By Barb Pert Templeton
The regular bi-monthly meeting of the Algonac City Council on Feb. 18 lasted just over 48- minutes and all council members were present. The meeting began 30-minutes early so officials could go into a closed session before the normal meeting start time of 6 p.m.
Here are a few highlights:
New section in Fire Hydrant Ordinance
Algonac City Council approved the adoption of an amendment to Chapter 44 ‘Utilities’ to Article II Water Division 1 Generally by adding Section 28 Fire Hydrants. In a memo in the meeting packet submitted by Fire Chief Joe Doan it stated the ordinance change was recommended by the chief and then written by the city attorney before coming to the council for approval. The new section included three items: 1. Prohibits anyone from opening a fire hydrant without a permit. 2. Requires the permit holder to arrange for payment of any water used. 3. Requires that only a regulation fire wrench by used to open the fire hydrant. The council was unanimous in its approval of the new section for the ordinance.
Utility Skid-Unit Equipment Grant
The Algonac City Council approved $3,700 in matching grant funds for equipment for a utility vehicle utilized by both the city fire department and the DPW. In a memo to the council from Fire Chief Joe Doan and DPW Foreman Joe Vernier, the duo explained that previously the council had approved the purchase of a new utility vehicle with a plow for $37,082. The vehicle needed additional equipment so the department heads applied for a grant through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources Volunteer Fire Capacity Program for a chain saw, leaf blower and skid kit. The city was awarded $3,700 and had to match it with $3,700 for a total cost for the equipment of $7,400. Officials looked at three bids for the equipment and awarded this one to KIMTEK Corporation for $5,650. The total meant $2,825 of grant monies would be used and the city would kick in $2,825.
Riverside Market moved to Riverside Park
The market will be hosted at Riverside Park on Fridays, from 3 to 7:30 p.m. May 9 to Oct. 24. The market was previously hosted at Smith Recreation Park in the city. The market will also be open on Aug. 8 for the Blue Water Antique Yard Sale Trail. The market will be run by Michelle Binaghi with Jacob’s Ladder Farm and Home. The market will include farmers and small vendors who will pay $10 a week for their booth space. The market will not be held when there are other major events at the park. All of the applications and permits have been received by the city and the sheriff’s department has approved all safety and security plans.
State of the community event private
The Anchor Bay Chamber of Commerce will host a ‘State of the Community” event with leaders from Algonac, Clay and Ira townships on Thursday, March 6. The event will be private and for members of the chamber and their guests. The luncheon will be held at the Algonac Lions Club from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Speakers will include Dan Casey with the EDA of St. Clair County, Clay Township Supervisor Paul Cassidy, Ira Township Supervisor Jim Endres and Algonac Mayor Rocky Gillis. Tickets are $25 and include lunch. There may be some special appearances by other local state officials. Contact the Anchor Bay Chamber at (586)725-5148. The Algonac Lions Hall is located at 1905 Mill Street in the city.
Up next on March 4 agenda
City Manager Denice Gerstenberg told officials what will be on the council’s next meeting. A special event permit for music in the park, engineering design proposal for the Lions Field Pathway, a presentation by St. Clair County Sheriff Mat King and Algonac Asset award for teacher of the year.
