman Radtke replied he would like to see a timeline for the project completion, as well as options. Mayor Taylor questioned Mr. Vanderpool whether that is sufficient information for him to proceed. Mr. Vanderpool felt that is sufficient. He stated they are happy to provide an update on the timeline, and he assured Council that they meet regularly on the ARPA funding, noting there are other projects they are trying to finish. He assured this is a high priority, and that they will not compromise their ARPA funding, so they are very focused on it. He stated they will be happy to provide an update at Strategic Planning. The Council members voiced no objections to this request. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 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 presented: A. To approve the minutes of the Regular Meeting of November 21, 2023. B. To approve payment of the bills as presented: General Fund - $375,808.13, Water & Sewer Fund - $104,446.66, Other Funds - $2,716,536.69, Total Checks - $3,196,791.48. C. RESOLVED, to award the bid for park restroom janitorial services to LGC Global Energy FM, LLC, 7310 Woodward Ave., Suite 500, Detroit, MI 48202, for the period of November 22, 2023, through November 22, 2025, at unit prices bid, and authorize the City Manager to extend the bid term two additional one-year terms, upon the same terms, conditions and unit pricing bid. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 14 D. RESOLVED, to award the bid for epoxy refinishing of the stairwells in the Sterling Heights Police Department, inclusive of the option for cleaning and refinishing of stainless-steel stair edges, to M.L.P. Painting Inc., 14189 26 Mile Road, Washington Township, MI 48094, at a total cost of $16,300.00. E. RESOLVED, to approve Traffic Control Order #5-31 requiring traffic on Alderdale Drive to yield at the intersection with Kraft Drive and authorize the City Manager, Chief of Police, and City Clerk to sign the approved Order on behalf of the City. F. RESOLVED, to approve the vehicle lease agreement between the Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation (SMART) and the city of Sterling Heights for a 28-passenger Champion bus for use in the Parks and Recreation Department transportation program and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement on behalf of the City. G. RESOLVED, to approve the Commercial Card Terms and Conditions, including Indemnification, between the city of Sterling Heights and Capital One, National Association, 1680 Capital One Dr., McLean, VA, 22102, to implement virtual credit card payment services and authorize the City Manager to sign all documents required in conjunction with this approval. H. RESOLVED, to accept the proposal by Mando Construction, Inc., 75 Lafayette Street, Suite 100, Mount Clemens, MI 48043, for interior renovations to the library room at the Sterling Heights Senior Center at a cost of $14,925 and authorize the City Manager to sign all required documents on behalf of the City. I. RESOLVED, to: 1. Approve the renewal of software licenses with Kronos SaaShr, Inc. for the UKG Workforce Ready timekeeping and payroll applications for the period of December 1, 2023 through November 30, 2024 at pricing available through OMNIA Partners cooperative purchasing contract #18221 for a cumulative cost of $34,420.84; 2. Approve the renewal of software licenses with Kronos SaaShr, Inc. for the UKG HR and Talent Acquisition applications for the period of December 1, 2023 through November 30, 2024 at pricing available through OMNIA Partners cooperative purchasing contract #18221 for a cumulative cost of $27,801.45; 3. Approve the renewal of software licenses with Kronos, Incorporated for the TeleStaff scheduling and timekeeping applications for the period December 1, 2023, through November 10, 2024 at pricing available through OMNIA Partners cooperative purchasing contract #18221 for a cumulative cost of $32,208.61; and 4. Authorize the City Manager to sign the documentation required as a result of these approvals on behalf of the City. J. RESOLVED, to: 1. Accept the proposal by People Driven Technology, Inc., 6300 Ventu Hills Boulevard SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, for professional IT security consulting services rendered in connection with the cybersecurity overlay program for the period January 30, 2024, to January 29, 2025 at a total cost of $74,978 and authorize the City Manager to sign all required documents; and, 2. Award the bid for security software to People Driven Technology, Inc., 6300 Venture Hills Boulevard SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, at unit pricing bid for a one-year period. K. RESOLVED, to purchase the Braun Chief XL #9911 Type I advanced life support ambulance from Kodiak Emergency Equipment, Inc., d/b/a Kodiak Emergency Vehicles, 10120 Grand River Hwy, Grand Ledge, MI 48837, at discounted pricing available through Sourcewell cooperative contract no. 110921-DEM in the cumulative amount of Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 15 $353,044 and authorize the City Manager to sign all required documents on behalf of the City. L. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution in support of the implementation of a Ground Emergency Medical Transportation Program in the State of Michigan. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 9. CONSIDERATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider a request to transfer ownership of a 2023 Class C liquor license, with Sunday Sales (AM and PM) and Special Purpose (Food) Permits from Brinker Michigan, Inc. to Hibachi LLC, with new SDM license and Sunday Sales Permit (PM only) and change location from 12800 Hall Road to 33425 and 33431 Van Dyke. He opened the floor for public comments. • Guo Rong Hu – applicant for this license; his son, Jayden, served as his translator; he is under the impression he will be receiving paperwork from City this evening for this approval. Mayor Taylor replied that he is not sure what paperwork the applicant is expecting, but they will be voting on this tonight. He added that the City Clerk will be able to let them know what will be happening after tonight. He indicated that the applicant now has the opportunity to tell Council about his operation this evening. He explained that the approval must come from the State, and City Council also votes on this. • Guo Rong Hu (as translated by his son) – he is happy for this opportunity to obtain a liquor license for his business. Mayor Taylor hoped he will be very successful. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Radtke, RESOLVED, that the request to transfer ownership of a 2023 Class C liquor license, with Sunday Sales (AM and PM) and Special Purpose (Food) Permits from Brinker Michigan, Inc. to Hibachi LLC, with new SDM license and Sunday Sales Permit (PM only) and change location from 12800 Hall Road to 33425 and 33431 Van Dyke, be considered for approval. Councilwoman Schmidt stated she has been in their restaurant, and she felt this will be a tremendous addition to their business. She wished them success. Councilwoman Ziarko stated she has no problem with this request, and she wished them luck, adding she is glad they are located in Sterling Heights. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 16 She noted if they have already received their approval from the State of Michigan, they are all set. Mayor Taylor stated it is a good operation, adding they are glad to have him in Sterling Heights, and he wished him many years of continued success. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). B. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider a nomination to the City of Sterling Heights Zoning Board of Appeals – Alternate Member. He opened the floor for public comments, but no one spoke. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Radtke, RESOLVED, to nominate Saif Yousif for consideration as an appointee to the Zoning Board of Appeals – Alternate Member at the December 19, 2023, regular City Council meeting. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski commented that Mr. Yousif has been in the City since he was 18 years old. He is now 36 years old and is already on one of their Boards, but he would love to be more involved in the City. He owns two successful businesses, with one of those being a new Dairy Queen on 15 Mile near Van Dyke. She noted he is a Chaldean businessman, and the Chaldean population in Sterling Heights is not very well represented on their boards. She feels this is a good opportunity to give them “a seat at the table.” Councilman Radtke agreed with Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski’s comments. He has known Mr. Yousif for several years and is confident he will bring important Chaldean representation to some of their boards. He is confident that Mr. Yousif will do a great job. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). C. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider an appointment to the City of Sterling Heights Youth Advisory Board. He invited comments from the public, but no one spoke. Moved by Schmidt, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to appoint Klaudia Brakoniecki to the Youth Advisory Board to a term ending June 30, 2024, 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 (7/0). 10. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for public comments. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 17 • Ken Nelson – commented on the December 19, 2023 public hearing by City Council regarding a Planned Unit Development (PUD) located on the south side of 15 Mile Road, west of Schoenherr, proposed to have 64 two-bedroom apartments, five buildings, two strip shopping centers, and two stand-alone restaurants; talked about another proposed PUD for apartments at Brougham Drive and Van Dyke to be considered by Planning Commission in January; talked about other apartment developments in the City that have not yet started; talked about the purchase of an automatic license plate reader, which is scheduled as an item on the next Consent Agenda. 11. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool stated he has nothing further to add this evening. Councilman Yanez informed that he received an email from a citizen regarding the settlement at the Great Lakes Water Authority for the money that was being helped to support Highland Park. The settlement involved $55 million in credits, and this resident questioned how these credits will be allocated. He questioned how the City of Sterling Heights is impacted by these credits. Mr. Vanderpool stated he is happy to provide the update that the Macomb County Public Works Office provided, and he will include that in the packet on Thursday. He offered to respond by email to the resident if Councilman Yanez supplies him with her email address. He noted that the City’s Budget and Finance Director is here this evening, and she may be able to provide some preliminary information. Councilman Yanez thanked Mr. Vanderpool and assured that will be sufficient. Ms. Varney stated that, in the next month or two, she anticipates receiving rates for next year from the Great Lakes Water Authority, and she expects those credits will be reflected in that. She will have better information once she receives those rates. She recalled some discussion about those credits at a meeting she attended, but they generally receive the new rates and the detail as to how they were calculated. Councilman Yanez believes the resident is anxious to see if those credits will help to offset the bills of individual homeowners. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 18 Ms. Varney anticipated the credits will reduce whatever rate increase they will receive from the Great Lakes Water Authority, and those affect Sterling Heights residents, but she expects it will reduce a rate increase and not result in a rate decrease. Councilman Yanez thanked Ms. Varney, and assured he will forward the email to Mr. Vanderpool, adding that any other information he can pass along to the resident would be greatly appreciated. He stated they received an email earlier today from Community Relations Director Melanie Davis regarding their scoring from the Human Rights Council, who produces a municipal equality index. He commented that the City scored ninety-nine out of one hundred, and he recalled a couple of years ago, they had a very low score. He appreciated that the low number jarred this Council into action, and he let Mr. Vanderpool know that he should congratulate his team because the plan put together got them the high score. He emphasized this lets everyone know that Sterling Heights is a safe, accepting, and welcoming community in which to not only live but also work. He expressed his deepest gratitude to everyone involved, including department heads, their teams, employees, and residents. He challenged the City of Warren, who received a lower score, and they accepted the challenge. He hopes they will see this growth of more welcoming communities. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski commented that Sterling Christmas was held this past Saturday, and it was very well attended. She thanked all of the residents for attending, adding that it was a beautiful event. Councilwoman Schmidt mentioned that she has been contacted about the recently completed sidewalk gap on Maple Lane, and she relayed that the people from the City of Warren are excited about being able to ride their bikes to Dodge Park. She is amazed that some improvements which seem relatively small provide such an impact on surrounding communities to bring other people together. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 19 Councilwoman Ziarko stated there has been discussion for state funding for sound walls when residential homes abut freeways. She would like to see if, in the future, there is any funding for the homes that abut the Van Dyke expressway. She explained she has been approached in the past by residents who indicated they would like to see some type of sound barrier wall in their back yards. She addressed the discussions they have had about boards and commissions, and she suggested they have some type of board and commission fair to recruit people for these positions. She felt having some communication to talk about what their boards and commissions do would be helpful, and she did not necessarily feel applicants need experience in that particular field because sometimes an outsider’s perspective is good. She suggested this could be held at an already-planned activity such as at the Cultural Exchange or Sterlingfest. Councilman Radtke agreed with Councilwoman Ziarko on the boards and commissions. He noted that their list has become shorter, and he would like to see more female and minority applicants. He added that they have even had trouble at times finding someone to fill an opening. He suggested that with so many city events, there should be someone from the City who can recruit for these positions. Councilman Radtke explained he contacted Mr. Vanderpool when the Municipal Quality Index results were released, and he commended him and his director’s group on the high score. He noted this comes with a lot of effort, but he felt the score should have been one hundred. He read the application, and it instructed that one point is awarded if they have an elected or appointed official who is LGBTQ. He pointed out they meet that