Dave Boots Retires. At the December 12, 2011 City Commission Meeting, St. Johns city employee David Boots was recognized and honored with a Resolution of Appreciation for his 21 years of valued service to the community. Besides serving as the City’s mechanic for mobile equipment, Dave worked in other capacities, including during emergency situations such as major weather events and during power outages. We are sad to see him go. The entire City staff and elected officials wish him the best.
Habitat For Humanity Wants To Build In The City. Habitat for Humanity of Clinton County recently approached the City Commission with a request to purchase vacant city land at the corner of Lansing Street and Townsend Road. Habitat intends to build one of its residential homes at that location. The City Commission passed a Resolution approving the sale of one parcel of land to Habitat at what was once a public well site, which moves this possible land transaction closer to fruition. The City is pleased to partner with Habitat for such a good cause.
Spray Park Resolution. The City Commission adopted a resolution in support of the construction and installation of a recreational spray park at the St. Johns City Park. This project is gaining considerable support. Funding sources are being sought, to include both private and public contributions. Grant opportunities are likewise being explored. The City has pledged $50,000 to this recreational project. If you would like to make a donation or otherwise want to be involved in promoting this project please contact City Recreational Director Bill Schafer at 989-224-8944 ext. 227.
Dangerous Building Appeal Hearing: A residential property located at 500 S. Clinton Ave. is the subject of a city action to condemn the structure or have it brought into compliance with the city’s zoning and property maintenance ordinances. The time to appeal the initial finding that this residence is a dangerous building was extended an additional 60 days by City Commission vote. It is hoped the current owner, Chase Financial, will use this time to bring the property up to code.
Waste Management Presents Annual Report. Joe Denczeck of Waste Management, the City’s refuse collection company, presented his company’s annual report at the December 12, 2011 City Commission Meeting. During the last fiscal year City residents generated 1,037 tons of non-recyclable garbage, which translates to 777 lbs. per household. Mr. Denczeck was impressed with City residents’ recycling efforts. On a per household, per year basis, residents recycle almost 300 lbs. of curbside recyclables in St. Johns. That is more than 398 tons of materials recycled per year by St. Johns residents. It is noteworthy that in the United States each person on average generates 4.4 lbs. of refuse per day!
F.C. Mason Receives Tax Incentive. The City Commission passed a measure permitting certain tax incentives for F.C. Mason related to their purchase of new equipment and creation of new, family-sustaining jobs. This local company intends to install new equipment with the expectation of creating many new jobs at its plant. The City Commission also took action regarding the vacated Federal-Mogul building approving a Plant Rehabilitation District that will allow future incentives for any new business that makes facility improvements. Any incentives will require separate action at a later date by the City Commission.
City Looks To Purchase Downtown Property For Public Parking. A Resolution offering to purchase a parcel of land at the corner of Spring and Higham Streets was passed by unanimous City Commission vote at its December meeting. This lot will serve downtown businesses and patrons should the City be successful in purchasing the property.
Merry Christmas To All. Once again our community is filled with holiday cheer, sparkling lights and Christmas decorations. The Principal Shopping District Board is to be commended for putting together another terrific Santa parade for the young residents of the area. Please take time from your busy holiday schedules to visit and shop in our beautiful downtown during this Christmas season. Along with City staff and the members of the City Commission I wish you and yours a Safe and Happy Holiday Season.