City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL OCTOBER 1, 2024 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. Councilman Yanez requested that Consent Agenda Item 8-E be moved to Consideration Item 9-B. Yes: All (on amended agenda). The motion carried (7/0). 5. REPORT FROM CITY MANAGER Mr. Vanderpool introduced State Senator Michael Webber, who would like to address City Council and the audience to talk about some legislative matters. State Senator Michael Webber, who serves the western part of Sterling Heights, stated his background is serving on Rochester Hills City Council, so he tries to provide a quick update a few times a year on activity pertinent to city items. He explained the budget was passed in June, and that included a 13.6 percent increase in statutory revenue sharing. They tried to put the revenue-sharing trust Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 2 fund piece into the budget, and they are still working on it. They also have a trust fund included that relates to public safety, so they are still in the process of looking at statutory changes that need to be made. He explained the budget began today, October 1st. He advised that there was appropriation for a police command vehicle in the budget, so their Sterling Heights delegation of legislators in the House and Senate were able to get that into the budget. There is a $36.2 million increase for cities and villages for the Act 51 formula for roads, though he pointed out they were using some of the bond money to pay those bonds off, so they had to pull from General Fund to make sure they had enough money for the federal match. That was also included in this budget. He hoped they will see some action on the Public Trust Fund and Safety Trust Fund between now and December 31st. He added they are still working on Senate Bill 643, which creates a fund within MDOT, patterned off of the State of Minnesota, and with the addition of money, it would be a grant process for areas of highway that did not meet the federal requirement. Cities and counties could apply for some of these grants for that funding. Senator Webber explained he visited the Velocity Center in Sterling Heights earlier today, and he talked about the potential phaseout of the TIF credit for restaurant workers. There has been a lot of discussion in Lansing over the last few weeks about that topic, and what that may potentially do for their restaurants as it is phased in between 2025 and 2029. He added it has been projected that up to one in five restaurants could close their doors, and 50,000 employees would lose their jobs as a result. He noted that estimate is based off of where this has occurred in other Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 3 municipalities and states. He hopes they can try to reach some type of bipartisan solution by February 21, 2025. He explained he did not know much about the Velocity Center prior to his meeting today, and he was very impressed, adding it is great the City has that facility. As he co-chairs the Aerospace and Defense Center to have some of their start-ups there, he is impressed with the building. Senator Webber concluded that those present here tonight, along with those at home who are watching, they can sign up for his monthly e-news or ask questions by visiting www.senatormichaelwebber.com or calling his office at (517) 373-0994. Mayor Taylor thanked Senator Webber for the update. Mr. Vanderpool thanked Senator Webber for attending this evening, and he expressed the City’s appreciation of the collaboration with their legislative team. They work closely on a lot of issues, and he mentioned they are currently working on a ground emergency medical transport initiative. It is a federal program, and the State of Michigan does not participate in it, but they soon will be, thanks to a coalition started by the Sterling Heights Fire Chief. That statewide coalition has had an impact, noting the State legislature has approved $500,000 to start up this program through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. This will equate to almost $1.6 million more annually to fund the City’s transport system, which is subsidizing some of their Medicare and Medicaid runs. The federal program helps to fill that void. He and other state legislators have worked hard to create this complicated program in the State of Michigan, adding that Sterling Heights will undoubtedly be a significant beneficiary. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 4 Mr. Vanderpool explained that a few meetings ago, the City Council passed a resolution encouraging SMART, the regional bus transportation program, to improve the bus stops in Sterling Heights. He noted some of them have been improved along Van Dyke, as well as a couple of them along 15 Mile Road, but there are two hundred stops in Sterling Heights and about fifty of them need to be upgraded. After the resolution adopted by City Council, the City has had subsequent meetings with SMART and they have agreed with a pilot program that the City has put forth to upgrade a number of stops in the City. He hopes those using the system will appreciate the additional bus shelters, bike racks, trash receptacles, etc., and he appreciated the Mayor and City Council encouraging SMART to take this action. He talked about the longstanding partnership the City has with SMART on their paratransit system program and their local transportation programs run out of their Parks and Recreation Department. He invited Recreation Superintendent Kristen Briggs to talk about that program. Recreation Superintendent Kristen Briggs stated the City of Sterling Heights has had a longstanding partnership with SMART, allowing them to keep their residents moving, maintaining independence, and engaging in the community. She informed that the minibus service runs Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., and they provide transportation after 4:00 to some events at different locations throughout the county. She explained the qualifications to participate in this program, noting riders must be residents of Sterling Heights over the age of fifty-five who are unable to drive, or over the age of eighteen with a qualifying Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 5 disability. The rides must be within city limits unless they are for medical appointments, in which case they can go up to five miles beyond city borders. The appointments for transportation can be made up to fourteen days in advance, and no less than twenty-four business hours, and the time frame for making appointments changed in January 2024. This allowed them to better align with SMART’s requirements, and it also decreased no-shows, fewer cancellations, and fewer declined ride requests. She advised that appointments first come/first served, but they do try to prioritize medical appointments. In fiscal year 2023/2024, they gave over 13,400 rides. She talked about the use of their fleet beyond normal bus service, including additional events and programming. They transport to different recreation programs, such as Adaptive Recreation camp trips, Teen Night Out, Dodge Park Farmer’s Market, Walking Club, and 50-plus day trips. They work with Schoenherr Towers to provide weekly shopping appointments for their residents, as well as with other city departments to provide transportation to their programming and some of their outings. They provide rides to City Council meetings, and to the Warren Community Center so individuals who cannot drive can take advantage of the City’s partnership which allows Sterling Heights residents an opportunity to use Warren’s pool and pay Warren resident pricing. Ms. Briggs explained they work with SMART Connector and ADA service coordinators to make sure their residents can receive the services to which they are entitled. She added that, for over a decade, SMART and Sterling Heights Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 6 minibus service have worked together to transport their residents who attend Macomb Academy to and from school each day. Since February 2023, SMART staff have been using the Senior Center once a month to conduct ADA Services assessments, and before that, those who needed the assessments had to travel to downtown Detroit to have that done. She mentioned the many other transportation services they have provided to places and events such as the Macomb County Senior Expo, and they work with other municipalities to pool resources and help with large events, such as Sterlingfest. For this event in 2024, they used loaner vehicles from four other communities, along with four 40-foot fixed route busses directly from SMART to help make sure they could keep festivalgoers moving to and from the event, providing over 19,000 rides in thirty- six hours of shuttle service. She talked about the size of the busses in their fleet of ten vehicles, which can accommodate both small trips and large groups of people, and they added two in the last year which can seat up to four wheelchairs. They have also been approved and ordered a third 28-passenger vehicle which they anticipate arrival in 2026. She stressed they have a great team comprised of drivers, program assistants, and management assistant. She outlined some of the services provided, as well as some service enhancements they have made since the pandemic, including shopping and appointments being scheduled on any day they provide service. They have also provided transportation opportunities for additional get-together days at the Senior Center for socialization. She emphasized safety, which has always been a top priority, and she outlined some Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 7 of the measures taken to ensure safety of riders. She stated they have added dedicated ride request email to increase accessibility and flexibility for their users, available through www.shprbus@sterlingheights.gov, and this allows requests to be made 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. She talked about their software, which has increased their efficiency. They are also working with SMART to look at options for a more energy-efficient fleet using federal grant funds. She advised that Sterling Heights has been one of four agencies to piggyback off SMART’s new software, and over the last eighteen months, they have been working closely with SMART and the software provider to create a new system that would offer the ability to move more people by continuously optimizing routes, working around traffic and last-minute scheduling changes. It would also provide them the ability to work with surrounding communities and agencies to move residents beyond their borders, and she provided examples of how this would greatly expand their services. Ms. Briggs thanked everyone for their support of their minibus service and their commitment to residents to enable them to retain their independence, continue to be engaged in the community, and to age well. Mr. Vanderpool recognized the Mayor and City Council for approving the purchases of some of their newer busses, noting their bus fleet is probably in the best shape it has ever been, and that is because they have received the funding allocations needed. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 8 Mr. Vanderpool talked about the City’s award-winning departments, and he mentioned the fully-accredited Police Department that has kept Sterling Heights one of the safest cities in the country; a best-in-class Fire Department working on cutting edge initiatives and technology; the Finance team, whose good work keeps the City financially stable; the Clerk’s Office, which is renowned throughout the state, and the City Clerk is the president of the State of Michigan’s Clerks Association. He added he found out today that Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Langlois has been appointed president-elect of the Michigan Parks and Recreation Association. He emphasized the City also has an award-winning library and an award-winning library director, who served as the director of both the Suburban Library Cooperative and the director of the Sterling Heights Public Library for ten years. He explained that Sterling Heights was the only city in the State of Michigan where the state signed off on this arrangement and allowed the City to do this because they trusted not only the City but the library director. He invited Library Director Tammy Turgeon to speak about Library Appreciation Month. Library Director Tammy Turgeon stated the Michigan Library Association annually designates the month of October as a statewide observance to celebrate the contributions of Michigan’s public school, academic, tribal, cooperative, and special libraries. She explained the mission of the Sterling Heights Public Library is encouraging innovative living through literacy, discovery, and community with a vision of an engaged community where all can discover, learn, and grow. The staff at their library are a key part of supporting their mission and vision, and they Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 9 are dedicated advocates for literacy, education, and civic engagement, and they work tirelessly to connect their patrons with the resources they need to succeed. She added she frequently receives comment cards with very positive comments on their knowledgeable, helpful staff. She explained that library visits are up ten percent, with nearly 180,000 patrons visiting this past year. They provide a welcoming and inclusive environment, and they offer a variety of resources, including books, DVDs, digital media, educational programs, and technology. She stated the library’s programming center, conference room, and five study rooms were used almost 4,000 times last year for studying, community group meetings, and library programs, equating to an increase of 56 percent over the previous year. She thanked the Library board members, Friends of the Library board members, and volunteers, some of whom are present this evening, for all they do to make the Sterling Heights Public Library the amazing place that it is. The Friends of the Library provide funding for all of the library’s programs, and they were able to increase the number of programs last year by 25 percent to 789 programs. She added that attendance at programs was up by 45 percent. She encouraged everyone to visit the library in person or through their website at www.shpl.net, reminding that they are open seven days a week during the school year. Mr. Vanderpool requested, at the conclusion of tonight's meeting, that City Council convene a closed session pursuant to Sections 8(e) and 8(h) of the Open Meetings Act to discuss a confidential written legal opinion and to discuss trial or Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 10 settlement strategy in connection U.S. District Court Case 2:23-cv-11341. He stated this concludes his report this evening. 6. PRESENTATIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is a swearing-in ceremony for seven (7) new Sterling Heights Firefighters. He invited Fire Chief Kevin Edmond to conduct the ceremony. Fire Chief Kevin Edmond stated he is here this evening to administer the oath of office of their new firefighters. He outlined the training and experience of each of the new firefighter/paramedics and performed the swearing-in of the following seven new firefighters/paramedics: Nicholas Armstrong, Andrew Bidinger, Carson Kohl, Jeff Krotche, Owen Weinburger, Daniel Woloszyk, and Gabe Zarb. The newly sworn-in firefighters/paramedics made a couple of comments, indicating that they are happy to be here and make their careers in Sterling Heights, and they thanked the City for this opportunity. Chief Edmond stated that concludes the swearing-in ceremony, and he reminded that on October 13th, they will be holding their Open House at Fire Station #4, just outside of Baumgartner Park. He added he looks forward to meeting all of the residents there. Councilman Yanez stated that, as a retired Sterling Heights firefighter, it is a great career and a great city for which to work. He assured that the citizens will treat them great, and they are very fortunate to be working for this community. He Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 11 welcomed them and wished them the same great experience he had and is confident that they will learn a lot. Councilwoman Schmidt welcomed the new firefighters, and she was sure they all wanted to thank their families. She extended thanks to the families of the newly sworn-in firefighters for giving the City the opportunity of having their family member working for this family, which is the community. She wished them well, and assured they have the tools to do the best job they can do. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski welcomed the new firefighters to Sterling Heights, stating it is a great community to start their career and to continue their career. She also thanked the parents of these young adult men for “loaning” them to the City. She stressed it is a great career and, although being first responders is dangerous, she applauded them for being brave and taking on this responsibility. She agreed with Councilwoman Schmidt that the City will give them the best equipment, will make sure they are well trained and have the best leadership, and she thanked them for being here. She explained she is a nurse and has had to call on the Sterling Heights Fire Department to take care of her patients in their residences in Sterling Heights, and she has witnessed firsthand how well they do. She added she is grateful for all of them being here and wished them well. Councilman Radtke thanked these firefighters for embarking on a public service career. He added it is very rewarding work, but it will require some sleepless nights and some long days. He stated he is glad they are here, and he is also glad their families are here to support them because they are all proud of them. He Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 12 expressed confidence that they will all be great firefighters because they will protect the City of Sterling Heights, which has the best fire department in the State. He welcomed them all, wished them luck, and urged them to stay safe. Councilwoman Koski welcomed the new firefighters to the City of Sterling Heights, which has the best fire department in the world. They will have the opportunity to further their education and training, and the City believes in keeping them safe, providing them the proper equipment. She is confident they will enjoy working in this community. Councilwoman Ziarko welcomed the new firefighters to the Sterling Heights family. She expressed her gratitude that they chose Sterling Heights to either begin or continue their careers, especially since they are very highly sought after by many communities. She stressed they are all here to help them in whatever way they can, so they should not hesitate to ask. She wished them good luck and urged them to stay safe. Mayor Taylor thanked the new firefighters, agreeing with Councilwoman Ziarko that it is a very competitive job market, and public service is not something everyone goes into, especially a dangerous job. He pointed out they have that drive and passion, and he is grateful they are putting it to use in service of the City of Sterling Heights. On behalf of 134,000 residents, he thanked them for what they are doing. He explained they have had a long reputation as one of the premier fire departments in the State of Michigan, so they expect a lot out of their firefighters, but he assured them they would not be getting this job if the City did not feel they Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 13 were up to it. He thanked the firefighters, and also thanked their families for their support of these young men. He added that the firefighters are like family, and they will find they have a lot of new sisters and brothers in their department to keep each other safe. He wished them all well. The meeting recessed at 7:40 p.m. and reconvened at 7:45 p.m. B. Mayor Taylor stated this is the 2024 Beautification Awards, and he invited Chairperson of the Beautification Commission, Mr. Gary Isom, to make the presentations. Beautification Commission Chairperson Gary Isom stated it gives him great pleasure to present the 2024 Beautification Awards. He explained their Commission’s mission is to encourage all city residents and property owners to preserve and enhance the beauty of public and private properties, and their annual awards ceremony is one way in which they honor those who go above and beyond in beautifying their Sterling Heights properties. He thanked City Council for welcoming this presentation as they showcase the dedication of their residents and business leaders to make Sterling Heights a more beautiful place to live, work, and play. He explained that over the last five months, the Beautification Commission welcomed nominations from citizens who wish to recognize a Sterling Heights property for their outstanding beauty resulting from the planting of annuals and perennials. The Commission reviewed photographs taken of more than forty nominated homes, businesses, and places of worship, and the Commissioners judged nominations and selected a “Best of the Best” from each Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 14 category that had a “wow” factor when seen from the curb, also being selected based on overall beauty and aesthetics, as well as artistic use of color. Mr. Isom explained that each nomination will be presented in the categories of single- family residential properties, multi-family properties, commercial properties, and places of worship. The Best of the Best recipient will be honored in each of the categories. Mr. Isom thanked the Beautification Commissioners present tonight for their dedication in this program, and he introduced Nancy Kijek, Manny Gonzales, Sue Hobig, and Lisa Lane. The Mayor and City Council joined Mr. Isom in presenting the 2024 Sterling Heights Beautification awards, and the award recipients were announced as follows: Commercial Properties: Mangiabevi Urban Italian; Credit Union One; and Ventimiglia Italian Foods Multi-Family Properties: American House – Schoenherr; and Sterling Knolls Apartments Places of Worship Properties: St. Jane Frances de Chantal Catholic Church; and St. Matthias Catholic Church Residential Properties: 11773 Danforth Drive; 2510 Tarry Drive; 8740 Alwardt Drive; 40323 Colony Drive; 39914 Wilmette Drive; 13597 Kingsville Drive; 3152 Franklin Park Drive; 43768 Trillium Drive; 37730 Fieldcrest Lane; 44339 Lakepointe Drive; 43243 Chardonnay Drive; 38195 Schoenherr Road; 39428 Bella Vista Drive; 14022 Coldwater Drive; 36239 Melbourne Drive; 11125 Grenada Drive; 34401 Amsterdam Drive; 4466 18-1/2 Mile Road; 11409 Francis Drive; 14267 Lakeshore Drive; 13511 Mair Drive; 41215 Fieldview Drive; 13833 Harbour Court; 38978 Marlborough Drive, 3521 Leason; 38179 Schoenherr Road, 14327 Peterboro Drive; 35464 Kensington Avenue; and 11243 Regal Drive. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 15 The “Best of the Best” were announced as follows: Commercial Property: Penna’s of Sterling Multi-Family Property: Fieldstone Apartments Places of Worship Property: St. Michael’s Catholic Church Residential Property: 33572 Ashton Drive The award recipients who were present accepted their awards and congratulations from the Mayor, City Council, and Mr. Isom. Mr. Isom thanked everyone for attending tonight’s Beautification awards. He reminded everyone that the Beautification Commission is now accepting nominations for Halloween-decorated homes. Entries can be submitted to Community Relations Department anytime between now and October 31st. Mayor Taylor thanked Mr. Isom and all of the awardees this evening. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to individually and collectively recognize the 2024 Beautification Award winners and thank them for the dedication and effort in making their properties, neighborhoods, and the City of Sterling Heights a more beautiful place to live, work, and play. Mayor Pro-Tem thanked everyone once again, commending them for the beautiful properties. She added it makes the City so much nicer. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). Mayor Taylor congratulated the award recipients and thanked the Beautification Commission for doing a fantastic job. He stated their service is very much appreciated. The meeting recessed at 8:04 p.m. and reconvened at 8:10 p.m. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 16 7. ORDINANCE INTRODUCTIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider adoption of an ordinance amending Articles 14A and 25 of Zoning Ordinance No. 278 to address permissible, special approval land, and non-conforming uses within the Van Dyke Mixed Use District. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for comments from the audience. • Yvonne Kniaz – questioned areas of this ordinance that seem to be in conflict; pointed out it specifies no automotive service centers, rentals, or repairs, but it will allow new car showrooms, which she thought also service and rent vehicles; concerned about another conflict that smoke shops will be prohibited, but microbreweries, micro-distilleries, and micro- wineries will be permitted; questioned the difference, noting anyone frequenting any of these businesses must be over the age of twenty-one; pointed out no one has to go into these businesses if they choose not to, but denying the general public because the City is being progressive should not apply; reminded this is not Centerline, Hazel Park, Ferndale, Royal Oak, or Birmingham, but it is Sterling Heights and these changes only involve small areas, but the rest of the area will have strip malls, industrial uses and apartments, so this does not make sense to her. • Paul Smith – did not feel this is needed; questioned why mixed use is now the new “religion”; commented that commercial on the first floor with residences above it create a fire trap; stressed the City does not need PUDs and overlay districts, and pointed out that Van Dyke (M-53) is a state highway; expressed his objection to this ordinance. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Radtke, RESOLVED, to adopt the ordinance amending Articles 14A and 25 of Zoning Ordinance No. 278, as amended, to address permissible, special approval land, and non-conforming uses within the Van Dyke Mixed Use District. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski requested that Dr. Parcell explain what an “automotive showroom” is. Dr. Jake Parcell, City Planner, replied to inquiry that an automotive showroom is a different type of displaying vehicles, and he noted it is seen along Woodward. It Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 17 consists of an indoor showroom of classic or new cars for sale. People can peruse or discuss the different types of vehicles and technologies. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski requested clarification that it is not a car dealership and has no automotive repair or sales personnel. Dr. Parcell stated there can be a certain aspect of sales, but repair generally associated with a dealership, which would create a brownfield, will not be allowed uses under this ordinance. Councilman Radtke requested clarification that any dealership without a lot of excess vehicles or storage on site would be allowed. He understood that they are trying to eliminate massive fields of cars, collision shops, and junkyards behind the business. Dr. Parcell stated that is correct. Councilman Radtke noted that this ordinance, because it is written as part of their current ordinance, still designates fast-food stores as those with drive-throughs. He questioned whether that will be fixed in the upcoming ordinance changes. Dr. Parcell confirmed that is correct. Councilman Radtke requested clarification that this ordinance adds back in the ban on smoke shops and firearm stores, but they could be allowed as ancillary uses to other businesses. Dr. Parcell confirmed that is correct. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 18 Councilman Radtke commented that, like all ordinances, it is a compromise. Although it is not exactly what he would want, he felt they have made strides, and he is happy to support it. Mayor Taylor thanked Dr. Parcell, Mr. Keenan, Mr. Kaszubski, and their team for the work they did on this. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 8. CONSENT AGENDA Mayor Taylor stated this item is consideration of the Consent Agenda as amended, with the elimination of Item 8-E, which has been moved to Consideration Item 9- B. 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 September 17, 2024 Regular Meeting. B. To approve payment of the bills as presented: General Fund - $845,069.17, Water & Sewer Fund - $2,017,854.98, Other Funds - $2,617,948.00, Total Checks - $5,480,872.15. C. RESOLVED, to acknowledge and accept the generous donation by William Beaumont Hospital of a Public Shared Use Path Easement to facilitate construction of the Dobry Drive hike/bike path, City Project #23-421 in the amount of $31,306. D. RESOLVED, to: 1. Accept the proposal by W. J. O’Neil Co., 35457 Industrial, Livonia, MI 48150, for HVAC contractor services in connection with the installation of three (3) Mitsubishi Ducted Mini Split Systems at 7200 18 Mile Road at a cost of $74,838 and the City Manager to sign the proposal on behalf of the City; and, 2. Authorize a budget amendment in the amount of $74,838 to expend funding in fiscal year 2024/2025 from DPW Building capital account, no. 401-902.000 (Capital Outlay) 975.003 (DPW Building). E. This item was moved to Consideration Item 9-B. F. RESOLVED, to accept proposals by Feasibility Research Group, 13940 Cedar Road, Suite 196, University Heights, OH 44118, and Piazza Appraisal Services, 2062 North Huron Road, Tawas City, MI 48763, for professional appraisal services of 34370 Utica Road, 37384 Utica Road, 37398 Palmer Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 19 Woods, and 37330 Palmer Woods at a cumulative cost of $25,200 and authorize the City Manager to sign the engagement letters on behalf of the City. G. RESOLVED, to: 1. Accept the proposal by Spalding DeDecker Associates, Inc., 905 South Boulevard East, Rochester Hills, MI 48307, for consulting engineering services for the period of October 1, 2024 through December 31st 2029; 2. Accept the proposal by Hubbell, Roth, and Clark, Inc., 555 Hulet Drive Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302, for consulting engineering services for the period of October 1, 2024 through December 31st 2029; and, 3. Authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign the Consulting Agreements for Engineering Services on behalf of the City. H. RESOLVED, to approve the Municipal Primary Street Maintenance Agreement between the city of Sterling Heights and the Macomb County Department of Roads for the period October 1, 2024 to December 31, 2029 and authorize the City Manager and City Clerk to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City. I. RESOLVED, to approve the service agreement between the city of Sterling Heights and Mattarella Consulting, LLC, 39789 Southpointe Avenue, Harrison Township, MI 48045, through October 31, 2025 and authorize the City Manager to sign the agreement on behalf of the City. J. RESOLVED, to: 1. Approve the traffic control device cost sharing agreement for the Schoenherr Road Crosswalk Improvements at Havel Elementary, subject to approval by the Macomb County Department of Roads and Utica Community Schools, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City; and, 2. Authorize a budget amendment to utilize Major Road Fund Balance Reserves to fund the City's cost share on the project in the amount of $21,667. K. RESOLVED, to: 1. Approve the cost share agreement for concrete repairs to Schoenherr Road, from 14 Mile Road to 15 Mile Road, subject to approval by the Macomb County Department of Roads, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the agreement on behalf of the city of Sterling Heights; and 2. Authorize a budget amendment in the amount of $318,785 to use Major Road fund reserves to fund the City's share of project costs. L. RESOLVED, to split the award of the bid for sign materials to the following vendors at the respective unit prices bid for the period October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2026: 1. Newman Signs, Inc., 1606 6th Avenue SW, Jamestown, ND 58402, for bid items: Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 20 A. Sign Faces C. Reflective Sheeting, High Intensity D. 3M Electrocut Transparent Acrylic File H. U-Channel Sign Brackets 2. Lightle Enterprises of Ohio, 22 E. Springfield Stret, Frankfort, OH 45628, for bid items: B. Posts F. Application Tape, Standard Tack G. Aluminum Sign Banks I. Banner Materials J. Premium Cast Films M. Reflective Graphic Film 3. ASI Signage Innovations, 1119 Wheaton Drive, Troy, MI 48083, for bid items: E. Scooter Board – 4’ x 8’ K. Protective Overlaminates L. Roland Ink Cartridge N. Tapco Decorative Pole M. RESOLVED, to: 1. Purchase three (3) 2026 Freightliner tandem axle, 64,000# gross vehicle weight chassis from Wolverine Freightliner - Eastside, Inc., 107 S Groesbeck, Mount Clemens, MI 48043 at competitive pricing available through city of Rochester Hills cooperative purchasing contract RFP- RH-20-023, at a cumulative cost of $422,073; and, 2. Purchase three (3) Crysteel 14’ Select Dump Bodies, three (3) Monroe 10’ MP36R10-ISCT Full-Moldboard Reversible Plows, three (3) Monroe 10’ model MS4510 Underbody Scrapers, and other upfitting accessories from Truck & Trailer Specialties, Inc., 900 Grand Oaks Drive, Howell, MI 48843, at competitive pricing available through city of Rochester Hills cooperative purchasing contract RFP-RH-20-023, at a cumulative cost of $445,950. N. RESOLVED, to purchase park amenities at competitive pricing available through cooperative purchasing contracts (Total cost of $55,533 - $12,650 offset by program fees). O. RESOLVED, to purchase seven (7) investigative vehicles for the Sterling Heights Police Department (Total cost of $278,055 – 100% funded by federal forfeiture funds). P. RESOLVED, to purchase a Finn Model T30 hydroseeder at competitive pricing available through a state of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing contract (Total cost of $21,673). Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 21 Q. RESOLVED, to adopt a resolution designating October 13th annually as National Metastatic Breast Cancer Day in the city of Sterling Heights. R. RESOLVED, to adopt a resolution designating the month of October annually as Michigan Library Appreciation Month in the city of Sterling Heights. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 9. CONSIDERATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider appointments to the City of Sterling Heights Elected Officials Compensation Commission. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for public comments, but no one spoke. Mayor Taylor these are mayoral appointments that need to be made to this commission to fill three partial terms ending on different dates. One of the terms ends on June 30, 2025, one ends on June 30, 2027, and one ends on June 30, 2031. Mayor Taylor requested that someone make the appointment of Riley Maher for the appointment to term ending June 30, 2025. Moved by Yanez, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to appoint Riley Maher to the Elected Officials’ Compensation Commission to a term ending June 30, 2025, subject to the appointee meeting the qualifications set forth in Charter §4.03 and taking the oath of office within two weeks. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). Mayor Taylor requested someone make the appointment of Kathryn Jiles for the term ending June 30, 2027. Moved by Radtke, seconded by Sierawski, RESOLVED, on recommendation by the Mayor, to appoint Kathryn Jiles to the Elected Officials’ Compensation Commission to a term ending June 30, 2027, subject to the appointee meeting the qualifications set forth in Charter §4.03 and taking the oath of office within two weeks. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 22 Mayor Taylor requested someone make the appointment of Meredith Inks for the term ending June 30, 2031. Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to appoint Meredith Inks to the Elected Officials’ Compensation Commission to a term ending June 30, 2031, 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). Mayor Taylor thanked Council for making those appointments. B. Mayor Taylor stated this was previously Consent Agenda Item 8-E, which is to accept a proposal for mental health contracted services (First year annual cost of $153,660). He invited Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski to give a presentation. Police Chief Dale Dwojakowski explained that Sterling Heights led the way with offering social services because they saw a need through issues with substance abuse disorder, homelessness, and mental health calls. They were one of the few jurisdictions in the State of Michigan to hire their own in-house social worker. They had great success, but social workers with master’s degrees are in high demand, so that person left. Another person was hired, but they started realizing that trying to find master-licensed social workers with a master’s degree is very difficult. They began to look at subcontracting that service with an agency to provide those social services. They issued an RFP, and they received about seven or eight proposals submitted. They subsequently went through a rigorous interview process and came up with Face Addition Now (fka Families Against Narcotics, aka FAN). He is proud that FAN chose to submit their RFP, but their partnership with Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 23 FAN spans over the years, with Hope Not Handcuffs, the Opiate Quick Response Team, and their Redirect Program. He added that FAN, through Linda Davis and Dunya Barash, has been a very successful organization and they do a lot of good work. He stated Mark, who will be one of their case managers if this is approved by Council, as well as Kyla and Emma, both with FAN, are in the audience this evening. He noted that Kyla worked twenty-six years with the Detroit Police Department, and she has a PhD in Human Services. He pointed out they are not only getting two case managers through FAN, but they are getting an entire back office of support people for statistics, grants, tracking of cases, and every other resource they could need and want, as opposed to doing it all inhouse. He stressed he has no doubt this will be highly successful. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for public comments, but no one spoke. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to accept the proposal by Families Against Narcotics, Facing Addiction Now (FAN), 43800 Garfield Road, Suite 200, Clinton Township, MI 48038, for mental health contracted services for the period October 1, 2024 through September 30, 2027 at a first year cost of $153,659.83, with 3% increases annually thereafter, and authorize the City Manager to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski noted they are replacing their social workers who have master’s degrees with case managers, and she questioned whether the case managers are social workers. She questioned what they will be providing, and she questioned their backgrounds and education. Chief Dwojakowski explained they met with FAN, CARE of Southeast Michigan, and Macomb County Department of Mental Health, and all three of them asked Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 24 what the City is trying to do. He told them they are trying to help people suffering from substance abuse disorder, homelessness, and mental health conditions. They connect that person with services to get them “out of the hole.” All three of the agencies advised that the City does not need a social worker with a master’s degree, but they need a case manager to take care of these hand-offs with service groups. The master’s degree in social work takes much more schooling and oversight, and while those people often provide counseling, services, and one-on- one support, they do not envision that counseling has to be done inhouse but FAN will be providing the people with the counselors, whether it is through the State, County, private, Medicare, and/or Medicaid. Emma stated they had a lot of conversations with the Police Department and considered their unique needs. They suggested that a case manager would be more appropriate for these services. Their case managers have years of experience and, because as an agency, they have worked extensively with the population that is experiencing substance use, there is so much overlap between substance use disorder, mental health, homelessness, etc. She emphasized that all of their case managers have bachelor’s degrees, noting Mark has a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, along with years of case manager experience. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned whether the case managers will go on runs with the police officers. Chief Dwojakowski explained they are excited they will have two people for this, noting they have always had one, and that person was completely overworked. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 25 He envisions that if one comes out, they will be able to leave the office to attend the scene. They know this could happen after hours. They will not be in a car all day, but if something happens, they will be able to leave the office and handle that issue. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski assumed that most of the cases will involve referrals from the police officers. Chief Dwojakowski confirmed that, after the fact, the officer takes a case report, and that gets assigned by a sergeant, and it will be put into their computer software system to be assigned to a social worker. They will get that report when they arrive, they can then do a house visit and determine the resources needed. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski understands that system, and she noted that, as a director of nursing, she sees a lot of mental health issues. She felt every one of their patients has mental health issues, and she takes care of retired priests. She estimated that ninety percent of her patients are on psych medication, or medication for anxiety or depression. She expressed thanks to Councilman Yanez for pulling this item off of the Consent Agenda because this explains it in depth. She knows FAN has a huge fundraiser tonight, so she appreciated their representatives attending the meeting this evening. Chief Dwojakowski confirmed that FAN’s large annual fundraiser is this evening, so that is where Linda Davis and Dunya Barash are this evening. He added that he was there earlier but left to attend this meeting. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 26 Councilman Yanez thanked the representatives from FAN and Chief Dwojakowski for being here tonight. He noted from the documentation, this seems like it will be a very robust program, and it is very exciting. He commented that they have been without a social worker for quite some time, but the mental health calls never stopped. He stated it appears like FAN will oversee the workers, but he questioned how this will interface with the Police Department. He pointed out in the past when they had their own social worker, that individual was overseen by a police officer. Chief Dwojakowski explained he had a police sergeant overseeing a social worker, yet that sergeant had no social worker experience. In this new arrangement, the Police Department will handle getting them the runs, the equipment, the training, how to respond safely, protocol on the radio, how to respond to a house after hours, the computer system, etc., and that will be taken care of with the case managers. When they have questions about follow-up treatment, housing options, food, and securities, that will be handled by FAN, who has an entire back office of employees who handle this on a daily basis, twenty-four hours a day. He stressed that is the power of having an organization that is subcontracted with them. Councilman Yanez noted that since FAN will be out in the public on their own as their own entity but yet representing the City of Sterling Heights, he questioned the City’s liability if there is some type of altercation or confrontation. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 27 Mr. Kaszubski replied to inquiry that whenever the City has independent contractors, they are responsible for the means, methods, and how they do their work. In this case, the City will be providing an officer who will make sure they have safety on the initial run. The contractor is doing a governmental function, and the City has governmental immunity, so there would be no liability to the City if something happens. He added that is the risk that FAN takes every day, and it is part of what they do every day as a city. Councilman Yanez questioned whether FAN has insurance covering their employees if something happens, the employee gets injured, and they need to be hospitalized. Mark replied affirmatively. Emma explained they have had an incident reporting process in places, and they provide health insurance, so that person would be able to seek medical care. Councilman Yanez questioned whether there will be any interface to keep the City apprised of the status of the run they were sent on. Chief Dwojakowski explained they purchased a case management software program they want to continue with when they had their last two social workers. It is a case-tracking software and everything that FAN does regarding that case will be entered into that program, including what they did, and the services they provided, the hours spent with these people, etc. He indicated FAN will also have their own tracking system. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 28 Councilman Yanez questioned whether they will be able to follow a case from beginning to end. Chief Dwojakowski replied affirmatively. Councilman Yanez questioned whether FAN interfaces with Community Mental Health. Kyla explained she took the position with FAN in February, so she is relatively new, but she is confident that their case workers have worked with community health workers before in a case management role. Councilman Yanez explained the reason he is asking is because the County has reassessed how they are going to process offenders at the County Jail, and they will do a diversion. He anticipates they will be dovetailing into that program as they move forward. Chief Dwojakowski explained the County will play a huge role because they provide so many services to the City’s residents. That will be one of their big resources. Councilman Yanez noted the proposed contract specifies that there will be $2,000 set aside for subcontracts. He questioned as to what this amount would be used for. Emma believed it is for their data contractors. They contract with an organization called Data Bloom, based in Ohio. They built a very comprehensive case management system for FAN. She explained their process, noting every single contact with the individual is documented, as well as their assessment and the Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 29 plan they establish for that individual, and every contact with third parties is also documented. They also use this system to evaluate their outcomes, and she provided examples. She assured their data contractors are very flexible with them and can make any changes to the system that they need to evaluate outcomes in this new program as well. Councilman Yanez requested confirmation that FAN is a non-profit and not a private corporation for profit. Emma confirmed they are a non-profit agency. Councilman Yanez noted that FAN has their own Quick Response team, and he questioned whether the City will be giving up their Quick Response team. Chief Dwojakowski clarified that FAN is their Quick Response team. He explained an officer goes out with FAN, but FAN has provided free peer recovery coaches and FAN recovery coaches. One to two days a week they knock on doors of people who have just overdosed, and FAN does that completely free of charge for the residents of Sterling Heights. He emphasized they have hundreds and hundreds of people getting into treatment after a drug overdose, and they will continue that program exactly the way it is. An officer was volunteered for the detail, and it is assigned to two people from FAN, and they go knocking on doors for people who have just overdosed. Councilman Yanez commented that mental health is something that has been with them for a long time, and through a program like this, it will be incredible for the City and their residents. He thanked Chief Dwojakowski and his colleagues for Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 30 doing the legwork to go through this process, he welcomed FAN, and he is excited they are entering into this contract. Councilwoman Ziarko commented that this is a great idea. She did not realize that FAN’s services went beyond people with substance abuse issues. She questioned how they will take care of a situation where someone is hoarding, or someone is depressed, when it has nothing to do with substance abuse. Chief Dwojakowski explained the City has worked with FAN on drug programs, so there has to be a nexus to an overdose or a drug use dependency issue. When they step in, they have found instances of hoarding, no health care, absence of applying for Medicare or Medicaid, and lack of housing. He stated that FAN gets involved to take care of these issues, and although it has always started with a drug issue, it ends up being a host of other problems. They have always taken care of those other issues and drawn on their resources. With this contract, they do not have to have a substance abuse issue, but they will be working on a mental health call, whether it is a suicidal person, a hoarder, etc., and this is their expanded role. Councilwoman Ziarko questioned whether FAN is hiring more people to handle this contract. Kyla replied that they are hiring two more people, adding that Mark will be one of those people, and they will be hiring one additional person. Councilwoman Ziarko emphasized that mental health is an issue that is not based on where someone lives, but it is everywhere. It is even a concern for the youth. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 31 She is confident this will help everyone. She questioned whether this service would cover someone who is visiting Sterling Heights and is not a resident. Chief Dwojakowski stated that FAN is so great, they have not only been providing this service for free for all of these years, but he cited an example of a homeless individual who happened to be in Sterling Heights when his car broke down. He was not a resident, but the Sterling Heights Police Department contacted FAN, they sent Mark out, and he was able to get the gentleman food, got him set up for benefits, and he has been involved in ongoing meetings to get the help he needs. He assured that if someone is in the City, even if they are not a resident, the City will provide those services. Councilwoman Ziarko felt it is very beneficial that FAN has the contacts for the resources that these people with mental health issues will need. She stated she is looking forward to this program being successful, and she urged them to let the City know if there is anything else they need. Councilwoman Koski noted they will have two case workers assigned to Sterling Heights, and she inquired as to whether they are full-time contract employees. Chief Dwojakowski replied to inquiry that they are full-time employees who will work forty hours a week, contracted through FAN. Councilwoman Koski questioned whether the police officers will determine who needs the services. Chief Dwojakowski replied affirmatively, explaining that when the police officers show up for a run, they will determine the situation is beyond their control, so they Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 32 will take care of the crisis and request follow-up from a social worker at the bottom of their report. The case workers will receive this report the next morning, and they will try to fix the problems. Councilwoman Koski understands that the case worker will follow up to address the problems, and she inquired as to whether these people are aware the case worker will be coming out to their homes. She further questioned whether there is any insurance involved. Chief Dwojakowski confirmed that the case workers will try to contact the people if they have a working phone. Many times, they do not have insurance, and that will be one of the ways in which the case worker will help them, by getting them enrolled in Medicare, Medicaid, or benefits they are entitled to through the State of Michigan. That is the first step to get these people into treatment and get them some supplemental money for housing. He cited the example of a homeless gentleman helped by Mark, and even though he was seventy years of age, he had never applied for social security. He was living in his car but had no social security coming in, and many times it is something simple, but they need someone to hold their hand to go through this. Councilwoman Koski questioned whether the two case workers assigned to Sterling Heights will always be the same workers who will become familiar with the City’s officers and what is going on. Chief Dwojakowski replied affirmatively. Councilwoman Koski stated this seems like a wonderful program. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 33 Emma explained they are building this program on the foundation that they already have with the Sterling Heights Police Department. This is a result of years of collaboration, and they are very committed to tailoring the program to serve the specific needs of the community. She understands there will be two shifts so they will have coverage throughout the entire day. She emphasized that she cannot say enough good things about the Sterling Heights Police Department, Chief Dwojakowski, Captain Bastianelli, and Detective Josh Selby, who was their Quick Response Team leader. She explained they feel very confident that this will be successful in serving the community and helping individuals who are struggling. Emma explained that they have already been working on diversifying their skill set, noting a couple of weeks ago they attended a hoarding training, so they are very committed to do whatever they need to do to make this program successful and effective. Councilwoman Koski questioned whether they will also be worked with minors. Chief Dwojakowski assured that will happen, with the help of the parents or legal guardians, to make sure that minor receives the treatment they need. He agreed with Councilwoman Ziarko about the increase of mental health runs taking place in the schools, starting with the junior highs, and the number of school threats has greatly increased. They have had approximately twenty of those threats since the beginning of the school year, usually social media based, and this a symptom of the mental health issues taking place in the schools, whether it is depression or Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 34 anxiety. They are acting out and doing things on social media that will mess up the rest of their lives. Councilwoman Koski stated this is a great program, and she wished them luck. Councilwoman Schmidt questioned whether this is FAN’s first undertaking of this type of program. Chief Dwojakowski replied affirmatively, adding that it is a pilot program, similar to their previous programs such as the Redirect program. Councilwoman Schmidt stated that has proven to be very good, so she felt this will enhance it and make it even better. She questioned how the shifts will work, and whether Mark will work the day shift, with the second case manager working the afternoon shift. She questioned whether they will also be on call because they will not be working around the clock, seven days a week. Chief Dwojakowski replied to inquiry that they have overtime covered in the contract, and the City will have to pay that if it is incurred. They were talking about staggering the start shifts, with one starting early in the morning, and the second person could start around noon and working into the early evening. This will cover when the bulk of the calls will take place, and it will provide better coverage. Councilwoman Schmidt questioned whether their office will be at the Police Department, or whether they will be located at the FAN office. Chief Dwojakowski replied to inquiry that they already have two offices already set up for their former social worker and the second social worker they were Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 35 anticipating hiring. Those two offices are ready at the Police Department for these case workers. Councilwoman Schmidt stated she is excited about this. She loved the idea of the City being the first to have a full-time social worker, but she felt this will offer so many more resources that people need in their community, and it does not take a master’s degree to have those resources. She felt this is the continuation of a great marriage, and she is excited about the possibilities and the help that their residents and visitors to the City will get from this program. She thanked Chief Dwojakowski and the team who put this together. She added she will be excited to hear the results and the statistics that come out of this. She wished them luck. Councilman Radtke stated he is very familiar with FAN and appreciates the work they do; however, he expressed concern as to whether FAN has the capacity to go beyond substance abuse. He emphasized they have hoarding issues, homeless issues, and a plethora of other issues that do not always have to deal with substance abuse. He added he is not sure whether FAN is the proper organization to have this placement. He clarified they do a tremendous job, recalling working with them on the Drug-Free Coalition, but he reiterated his concern as to whether this organization has the capacity to think beyond addiction issues. Chief Dwojakowski stated he knows a lot of their case managers at FAN, and this is what they do every day in twenty-six different cities. He noted there are family recovery coaches, peer recovery coaches, and case managers who work across many cities. When someone needs resources, whether it is housing, food, Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 36 substance abuse, treatment, etc., they know how to plug that person in with that treatment model. He has no doubt that they will be successful at this because this is what they do. He referred to the example he mentioned earlier about the homeless individual whom Mark helped, and he was not sure if there was a substance abuse issue, but Mark was able to get the man signed up for social security and health care and find housing for him. He emphasized that the answer is still the same, and that is to get that person to apply for the benefits, try to find housing, and try to improve the quality of life. That is what they are hoping they can accomplish. He added that is what their previous two social workers did, which is exactly what Mark has done, and FAN has done for hundreds of people here in Sterling Heights. He pointed out they have a strong track record. He has a lot of respect for their organization, and he has no doubt this will be a success. Mark stated he has not heard anyone mention Chelsea Perino, Clinical Director at FAN, and she is a huge resource. He assured he can reach out to hear at any time if he gets into a case where he feels he needs the help. She is a licensed master social worker, and her services and expertise are right there for him. Chief Dwojakowski assured Councilman Radtke he can understand his concern. He pointed out that was a question they talked about when they approached this, but it is something that FAN has been doing all of these years. He assured he has high confidence they can do it. Councilman Radtke commented that the City was very proud to have a social worker, with the approval to hire a second social worker. They immediately saw Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 37 the benefit of having that social worker, and he expressed concern that this might be “taking a step back,” although he clarified it is not for any bad instance. He questioned whether it is possible that there was a “culture clash” between the social workers and the Police Department. He agreed resources are very important, but the idea that they want to “solve these people’s problems” and get them the help they need and “move them along” so as not have them become a problem to the Police Department, may not actually be solving the problems. He pointed out that the case worker has a bachelor’s degree, which is great, but a social worker has a master’s degree in social work, and they specialize in these types of issues. He does not know if this will work, although he will support it because his colleagues are going to support it, but he expressed concern that the City is taking a step back. He questioned how the FAN employees will be managed. Chief Dwojakowski replied the two case workers who will be contracted through FAN will work in the Police Department, they will receive case assignments from the City’s officers, so they will know exactly what the case managers are working on, but these employees would look to FAN for supervision. If he sees they are doing something such as not showing up for work, not responding to calls, or complaints about them are received, then the Police Department