Development News for Escanaba, Michigan

Delta Transit Authority Seeks Millage Approval for Expanded Service

The Eskanaba City Council received a presentation regarding the Delta Area Transit Authority's (DATA) millage proposal for expanded services. The proposal seeks to increase the millage to fund earlier morning hours, Saturday service, and extended Friday/Saturday evening service until 2 am, aiming for a countywide expansion. The director highlighted the importance of transit for seniors, adults with disabilities, and those without personal vehicles, and noted that many other Michigan transit systems operate with millages. He also explained the need for a local match to secure state and federal funding, addressing concerns about competing with private transportation providers by emphasizing DATA's role in providing essential, non-discriminatory services.

Eskanaba City Council Approves Budget, Discusses Infrastructure Projects, and City Manager Search

The Eskanaba City Council approved the fiscal year 2026-2027 operating budget, capital improvement plan, and master fee schedule, establishing a city millage rate of 17.442 mills. They also conducted the first reading of the appropriations ordinance (1320) and the tax levy ordinance (1321), scheduling their second readings, public hearings, and adoptions for May 28th, 2026. Ordinances for electric rate (1322), water rate (1323), wastewater rate (1324), and solid waste rate (1325) were introduced for their first readings, with subsequent readings and hearings scheduled for June 1st, 2026. The council approved resolution 26-07, adopting an updated project plan for water system improvements and designating the city manager as the authorized project representative. The Wells Township Water System Expansion (resolution 26-08) was postponed due to incomplete information. Public works received approval for several paving projects, including Washington Avenue, Royce Park courts, and 8th Avenue South. The council approved the community profile and salary range for the city manager recruitment. Discussions also involved alley repair, with a proposal to revert some to gravel due to funding limitations, and the Delta Area Transit Authority's millage proposal for expanded services.

Eskanaba City Council Approves FY 2026-27 Budget, Sets Millage Rate, and Introduces Rate Ordinances

The Eskanaba City Council approved the fiscal year 2026-2027 operating budget, capital improvement plan, and master fee schedule, establishing a city millage rate of 17.442 mills. They also conducted the first reading of the appropriations ordinance (1320) and the tax levy ordinance (1321), scheduling their second readings, public hearings, and adoptions for May 28th, 2026. Additionally, ordinances for electric rate (1322), water rate (1323), wastewater rate (1324), and solid waste rate (1325) were introduced for their first readings, with subsequent readings and hearings scheduled for June 1st, 2026. The council also approved resolution 26-07, adopting an updated project plan for water system improvements and designating the city manager as the authorized project representative. Funds were also approved for elevator maintenance at the wastewater treatment plant and for a landfill flow monitor.

Eskanaba Adjusts Street Closures for Catman's Classic Car and Bike Nights

The Eskanaba City Council discussed and approved adjustments to the plans for 'Catman's Classic Car and Bike Nights.' Due to ongoing construction on Ludington Street, the street closures for the event have been geographically adjusted. The approved change moves the street closures to First Avenue South, between 12th and 14th Streets, to accommodate the event logistics and minimize disruption. The council also indirectly touched upon transportation needs through the Delta Area Transit Authority's millage proposal for expanded services.