Depot Pavilion Project and more
If you travel down by the old Railroad Depot you will find some new construction on the depot grounds. Construction of a 40’ by 70’ multi-use pavilion began approximately a week ago. With favorable weather gracing our community, it is expected this structure will be completed within the next month. Thanks to the RESA building trades program for supplying much of the skilled labor, and continued kudos to the St. Johns Rotary Club for their significant financial contributions to this project.
City Commission Receives Audit Report: The accounting firm of Abraham & Gaffney, represented by Aaron Stevens, summarized its City of St. Johns audit findings for fiscal year 2009-2010 at the November 8th City Commission meeting. The audit report reflected the City’s strong financial position in the face of difficult economic times. The City continues to utilize a conservative approach to expenditures allowing for further uncertainties that is anticipated with State revenue sharing payments and reductions in tax levy. By all indicators the operating budget was well-managed by city staff during the last fiscal year. For the tenth straight year the City received the GFOA Award for excellence in financial reporting. Fewer than 5% of Michigan municipalities receive this annual award. City Treasurer Greg Teichman and all City staff members are to be commended for their dedication and professionalism concerning the financial results from this past fiscal year.
South End Drainage Improvements: The City Commission recently approved a resolution that petitions the Clinton County Drain Commission to create a Special Assessment District in the City’s south end. This district would be created so that certain storm water issues can be addressed with respect to the Townsend Road Holding Pond and the Bee’s Big Ditch. The ultimate goal is to improve storm water drainage, which in turn will permit additional economic development in this area of the city.
City Commission Approves Commercial Rehabilitation Exemption: The owner of the old municipal firehall had its application for a property rehabilitation property tax reduction approved by the City Commission at its October 25th meeting. Lisa Kurncz, the proprietor of the “Sirens” business sited at the firehall, received this exemption based on a finding that increased commercial activity and employment opportunities would result from “rehabbing” the building. Tax exemptions of this nature are dependent on the property owner rehabilitating a building or facility that is more than 15 years old to a condition that maintains the historical nature of the site.
The new “Sirens” will be a social gathering place with music, dancing, alcohol and some food service.
Littering Ordinance: The City Code was amended to add “littering” as a local ordinance violation. Previously the unlawful disposal of materials in the city was governed by state law, which was considered inadequate with respect to addressing some unique city littering issues. The ordinance places new requirements on newspaper, periodical and flyer distribution to homes and businesses in St. Johns.
Federal Law Sign Mandate: The City recently received a mandate from the Federal Highway Administration regarding the replacement of local road signs. Municipalities will have until 2015 to meet new federal requirements regarding placement, design and visibility of public signage. Municipal officials around the country have expressed their displeasure with the new federal regulations, which they feel are unneeded and will cost communities thousands of dollars. The federal government has not allocated any funding to states or municipalities for the required modifications.
Leaf Collection Continues: During the week of November 29th City public works crews will be sweeping the City in their continuing effort to collect fallen and raked leaves. Loose leaves left in piles near the curb (not in the right-of-way) will be removed during this time period. 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 deposit of leaves in the city storm water system and advances the City’s free compost program for our residents.
The Holiday Season Is Upon Us: Approval for the “Santa Parade of Lights” was granted by the City Commission at its last public meeting. The annual parade—a big hit for the kids—will be held on December 3rd at 5:45 pm. The parade begins at the Courthouse and travels downtown to the Depot area, where the City Christmas tree lighting will take place.