Public Meetings - Taylor, Michigan

The Taylor City Council met on May 20, 2026, at 6:30 PM (local time) to approve routine budgets, a sole-source fire equipment purchase, and a police firearm auction. Public comments addressed city inspection issues, the 287G immigration agreement, and golf course construction. A late resolution to condemn a U.S. House member's vote failed 5-2. Consent Calendar - Approved the agenda and minutes of the May 5, 2026 meeting. - Approved the reappointments of Stephanie Krueger, Christopher Dunn, and Tom O'Lett to the Veterans Museum Commission for three-year terms expiring May 31, 2029. - Approved a consent agenda containing routine items (not individually specified). Public Comments & Testimony - First speaker (no name given): Complained that city inspection workers are targeting him due to a neighbor who is a relative of a city employee, alleging harassment and that the neighbor has garbage in his yard. Also objected to a $50+ fee for a permit to install a flagpole, calling it a "travesty of justice." Council members suggested discussing the matter with the mayor after the meeting. - Second speaker (no name given): Provided a detailed factual correction of misconceptions about the 287G agreement with ICE discussed at a previous meeting. He clarified that the agreement does not give ICE authority to enter the city, does not require reporting of undocumented immigrants generally, does not prohibit joint operations but makes cooperation mandatory, and that Taylor Police would be under ICE supervision in joint operations. He distributed copies of the agreement from the ICE website. - Third speaker (no name given): Resident at 14400 Gully Street complained about the city's property (sidewalk to curb) being overgrown with ruts and tall grass, the street torn up by heavy equipment from golf course construction, and a large pothole in front of his driveway. He also requested that mowers not start at 6:30 AM in the future. Council members said the grass would be addressed and the street would be fixed after construction. Discussion Items - 7.1 Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) Budget FY26-27: Council member Thomas explained TIFA has funded major infrastructure (animal shelter, sportsplex, DPW building, golf courses, road reconstruction) without raising taxes. The budget was approved unanimously. - 7.2 Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Budget FY26-27: Approved unanimously without discussion. - 7.3 Heart Monitor Devices (Fire Department): Sole source purchase of three heart monitor devices from Stryker Pro Care for $191,294, funded through the general fund fire department ALS account. Fire department representatives explained obsolete units on engines would be replaced by moving current ambulance units to engines, and new units would go on squads. The devices are state-of-the-art and can communicate with hospitals. Trade-in value for obsolete units was noted. Approved unanimously. - 7.4 Police Firearm Auction: Approved Cabela's as highest responsible bidder for $38,060. Unanimous. - 7.5 Officer Training: Approved two officers to attend Exxon CEO Leadership Summit in Scottsdale, Arizona, at no cost to the city. Unanimous. - 7.6 Wellness Program: Approved sole source for First Gravity Personalized Wellness Agency program, not to exceed $7,200, funded through MCO CPE training fund. Unanimous. - 7.7 Budget Amendment: Approved City of Taylor budget amendment for FY26-27 dated May 19, 2026. Unanimous. - 7.8 Aircraft Insurance: Approved Global Aerospace Inc. for aircraft insurance, not to exceed $5,832, funded through general fund. Unanimous. - Resolution Condemning U.S. House Member: Council member Armstrong introduced a last-minute resolution to condemn Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for voting no on House Resolution 1252 (honoring fallen police officers, which passed 418-2). Several council members objected to the timing (not discussed at study session), the appropriateness of condemning a federal official, and the lack of understanding of her reasons. Council member Armstrong stated it was about condemning the vote, not the person. The audience speaker asked if there was a legitimate reason for the no vote. After debate, the motion failed on a roll call vote: 5 no (Pats, Clark, Wallace, Thomas, Johnson) and 2 yes (Armstrong, Thety). Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and routine agenda items (7.1-7.8) were approved unanimously. - The resolution condemning a U.S. House member failed 5-2. - Announcements: Battle of the Badges (police vs. firefighters) baseball game on May 29 at Heritage Park at 7 PM; early voting notices (added Monday for early voting before general elections only); HVAC repairs ongoing; June 16 and July 7 council meetings relocated to Lakes of Taylor; city offices closed May 25 for Memorial Day. - Meeting adjourned at 7:09 PM.

The Taylor City Council met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 6:30 PM in the Taylor Municipal Building. The council considered a consent agenda containing routine contract renewals and financial reports, followed by several regular agenda items including budget approvals, equipment purchases, and a budget amendment. Consent Calendar - Approved Health Alliance Plan (HAP) contract renewal for pre-65 retirees for July 1, 2026 – June 30, 2027, with a 12.80% rate increase across multiple plan options. - Approved Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan/Blue Care Network contract renewals for retirees and active employees, with varying rate changes (average 0.9%–1.44% for early retiree HRA plans). - Approved Delta Dental contract renewal with no rate change; rates locked through July 1, 2027. - Approved VSP (vision) contract renewal with no rate change; rates locked through July 1, 2027. - Approved SVE (Single Vision Solution) vision plan renewal at $6.94 per employee per month, no change. - Received and filed the April 2026 Budget Performance Report, showing General Fund year-to-date revenues at 67.04% of budget ($38.81M actual vs. $57.89M amended) and expenditures at 73.38% ($44.78M actual vs. $61.03M amended), resulting in a negative fund balance of ($5.97M). - Received and filed the April 2026 Paid Invoice Report totaling $5,621,613.48 across 1,180 invoices. Discussion Items - FY 2026/2027 Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) Budget – Motion to approve the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. - FY 2026/2027 Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Budget – Motion to approve the DDA budget. - Stryker ProCare Services (Sole Source) – Heart Monitoring Devices – Purchase of three (3) LP35 heart monitoring devices and accessories for the Fire Department, funded through the General Fund Fire Department ALS Account, in an amount not to exceed $191,294 (including shipping). - Cabela’s – Police Firearms Auction – Approval of Cabela’s as the highest responsible bidder for the Police Department’s firearm auction, in the amount of $38,060. - Axon CEO Leadership Technology Summit – Approval to send two (2) officers to attend the summit in Scottsdale, AZ at no cost to the city. - Firstgevity Personalized Wellness – Agency Program (Sole Source) – Approval for an amount not to exceed $7,200, funded through MCOLES CPE Training Funds. - Budget Amendment 2026-007 – Amendment to the FY 2025-2026 budget: increased General Fund revenue by $456,415 (new Public Safety State Sharing) and increased appropriations by $536,200 (risk management professional services and DPW vehicle outfitting); increased Building and Grounds Fund revenue and appropriations by $333,977 (insurance proceeds for TSX pump repair and Wayne County Parks grant for pickleball courts). - Global Aerospace, Inc. – Unmanned Aircraft System Insurance – Approval of insurance for drones, paid through Nickel and Saph, Inc. (city agent of record), in an amount not to exceed $5,832, funded through the General Fund. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items were approved unanimously. - All regular agenda items (7.1–7.8) were approved; specific vote tallies are not recorded in the agenda, but standard council practice indicates unanimous approval in the absence of noted opposition. - The budget amendment (7.7) adjusted the General Fund ending fund balance estimate from ($3.14M) to ($3.22M) and the Building and Grounds Fund ending balance remained unchanged at $680,640.

The Taylor City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in the Taylor Municipal Building. All seven council members, Mayor Timothy Woolley, Clerk Cynthia Bower, and Treasurer Nicone Dragone Sr. were present. The council approved the agenda as amended, approved prior minutes, made a DDA appointment, approved routine purchases and contracts, held the annual CDBG public hearing, and approved three charter amendment ballot proposals for the November 2026 election. A lengthy open-business discussion focused on the Taylor Police Department's cooperation agreement with ICE. Routine Approvals - Approved the agenda after replacing 6.9 and adding new items 6.10 and 6.11. - Approved the minutes of the April 21, 2026 regular meeting and the April 23, 2026 special meeting. - Appointed David Nester to the Downtown Development Authority for a four-year term expiring May 5, 2030. - Approved the Personal Service Contract for Special Event Coordinator and Lakes of Taylor. - Approved Lifeline Billing Systems, LLC as the new debt collection agency for the Fire Department. - Amended CCR 6.220-25 to increase the Linde Gas blanket purchase order authority by $3,000, funded through the General Fund-Fire Department-ALS Transporting account. Councilman Armstrong noted this was not a budget increase but a reallocation of already-approved funds. - Approved Dollamur Sport Surfaces, sole source, for Self-Defense Training Mats in an amount not to exceed $7,239, funded through MCOLES CPE Funds. - Approved Glock Professional, Inc. for the Gen 5 Armorer Course and MOS-I Instructor Workshop in an amount not to exceed $3,200, funded through MCOLES CPE Training Funds. - Approved Gracie Global, LLC for Gracie Self-Defense Trainings in an amount not to exceed $9,000, funded through MCOLES CPE Training Funds. Council noted these courses train in-house trainers who can then train the rest of the department. - Amended CCR 7.290-25 by $83,000, funded through the TBA Repair and Maintenance accounts. The accompanying schedule included increases for De-Cal HVAC ($70,000), American Generators ($6,000), Jan-Door ($5,000), and Site-One ($2,000). Public Comments & Testimony - During the CDBG public hearing, Caroline Patts asked how residents can apply for assistance, whether eligibility is income-based, and whether sidewalks are covered. Staff explained that the residential rehab program is income-based, not neighborhood-based, and that general sidewalk work is not currently included except for narrow, case-by-case trip-hazard or disability-related situations. - During open business, Richard of 9622 Elm Street said ICE cooperation would erode community trust and make policing harder. - Melody strongly opposed the Taylor Police-ICE agreement, saying it endangers people of color and undocumented residents. She was ruled out of order after exceeding her time. - Cassie Gregory, a first-time attendee, opposed the 287G agreement and the possible presence of ICE at the Taylor Summer Festival and Taylor Cruise, arguing it would discourage crime reporting and frighten vulnerable residents. - Helene Gaither opposed the agreement, citing deaths in ICE detention and fear among immigrant neighbors. - Joan Pence, identified as the lead of Western Wayne Indivisible, opposed the agreement, arguing it does not improve safety and imposes hidden trust costs. She cited U.S. census data, as she described it, showing immigrants are 60% less likely to commit crimes resulting in incarceration compared to native-born citizens. - Multiple residents defended the police department, saying there have been no ICE raids in Taylor, no school operations, and that the agreement helps ensure local officers are present if ICE acts. One speaker said the agreement is a positive because it gives Taylor police a role in controlling events in the city. - Resident William Heimiller asked whether crime victims are screened for immigration status. The police chief responded that victims are not turned over to ICE; officers only act when a detainer or warrant appears during normal police work, just as they would for any citizen. Discussion Items - Community Development staff presented the draft PY 2026-27 CDBG budget. The estimated HUD entitlement is $476,251; with $50,000 in estimated program income, total available funding is $526,251. Public services are capped at 15%, or $80,718, and administration and planning at 20%, or $105,250. The draft proposes $140,283 for housing rehabilitation, $12,500 each for Fish and Loaves, The Guidance Center, and Senior Alliance, $43,218 for Senior Services, $200,000 for ADA door systems in public buildings, and $105,250 for general administration and planning. - Staff explained that the program is a HUD formula entitlement grant, requires public input, and must be submitted by August 16. A 30-day public comment period is open, and council adoption is planned for the June 16, 2026 meeting. The proposed budget is a draft and may change based on public comment. - The council approved three charter amendment ballot proposals. Amendment 15.2 would raise the threshold for purchases of physical materials, tools, and equipment without competitive bidding from $2,000 to $5,000. Amendment 15.3 would raise the threshold for public improvement contracts requiring council approval from $2,000 to $5,000. Amendment 15.4 would raise the related contract threshold from $2,000 to $5,000. Councilman Wallace noted the threshold was last raised from $500 to $2,000 in 1997 and would be approximately $4,800 today with CPI adjustment. The mayor said many neighboring communities have $15,000-$20,000 thresholds and the change would streamline purchasing. - During open business, the police chief said no local police department can bar ICE from operating in a city. He said Taylor police have conducted zero ICE operations, have not gone into schools or businesses, and do not turn over crime victims. He reported four ICE-related contacts this year, including one individual who traveled more than 1,300 miles with 3,000 grams of fentanyl and nearly 29,000 pills, was charged with a 20-year felony, and was turned over to ICE after the criminal process. He also said Homeland Security, not ICE, has provided security at city festivals for more than 15 years. - The mayor said the 287G agreement has been in place for more than a year, that no issues have arisen, and that officers he spoke with were comfortable with the policy. Several council members said they trust the police chief and do not want Minneapolis-style ICE operations in Taylor. No formal council action was taken on the ICE agreement because it was not an agenda item. Key Outcomes - All motions before the council were approved by voice vote with no announced opposition. - The CDBG public hearing was opened and closed. The public comment period will remain open for 30 days, and the final action plan and Five-Year Consolidated Plan are scheduled for council consideration on June 16, 2026. - The council directed the City Clerk to submit the three approved charter amendment proposals to the Governor of Michigan and the Michigan Attorney General for approval and to place them on the November 2026 election ballot. - The meeting adjourned at 8:01 p.m.

The Taylor City Council met in special session on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at the Taylor Municipal Building (23555 Goddard Rd., Taylor, MI). The meeting was called to order at 6:31 p.m., and all council members, the mayor, the clerk, and the treasurer were present. The council held a public hearing on the proposed FY 2026-2027 budget (originally submitted April 1, 2026), approved the 2026 ad valorem tax levy, and adopted the General Appropriations Act and the FY 2025-2026 Omnibus Budget Amendment. Public Comments & Testimony - The public hearing was noticed in a newspaper of general circulation on March 15, 2026. During the hearing, one speaker said they were very surprised and pleased with the openness of the budget process and thanked department heads for answering all questions. Discussion Items - Agenda and hearing motions: The council unanimously approved the agenda, voted to open the public hearing, and later voted to close it after receiving the comment. - 2026 ad valorem tax levy (Agenda Item 4.4): The published agenda and draft resolution stated a rate of 24.8392 mills, but the council amended the motion to 24.8402 mills. CFO Jason Couture explained that Wayne County had submitted final equalization figures on Monday, including previously omitted veterans exemption taxable values, causing a 0.0001 mill difference. The approved levy of 24.8402 mills is 0.3930 mills below the 2025 rate. Total taxable value increased by approximately $102.4 million (5.6%) to $1,922,493,619 gross and $1,479,986,671 net of TIF captures. The Headlee millage reduction factor was 0.9929, and the Act 345 Police and Fire Retirement millage decreased by 0.2993 mills. The levy is expected to raise $37,807,639 net of TIF captures. - Headlee and Truth in Taxation memo (Agenda Item 4.5): Mr. Couture explained that Headlee rollbacks cap levy growth at inflation and are cumulative and permanent unless voters approve an override. The Truth in Taxation base rate fraction for 2026 is 0.9668, and the hearing allowed the city to levy at the Headlee maximum and benefit from 2.7% inflation. The council received and filed the memo. - 1% property tax administration fee (Agenda Item 4.6): Mr. Couture clarified the fee is a one percent charge on the total property tax bill (e.g., $4 on a $400 bill), not on taxable value, and requires annual council approval. The council approved the fee for 2026 bills. - FY 2026-2027 General Appropriations Act and FY 2025-2026 Omnibus Budget Amendment (Agenda Item 4.7): The mayor thanked staff and the budget team, describing the budget as one of the toughest of his five budgets. The FY27 General Fund budget includes $54,591,656 in estimated revenue and $54,430,882 in appropriations, with an ending fund balance of $23,744,067. The council approved the resolution unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved, after amendment, the 2026 ad valorem tax levy rate of 24.8402 mills and authorized the clerk to certify the millage for collection. - Received and filed the Headlee and Truth in Taxation calculations. - Approved the 1% property tax administration fee for 2026 property tax bills. - Adopted the City of Taylor General Appropriations Act for FY 2026-2027 and the Omnibus Budget Amendment for FY 2025-2026. - Adjourned unanimously.

The City Council of Taylor, Michigan, met on April 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting covered routine approvals, a major fentanyl drug bust, charter amendment proposals, and several public comments. Multiple motions were passed, including the merging of city departments, approval of a new monument sign for the animal shelter, and the direction to draft two charter amendments for the ballot. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved unanimously. - Minutes of the April 7, 2026 meeting approved unanimously. - Mayor's communication: Motion to merge the Customer Assistance Center with the Building Department effective July 1, 2026, approved unanimously. - 6.2: Motion to amend CCR 6.22-25 for Apollo fire blanket purchase order increase by $20,000, funded from Fire Department repair/maintenance. Approved unanimously. - 6.3: Motion to approve DTA Leatherworks sole source purchase of custom leather suspenders for all fire members, not to exceed $6,000, funded from Fire Department uniform account. Approved unanimously after explanation of longer lifespan (10-15 years vs. 1-1.5 years for plastic). - 6.4: Motion to renew police training grant module through Lexpool LLC for $7,610. Approved unanimously. - 6.5: Motion to approve Penticton & Cobja Jack, PC as lowest qualified bidder for community development legal services at $185/hour. Approved unanimously. - 6.6: Motion to set CDBG public hearings for May 5, 2026 and June 16, 2026. Approved unanimously. - 6.7: Second reading of conditional rezoning for parcel at Telegraph (2.5 acres from B3 General Business to I1 Light Industrial). Approved 6-1, with Mr. Thety voting no citing conflict with the 2006 Master Plan. Mr. Clark and others noted it is a conditional rezoning with a specific use. - 6.8: Motion to approve MI Custom Signs low quote for new monument sign at animal shelter ($46,548). Approved unanimously after discussion about life expectancy (12-15 years) and digital sign capabilities. - 6.9: Motion to accept grant agreement with Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunities. Approved unanimously. - 6.10: Motion to approve special license application for 2026 Taylor Festival. Approved unanimously. Staff reported that the band Bad Flower canceled due to lead singer's medical issues; refunds issued. Efforts underway to secure another headliner; Eva Underfire will perform. - 6.11: Motion to approve Kent Communication as low bidder for printing/mailing early voting notification mailer ($3,780). Approved unanimously. Clerk clarified law requires one per voter. - 6.12: Motion to approve postal services up to $12,000 for election supplies. Approved unanimously. - 6.13: Motion to approve solicitors permit renewal for Anderson (door-to-door windows/doors/roofing). Approved after discussion about no-soliciting signs and permit enforcement. - 6.14: Motion to approve solicitors permit for Home Genius Exteriors (roof inspections). Approved unanimously. - 6.15: Motion to receive and file March 2026 budget performance report. Approved unanimously. - 6.16: Motion to receive and file March 2026 paid invoice reports. Approved unanimously. - 6.17: Motion to direct Corporation Counsel to draft a ballot proposal to amend Charter Chapter 15, Sections 15.2, 15.3, and 15.4 (updating fixed dollar amounts from 1997). Approved 5-2, with Mr. Thety and Mr. Armstrong voting no. Mr. Armstrong expressed concern that the proposal was rushed. Corporation Counsel noted approval does not place it on the ballot; a future resolution is needed. - Additional motion: Motion to direct Corporation Counsel to draft a ballot proposal to amend Charter Chapter 5, Section 5.2 (clerical change regarding frequency of pay). Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Caroline Pat (Jackson Street): Announced funding received for the log cabin and money allocated for lead abatement. - Jonathan Hales (Holland Street): Self-identified as autistic and attempted to report a past incident involving a pastor. Told by the Chair that this was not the proper forum and directed to speak with police. - Nick Metrichina (Morton View Drive): Invited the community to a pancake breakfast on April 26, 2026 at the Ford Senior Center (8 AM–12 PM, $10) to benefit the Taylor Veterans Museum. - Eric Hall (Holland Street): Complimented the Taylor Police Department on a recent major fentanyl bust and asked the Chief for details. (See Key Outcomes for response.) - Ed Swanson (Asphalt): Alleged the mayor accepted campaign cash from a convicted felon and asked for an explanation. No response noted in transcript. Discussion Items - Fentanyl Drug Bust: Chief described a joint operation with MSP Metro Narcotics and DEA that resulted in the seizure of over 28,000 fentanyl pills (3,000 grams), enough to kill 3 million people. Two suspects were arrested: one illegal alien, one on expired visa. Drones and flock cameras were instrumental. The Chief confirmed no Taylor officers have acted as ICE agents, and the city cooperates with federal agencies on various operations. - Charter Amendments: Two separate motions to direct drafting of ballot proposals were debated. The first (Chapter 15) passed 5-2; opponents felt it was rushed. The second (Chapter 5) passed unanimously. - Taylor Festival Band Cancellation: Guido reported that Bad Flower canceled due to medical advice; full refunds issued. An offer on another band is pending. Eva Underfire remains as the Saturday headliner. - Solicitors Permits: Discussion included enforcement of no-soliciting signs, the importance of permits, and the city's ability to issue penalties. Clerk Wendy Murphy noted her office supplies stickers and urged residents to report unlicensed solicitors. - Animal Shelter Sign: Sean from administration presented the design and answered questions about warranty (3 years), life expectancy (12-15 years), and the digital sign's use for city messaging and adoptable pet photos. Key Outcomes - Votes: All consent calendar items passed unanimously except the conditional rezoning (6-1) and the first charter amendment (5-2). The second charter amendment passed unanimously. - Directives: Corporation Counsel directed to prepare ballot language for two charter amendments (Chapter 15 and Chapter 5) for potential November 2026 ballot. - Next Steps: The city will continue efforts to secure a replacement headliner for the Taylor Festival. Acknowledgment of DPW and fire department response to recent storms. Announcements of upcoming cemetery clean-ups (April 26 and May 2) and the next shred day (September 19, 2026). - Other: Residents were provided with the non-emergency police number (734-287-6611) to report train blocking issues.

The City of Taylor Council met on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, at 6:30 p.m., and adjourned at 7:26 p.m. Members present: Mr. Path, Mr. Armstrong, Mr. Wallace, Mr. Tedy (also transcribed as Tady/Thede), Mr. Thomas, Mr. Johnson, and Mayor Woolley; Mr. Clark and Mrs. Bauer were excused. The council approved a $675,000 transfer between road funds, advanced two conditional rezoning requests (first and second readings, each 5–1), unanimously opposed six Michigan House bills that would preempt local zoning authority, and voted 4–2 to direct corporation counsel to amend the fireworks ordinance. The agenda and minutes were not available; this summary is based solely on the raw transcript. Consent Calendar & Routine Approvals - Agenda approved with three amendments: item 6.18 reworded (CCR 6.232-25, adding $425,000 to L's Asphalt Paving Company, not to exceed $4,870,000, funded through the local street fund, major street fund, Taylor Building Authority (TBA), and Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) grant); item 6.19 reworded (CCR 6.234-25, adding $250,000 to Audia Concrete Construction, not to exceed $1,765,000); and item 6.21 amended to remove the phrase "previously attached document." - Minutes of the March 17, 2026, meeting accepted unanimously. - Tribute honoring Councilman Ron Thede as the first little person elected to office in Michigan, presented by State Representative Jamie Thompson, accepted unanimously. - Personal service contracts for the fire chief and deputy fire chief approved. - KCI printing, $3,237 for final postage and processing of 2026 assessment charge notices (general fund). - CCR 2.51-26 amended, +$2,255 for Magnet Forensics Advanced XON software (police IT). - McKenna Associates engaged as planning consultant on an as-needed basis. - Pro Pump and Controls, sole-source, $17,328 for golf course irrigation pump and piping replacement at Taylor Meadows Golf Club (golf course capital outlay). - 2026 summer green fees approved for Taylor Lakes and Taylor Meadows golf courses. - Water Landscape, $3,120 for a new golf course fountain control panel. - CCR 7.295-25 amended (Sports Plex purchase agreement, DJ Services LLC). - CCR 9.430-25 amended, +$65,218 for required power and CAT 6 installation (TBA capital outlay); discussion noted this is for auto-call fire systems across 18 buildings and is additional to previously approved authority. - Cornerstone Fence, low quote, $20,136 for fencing at the splash pad and Pavilion C at Heritage Park (TBA capital outlay). - Wayne Lawn and Garden Center, low quote, $36,999 for two DPW lawnmowers (Act 48 right-of-way fund). - American Generator Sales and Service, $23,661 emergency generator rental and $21,923 replacement generator for the animal shelter (Act 179). - Resolution authorizing the city clerk to sign a resolution to remove roads from the Act 51 map. - CCR 7.288-25 amended (compost site purchase agreement, FY 2025–26). - CCR 6.232-25 amended, +$425,000 to L's Asphalt Paving Company, not to exceed $4,870,000 (local street fund, major street fund, TBA, MEDC grant). - CCR 6.234-25 amended, +$250,000 to Audia Concrete Construction, not to exceed $1,765,000. - $5,000 payment to the State of Michigan for the MS4 NPDES permit 2026 annual fee (major road fund). Mayor's Communications & Announcements - Mayor Woolley reported the loss of police K-9 Officer Cindy, who was euthanized after being found full of cancer; her handler was Officer Nunley. He also reported the death of Fred Turner, a retired DPW foreman and long-time Taylor employee. A moment of silence was observed for both. - Council members announced the Texas Roadhouse TIPACOP fundraiser on April 8, 2026, 11 a.m.–10 p.m., with 10% of bills supporting Taylor Unified Special Olympics, and the Friends of the Veterans Museum pancake breakfast on April 25, 2026, 8 a.m.–12 p.m. at the Ford Senior Center, $10 donation. Discussion Items - Budget amendment 2026-005 (April 7, 2026): Finance director Jason explained a $675,000 transfer from the major road fund to the local road fund to cover additional asphalt and concrete project costs. Council confirmed the transfer is net-zero between the two funds and has been done in prior years. Approved. - First reading — Case 26-3715 (Telegraph, former Coliseum): A conditional rezoning of a 2.525-acre parcel on the east side of Telegraph between Wolfile and Mary Street from B3 General to I1 Light Industrial, restricted to indoor storage. Planning consultant Laura noted 14 conditions, operating hours of 8 a.m.–8 p.m., waste removal vehicles limited to 5 p.m.–9 a.m., a reduction of 10,000 square feet of pavement, an 18-month expiration unless construction proceeds, and that the planning consultant and planning commission recommended approval all three times. Councilman Thomas opposed, citing the 2006 Master Plan's vision for the Telegraph corridor and opposition to another storage facility there. Approved 5–1 on roll call (Mr. Wallace yes, Mr. Tedy yes, Mr. Thomas no, Mr. Path yes, Mr. Armstrong yes, Mr. Johnson yes). A second reading is required at the next meeting. - Second reading — Gardner/Beech Daly conditional rezoning: R1-C single-family residential to light industrial, with a conservation easement, green buffer, and reverter to residential/office if the use ends. Mayor Woolley described developer outreach to Continental Drive residents, a town hall, and a DNR conservation easement that will keep a natural area unbuildable while the developer maintains it and pays taxes. Councilman Armstrong said he initially opposed but changed his mind after talking with residents. Councilman Thomas voted no, citing the same master plan concerns. Approved 5–1 on roll call (Mr. Thomas was the sole no vote). - Item 6.21 (charter amendment ballot proposal — Charter Sections 15, 152, 153, 154): Motion to postpone to April 21, 2026, made by Mr. Thomas, so that Councilman Clark could be present. - Resolution opposing House Bills 5529–5532 and 5581–5585: Councilman Thomas read the full resolution into the record. It opposes state preemption of local zoning authority, asserting the bills would impose new study/document requirements for site plan review, restrict minimum home square footage, pressure local water and sewer infrastructure, change parking and mobile home requirements, restrict local control over distances between homes, and permit duplexes on parcels zoned single-family residential. The mayor stated that Taylor "doesn't need Lansing telling us how to run our business," called the bills "an absolute joke," said no downriver mayor supports them, and suggested first-time homebuyer down payment assistance as an alternative. Approved unanimously. - Fireworks ordinance amendment: A council member moved to direct corporation counsel to amend the fireworks ordinance to require brick-and-mortar locations for fireworks sales, arguing the year-round store near Walmart should not be undercut by lower-cost seasonal tents on Telegraph. Councilman Tedy expressed caution, noting the change may not stop late-night fireworks use and that other temporary vendors (food trucks, Girl Scout cookies) already exist; Councilman Armstrong called illegal fireworks use "an enforcement issue, not a supply issue." Resident Caroline Pat (6860 Jackson) raised a hypothetical about taxpaying property owners who might want to host tent sales on their own property. The motion passed 4–2 (yes: Mr. Wallace, Mr. Thomas, Mr. Patz, Mr. Johnson; no: Mr. Tedy, Mr. Armstrong; Mr. Clark excused). Public Comments & Testimony - A resident criticized the police chief's signing of the ICE 287(g) task force agreement, which they described as making Taylor the only municipality in Michigan to sign such an agreement. They stated that neither the previous nor the current council has voted to approve or disapprove the agreement, called the inaction "pure apathy," and questioned whether the chief should have entered the agreement without council authority. - A resident (Holland, Taylor, Michigan) asked the police chief how many immigrants were turned over to ICE in the last 90 days and received the answer "two." The speaker stated they believe the ICE agreement is being "carried out for no reason." Key Outcomes - Budget amendment 2026-005 approved ($675,000 transfer from the major road fund to the local road fund). - Case 26-3715 (Telegraph, former Coliseum) conditional rezoning approved on first reading, 5–1; second reading scheduled for the next meeting. - Gardner/Beech Daly conditional rezoning approved on second reading, 5–1. - Resolution opposing House Bills 5529–5532 and 5581–5585 approved unanimously. - Fireworks ordinance amendment referral passed 4–2. - Charter amendment ballot proposal item postponed to April 21, 2026. Note on the Record - The raw transcript includes a lengthy passage after the 7:26 p.m. adjournment that appears to be audio from a separate Taylor Sports Hall of Fame induction ceremony rather than council business; it is not included in this summary.

The Taylor City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Taylor Municipal Building. The meeting included routine approvals, a closed session for pending litigation, the first reading of a conditional rezoning, a settlement approval, and several operational and financial items. All agenda items were approved unanimously, with roll-call votes where noted. Consent Calendar - 6.1: Received and filed the City of Taylor Early Voting Plan as approved by the Election Commission on March 11, 2026. - 6.2: Approved attendance of two Clerk's Office employees at the 2026 Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks Spring Education Day (not to exceed $575 plus expenses, General Fund). - 6.3: Approved attendance of two City Clerk's Office employees at the 2026 Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks Summer Conference (not to exceed $3,100 plus expenses, General Fund). - 6.4: Approved sending one Building Department employee to the Spring Code Officials Conference of Michigan (not to exceed $1,100 plus expenses, Building Department Training account). - 6.5: Received and filed the February 2026 Budget Performance Report. - 6.6: Received and filed the February 2026 Paid Invoice Report. - All consent items were approved by voice vote. Mayor Communications - Motion to appoint Dennis Herwig to the Taylor Veterans Museum Commission for a four-year term expiring March 17, 2030. Councilman Patts praised Herwig's contributions to the Purple Heart Wall. Unanimously approved. Closed Session and Settlement - Motion to go into closed session to discuss pending litigation (7.1). Roll call: 7-0 in favor. The council entered closed session at 6:35 PM. - After closed session, motion to approve settlement of Risk Management claim QL-1278 (7.2), as recommended by attorney. Voice vote, unanimous. Discussion Items - Case 26-02(Zc) – Conditional Rezoning (7.3): First reading of a proposal to conditionally rezone the southern approximately 881 feet of parcels 60-048-99-0013-000 and 60-048-99-0014-000 from O-1/R-1C (Office/Single Family Residential) to I-1 (Light Industrial). The property is on the north side of Goddard Road between Beech Daly and Continental Drive. The motion to receive and file passed by voice vote. - Police Constitutional Policing Training (7.6): Police Chief Blair presented a request to pay Michigan Law Enforcement Training Associates, LLC $38,340 for required CPE constitutional policing training for all Taylor Police Officers (16 of 24 required annual hours). The Chief emphasized the training covers use of force, de-escalation, and search and seizure, and is taught by an attorney with 25 years of experience. Council members expressed support for the department's professionalism. Motion approving payment passed unanimously. - Lead Service Line Notification: Councilman Thiede and others addressed resident concerns about lead letters included in water bills. They clarified that the testing focused on 60 homes in areas with potential lead service lines; 99% of the city is unaffected. The city offers free inspection and replacement of lead service lines. Council urged residents to take advantage of the program before it becomes mandatory. - Library and Water Department: Councilwoman Armstrong thanked the library for installing new study pods and praised the water department for rapid repair of a water main break that affected the library. - Community Events: Councilman Clark reminded the public that city offices are closed on Good Friday (April 3, 2026) and promoted the Taylor Bunny Trail on March 28, 2026 (fee $5 residents, $10 non-residents, pre-registration required). Key Outcomes - All motions on the regular agenda (7.1 through 7.15) passed unanimously: - 7.1: Closed session motion – roll call 7-0. - 7.2: Settlement approval. - 7.3: Received and filed first reading of rezoning. - 7.4: Approved Cynergy Products for docking stations and lighting on five Building Department vehicles – $21,320. - 7.5: Approved compensation for contractual inspectors at $45 per inspection. - 7.6: Approved $38,340 for police training. - 7.7: Approved Fire Department member attendance at Explosive Handler & Breaching Course. - 7.8: Approved $6,000 payment to West Shore for warning siren inspection/maintenance. - 7.9: Approved $835 for K-9 officer recertification training in Clare, MI. - 7.10: Approved $35,876 for MNET vehicle purchase (Dodge Durango) from Lafontaine Chrysler. - 7.11: Approved $1,092 for two officers to attend Cellular Analysis Survey Team Training. - 7.12: Approved sale of parcel 60-081-03-0001-300 (Hampden St.) for $11,000 plus closing costs. - 7.13: Approved sale of parcel 60-037-01-0017-000 (Lincoln St.) for $10,000 plus closing costs. - 7.14: Approved CDBG subrecipient agreements for Fish & Loaves, The Guidance Center, and The Senior Alliance at $12,500 each. - 7.15: Received and filed the Board of Ethics Resolution. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 7:36 PM.

The Taylor City Council met on March 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting included a moment of silence for a former colleague's daughter, the introduction of a new district court judge, approval of several routine and consent items, and extended debate on two proposed charter amendments. The amendment to change the process for filling council vacancies failed, while the amendment to increase purchasing thresholds was postponed to a later date. Consent Calendar - 6.1 to 6.3: Authorized the city clerk to sign a Michigan charitable gaming license application for Fish and Loaves nonprofit organization. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Caroline Pat (6860 Jackson): Announced that "The Wall That Heals" (a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial) will be at Heritage Park from August 13–16, 2026. Deadline for honoring a Vietnam veteran is March 29, 2026. - Tim Wong (6422 Birch): Expressed frustration about a citation for a sign that was too large, stating the citation was unclear. He complimented the council. - Don Johnson (Wayne County Sheriff's Department): Presented a brochure on jail services, including reserves, canine, and marine units. Offered support for community events and complimented the Taylor Police Department. - Courtney Suntner (23245 North Line): Promoted Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training, noting low attendance. Encouraged residents to join. - E-Comment from Charles Blackwell: Alleged discrimination by the corporation counsel, stating that a professional introduction is read before his public comments, unlike others. - Phone call about Eureka Road lights: Reported that lights on the south side of Eureka Road between Hampton and Inkster are strobing. The clerk reported the issue to DTE. Discussion Items Mayor's Communication - Mayor Woolley expressed condolences to the Geis family on the loss of their daughter Ella, who died after a battle with cancer. A moment of silence was observed. - Judge Sackleford introduced Brittany Johnson, newly appointed by the governor to fill a vacant seat on the district court bench. Johnson stated she has worked for seven years in the prosecutor's office, including in the child abuse unit, and aims to balance compassion and accountability. 7.1 – Aerotropolis LDFA Plan (Detroit Regional Air Tropolis Development Center) - Chris Gerdwood (Aerotropolis) and legal counsel explained a proposed Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district along Inkster Road. The plan would capture 50% of state and local school taxes, but the state would backfill school funds, so schools lose nothing. Only non-residential eligible property (e.g., manufacturing, logistics) can be captured. The goal is to upgrade Inkster Road from a Class B to Class A road. Council members expressed support, calling it a "win-win." Approved unanimously. 7.2 – Sale of Parcel 60-027-99-0001-000 - Approved sale for $25,000 plus closing costs, proceeds to the general fund. Unanimous. 7.3 – Collective Bargaining Agreement with Taylor Professional Firefighters Association, Local 1252 - Mayor Woolley commended the administration for early negotiations to retain firefighters. Council member Thomas stated public safety is paramount. Approved unanimously. 7.4 – Flock Safety Renewal (Two-Year Agreement, $69,600 per year) - Chief of Police highlighted success: 2,500 agencies in network, 23 million license plates tracked, solved homicide and child sex predator cases. Council member Patz expressed strong support. Approved unanimously. 7.6 – Amendment to CCR for Greenwall House at Heritage Park (2.5% increase, about $16,000) - Clarified that the amendment was only for a cost increase due to unexpected problems, not the full $404,003. Approved unanimously. 7.7 – Concrete Replacement Panels (2026-2027, up to $1,565,000) - Approved unanimously. 7.8 – Asphalt Pavement Resurfacing Contract (2026-2027, up to $2,145,000) - Approved unanimously. 7.9 – Water Distribution Project Design (up to $600,000) - Approved unanimously. 7.10 – Purchase of Interactive Touch Monitors (up to $23,350) - Approved unanimously. 7.11 – Cloud Facts Service Renewal ($6,482) - Approved unanimously. 7.12 – Scanning Software License Renewal ($10,143) - Approved unanimously. 7.13 – DocuWare Warranty Renewal ($12,613) - Approved unanimously. 7.14 – Tungsten Power PDF Perpetual Licenses (up to $21,576) - Approved unanimously. 7.15 – Workmen's Compensation Excess Insurance Policy Renewal ($114,803) - Approved unanimously. 7.16 – Charter Amendment on Filling Vacancies in Elected Office - Motion to direct corporation counsel to draft a ballot proposal amending Chapter 4, Section 4.5 to allow the city clerk to cast a deciding vote if the council fails to fill a vacancy within six meetings (90 days). - Council Member Armstrong: Opposed, arguing the clerk's role is to administer elections neutrally and that the council should not abdicate its duty. Called the proposal a blurring of lines. - Council Member Woolley: Opposed, stating the council was elected to make difficult decisions and should not transfer that responsibility. He took an oath to support the charter as written. - Council Member Wallace (motion sponsor): Supported the amendment, noting the gridlock of the previous council lasted two years and that a safeguard is needed. He argued the clerk is a neutral elected official, and the proposal would pressure the council to reach consensus. - Council Member Johnson: Supported the amendment, stating that safeguards are wise to prevent future hostility and lack of progress. - Council Member Thomas: Opposed, citing Judge Acida's opinion that the council's duty to fill vacancies is correct. He stated the charter was well-written and does not need change. - Council Member Thedy: Supported the concept, noting the previous gridlock caused stress and delayed road projects. He said the charter can evolve. - Council Member Bauer: Opposed, arguing the clerk's livelihood and re-election could be negatively impacted. She questioned why the "next person in line from the last ballot" option was not considered. Wallace responded that the 8th-place candidate was not desired by voters and that no precedent exists for that approach. - Corporation Counsel: Noted that the attached document made the clerk's vote mandatory, but Wallace said language could be adjusted. - Roll call vote: Clark (yes), Armstrong (no), Wallace (yes), Thedy (no), Thomas (no), Patz (no), Johnson (yes). Motion failed (3 yes, 4 no). 7.17 – Charter Amendment on Purchasing Thresholds (Section 15.2, 15.3, 15.4) - Motion to direct corporation counsel to draft a ballot proposal increasing the threshold for council approval of purchases from $2,000 to $5,000 (last increased in 1997). - Council Member Thomas: Opposed as written, calling the $3,000 increase too low and the process rushed. He noted the attached document had sloppy wording and that the purchasing policy would need revision. - Council Member Wallace: Supported the concept, stating the $5,000 figure came from a statistical analysis by the purchasing department. He noted that the voters would ultimately decide. - Council Member Bauer: Questioned why the treasurer was not considered as an alternative tie-breaker in the previous item, but then moved to postpone the item to allow more time for discussion and to incorporate purchasing policy changes. - Council Member Thedy: Supported postponing, noting the May 11 deadline for the governor. He was fine with postponing to April 7. - Corporation Counsel: Pointed out that Section 15.4 is currently pending in the Michigan Court of Appeals, adding ambiguity that should be resolved. - Ben Clayton (Purchasing Manager): Offered to provide additional analysis on how the threshold interacts with sealed bid requirements and other policies. - Motion to postpone: Approved unanimously. The item will be revisited on April 7, 2026. Key Outcomes - Consent and routine items: All approved unanimously. - Flock safety renewal: Approved unanimously. - Charter amendment on filling vacancies (7.16): Failed (3 yes, 4 no). No further action. - Charter amendment on purchasing thresholds (7.17): Postponed to April 7, 2026, to allow for further analysis and revision of attached documents. - Public comments noted: The council acknowledged the issues raised (Eureka Road lights, discrimination complaint, CERT training, etc.) and committed to follow up.

The regular meeting of the Taylor City Council was held on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, beginning at 6:30 PM at the Taylor Municipal Building. All council members were present. The agenda and minutes from the February 3, 2026 meeting were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Approved the motion to authorize the City Clerk to sign the Michigan Charitable Gaming Licenses application recognizing St. Joseph's Helpers as a nonprofit organization. - Received and filed the January 2026 Budget Performance Report and the January 2026 Paid Invoice Report. - Received and filed a 0% interest deferred loan for project 2025-07 for Emergency Roof Replacement by Optimum Contracting Solutions in the amount of $13,250, funded through the CDBG Home Rehabilitation account. - Approved KCI Printing for postage associated with mailing the 2026 Assessment Change Notices for Real Property in an amount not to exceed $13,479. Public Comments & Testimony - A speaker from the audience addressed the unresolved issue of the 287G agreement with ICE, referencing the opening of a several-hundred-person detention facility in Romulus and urging the council to act. - A comment from Charles Blackwell was read, questioning campaign donations from Joan Hennessy to Mayor Woolley. Discussion Items - Mayor Communication: Approved the reappointments of Ronald Bentley and Nick Dmitruchina to the Museum Commission for a three-year term to expire on February 17, 2029. - 7.1: Approved an Amusement Device permit for Kudos Taproom & Fieldhouse for 19 amusement machines. - 7.2: Amended CCR 6.220-25 to increase the blanket purchase order for Med-Tech Resource by $20,000 for fire department medical supplies, funded through the General Fund, Fire Department – ALS Transporting Account. - 7.3: Approved Superior Comfort Heating and Cooling as the low bid for installation of two EV battery chargers in an amount not to exceed $5,173, funded through the Community Energy Management Grant. - 7.4: Approved a Proclamation honoring Southeast Michigan Community Alliance (SEMCA) on its 30th anniversary. - 7.5: Approved payment to Michigan Police Training for Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Training for two police officers, not to exceed $4,370, funded through the Act 302 Police Training Fund. - 7.6: Approved renewal of the Law Enforcement State Accreditation module through Lexipol in the amount of $31,300, funded through General Fund Police Contractual Services. - 7.7: Approved Hennessey Engineers as the lowest qualified bidder for Community Development Engineering, Planning & Support Services, amount not to exceed $26,700, funded through CDBG. - 7.8: Approved three DPW employees to attend the 2026 APWA Great Lakes Expo in an amount not to exceed $6,700, funded through the Water Supply System Fund. - 7.9: Approved engagement with Miller, Canfield, Paddock and Stone, PLLC for bond counsel services related to capital improvement bonds; contingent fee not to exceed $59,500, funded through bond proceeds. - 7.10: Approved engagement with PFM Financial Advisors LLC for financial advisory services for the same bond issuance; base fee of $8,000 plus $0.90 per $1,000 of bonds issued, funded through bond proceeds. - 7.11: Approved setting the public hearing for the City's Fiscal Year 2026/2027 proposed budget for April 23, 2026 at 6:30 p.m. The proposed property tax millage rate will be subject to that hearing. - 7.12: Approved CivicPlus to provide licensing and installation of DocAccess, an ADA-related component, for a Year 1 amount of $13,724 and a Year 2 amount of $14,411, total not to exceed $28,135, funded through the General Fund Admin Account. - Open Business: Councilman Wallace expressed condolences for the loss of Jacob Robinson and clarified that Eureka Road is under Wayne County jurisdiction; he urged pedestrian safety and noted an expedited safety review is underway. Councilman Thiede highlighted the Night to Shine event. Key Outcomes - All motions were carried unanimously (7-0). - A public hearing for the FY2026/2027 budget was scheduled for April 23, 2026 at 6:30 PM. - The meeting adjourned at 6:44 PM.