would step in to let them know they have to be on time, respond to calls in a timely manner, etc. He pointed out that police officers managing case workers was not an optimum Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 38 solution, and he stressed the people they have at FAN offer so much support and services. Councilman Radtke could see that FAN can offer more support, but he felt that the City should have their own health department. He will support this because they have no social workers now, and the current need is not being met, so he will vote in favor of this contract. He suspected this may come back again, although he hopes it does not. Mayor Taylor stated he talked with Mr. Vanderpool about this, and he has been familiar with FAN’s work for a long time. He admitted his first instinct was questioning what a social worker has to do with educating families and doctors about substance abuse, but Mr. Vanderpool and Chief Dwojakowski explained it to him, and he felt they did a great job of explaining it this evening. He is happy to support this tonight and commented that it makes a lot of sense. He thanked the representatives from FAN for being here tonight, and he understands why Judge Davis cannot be here. He explained the tragic circumstances that created this organization is not something he would wish on anyone, and he wished Judge Davis never had to go through it, but out of it has come something that has been meaningful to countless people. He felt it is natural for FAN to expand its services to help people who are in crisis and educate people about mental health. They have done a phenomenal job educating the public that this affects everyone, and they are delivering services in a unique and creative way, such as their Quick Response Team. He understands Councilman Radtke’s concern, and he Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 39 questioned himself as to why the City is not able to employ social workers inhouse, and why are they not able to make it work. He pointed out when people are sick, they go to a doctor. If someone is arrested, they go to jail and the court system deals with it. There are institutions that deal with regimented steps to deal with an issue, but with mental health, it is all over the map. They have not yet created the perfect way of dealing with it. They tried hiring social workers inhouse and it did not work, so they are trying something else, and he is confident that FAN will be part of the solution, whatever it is. He stressed he is in full support of this, and if it does not work, they will learn from it and improve it, but in the meantime, residents will be receiving the services they need. He recalled when they agreed to start the Quick Response Team, Sterling Heights was the first in Macomb County to do it, and now there are many other communities also taking part in it. He hopes this will be the same thing, and they can show other communities that they have stumbled through some roadblocks and figured out what works, what does not work, and they learn from their mistakes. He is proud to partner with FAN and has confidence in them. He requested that the representatives from FAN relay to Linda Davis his thanks to her for the partnership they have had and the work that she is doing for people who need it the most. Yes: All. The motion carried. 10. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for public comments. • Yvonne Kniaz – talked about upcoming millage issue; questioned how many trees the taxpayers will be paying to have removed from Rotary Park Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 40 in order to install the proposed new amenities, and they will have to pay to plant new trees that will take decades to reach maturity; pointed out if the park were moved a few feet to the east, it would not even be in Sterling Heights; questioned who will be using this park; talked about the City being able to purchase green space, with the understanding they will have deed restrictions placed on them so they cannot be used for other purposes; concerned that they may have the ability to remove the deed restriction, refile the deed, and the property can be then sold for development; commented not all green space needs to be developed or have benches, but it is nice to be able to look at something green; suggested the City can find money for some of this in the regular budget process. • Paul Smith – opposed to the millage proposal; talked about all of their current millage proposals that were passed; concerned not one usable parcel of land will be purchased by the City for green space, but those parcels ultimately purchased by the City will become a burden to the taxpayer; voiced his concerns over the aspects of the millage proposal. 11. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool addressed the resident who had questions about the Rotary Park proposal under the millage that would include acquiring property to the west of the subject park. He pointed out this is currently an unsightly area that is not inviting. He explained that whenever the City pursues a project of any type, whether it is a roadway, park, or open space, they plant many more trees. He assured they always plant many more trees than the number they must remove, and that has been a longstanding practice in the City, adding that the results speak for themselves. He commented on another resident’s comments about the nature preserve in the northwest quadrant of the City, which was purchased with a grant from the State of Michigan’s Department of Natural Resources in the amount of $675,000. As part of that grant, it specifically states that the property will be used for passive recreation purposes, including but not limited to hiking, fishing, Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 41 pathways, etc. It was in the grant agreement approved by the City. They built a parking lot and a restroom, hoping that one day they would be able to provide the access stipulated in the grant agreement. He reminded that if the voters choose to pass the millage proposal, the City tax revenue per resident would still be among the lowest of their comparable cities, including Southfield, Grand Rapids, Ann Arbor, Lansing, Dearborn, Warren, Farmington Hills, Troy, and Livonia. He pointed out that Sterling Heights is at the bottom of the list in terms of tax revenue collected per resident. He noted they are at the bottom of the list in terms of full- time employees, and in terms of tax rates throughout the County for a full-service city. He added that in the State of Michigan, they are in the bottom half in terms of tax rates. He assured Sterling Heights still leads the way in being an affordable and low-tax community. Councilman Radtke appreciated Mr. Vanderpool’s comments on the millage proposal. He considered the upcoming millage to be a benefit, and he felt the residents at home can understand that benefit. He pointed out that there were those who voted against ReCreating Recreation and Safe Streets, yet they have all seen the benefits these millages have brought to the City. He pointed out that the City is moving forward and building a first-class city. He hopes the residents will support the millage, adding that he will be voting in favor of it. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski commented that she learned some information she never knew about FAN before their presentation this evening, which is that they do many other things in addition to helping those in addiction to continue to stay Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 42 free of substance abuse. She recalled that Chief Dwojakowski had pointed out that this service has been free to everyone who has used their services, including the Quick Response Team, all of their recovery coaches, and all of the times they have come to all residents, not just in Sterling Heights but in many other cities as well. She pointed out that they are not “free” because they cost money, and that is why they have their fundraiser. She looked up ways to help them and advised that if anyone wants to help FAN in any way, they can donate their time. If they would like to make a monetary donation, they can search “FAN Macomb County” and there is a donate link in the right-hand corner of their home page. 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 are two items for Closed Session this evening. 15. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Schmidt, RESOLVED, to adjourn the meeting and go into Closed Session. Roll Call Vote: Yes: Sierawski, Taylor, Yanez, Ziarko, Koski, Radtke, Schmidt. No: None. The motion carried (7/0). Mayor Taylor stated they will not be coming out of Closed Session. The meeting adjourned at 9:23 p.m. Regular City Council Meeting Tuesday, October 1, 2024 Page 43 MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk