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Petersburg City Council Stories

Stories compiled from Petersburg City Council meeting notes and agendas. Report mistakes to nick@nickboylan.com.

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Digitizing the city charter and ordinancesOct 5 ’26
  1. Aug 3 ’26City charter and ordinances to be digitized by a paid contractor
  2. Aug 17 ’26Digitized city charter compiled and ready to be uploaded to the city website
  3. Sep 8 ’26City ordinances digitized by a paid contractor; files ready for upload to the city website this week
  4. Oct 5 ’26Planning Commission to review ordinances identified as potentially needing updates during the recent ordinance digitization
Wooded path at Fernstrom ParkOct 5 ’26
  1. May 18 ’26Community service volunteers to clear a walking path at Fernstrom Park on May 23
  2. Jun 1 ’26Community service group cleared the wooded pathway at Fernstrom Park and is to return in July
  3. Jun 15 ’26Community Service team to return July 26 to mulch and possibly expand the new wooded path
  4. Jul 20 ’26Purchase of poison ivy warning signs for the Fernstrom Park path being investigated
  5. Jul 20 ’26Community service team to extend the Fernstrom Park wooded path about 200 feet on July 26
  6. Aug 3 ’26County crew to re-mulch the Fernstrom Park wooded paths and treat poison ivy in October
  7. Aug 17 ’26Four loads of wood chips dropped off at Fernstrom Park for the wooded path; the community service crew to return September 26
  8. Oct 5 ’26Thirteen community service workers placed three dump loads of mulch along the Fernstrom Park wooded path; team to return in spring
Perry Park playground equipmentOct 5 ’26
  1. Apr 6 ’26Replacement of play equipment at Perry Park under consideration; the mayor to look into safety and ADA requirements
  2. Apr 20 ’26Perry Park play equipment raised by a councilmember; requirements, park guidelines and costs being researched
  3. May 4 ’26Perry Park improvement assessment and proposal offered by a recreation products vendor, pending council approval
  4. May 4 ’26Perry Park playground repairs approved: four baby swings replaced, swing set bolts rotated, wood chips refreshed, swing chains replaced as needed
  5. May 18 ’26Toddler swing and one regular swing seat replacement at Perry Park deferred; proposal too high, better prices to be sought
  6. Jun 15 ’26Purchase of a new slide for Perry Park approved
  7. Jun 15 ’26Perry Park improvements including replacing wood and painting discussed for further action
  8. Jul 6 ’26Repair and repainting of the large red swing at Perry Park requested
  9. Jul 6 ’26New Perry Park slide expected by the end of August
  10. Jul 20 ’26Red swing at Perry Park repaired and repainted
  11. Jul 20 ’26New Perry Park slide reported available by late August
  12. Sep 21 ’26New slide and three spring bouncers for Perry Park to be picked up Friday
  13. Oct 5 ’26New slide and spring bouncers for Perry Park have arrived and will be installed by DPW when possible
  14. Oct 5 ’26DPW painted the picnic table and added a no-skid painted texture to the balance beam
Monroe County Sheriff contract and deputy coverageOct 5 ’26
  1. Dec 1 ’25Sheriff deputy position up for bid; a councilmember suggested the mayor write the sheriff seeking retention of the current deputy
  2. Dec 15 ’25Retention of the city's sheriff deputy not possible under the bidding process; the deputy's last day set for January 10, 2026
  3. Jul 20 ’26Council to review the city's contract with the Monroe County Sheriff's Department before the next meeting
  4. Aug 3 ’26Police coverage and cost-effectiveness of the Monroe County Sheriff contract; the mayor to contact the sheriff
  5. Aug 17 ’26County deputy to patrol the city primarily for the next 30 days, reviewed every 30 days; the sheriff said the city contract covers only the deputy's wages and benefits
  6. Sep 8 ’26A new sheriff's deputy has been assigned to the city
  7. Oct 5 ’26A councilmember suggested the deputy be asked to drive through Fernstrom Park regularly
Municipal parking lot and alley repavingOct 5 ’26
  1. Nov 17 ’25DPW asked to fill the larger holes in the municipal parking lot
  2. Mar 2 ’26Councilmember asked whether potholes in the alley behind Center Street can be filled
  3. Jun 1 ’26Parking lot and alley paving awarded to Pro Finish
  4. Jul 20 ’26DPW to add a storm drain behind the library to ease drainage, to be completed before the upcoming repaving
  5. Aug 3 ’26Alleyway prepped and drainage improved; repaving pending
  6. Sep 8 ’26Paving of the city parking lot and the alley expected to be completed by the end of the week, weather permitting
  7. Sep 21 ’26Corrections to the alley paving to be addressed by Pro Finish, the mayor reported
  8. Oct 5 ’26Drainage and water pooling behind the library reported after the alley paving; DPW to be asked to add gravel where water collects
Walnut tree removals in townOct 5 ’26
  1. Oct 6 ’25Removal of a walnut tree in the right of way held over pending a second estimate
  2. Oct 20 ’25Bid still pending for removal of a tree on Railroad
  3. Dec 15 ’25Walnut tree removal on Railroad Street; the mayor to check on timing
  4. Apr 20 ’26Logger contacted about the walnut trees; response awaited
  5. May 18 ’26Removal of walnut trees in town; another party may be interested in taking the wood
  6. Jun 1 ’26Removal of 14 walnut trees in town pending; insurance of the interested contractor to be verified
  7. Aug 3 ’26Removal of several walnut trees in town and possible payment to the city for the wood under discussion
  8. Aug 17 ’26Removal of several walnut trees stalled; tree services declined the job for lack of quantity
  9. Sep 21 ’26Walnut tree removal on W. Railroad St. awarded to Cress Tree Service; city DPW to grind the stump
  10. Oct 5 ’26W. Railroad St. will need a temporary closure for a large tree removal in the near future
Downtown sidewalk and concrete replacementOct 5 ’26
  1. Mar 17 ’25Sidewalk on the south side of Center Street in disrepair; the mayor to check prices for concrete replacement
  2. May 5 ’25Downtown sidewalk repairs quoted at $8,500; a second quote to be obtained
  3. May 19 ’25City attorney to be asked who is responsible for the downtown sidewalks
  4. Nov 3 ’25Second bid to be sought for concrete work on River Dale Drive
  5. Jan 20 ’26Quotes being gathered to level the Center Street sidewalks
  6. Feb 2 ’26Sidewalk quotes still being gathered
  7. May 4 ’26Discussion of concrete and sidewalk bids tabled until the next meeting
  8. May 18 ’26Decision on sidewalk replacement bids tabled to the June 1, 2026 meeting
  9. Jun 1 ’26Downtown sidewalk replacement and River Dale catch basin work awarded to a contractor
  10. Jun 15 ’26Sidewalk, River Dale catch basin and parking lot curb replacement re-awarded to Folmer & Son; the first contractor could not finish in time
  11. Sep 21 ’26Sidewalk project to begin this week
  12. Oct 5 ’26Continued progress on the sidewalk project briefly discussed
Memorial bench for Veterans ParkSep 21 ’26
  1. Aug 3 ’26Memorial bench approved for Veterans' Park, purchased with private funds
  2. Aug 17 ’26Purchase of the memorial bench for Veterans' Park reported to be progressing
  3. Sep 21 ’26Placement locations for the memorial bench and new sign at Veterans Park discussed
Replacement trees from area nurseriesSep 21 ’26
  1. Oct 6 ’25Prices being sought from a Monroe nursery for trees to plant this fall
  2. Oct 20 ’25Nursery prices for new trees found very high; more nurseries to be compared
  3. Nov 3 ’25Tree replacement quoted at $1,000 per tree; a councilmember hopes a second nursery will reopen so the city can use it
  4. Sep 21 ’26Purchase of 5 to 6 trees from Bedford Lawn & Snow approved at $225 per tree; DPW to plant them
Planning Commission appointments and expansionAug 17 ’26
  1. Jul 20 ’26Motion to fill two Planning Commission seats for three-year terms through 6-30-29; the minutes record no vote
  2. Aug 3 ’26Planning Commission appointment found not to follow protocol; applications for the seat accepted through August 12
  3. Aug 17 ’26Planning Commission enlarged from 7 seats to 9; three seats filled
Charcoal grill for Fernstrom ParkAug 17 ’26
  1. Jun 15 ’26Purchase of a charcoal grill for Fernstrom Park under consideration
  2. Jul 6 ’26Charcoal grill ordered for Fernstrom Park, due late July
  3. Jul 20 ’26Fernstrom Park grill due this week
  4. Aug 3 ’26Fernstrom Park charcoal grill received and to be installed
  5. Aug 17 ’26Charcoal grill now in place at Fernstrom Park
BS&A accounting software and staff trainingAug 17 ’26
  1. Apr 7 ’25BS&A Cloud proposal accepted for all city accounting software
  2. Apr 6 ’26Two additional onsite BS&A training days approved for June
  3. Aug 17 ’26Two weeks of BS&A software training approved for city office staff in October
Crumbling streetlight pole basesAug 3 ’26
  1. Apr 20 ’26Crumbling bases on streetlight poles raised with DTE
  2. May 18 ’26Replacement of light post bases along the Center Street sidewalks; the mayor to follow up with DTE
  3. Jun 1 ’26DTE to replace caps and conduit on the light poles in the sidewalk replacement areas; coordination may push the project into the fall
  4. Aug 3 ’26Light pole improvements discussed with DTE before the sidewalk replacement
Sewer contingency fund CDAug 3 ’26
  1. Feb 6 ’23Sewer contingency account CD under review by the treasurer
  2. Mar 4 ’24Sewer bond contingency CD renewed for one year at 4.5% interest
  3. Aug 3 ’26Sewer Contingency Fund CD maturing this month; renewal for a one-year term at a better rate recommended
Water and sewer rate study and rate increasesJul 20 ’26
  1. Oct 7 ’24Water rate increase suggested by the mayor to meet rising operating costs and possible replacement of aging equipment
  2. Mar 3 ’25Resolution adopting rates and charges for the City Water System effective April 1, 2025
  3. May 5 ’25Water and sewer rate study results to be presented at a July meeting
  4. Jul 21 ’25Findings of the Water Rate Calculation Report presented to council
  5. Aug 4 ’25City Water System rates adopted: per meter base charge set at $45.38 per quarter effective October 1, 2025
  6. Jul 6 ’26Water rate increase suggested for October 1 to reflect the City of Monroe's 7.9% increase; tabled, with nearby bulk rates to be researched
  7. Jul 20 ’26Water rates rise October 1, 2026 from $13.30 to $14.35 per 1,000 gallons in city and $18.80 to $19.85 outside; bulk stays $17.50
Underage golf cart operation enforcementJul 6 ’26
  1. Jul 7 ’25Sheriff to be asked to have the local deputy crack down on minors operating golf carts carelessly
  2. Jun 15 ’26Underage golf cart operators in the city to be monitored by the sheriff's deputy
  3. Jul 6 ’26Sheriff's deputy reported that enforcement of underage golf cart operation in the city continues
New city Welcome signsJun 1 ’26
  1. Jan 20 ’26Quotes being gathered for new city entry signs
  2. Feb 2 ’26Metal Welcome sign option under review
  3. Feb 17 ’26Work on the new Welcome signs continuing
  4. Mar 16 ’26Welcome sign quotes still being gathered
  5. Apr 20 ’26New Welcome signs and their costs reported
  6. May 4 ’26Four Welcome signs purchased from Unique Designs
  7. May 18 ’26New city signs expected to be completed soon
  8. Jun 1 ’26New city Welcome signs installed, with roses planted around them
Blight enforcement procedure and penaltiesMay 4 ’26
  1. Apr 20 ’26Next step after a clean-up notice is delivered and the resident does not comply to be determined
  2. May 4 ’26Blight letters in preparation; the clerk to ask the city attorney about fines in the blight ordinance
Angle parking on Center StreetApr 20 ’26
  1. Apr 6 ’26Angle parking sought on the south side of E. Center Street; the mayor to check with the city engineer and report back
  2. Apr 20 ’26Angle parking on Center Street: MDOT says implementation is up to the municipality
City clerk vacancy and appointmentApr 20 ’26
  1. Mar 2 ’26City clerk position to be posted immediately, resumes due March 23; Council agreed to pay for one month of training the replacement
  2. Mar 2 ’26City clerk's letter of retirement accepted, with a last day of May 29
  3. Mar 16 ’26Resumes for the clerk's position accepted through March 23, with interviews by the mayor, clerk and treasurer to follow
  4. Apr 6 ’26City Clerk seat filled effective June 1, 2026 at a $26,000 salary, $22 an hour during training beginning April 7, with MERS from June 1
  5. Apr 20 ’26Resolution regarding clerk appointment and Board of Review approved
  6. Apr 20 ’26Retiring clerk's phone to be paid by the city for two months after retirement
Building code enforcement ordinance and inspectorsApr 6 ’26
  1. Mar 2 ’26City plumbing and mechanical inspector engaged, receiving 80% of permit fees with the City retaining 20%
  2. Mar 2 ’26State permit fee schedules adopted for plumbing and mechanical permits
  3. Mar 16 ’26First reading of Ordinance 26-0001, Enforcement of the Building Code, approved
  4. Mar 16 ’26March 2 inspector motion amended: Mechanical Inspector and Plumbing Inspector positions filled separately upon State approval, and State Fee Schedules adopted
  5. Apr 6 ’26Ordinance 26-0001, Enforcement of the Building Code, adopted on second reading
Downtown banners and bracketsMar 16 ’26
  1. Jan 20 ’26Quotes being gathered for downtown banners
  2. Feb 17 ’26Purchase of four banners and brackets approved
  3. Mar 16 ’26Banners and brackets received for the four main corners
Street drainage studyMar 16 ’26
  1. Feb 18 ’25Consultants permitted to begin a study to acquire additional funding available for street improvements, mainly drainage
  2. Oct 6 ’25Drainage study reviewed; the city engineer suggests the DPW can do most of the work
  3. Mar 16 ’26Progress on the results of the street drainage study requested
Regular storm sewer cleaning scheduleMar 16 ’26
  1. Apr 1 ’24DPW to check whether storm sewers are being cleared of debris regularly
  2. Mar 16 ’26Regular schedule for cleaning storm sewer entrances and uncovering storm drain lids requested
Fernstrom Park development, grants and clean-up daysMar 16 ’26
  1. Feb 5 ’24River Raisin Watershed Council to present on Fernstrom Park development March 4 and hold an invasive plant cleanup March 23, 12-2pm
  2. Mar 18 ’24Update on the restoration of Fernstrom Park presented to council
  3. Apr 1 ’24Fernstrom Park clean-up day drew 33 volunteers and cleared much debris
  4. Apr 15 ’24Fernstrom Park has received $550 in donations and a $600 Monroe Conservation District grant; planting day April 27
  5. Jun 3 ’24Three donated picnic tables at Fernstrom Park; DPW to pour concrete pads, and mosquito spraying for the park requested
  6. Jul 15 ’24New Fernstrom Park sign shown to council; three concrete picnic tables installed in the park
  7. Aug 5 ’24Fernstrom Park received a $600 Monroe Conservation District grant and a $5,000 private donation
  8. Sep 3 ’24Fernstrom Park Phase 2 temporarily stalled pending permits; a weeknight community clean-up and donated products and services under consideration
  9. Sep 16 ’24Fernstrom Park permits still pending; park fall clean-up day scheduled for the evening of October 16
  10. Nov 18 ’24Fernstrom Park management director authorized
  11. Apr 7 ’25Fernstrom Park update: two bike racks ordered, top flower bed edged awaiting plants, coffee truck at park clean-up day April 26, 9am-12pm
  12. Jun 2 ’25Fernstrom Park donor sign to be framed in wood and mounted near the top of the ramp by the bench, with DPW to do the work
  13. Jun 2 ’25Concrete pad for another Fernstrom Park picnic table delayed; the company to be asked to hold the table
  14. Nov 3 ’25City to receive $825 from a grant in process for Fernstrom Park
  15. Mar 16 ’26Fernstrom Park sign to be installed at Wood and Railroad
Kayak and canoe launch at Fernstrom ParkFeb 2 ’26
  1. Jul 17 ’23A more level kayak launch spot at Fernstrom Park requested; the mayor to look at it
  2. Aug 5 ’24Boat launch options at Fernstrom Park under review with the DNR
  3. Feb 18 ’25Permit application to EGLE for a potential boat launch to be submitted; fleximat cost lower than expected
  4. Mar 17 ’25Kayak launch permit reported reviewed, with a further response awaited
  5. Jul 21 ’25Fernstrom Park boat launch materials to be ordered
  6. Aug 4 ’25Kayak/canoe launch material to be ordered now that the new backhoe is in service
  7. Aug 18 ’25A 20-foot mat ordered for the canoe and kayak launch, to be installed by the DPW
  8. Sep 2 ’25Kayak and canoe launch at Fernstrom Park reported complete
  9. Feb 2 ’26Canoe and kayak signage to be installed soon

2025

Rezoning inquiry for two downtown buildingsDec 15 ’25
  1. Nov 17 ’25Rezoning inquiry received for two commercial buildings; the Planning Commission to address it November 25
  2. Dec 1 ’25One rezoning inquiry from a prospective buyer reviewed by the Planning Commission; no action taken
  3. Dec 15 ’25One rezoning request pending; a councilmember has written to the applicant with what the Planning Commission wants before it considers it
City attorney legal services contractDec 15 ’25
  1. Nov 17 ’25Legal services proposal from Mohr Budds Law accepted, commencing January 1, 2026
  2. Dec 15 ’25City attorney retainer agreement with Mohr Budds Law, PLLC approved commencing January 1, 2026, with minor corrections
Vactor truck repairsDec 1 ’25
  1. Mar 20 ’23Vactor truck tank patched after a partial collapse; a replacement expected
  2. Oct 16 ’23Vactor truck leaking antifreeze and awaiting repair
  3. Dec 4 ’23Vactor truck radiator reported repaired
  4. Jul 15 ’24Cyclone fell off the vactor truck and repairs will be needed
  5. Aug 5 ’24Vactor truck to be used as is for now rather than repaired
  6. Oct 6 ’25Vactor truck still down for repair
  7. Oct 20 ’25Vactor truck still awaiting repairs
  8. Nov 3 ’25Vactor truck still not repaired
  9. Nov 17 ’25Vactor truck still not repaired
  10. Dec 1 ’25Vactor truck back in service
Brownfield site remediation and marketingNov 17 ’25
  1. Apr 21 ’25Five seats on the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority filled, with terms of three, two and one years
  2. Aug 4 ’25Brownfield redevelopment site: EGLE to arrange a meeting with the City and Arcadis
  3. Sep 2 ’25Meeting set for October 7 with EGLE, Arcadis and possibly UPS on the brownfield site at Walnut and Chestnut Streets
  4. Oct 20 ’25Stages of remediation for the Brownfield site outlined by the state environmental agency, an estimated 3 to 5 year project
  5. Nov 17 ’25EGLE guidance to be sought on when to begin marketing the Brownfield site
Fernstrom Park drive and fence lineNov 17 ’25
  1. Aug 5 ’24DPW to widen the second Fernstrom Park drive and tidy the fence line along it
  2. Jul 21 ’25Tidying of the area next to the drive to Fernstrom Park by next summer requested by a councilmember
  3. Nov 17 ’25DPW asked to move the remaining materials near the Fernstrom Park driveway
Paint sprayer repairOct 20 ’25
  1. Sep 2 ’25Paint sprayer under repair
  2. Oct 6 ’25Paint sprayer repair on hold awaiting parts
  3. Oct 20 ’25Paint sprayer reported repaired
Recreation Commission bylaws and structureOct 6 ’25
  1. Apr 21 ’25Joint city, township and school meeting on Recreation Commission bylaws suggested; the mayor to contact the other officials
  2. May 5 ’25Joint city, township and school meeting on the Recreation Commission held, resolving a few issues; work on updating the bylaws to continue
  3. Jul 7 ’25Recreation Commission organization discussed by the mayor with the township supervisor and the schools superintendent
  4. Oct 6 ’25Recreation Commission structure document tabled until questions are answered; a councilmember to follow up
Cracking in city streetsOct 6 ’25
  1. Jan 6 ’25Cracking in city streets to be reviewed by the mayor and the engineer
  2. Jan 21 ’25City engineer watching cracks in the top layer of the streets
  3. Feb 18 ’25Contractor to be asked to examine cracking in city streets, with cracks to be mapped for them
  4. May 19 ’25Engineer to be asked to attend a meeting to further explain the cracking of the newly paved streets
  5. Jun 2 ’25Street cracking reviewed; most cracks expected to close in summer heat and the rest to be filled
  6. Oct 6 ’25Crack sealing of the worst areas recommended by the city engineer, with a list to be compiled and submitted for work this fall
City street stripingOct 6 ’25
  1. Dec 2 ’24Street striping deferred to spring
  2. Jan 6 ’25Street striping bids coming in for spring
  3. Jan 21 ’25Street striping bids still coming in for spring
  4. Jun 2 ’25Center Street striping set for June 3, with missed stop bars and crosswalks to be included
  5. Jun 16 ’25Street striping issues being addressed with the contractor by the city engineer
  6. Aug 18 ’25Street striping to be finished; the mayor to seek a quote from another contractor through the city engineer
  7. Oct 6 ’25Center Street striping to be completed by the end of October
Backhoe replacement and surplus equipment auctionSep 2 ’25
  1. Apr 7 ’25Backhoe nearing replacement, with used options being sought
  2. Apr 21 ’25Purchase of a used backhoe authorized for up to $50,000, funded from the street project
  3. Jun 2 ’25A 2015 Case backhoe under consideration for purchase once delivered to Perrysburg
  4. Jul 7 ’25Purchase of a used backhoe under review; the mayor to inspect one
  5. Jul 21 ’25Replacement backhoe expected to arrive within two weeks
  6. Jul 21 ’25Use of the Bidcorp online auction suggested for selling used city equipment
  7. Aug 4 ’25Replacement backhoe reported in service
  8. Aug 18 ’25Old backhoe and pickup listed for two weeks on the Bidcorp online auction
  9. Sep 2 ’25Bidcorp auction of the old backhoe and GMC pickup completed; more surplus items to be listed
Scrap metal cleanup behind the DPW barnAug 18 ’25
  1. May 5 ’25Roll off box requested to collect scrap metal along the drive into Fernstrom Park
  2. May 19 ’25A recycler contacted about bringing a dumpster to collect scrap metal behind the DPW garage; delivery of a 30 yard container to be arranged
  3. Jun 2 ’25A recycler to deliver a dumpster for scrap metal when available
  4. Aug 4 ’25Scrap metal dumpster to be secured once sludge hauling is complete, to clean up behind the DPW barn
  5. Aug 18 ’25Scrap metal rolloff full and awaiting pickup
Tree trimming and removal listAug 4 ’25
  1. Jul 21 ’25List of trees to trim or remove compiled for Council
  2. Aug 4 ’25Tree trimming and removal list reviewed; DPW trimming underway and bids to be sought for 2-3 larger trees
Municipal parking lot sealing and stripingJul 7 ’25
  1. Jun 16 ’25Parking lot sealing: one estimate in hand, at least one more to be sought
  2. Jul 7 ’25Sealing and striping of both municipal parking lots awarded to K & B Asphalt Sealcoating for $4,444.90
Recreation Commission city representativesMay 5 ’25
  1. Jul 5 ’22City and township representatives sought for the Recreation Commission
  2. Dec 5 ’22Appointment to the Recreation Commission representing the City approved for a 3-year term beginning September 21, 2022
  3. Jun 5 ’23One open seat representing the city on the Recreation Commission remains to be filled
  4. Aug 19 ’24Two City representative seats on the Recreation Commission remain to be filled
  5. Jan 21 ’25Three City representative seats on the Recreation Commission filled, with terms ending 7/1/25, 7/1/26 and 7/1/27
  6. May 5 ’25One new city representative needed on the Recreation Commission beginning July 1
New roof for the DPW and police garageApr 21 ’25
  1. Feb 18 ’25DPW and police garage reported to need a new roof this spring
  2. Apr 21 ’25Roofing bid for the DPW and police garage awarded
Standby generator for the municipal buildingApr 21 ’25
  1. Jan 16 ’24Standby generator for the municipal building; the mayor to obtain at least two quotes for council to consider
  2. Feb 20 ’24Standby generator for the municipal building; the mayor to follow up on the contractor quote
  3. Mar 4 ’24Standby generator for the municipal building: two proposals reviewed, a third to be obtained and the matter revisited
  4. Mar 18 ’24Standby generator for the municipal building; a third proposal still awaited
  5. Apr 15 ’24Third estimate for a standby generator for the municipal building not yet received
  6. Oct 7 ’24$6,000 grant for operating secure elections received, to be used by May 31, 2025; council weighing use toward a standby generator for the municipal building, third bid sought
  7. Mar 3 ’25$6,000 Institute for Responsive Government grant must be used by May 31, 2025; the clerk to secure updated quotes for a standby generator
  8. Mar 17 ’2522kw standby generator for the municipal building purchased from Superior Industrial Supply and Service for $13,524, with a $6,000 Institute for Responsive Government grant applied
  9. Apr 7 ’25Standby generator installation to begin next week, aimed for completion before the May 6 election
  10. Apr 21 ’25Standby generator for the municipal building installed and awaiting inspections
State-required water system plans and studiesMar 17 ’25
  1. Sep 16 ’24State requires several city plans and studies updated by March 2025, with training and a letter to the State by year end
  2. Feb 18 ’25Water System Reliability Study and Asset Management Plan approved for submittal to the State for acceptance
  3. Mar 17 ’25Water Deficit Reduction Plan Resolution approved as printed and presented
Solar powered speed and stop signsJan 21 ’25
  1. Jun 6 ’22Solar speed signs requested for inclusion in the 2022-2023 budget
  2. Jan 21 ’25Prices sought for flashing solar powered stop and speed signs
Angle parking at the elementary schoolJan 6 ’25
  1. Oct 7 ’24Angle parking on the north side of the elementary school raised as a way to add parking spaces
  2. Jan 6 ’25Whether the elementary school is still considering angle parking on Elm Street asked, since it would need to be known before street striping
City street improvement projectJan 6 ’25
  1. Aug 21 ’23Street improvement options to be presented by the city engineer at the next meeting
  2. Sep 5 ’23Street improvement plan to be presented by the city engineer at the next council meeting once costs are complete
  3. Sep 18 ’23Road project discussion postponed to the next meeting pending further information
  4. Oct 16 ’23Consultant report on street conditions, repairs, costs and financing presented; Council to choose streets to repair and put work out to bid
  5. Oct 24 ’23Workshop held on plans for street improvements
  6. Nov 1 ’23Street improvement project to proceed: TAMP submitted, up to 5 years of 50% advanced Act 51 funding sought from MDOT, project put out for bid
  7. Feb 20 ’24Street improvement project bids going out this week
  8. Mar 4 ’24Storm sewer work underway on two Center Street locations; the Rose Road site to require large rock to shore up the street edge and river bank
  9. Mar 18 ’24Center Street storm sewer repair reported to be about two weeks from completion, pending the contractor
  10. Apr 1 ’24Cold milling and resurfacing of city streets awarded to Gerken Paving, Inc. for $259,564.30
  11. Apr 1 ’24Overband crack fill awarded to K & B Asphalt Sealcoating, Inc. for $16,516.80
  12. Apr 15 ’24Trenching, gravel and HMA of city streets awarded to Gerken Paving, Inc. for $220,887.50
  13. May 6 ’24Micro-surfacing and chip seal of city streets awarded to Henry W. Bergman, Inc. for $437,393.75
  14. May 6 ’24Payment of $325,585.17 to Gerken Paving approved for street work completed
  15. May 6 ’24Next two phases of street work to begin end of May, final phase in June and July
  16. Jun 3 ’24Construction meeting with Gerken Paving set for June 5 to plan the next phase of street improvements, trenching
  17. Jun 17 ’24Downtown section of the Center Street improvements reported not to be complete until the last week of July
  18. Jul 15 ’24Final phases of the street project reviewed with engineers; a meeting with the contractor to be arranged
  19. Aug 19 ’24Contractor materials for the final phase of the street project approved by the city engineers
  20. Sep 3 ’24Road project restart delayed to later in the week by the contractors
  21. Sep 16 ’24Final coat of micro seal on the road project to be applied the week of the 23rd, taking three to four days
  22. Oct 7 ’24Street project reported under budget so far, with an ADA ramp on Chestnut Street and the raising of manholes still to be completed
  23. Nov 4 ’24Paving contractor to raise 28 manholes in coming weeks and DPW to raise about 15 more with 1-inch rings
  24. Nov 18 ’24Manhole lifting completed by Gerken Paving; DPW to address the remaining manholes as time permits
  25. Dec 2 ’24City engineer to confirm the street project funds spent to date and what remains for a possible equipment purchase
  26. Jan 6 ’25Street project funds spent to date to be confirmed to determine what remains for a possible equipment purchase

2024

Sewer rate increase and fee ordinanceNov 18 ’24
  1. Oct 7 ’24Sewer rate increase suggested by the mayor to meet rising operating costs and possible replacement of aging equipment
  2. Oct 21 ’24Quarterly sewer rate raised to $110 effective January 1, 2025, the first increase since 1997
  3. Oct 21 ’24Whether the sewer rate may be set by resolution rather than ordinance; the clerk to consult the city attorney
  4. Nov 4 ’24First reading approved of Ordinance #24-0002, amending Ordinance #96 to revise sewer system fees and charges
  5. Nov 18 ’24Ordinance #24-0002 adopted on second reading, amending Ordinance #96 to revise sewer system fees and charges
Tree Lighting Ceremony arrangementsNov 18 ’24
  1. Sep 16 ’24Tree Lighting Ceremony set for December 1, with the parking lot and Center Street between Saline and Wood closed for the event
  2. Oct 21 ’24Whether city liability insurance covers horse drawn carriage rides at the Tree Lighting; the clerk to check
  3. Nov 18 ’24Event committee request to block off the municipal parking lot the morning of December 1 for tree lighting
DTE LED streetlight conversionNov 18 ’24
  1. Dec 18 ’23DTE phasing out high pressure sodium streetlights for LED fixtures; the mayor to seek more information from a DTE representative
  2. Mar 4 ’24Cost estimate for converting city streetlights to LED presented; no action taken
  3. Mar 18 ’24DTE proposal to convert streetlights to LED to be raised with DTE and addressed at the next meeting
  4. Apr 1 ’24DTE streetlight conversion to LED to proceed
  5. Apr 15 ’24DTE contract for LED streetlight conversion pending; cost to light the paved path to Summerfield High School to follow
  6. May 6 ’24DTE invoice for the LED streetlight conversion expected soon
  7. Nov 4 ’24DTE credit of $4,476.31 issued for newly converted LED streetlights for July-September
  8. Nov 4 ’24Summerfield Schools to be asked about paying the monthly electric cost for two of the new path lights on school property
  9. Nov 18 ’24Summerfield School willing to pay monthly electric cost for two path lights on school property; mayor to obtain a DTE rate to bill the school
Tree trimming and removal contract with All-Year Tree ServiceNov 4 ’24
  1. Jul 1 ’24Tree trimming and removal list begun
  2. Oct 7 ’24Two bids received for tree removal and trimming, with a third contractor to be asked
  3. Oct 21 ’24Tree trimming and removal to proceed with low quoter All-Year Tree Service once an updated insurance certificate is provided
  4. Nov 4 ’24Tree trimming and removal scheduled for November 13
Employee policy and procedure manual updateNov 4 ’24
  1. Jun 17 ’24Draft updated Employee Policy and Procedure Manual presented; council to review and make revisions at a future meeting
  2. Jul 1 ’24Draft employee handbook to be discussed at the August 5 meeting, to be held at the Library due to election setup
  3. Jul 15 ’24Clerk plans to revisit the updated employee policy and procedure manual draft at the next meeting
  4. Aug 5 ’24Employee policy and procedure manual to be revised so health insurance ends at month's end when an employee leaves; discussion to continue
  5. Oct 21 ’24Updated Employee Policy and Procedure Manual, formerly the Employee Handbook, adopted immediately
  6. Nov 4 ’24Amendment to the employee handbook on health insurance coverage for spouses with their own coverage to be drafted
Adding a second city clean-up daySep 16 ’24
  1. Sep 3 ’24Second city clean-up day proposed; the treasurer to obtain a cost estimate
  2. Sep 16 ’24City to join the township for Fall Clean-up on October 5 from 8:00 a.m. to noon
Recreation Commission status and director vacancyAug 19 ’24
  1. Aug 21 ’23Recreation Commission reported to be looking for a new director
  2. Sep 18 ’23Recreation Commission director post vacant after the previous director stepped down; an interim director is serving
  3. Jun 3 ’24Recreation Commission status, programming, representatives and director salary questioned; a councilmember to get it to meet and report
  4. Jun 17 ’24A councilmember attended a school board meeting with the Recreation Commission director to ensure the director is paid
  5. Aug 19 ’24Recreation Commission director reported to be remaining in office
New entrance and ramp at Fernstrom ParkAug 5 ’24
  1. May 2 ’22Tile installation for a new entrance to Fernstrom Park still being pursued by the mayor
  2. Oct 3 ’22New entry to Fernstrom Park now expected to be a winter project
  3. Mar 6 ’23Estimate sought for concrete culverts for a new entry at the lower parking lot of Fernstrom Park off N. Division
  4. Aug 21 ’23Tile still to be installed at the new entry to Fernstrom Park; the mayor to contact the contractor
  5. Sep 5 ’23Culverts installed as the base of a new ramped entrance to Fernstrom Park; fill dirt sought to continue the project
  6. Jul 1 ’24Golf cart and pedestrian ramp to Fernstrom Park complete and usable; guard rails and signage still needed
  7. Jul 15 ’24Fernstrom Park ramp complete except for the side guard rails
  8. Aug 5 ’24Two-rail split rail fence purchased from Andon Fencing for the sides of the Fernstrom Park ramp
Movie screen for movies in the parkJul 15 ’24
  1. Jul 1 ’24Event Committee request for a projector screen for movies in the park tabled pending more details and a representative
  2. Jul 15 ’24Purchase of a 25-foot inflatable movie screen for event committee movie nights approved
Farmers' Market street closures and setupJun 17 ’24
  1. May 20 ’24Municipal parking lot and Center Street between Saline and Wood to be closed May 25 for the Farmers' Market
  2. Jun 3 ’24Leaving Center Street open for the next Farmers' Markets suggested by councilmembers so passing traffic may stop
  3. Jun 17 ’24Center Street to remain open for the Farmers' Market, with the city supplying four trash cans in the municipal parking lot
Test well boring under E. WalnutMay 6 ’24
  1. Sep 5 ’23Additional test well proposed on the north side of E. Walnut, requiring boring under the street
  2. May 6 ’24Boring under E. Walnut completed for another test well on the north side
Painting and repair of the old jail buildingApr 15 ’24
  1. Apr 1 ’24A councilmember offered to paint the old jail building at Perry Park; the mayor to have its door repaired
  2. Apr 15 ’24Old jail doors repaired and the whole building to be painted
Pump station and water tower alarm systemFeb 20 ’24
  1. Feb 5 ’24Options and quotes for a new water and wastewater alarm system still under review
  2. Feb 20 ’24Alarms at the pump station and water tower awarded to The Bergren Associates, not to exceed $11,000
Natural gas franchise agreementFeb 5 ’24
  1. Sep 5 ’23Draft Michigan Gas Utilities franchise agreement ordinance approved, pending approval by MGU
  2. Feb 5 ’2430 year natural gas franchise agreement approved as Ordinance 24-0001

2023

Monroe County bike path through the cityDec 18 ’23
  1. Apr 17 ’23Monroe County 100 mile bike path routed through the City of Petersburg approved, with the proposed signage to be installed
  2. Dec 18 ’23Monroe County bike path signage, including in Petersburg, to begin soon and be complete by March 2024
New DPW pickup with plow and disposal of the old vanDec 18 ’23
  1. Oct 3 ’22Pick-up trucks with the proper equipment hard to find; advertising may be needed
  2. Oct 17 ’22Up to $65,000 approved for a new truck with plow for the DPW department
  3. Nov 1 ’22New pickup with plow purchased; the water service van to be disposed of and the old pickup converted for water service use
  4. Dec 18 ’23Old water department van cleaned out and to be put up for bid
Early voting site at the municipal buildingNov 1 ’23
  1. Aug 21 ’23Clerk reported the city and the township will consolidate the mandatory 9 days of early voting from 2024 at the City building
  2. Nov 1 ’23Municipal Building approved as the city's Early Voting Site beginning in 2024
City Charter review and updatesOct 16 ’23
  1. Dec 5 ’22Planning Commission chair reported the commission met and is interested in a project, possibly reviewing and updating the City Charter
  2. Feb 6 ’23Planning Commission goals set: review of Master Plan goals and City Charter review, with Charter revision found outside its scope
  3. Jun 5 ’23Planning Commission reported working on the City Charter update with the city attorney
  4. Oct 2 ’23Planning Commission's proposed City Charter updates sent to the city attorney for review
  5. Oct 16 ’23Proposed City Charter changes reviewed with the city attorney, who will prioritize items and prepare a timeline and cost
Tree removal contract with Cress Tree ServiceSep 18 ’23
  1. Sep 5 ’23Tree removal bids still awaited
  2. Sep 18 ’23Removal of five trees awarded to Cress Tree Service for $6,845
Portable generator repairsSep 5 ’23
  1. Jun 20 ’23Portable generator reported to be under repair
  2. Jul 3 ’23Repair work on the portable generator continues
  3. Aug 1 ’23Portable generator to go out for additional repair
  4. Aug 21 ’23Generator motor repaired; error code still to be corrected
  5. Sep 5 ’23Portable generator repaired and back in use, with minor adjustment still needed
DTE tree grant plantings and removalsSep 5 ’23
  1. May 2 ’222022 DTE Tree Grant application to be prepared
  2. Sep 6 ’22DTE Tree Grant awards delayed; tree planting may not happen this fall
  3. Oct 17 ’22$800 DTE tree grant awarded to the City; 10 trees to be planted in early November
  4. Nov 1 ’22Three of four estimates received for tree removals; a minimum of ten trees to be planted this fall with grant money
  5. Nov 21 ’22Ten trees to be planted by a nursery next week
  6. Dec 5 ’22Whether new trees will be planted this year reported uncertain
  7. Sep 5 ’23Nursery offers to plant the four trees not planted last fall
DPW employee vacancy and hiring searchJun 20 ’23
  1. May 15 ’23Search for a DPW employee continues with no applicants yet
  2. Jun 5 ’23Open DPW position: one interview held, a second set for Thursday
  3. Jun 20 ’23Open DPW position filled, with the new employee starting June 26
2023 city water rate increaseJun 5 ’23
  1. May 15 ’23Water rates rise 10% per 1,000 gallons for city and township residents and bulk water rate set at $17.50 per 1,000 gallons, effective July 1, 2023; resolution to follow
  2. Jun 5 ’23Resolution adopting rates and charges for the City Water System approved
Removal of old nonworking hydrantsMay 1 ’23
  1. Jun 20 ’22Bags ordered to cover old nonworking hydrants until they can be removed
  2. May 1 ’23Only 5-6 old hydrants remain to be removed
Tree removal and trimming bid awardApr 17 ’23
  1. Apr 3 ’23Two estimates being sought for removal of three trees and trimming of one
  2. Apr 17 ’23Tree removal and trimming bid awarded to All-Year Tree Service, $5,300 for removal of three trees and trimming of one
Document shredding day at spring clean-upApr 17 ’23
  1. Feb 6 ’23Document shredding day to be explored for the April 29 Spring Clean-up date
  2. Feb 21 ’23Shredding company still being sought to attend cleanup day
  3. Mar 6 ’23City shredding event with Summerfield Township to be explored, with costs and possible sponsors pursued
  4. Mar 20 ’23Document shredding offered to city and Summerfield Township residents by Lenawee County Goodwill at $.25 per pound on April 29 if the date is secured
  5. Apr 3 ’23Document shredding confirmed for April 29, 9am-1pm in the municipal parking lot with Summerfield Township, alongside Spring Clean Up
  6. Apr 17 ’23DPW asked to barricade the municipal parking lot Saturday morning before shred day for the truck to set up
Landscaping restoration for the water projectApr 17 ’23
  1. Dec 19 ’22Landscaping to finish water project restoration to go out for 3-5 bids, work to be completed in the spring
  2. Feb 21 ’23Five lawn care companies to bid on the restoration project; bids due March 10 at 11:30 a.m
  3. Mar 20 ’23Davey Tree Expert Company bid of $24,477.25 accepted for landscaping restoration to complete the water system upgrade project
  4. Mar 20 ’23Contract with Davey Tree Expert Company for landscaping restoration approved as drafted by consultants and reviewed by the city attorney
  5. Apr 17 ’23Restoration work from the water project has begun and should be complete this week
Police coverage and the school liaison officerFeb 21 ’23
  1. Jan 18 ’22Police coverage revisited with the county sheriff and Summerfield Schools; superintendent to attend February 7 and the sheriff February 22
  2. Feb 7 ’22School liaison officer position proposed to stay as is for now, with possible periodic city patrols; school grants for liaison officers may open in March or April
  3. Feb 7 ’22School superintendent and the sheriff to return to the February 22 council meeting to discuss liaison officer options
  4. Feb 22 ’22County sheriff gave council an update on the school liaison officer and city police coverage
  5. Jun 6 ’22Police coverage for the city under discussion with the Sheriff's Department
  6. Sep 6 ’22Sheriff deputy to check in at both Summerfield schools morning, lunch and end of day, and attend Friday night games when scheduled
  7. Feb 6 ’23Effect of the school district's safety resource officer grant on the city's current sheriff contract to be determined
  8. Feb 21 ’23Mayor met with the sheriff on the school resource officer and its effect on the city

2022

Winter 2022 tree removals by All-Year Tree ServiceDec 5 ’22
  1. Nov 21 ’22Six trees to be removed by All Year Tree Service on the low bid of $7,800
  2. Dec 5 ’22Seven trees to be removed by All Year Tree Service December 26-28
Finalizing the water main project with the excavating contractorDec 5 ’22
  1. Jan 18 ’22Half of a repair bill to be paid for damages possibly caused by the water project contractor
  2. Feb 22 ’22Attorney's letter to E.R. Zeiler Excavating on finalizing the water project to be signed by the mayor and sent by the clerk
  3. Mar 16 ’22City engineer and city attorney gave updates on the USDA Water Project regarding E.R. Zeiler Excavating's proposed March 5, 2022 contract additions
  4. Mar 16 ’22Mayor directed to sign and send a letter to E.R. Zeiler Excavating responding to the proposed March 5, 2022 contract additions to the USDA Water Project
  5. Apr 18 ’22Contractor to perform restoration work for the water project on April 25
  6. May 16 ’22Water project reviewed by the mayor with the city engineer and attorney on May 11
  7. Jun 6 ’22Finalizing the water main project and mediation with the contractor discussed, with the matter still pending
  8. Jun 20 ’22Water project status and final payment letter to the contractor still unanswered
  9. Jul 5 ’22Water project finalization still without an update
  10. Aug 22 ’22Excavating contract to be terminated seven days after notice over six unfinished change orders; city to finish work and charge the contractor
  11. Sep 6 ’22Water project wrap-up pending; cost to complete punch list items being priced with DAC, then referred to the city attorney and USDA
  12. Dec 5 ’22Resolution authorizing the final payment request and closing the Waterline Replacement Project adopted
City office hoursSep 19 ’22
  1. Aug 8 ’22Revision of Friday city office hours tabled to the August 22, 2022 meeting
  2. Aug 22 ’22Office hours proposal held until the September 6, 2022 meeting when the clerk will be present
  3. Sep 6 ’22City office hours kept as is for now
  4. Sep 19 ’22City office hours revised, reversing the vote two weeks earlier: Monday and Wednesday 9am-4pm, Tuesday and Friday 9am-1pm, from October 3
City concrete work bidSep 19 ’22
  1. Jul 5 ’22Estimates to be obtained for city concrete work
  2. Aug 22 ’22City awaiting bids for concrete and hot mix patching
  3. Sep 19 ’22Concrete work bid accepted in the amount of $5,000
Recreation Commission director vacancyAug 8 ’22
  1. Jun 20 ’22Recreation Commission director resigning when the Little League season ends; a new director being sought
  2. Jul 5 ’22Recreation Commission seeking a new director; meeting with the school to be held soon
  3. Aug 8 ’22Recreation Commission Director position filled effective immediately as recommended by the Recreation Commission
Solar lighting for the walking pathAug 8 ’22
  1. Jun 6 ’22Solar lights for the walking path requested for inclusion in the 2022-2023 budget
  2. Jul 18 ’22Solar lighting along the walking path near the high school; the mayor to look into it
  3. Aug 8 ’22Solar lighting prototype presented for the asphalt path to Summerfield High School: thirty posts 24" high, 50' apart along the east side
Zoning Ordinance updateAug 8 ’22
  1. May 16 ’22Zoning Ordinance update complete; to be presented at a public hearing during the May 24 Planning Commission meeting
  2. Jun 6 ’22Final revision of the Zoning Ordinance book to be presented by the planning consultant on August 8
  3. Jul 18 ’22Final draft of the Zoning Ordinance under review, reduced from 131 to 121 pages; planning consultant to attend the August 8 council meeting
  4. Aug 8 ’222022 Zoning Ordinance adopted as updated and approved by the Planning Commission, with text converted to tables and diagrams
City property and liability insurance quotesJul 5 ’22
  1. Apr 18 ’22Quote to be sought from another firm on city property and liability insurance, not reviewed for several years
  2. Jul 5 ’22Liability and Property Pool coverage renewed with Michigan Municipal League/Meadowbrook
Outside alcohol sales licensingMay 2 ’22
  1. Apr 18 ’22Outside Alcohol Sales License and Hold Harmless Agreement forms adopted, required of anyone serving alcohol outside
  2. May 2 ’22One temporary use of right-of-way and outside alcohol sales license approved for 2022