Student Liaison Brings Two Youth Issues Before the Commission

IRONWOOD, MI - Tuesday, December 28, 2010 - At last night's City Commission meeting Student Liaison Ashleigh Niemi presented her report on youth matters to the Commission. Mayor Bob Burchell introduced her to the audience. Niemi told the Commission that she had two issues that she would like to discuss.

The first issue Niemi talked about was the possibility of getting help to provide signage on the highway to let visitors know where the Luther L. Wright High School is located. According to Niemi, Marcy Kusz indicated the school has the funds to pay for the signage, but they need help with the permits and installation of the sign(s). Niemi asked the Commission if someone from the City could work with Mr. Tim Kolesar to develop adequate signage for the school.

The second issue Niemi mentioned was the possibility of a getting a crossing guard in front of the high school building. She said that many people use Ayer Street and that it is dangerous for the younger students to cross the street.

Commissioner Lamb asked if the speed sign could be placed there to make drivers aware of how fast they are traveling in that area. Scott Erickson said warning signs would also help.

Mayor Burchell questioned why the high school doesn't have a crossing guard in the area.

The City Commission and the City Manager complimented Ms. Niemi for the good suggestions and they assured her they would do what they can to assist the school with these issues.

Other Issues

Prior to last night's meeting the Commission held a brief Public Hearing to hear comment on a grant application for a USDA Development Grant in the amount of $9,000 for the purchase of a new Public Safety patrol car. There were now public comments.

Present for last night's meeting were four of the five Commissioners: Corcoran; Lamb; Burchell and Semo. Lucius was excused. City staff on hand included: City Manager Scott Erickson; City Clerk Karen Gullan; City Attorney Dennis Cossi; City Appraiser/Building Inspector Dennis Hewitt; Community Development Director Merritt Bussiere; DPW Supervisior Bob Richards; Financial Director Julie Frederickson; and IPSD Officer Andrew DiGiorgio. Representing the press were Diane Montz from the Daily Globe and yours truly.

Other matters discussed and passed by the Commission last night include:

  1. By approving the Consent Agenda, the Commission voted to Approve the Minutes of December 13th regular meeting and the special meeting minutes of the December 17th; Reviewed and Placed on File the DIDA Meeting Minutes for December 2nd and the Parks and Recreation meeting minutes from December 1st; and scheduled a Public Hearing for Monday, January 24, 2010 at 5:20 PM to hear comment regarding the amendment of the noise ordinance.
  2. Julie Frederickson presented the Statement of Revenue and Expenditures to the Commission as well as the Monthly Cash Reports. There was nothing discovered that was unusual.
  3. The Commission approved easements for Lots 2, 4, and 5 of Block thirty-one (31), Village of Jessieville. This is to accommodate new transmission and waste lines in the area.
  4. Voted to waive Vendor License Fee for vendors participating in the SISU Event.
  5. Approved Planning Commission recommendations to give the new comprehensive plan development a vote of confidence and support.
  6. Approved Rural Development Pay Package in the amount of $3,159.21 for the City of Ironwood Utility Project – Phase II (Water Portion) and authorize Mayor to sign all applicable documents.
  7. Approved Rural Development Pay Package in the amount of $3,159.21 for the City of Ironwood Utility Project – Phase II (Sewer Portion) and authorize Mayor to sign all applicable documents.
  8. Approved Rural Development Pay Package in the amount of $634,026.64 for the City of Ironwood Aurora Utility Project – Phase I (Water Portion) and authorize Mayor to sign all applicable documents.
  9. Approved Rural Development Pay Package in the amount of $83,618.31 for the City of Ironwood Aurora Utility Project – Phase I (Sewer Portion) and authorize Mayor to sign all applicable documents.

Mayor’s Appointments

  1. Mayor Burchell nominated and the Commission approved two re-appointment to the Planning Commission -- Jackie Powers and Courtland Geib.
  2. Mayor Burchell nominated and the Commission approved one appointment to the Ironwood Economic Development Corporation Board -- Joseph Lempki.

This reporter voiced concern that none of these openings were submitted by the City to the Chronicle for publication. The City Manager assured the Commission that all efforts are being made to forward all press releases to this publication. Mayor Burchell noted that there is currently another opening on the Planning Commission and he asked that the City's Official Online Newspaper be included in all press releases and notifications.

Margaret Rayner notified the Planning Commission that she will no longer be able to serve as she is moving. Jim Lorenson likewise notified the IEDC that he would no longer be serving. The Commission asked that both individuals be recognized for their service to the community.

Manager's Report

City Manager Scott Erickson presented his report to the Commission last night. The report included the following items:

  • Last week the City Staff put together a pre-application grant called the Downtown Infrastructure Grant (DIG) which is through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). This grant is a compliment to the previously applied for enhancement grant. The amount of the grant is $411,870. Erickson indicated that the grant is very competitive as there are limited funds and a large number of communities fighting for them.
  • The Comprehensive Deer Managment Program (Deer Hunt) will be coming to a close at the end of the month. To date, over 40 deer have been taken as a result of the hunt. Final numbers will be presented to the Commission at a later date.
  • Community Development Director Merritt Bussiere has been working on an RFP for a redesign of the City's website. Estimates should be coming in by Thursday, January 6, 2011.
  • Bussiere has also been in negotiations with the Norrie School project working out issues of logistics and timing. The property that will eventually house a new apartment complex will need to be rezoned. On Monday, January 24, 2011, at the Regular City Commission Meeting, a special Planning Commission meeting will be tied to that. The will be a public hearing as well. This method will streamline City operations and allow the developer to work more efficiently with the City.
  • The Pro-Vintage Oval Track Race will be taking place this weekend... Friday, December 31, 2010 through Sunday, January 2, 2011. The parade will be on Friday and the race goes from Saturday to Sunday.
  • The SISU Ski Race is coming up shortly - January 14th and 15th.