Development News for Alma, Michigan

Election Deadlines Corrected, Countywide Transit Funding Explored, and Project Updates Provided

The council addressed upcoming elections and corrected previous information regarding write-in candidate deadlines. It was clarified that write-in candidates for city commissioner must file by the second Friday before the election, not on election day itself, which is only applicable for precinct delegates. The city manager provided an update on discussions with the county board regarding a potential countywide millage for transportation, emphasizing the need for a county resolution of support by June 30th to apply for state infrastructure funding. The discussion highlighted potential benefits of a countywide transit system, including expanded services and reduced millage rates for some areas, but also noted the tight application deadline. The council also discussed options for funding library operations and capital improvements, including the possibility of a public vote on an additional millage. The city manager presented a comprehensive update on ongoing street projects, including completion of Water Pain Street, progress on North State and East Pier Streets, and West Center Street, with details on water shut-offs and resurfacing timelines. Updates were also given on the tower project, parks and recreation programming, and the transportation building expansion.

City Secures Funding for Park Improvements, Explores State Grants for Transit, and Addresses Lead Service Line Replacement

The council approved a purchase request for $39,581 to Tom Advisors for fieldwork and construction documents related to the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Park Improvement Project at Riverside Park. This funding is intended to initiate the design phase for the overlook deck and pavilion, allowing the city to be ready to proceed in the spring. Additionally, the city is exploring state funding opportunities through MDOT's Infrastructure Project Authority Fund, which offers up to $65 million over three years for transit service expansion. To be eligible, the county must submit an application by June 30th, which requires a resolution of support for a countywide millage. The city is also utilizing Stellar Grant dollars for lead service line replacement, which must be completed by the end of August.

Marijuana Retail License Transfer Approved, E-Bike Safety Concerns Raised

The council considered a resolution to approve a transfer of a recreational marijuana retail license for 528 West Warwick from DMVK Lier Inc. to SS SN Alma LLC. The location remains the same. The transfer is for legal reasons, as some individuals in the new entity are the same as in the previous one. The new entity must submit an application and pre-qualification from the state of Michigan to finalize the license. The council also discussed potential e-bike and electric motorcycle issues, noting that some of these devices can reach high speeds and pose safety risks, prompting a call for public education and potential regulation. Additionally, discussions around a potential capital maintenance millage for the library and a countywide transit system were ongoing, impacting land use and service provision.

City Council Confirms Special Assessments and Approves 2027 Budget

The council reviewed and approved a resolution confirming the special assessment roll for unpaid charges as of June 1, 2026, and authorized these charges to be placed on the July 1, 2026 tax roll. This action pertains to various charges including noxious weed cutting, sidewalk replacement, frozen meters, sanitary service leads, rental license fees, improper parking, and securing unsafe property. The total of these assessments was $96,570.57, covering 188 accounts across the city. This represents an increase in both total amount and number of accounts compared to the previous year. Specific amounts detailed include utility accounts totaling $53,133.65, noxious weeds at $8,669, rental license fees with a total of $14,387, demo charges at $14,387, driveway approaches at $3,328, and sidewalk replacements at $14,731.29. The council also adopted the proposed fiscal year 2027 annual city budget and considered fiscal 2026 budget amendments, including adding $37,000 for legal fees related to sidewalk expenditures and adjusting the public safety building inspection budget with a corresponding increase in revenue from demolition fees reimbursed by the county for a dangerous building at 702 Grass. Additionally, the council discussed millage rates for the general fund, transportation, street improvement, and library operations, noting slight decreases in some and an increase in others.