requirement through Community Alliance. He commented that this score shows they are an inclusive, welcoming community for everyone. Councilman Radtke drove down Plumbrook and stated he was impressed with the sidewalk gap completion and the newly planted trees. He noted that as those trees mature, they will have a completely different look. He recalled discussing at Strategic Planning the possibility of planting a tree in front of Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 20 every home that is missing one, especially after losing all of the trees from the Emerald Ash borer disease, and with a low tree canopy of about nineteen percent, he inquired as to whether a program utilizing grants can be implemented. Mr. Vanderpool informed this is an item that is on the upcoming Strategic Planning agenda. He provided a brief update, noting they have been working hard to acquire more grants to underwrite the total cost. There are 15,000 trees that need to be replanted to reforest neighborhoods. They removed 12,000 trees during the Emerald Ash borer disease, so they deforested neighborhoods across the City. As a result, their tree canopy is closer to seventeen percent, which is well below national standards for a community like Sterling Heights. He added that percentage should be closer to forty percent. He acknowledged that fifteen percent would definitely help, and it would get everyone a tree in front of their house, but 15,000 trees costs about $6 million. They have $1.5 million in grant funding, but they have exhausted most of the grant ideas. They will report back to City Council, but the funding gap is at approximately $4.5 million, so while they will be able to significantly underwrite the trees, residents who will need a tree planted in front of their home will have to look at a cost of $300 each. He pointed out there will be financing options, but the policy question for City Council is whether there are other ways they can underwrite it further to bring that cost down for the homeowners. Councilman Radtke questioned whether they will be inviting their state representatives and federal legislators to attend the Strategic Planning meeting as they did last year. He felt that was an excellent idea, and they had a great turnout. Mr. Vanderpool replied affirmatively, recalling that Councilman Yanez brought it up last year and they had a good turnout from their state legislators. He confirmed the invitation will be going out this week to not only state legislators, but also county and federal representatives, and the members of all of the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 21 City’s boards and commissions. He emphasized they are ambassadors for the City and need to know what City Council has in mind for the next few years. He informed that there are some interesting presentations planned. Councilman Radtke stated he will be impressed, recalling that last year when they were all invited and many attended, it advanced one of their goals. He stated he had talked with a representative from Senator Peter’s office, who had indicated he never saw any other communities do this. He echoed Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski’s sentiments on the Sterling Christmas event last weekend, adding that the crowds are larger each year. He urged those who have not attended to come next year to enjoy this family-friendly event. Councilwoman Koski noted they adopted a resolution this evening in support of the ground emergency medical transport program in Michigan. She requested that Mr. Vanderpool keep the Mayor and Council updated on how it is progressing. She recalled the City was going to have a person assigned to monitor the boards and commissions and they were to buy software for that purpose. She questioned whether the City has that person in place, or whether they need to hire a new person. Mr. Vanderpool replied to inquiry that all of the initiatives set forth for boards and commissions are underway with one exception. They have purchased the new software, so it is more seamless and there is better communication with the liaisons. He added the reporting to City Council is much improved compared to years ago. The one item they have not completed to date is filling the budgeted position, although they are still working on it. They will be discussing some of this when he talks with City Council members one-on- one. Mayor Taylor thanked everyone for participating this evening. He was unable to attend Sterling Christmas this year, which is the first time he has missed it since being elected, but he was in New Orleans, a trip he had planned many months ago. He thanked Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski for filling in, and he is glad to hear it was a success. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, December 5, 2023 Page 22 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 there are no items for Closed Session this evening. 15. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to adjourn the meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). The meeting was adjourned at 8:35 p.m. MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk