Rails To Trails Update: The 42 mile Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee recreational trail, which runs through the heart of St. Johns, is nearing completion. The limestone surface has been placed for the entire project (Ionia to Owosso). All sections from Ionia to Fowler have been rolled, compacted and graded as has the section west of the Village of Ovid. The paved sections through Ovid and St. Johns have also been completed. The traffic and regulatory signs (for the trail and the crossing roads) are being installed at the intersections. “Prep” work is ongoing around the Veterans Memorial on Clinton Avenue. MDOT and the contractor are coordinating this work with the City of St. Johns and the Veterans Group to make sure that the memorial is treated properly and with respect. It is anticipated that all major work items on the trail will be completed by October 31. We would like to remind everyone that the trail is still under construction and not yet open for use. A grand opening will be scheduled for the spring of 2015.
City Committees: Resident involvement and input in city government is crucial in our democratic system. There are several citizen committees established by the City Commission for those residents who want a voice in local decision-making. Vacancies on these working groups come up throughout the calendar year as terms end. If you are interested learning more about or serving on a citizens’ committee, contact City Clerk Mindy Seavey at 224-8944, ext. 223.
New Police Chief Selected: Kyle Knight has been chosen as the new Chief of Police for the St. Johns Police Department. Of the 27 candidates who applied, seven individuals were selected as finalists and interviewed by an advisory committee comprised of city officials, staff and a local resident. Sergeant Knight’s selection was unanimously endorsed by the City Commission at its October 27, 2014 meeting.
Kyle started his law enforcement career 27 years ago, working his way up from St. Johns Police Department dispatcher to Administrative Sergeant with the Clinton County Sheriff’s Department. Kyle was also a patrolman for St. Johns as well as a road patrol sergeant and detective sergeant with the sheriff’s department. Sergeant Knight replaces long-time Police Chief Michael Madden, who concludes his distinguished career in law enforcement on December 1, 2014. Chief Madden served as the St. Johns Police Chief for 24 years.
Public Safety Ordinance: The City Commission passed an ordinance eliminating the Public Safety Director position, which has the effect of moving additional fire department administrative responsibilities, including budgetary matters, to the Fire Chief. This re-allocation of responsibilities between police and fire was done in advance of the hiring of a new police chief. Fire Chief Dean Mazzolini will take on the bulk of these transferred responsibilities, allowing the new chief to focus entirely on law enforcement in our community.
Leaf Bags And Leaf Disposal: The City continues to pick up bagged leaves placed curbside by residents. This method of disposal is encouraged by city staff, as it minimizes the accumulation of leaves in the city storm water sewer system. We commend our residents for their widespread use of leaf bags for leaf collection this fall. If you need more leaf bags they can be obtained at no charge from the City Offices, the Briggs Public Library or by calling DPW offices at 224-8944, ext. 229
Loose leaves left in piles near the curb will be removed by city crews the week of November 17th, weather permitting. Do not rake loose leaves into the street as they tend to get washed down the storm sewers during heavy rains blocking drainage and may also cause a traffic hazard. Keep in mind that the City’s leaf and tree limb drop off site is located at the Department of Public Works behind the salt storage barn and is open 24-7 for your convenience. Access to the drop off site after normal hours is off Kuntz street.