Public Meetings - Taylor, Michigan

The Taylor City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the Taylor Municipal Building. Council Chair Pro-Tem Michelle Tocco presided in the absence of Chairman Douglas A. Geiss. All seven council members present (Charley Johnson, Butch Ramik, Angie Winton, Jill Brandana, Lindsey Rose, Tina Daniels, and Douglas Geiss excused) voted unanimously on all agenda items. The meeting opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, followed by roll call establishing a quorum. Mayor's Communications - Motion to approve the reappointment of Renee Sprindys to the Board of Review for a two-year term expiring December 1, 2025. Motion carried unanimously. Sprindys was then sworn into office. - Mayor Woolley noted the passing of former Housing Commission member Mike Kleber and Ken Avery, a longtime coach and community pillar, and extended condolences to their families. Regular Agenda (All items passed unanimously) - 7.1 Motion to approve opening an IntraFi Cash Service (ICS) account with Comerica Bank. - 7.2 Motion to approve establishing a 2023 winter special assessment roll for collecting Accounts Receivable charges not to exceed $150,407 (weed cutting, emergency board-ups, debris removal). o- 7.3 Motion to approve establishing a 2023 winter special assessment roll for collecting $316,211 in County Drain charges. o- 7.4 Motion to approve establishing a 2023 winter special assessment roll for street light charges not to exceed $1,463,153. o- 7.5 Motion to approve establishing a 2023 winter special assessment roll for false alarm account receivables not to exceed $9,000. o- 7.6 Motion to approve Downriver Hitch and Truck, Inc. as low bidder for a plow and salt spreader for DPW at $17,305. o- 7.7 Motion to approve Taylor Ford for a 2023 Transit Van for the Water Department at $57,238. o- 7.8 Motion to approve acceptance of the FY23 COPS Hiring Program Grant for additional law enforcement officers to increase community policing and school resource officers. o- 7.9 Motion to approve Printing Systems, Inc. for absentee ballot secrecy sleeves for the 2024 Presidential primary election at $2,500. o- 7.10 Motion to receive & file the October 2023 Paid Invoice Report. o- 7.11 Motion to receive & file the October 2023 Budget Perfomance Report. o- 7.12 Motion to approve Taylor Goodbullows to hold a paper drive on November 24-26 and December 2-3, 2023. o- 7.13 Motion to receive & file the Police and Fire Pension Performance Review dated September 30, 2023. Open Business - Council member Charley Johnson thanked volunteers for a successful museum fundraiser at the VFW the previous weekend. He noted that funds raised will complete cabinets at the museum. - Mayore Woolley informed the council about discolored water in a drain in the Continental neighborhood; he was informed by fire chief that it resulted from a water main break in Romulus, which stirred up sediment, and the water main has since been fixed. No serious issue. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 6:4 p.m. following a motion by council member Winton seconded by Johnson.

The Taylor City Council met on November 7, 2023, for its regular meeting. The agenda and minutes were not available in the source material; the following summary is drawn from the raw transcript. Members approved the agenda and the October 17, 2023 minutes, heard updates from the mayor and police chief, approved most regular-agenda items, denied a first-reading rezoning, settled a risk-management claim, and defeated a proposal to create a standing special counsel for the council. After a closed session, the public meeting resumed at 6:46 p.m. and adjourned at 8:42 p.m. Mayor's Communications and Police Updates - Mayor announced City Hall and all city buildings will be closed Friday, November 10, 2023, in recognition of Veterans Day; Veterans Day specials will be at Lakes of Taylor and Taylor Meadows that day. - Winter Fest will be Saturday, December 2, 2023, beginning with a 5K at 9:30 a.m.; the parade steps off at 5:00 p.m. and finishes at the Sherden Pavilion. - Mayor reported Jalapalooza drew about 3,000 children and an estimated 6,000-8,000 total attendees, with temperatures around 76 degrees; registration was capped at 2,500 children. He suggested exploring a temporary 15 mph subdivision speed limit on Halloween or a magazine reminder to slow down. - Police Chief Blair reported the city received a $750,000 COPS grant to hire six additional officers, funded over three years with the city responsible for the fourth year. He credited legislators, including Senator Geis. - Chief Blair also reported bipartisan state legislation (House Bills 4065 and 4066) for violent crime reduction has passed its first hurdle and could allocate $840,000 to Taylor, and that arrests have been made in the postal key theft cases, with federal prosecution underway. Closed Session and Settlement - The council voted unanimously to enter closed session to discuss risk management claim QL0827 and pending litigation, returning to open session at 6:46 p.m. - By a 5-2 roll-call vote, the council approved the settlement of claim QL0827 as recommended by risk management. Rezoning Request Denied on First Reading - Case 23-25Z was a request to rezone parcels on the north side of Goddard Road between Beech Daly and Continental Drive from O-1 Office to RM1 multi-family residential. A motion to deny the first reading was made by Councilwoman Brandana and seconded by Councilman Johnson. - Councilwoman Witten spoke in support of denial, noting the Planning Commission unanimously recommended against the request; she cited other appropriate multifamily parcels, the existing concentration of apartments, a traffic study completed while school was not in session, wetlands, and a drain through the property. - Applicant Ali Hamush asked the council to table the decision, saying his intention was senior housing (55 and older) on the O-1 portion and that he was not seeking to change the R1C area. He requested time to talk with the community and the planning department. - The motion to deny first reading carried, so the rezoning did not advance. Regular Agenda: Routine Approvals - Approved Metro Airport truck repair for Ladder 1 at not to exceed $6,521, funded through the General Fund fire repair and maintenance account. - Approved Smiley Tire Company as the sole-source, lowest qualified bidder for tire purchases at not to exceed $2,725. - Approved Wisecom Technologies as low bidder to furnish and install window roller shades at not to exceed $28,100, funded through federal forfeiture funds. During discussion, staff said federal procurement rules prohibit applying the city's local vendor preference; a Taylor company's quoted price was 2.9% higher, about $817 more. - Approved sponsoring two police officer cadets to attend the Wayne County Regional Police Training Academy at $13,426, funded through the MCOLES Safety Academy Assistance Program. One cadet, Raymond Richard, introduced himself. - Approved Star Chase as sole source for vehicle-mounted pursuit reduction technology at not to exceed $71,280, funded through federal forfeiture funds. - Approved Downriver Community Conference (DCC) membership dues for 2023-2024 in the amount of $14,679. - Approved Ulta Equipment as sole source for repair to the Comcoast site loader at not to exceed $36,030. - Approved a resolution authorizing the Director of Public Works or designee/city engineer to execute Wayne County long-term maintenance permits for city stormwater management systems. - Approved Downriver Mutual Aid (DMA) membership dues for 2023-2024 in the amount of $49,390; staff explained DCC is the community conference organization and DMA covers mutual aid services such as SWAT, hazmat, and dive teams. - Approved intergovernmental agreements with the city of Romulus for sanitary sewer service to 16251 Inkster Road and 16255 Inkster Road. - Approved the SMART municipal and community credit contract for July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2024, in the amount of $176,988. - Approved the MLCC special license application for Winter Fest Holiday Stroll 2023. - Approved Hudson Inc., state contract holder, for a John Deere Gator at not to exceed $33,841. - Approved DA Central as sole source for the Linnell Card Access Server Rebuild at $1,980. - Approved two new purchase agreements for the Taylor Sports Plex with B Well, My Friends DJ Services, and Amazon; the mayor noted the DJ skate event starts November 10. - Approved Printing Systems Incorporated for absentee ballot envelope and application printing services for the 2024 elections at not to exceed $12,000. - Approved Kent Communications as low bidder for printing and mailing the early voting notification mailer at not to exceed $3,973. - Approved the U.S. Postal Service as sole source for postage on bulk mailing of absentee ballot applications and early voting notification mailers for the 2024 presidential primary election at not to exceed $8,000. - Approved earmarking $200,000 in ARPA funds to identify and replace lead service lines. Administration said current pace targets completion around 2033-2034, ahead of the 2040 deadline, and the city is seeking grants. - Approved budget amendment 2024-004, dated November 7, 2023. It amended the water fund for the $200,000 ARPA lead-line action and made a net-zero General Fund adjustment for prior ARPA approvals for IT, furniture, equipment, and laptops. Staff reported about $5 million in ARPA funds remains; obligations must be in place by December 31, 2024, and expenditures completed by December 31, 2026. - Approved a motion authorizing the mayor to sign grant contract E2024-6-0 with the Michigan Indigent Defense Commission (MIDC) / LARA, transcribed as 'Michigan Indigenous Fence Commission,' for the term October 1, 2023 through September 30, 2024. Public Comments & Testimony - Gina Reese, a Taylor resident for over 50 years, described a backed-up private storm drain system on her block that all sump pumps drain into. She said the blockage and smell were causing water and sediment next to her house, and she could not afford a $5,000 cleanout. She asked the city for a remedy. The mayor and corporation counsel said the city is not responsible for the private drain, suggested the homeowners could circulate a petition for a special assessment district, and the mayor said he would check with community development about possible grant/loan assistance. - Mary Sousa criticized the special counsel proposal for not being placed on the regular agenda, saying residents could not research it and the normal Granicus agenda procedure was not followed. She later asked that the maker of motions be clearly stated; Councilwoman Brandana clarified that it was her motion. Council Discussion: Towing Contracts - Councilman Ramick said the city's towing contract has been expired for about four and a half to five years and extends itself until a new RFP is written or a new list is accepted. He urged the council to draft and issue a new RFP. - Corporation Counsel Plato said the council is not required to accept the lowest bid and can consider other factors. Councilman Johnson added that the current arrangement was not a bidding process and that the city should write a contract benefiting residents. No formal motion was recorded on this topic. Special Counsel Proposal Defeated - Councilwoman Brandana moved to amend the city council rules and procedures to retain special legal counsel for the council. The proposal named Jeff Schroeder as special counsel at $250 per hour for municipal matters and $275 per hour for litigation, to serve until November 2025, attend council meetings, advise council members, and take legal action to protect council rights. The city attorney would be directed to cooperate. - Opponents argued the proposal was a charter violation because the charter makes the corporation counsel the legal advisor to both the mayor and council and allows special counsel only for a specific matter and limited time. They cited the lack of a budget amendment, the cost, and the attorney's representation of Warren's council, where disputes had generated nearly $1 million in litigation costs. - Councilwoman Brandana responded that the council needs independent advice when a conflict arises and that an attorney's opinion is not controlling law. Corporation Counsel Plato said his verbal opinion was that the proposal would be a clear charter violation; special counsel could be retained by majority vote for a specific issue and limited time, but not as an open-ended two-year council attorney. - Councilman Ramick recommended obtaining a written opinion before any vote. The motion failed by a vote of 3-4. - After the vote, Councilwoman Brandana moved to have Corporation Counsel submit a written opinion on the legality of the proposed council-rules amendment by November 16, 2023. That motion passed 4-3. Council Announcements - Councilwoman Brandana noted a Texas Roadhouse dine-to-donate event for the Taylor Historical Society on November 7 from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m., with 10% of proceeds donated. - Councilwoman Witten reminded residents that the Senior Alliance Medicaid/Medicare Assistance Program will be at the Ford Senior Center on November 9 and November 14 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., providing free, unbiased Medicare counseling. Appointments can be made at 734-727-2067. - Councilman Johnson thanked veterans, noting Veterans Day is Saturday. Key Outcomes - Agenda and October 17, 2023 minutes approved. - Risk-management settlement QL0827 approved 5-2. - Rezoning case 23-25Z denied on first reading. - All routine regular-agenda items were approved as listed. - Towing contract RFP discussed; no vote recorded. - Special counsel amendment defeated 3-4. - Written opinion on the amendment requested from Corporation Counsel, due by November 16, 2023, in a 4-3 vote. - Mayor committed to follow up with Gina Reese on community development options for the storm drain issue. - Meeting adjourned at 8:42 p.m.

The Taylor City Council met in regular session at 7:30 p.m. on October 18, 2023, and adjourned at 8:06 p.m. Five council members were present and a quorum was established; Councilman Johnson and Councilwoman Winton were excused. This summary is based only on the raw transcript, because no agenda or minutes were provided. The meeting included an invocation by Monica Ola, the Pledge of Allegiance, approval of prior minutes, appointments, routine approval of purchases and reports, and a lengthy open-business discussion about possible separate legal counsel for the council. Minutes, Agenda, and Appointments - The agenda was approved after correcting item 6.1 from 'downriver' to 'downtown.' - Minutes of the October 3, 2023 regular meeting were approved. - Minutes of the October 12, 2023 special meeting were approved by roll call vote of 3-2: Mrs. Daniels no, Mr. Ramick yes, Mrs. Brandana yes, Mrs. Rose no, Mr. Geis yes. Johnson and Winton were excused. - The council approved the reappointment of Ramaran and Rich Todd to the Downtown Development Authority for four-year terms expiring October 17, 2027. Neither was present to be sworn in. - The council approved reappointing Bill Fisher to the Planning Commission for a three-year term expiring October 17, 2026; Mr. Fisher was sworn in. Regular Agenda Approvals All regular agenda items 7.1 through 7.17 were approved unless noted. They were considered individually, not as a formal consent calendar. - 7.1: Fire training for electric-vehicle response through Energy Security Agency, not to exceed $8,050; the fire chief said EV fires require different tactics and the city has not yet responded to an EV fire. - 7.2: Repairs to Engine 3 by McQueen (sole source/lowest qualified bidder), not to exceed $6,590. - 7.3: Amendment to resolution 6.241-23 adding Amazon to the fire department purchase agreement, not to exceed $5,000. - 7.4: Purchase of turnout gear dryers and extractors from Universal Laundry and Machinery, not to exceed $47,671 from the fire department ARPA equipment account. - 7.5: As-needed board-up services from Bell Property Restoration, not to exceed $15,000; officials said costs may be recovered from homeowners' insurance or placed on tax rolls when the property owner has no insurance. - 7.6: Received and filed the emergency purchase of an electric gate enclosure for the compost site from Cornerstone Fence, $23,655; the new scale required a larger gate. - 7.7: Purchase of a 2023 F-350 from Gourno Ford, not to exceed $56,795. - 7.8: Installation of a 180-kilowatt Kohler generator at the senior center by Innovated Energy Control LLC, $79,925 plus 5 percent contingency, not to exceed $83,922. - 7.9: Elevator preventive maintenance and repair contract with City Elevator of Michigan, not to exceed $12,000. - 7.10: Cleaning services contract with Services to Enhance Potential, not to exceed $82,000. - 7.11: Purchase of four computer towers for the Trackman golf simulators from Network One, not to exceed $4,266; an official estimated golf simulator revenues around $120,000 last season. - 7.12: Authorization for the mayor to sign CDBG sub-recipient agreements for Fish and Loaves, the Guidance Center, and the Senior Alliance, $10,000 each. - 7.13: Received and filed the general employee pension performance review as of June 30, 2023. - 7.14: Drywall repairs at Taylor Sports Plex by MP&D Construction, not to exceed $3,552. - 7.15: Received and filed the September 2023 payables/invoice report. - 7.16: Received and filed the September 2023 budget performance report. The CFO said the general fund showed a negative $2.4 million balance because of timing: tax collections had not yet been recorded; revenues were $7.5 million and expenditures were $9.9 million, about 20 percent of the budget versus an expected 25 percent at the third month; insurance was prepaid, creating one variance. - 7.17: Extending the Constellation Energy contract on a fixed-price basis for 12 months, funded through various utility accounts. Open Business and Council Discussion - Councilwoman Brandana said she sometimes disagrees with Corporation Counsel Mr. Plato and asked to consider retaining separate legal counsel for the council, not replacing Mr. Plato. She argued that Robert's Rules requires a two-thirds vote to end debate ('call the question') and that the council has the power to amend the mayor's proposed budget, not merely approve or reject it. She cited a Michigan Court of Appeals decision she said involved the same charter language as Taylor. - Corporation Counsel Plato said his opinions are based on Michigan law and the city charter and are not always popular; the mayor said Mr. Plato has also given him opinions he dislikes and that the council should work as a team rather than fight over power. - Several council members objected to considering the matter while two council members were absent, saying it was unfair and inconsistent with the council's prior practice of waiting for full attendance on major votes. - Councilwoman Brandana then moved to amend the city council rules by adding whereas clauses citing charter sections 5.11J and 5.11G and stating the council should be able to retain special legal counsel when potential conflicts exist between the council and the administration. Corporation Counsel requested a closed session, saying the proposed resolution attacked his independence. The council voted 5-0 to enter closed session. - After reconvening, Councilwoman Brandana moved the rules amendment; after further debate, she withdrew the motion, saying she would wait for a written opinion from Mr. Plato and bring the item back at the next meeting on November 7. - The clerk reported, for absent Councilwoman Lynn: recognition of a young student (identified as Ella Henley, later transcribed as Bella Henley) who raised over $150 for the animal shelter through a Chipotle fundraiser; a Medicare/Medicaid enrollment assistance event on November 9 at the Ford Senior Center from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and reminder that Taylor has no November election. Public Comments - Resident Mary Souza asked why the council wanted another attorney, what specifically Mr. Plato had done, and what rules had been changed, saying the discussion was too general. - Resident Martin Juliard praised Mr. Plato, saying he answered questions that previous attorneys would not answer. He then asked the mayor about golf balls from the golf course landing on his property; the mayor disputed that balls could reach the resident's home and said he had not promised a net. Key Outcomes - All agenda items passed; the October 12 special meeting minutes passed 3-2. - Council entered closed session 5-0 and later returned to open session. - Councilwoman Brandana's motion to amend council rules was withdrawn; she plans to revisit it on November 7. - Corporation Counsel agreed to provide a written opinion on the budget question; Councilwoman Brandana requested a written opinion on ending debate as well. - The meeting adjourned at 8:06 p.m.

The Taylor City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, at 6:28 PM in the Taylor Municipal Building. All seven council members were present (Councilman Johnson and Councilwoman Winton excused). The meeting included approval of routine items, several fire department and city operations purchases, and a lengthy discussion on the potential hiring of separate legal counsel for the city council. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved (5-0) with a correction to item 6.1 changing "Downriver" to "Downtown" Development Authority. - Minutes approved from October 3, 2023 regular meeting (5-0). - Minutes from October 12, 2023 special meeting approved on a roll call vote of 3-2 (Councilmembers Daniels and Rose voted no; Councilman Johnson and Councilwoman Winton excused). - Reappointment of Ron Moran and Rich Todd to the Downtown Development Authority for a four-year term expiring October 17, 2027 (approved 5-0). - Reappointment of Bill Fisher to the Planning Commission for a three-year term expiring October 17, 2026 (approved 5-0). Bill Fisher was sworn in after the vote. - Regular agenda items 7.1 through 7.17 were all approved unanimously (5-0) unless noted: - 7.1: Fire training response for electric vehicles, not to exceed $8,050 (General Fund). - 7.2: MacQueen (sole source) for Engine 3 repairs, not to exceed $6,590 (General Fund). - 7.3: Amend CCR 6.241-23 to add Amazon to Fire Department Purchase Agreement, not to exceed $5,000 (General Fund). - 7.4: Universal Laundry Machinery (low bid) for turnout gear dryers and extractors, not to exceed $47,671 (ARPA Equipment). - 7.5: Belfor Property Restoration for as-needed board-up services, not to exceed $15,000 (Ordinance Department). - 7.6: Receive and file emergency purchase of electric gate enclosure for Compost Site from Cornerstone Fence, $23,655 (Act 179 Compost Capital Outlay). - 7.7: Gorno Ford (MiDeal) for a 2023 F350, not to exceed $56,795 (Act 179 Compost Capital Outlay). - 7.8: Innovated Energy Control LLC (low bid) for 180KW Kohler generator at Senior Center, $79,925 plus 5% contingency, not to exceed $83,922 (CDBG). - 7.9: City Elevator of Michigan (low bid) for elevator maintenance contract, not to exceed $12,000 (TBA Building Repair & Maintenance). - 7.10: Services to Enhance Potential (low bid) for cleaning services, not to exceed $82,000 (TBA Building Repair & Maintenance). - 7.11: Network One (low bid) for four computer towers for TrackMan golf simulators, not to exceed $4,266 (Golf Course Operating Supplies). Discussion noted projected annual revenues of $120,000 from simulators. - 7.12: Subrecipient agreements for Fish & Loaves, The Guidance Center, and The Senior Alliance, $10,000 each (CDBG). - 7.13: Receive and file General Employee Pension Performance Review as of June 30, 2023. - 7.14: MP&D Construction (low bid) for drywall repairs at Taylor Sportsplex, not to exceed $3,552 (TSX Repair & Maintenance). - 7.15: Receive and file September 2023 Paid Invoice Report. - 7.16: Receive and file September 2023 Budget Performance Report. CFO Jason Couture explained the report, noting year-to-date general fund revenues of $7.5 million (15.6% of budget) and expenditures of $9.9 million (20.5% of budget), with the negative net income due to timing of tax collections. - 7.17: Approve Constellation Energy contract extension on a fixed-price basis for 12 months (funded through various utility accounts). Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Susa (26640 Beverly Road) questioned the need for a separate attorney for the city council, asking what specific conflicts of interest or rule changes prompted the proposal. Councilwoman Brandana responded that she sought an additional counsel for separation of powers and had concerns about rules being changed, but would provide specifics at a future meeting. - Martin Juliard (6708 Beech Daly Road) praised Mr. Plato as a "breath of fresh air" and asked about a golf net issue at his property. Mayor Woolley responded that the claim was not previously known and would be looked into. Discussion Items - Councilwoman Brandana's proposal for separate legal counsel: Councilwoman Brandana expressed frustration with not being heard and disagreements with Corporation Counsel Ed Plato on budget amendment authority and closure of debate. She cited a Michigan Court of Appeals case (unpublished) supporting council's right to amend the budget, and requested a written opinion from Mr. Plato. She initially moved to amend city council rules to allow hiring a separate attorney, but withdrew the motion after discussion, planning to bring it forward at the November 7, 2023 meeting with additional information. The council went into closed session (5-0) to discuss the matter before she withdrew the motion. Mayor Woolley and Councilmember Ramik expressed concern about proceeding without all council members present, and Councilmember Rose noted the proposal was "hypocritical" given the council's recent postponement of a labor contract due to an absent member. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items and regular agenda items (7.1-7.17) were approved, with the exception of the special meeting minutes which passed 3-2. - The motion to hire separate legal counsel was withdrawn; Councilwoman Brandana will bring a revised proposal at the next meeting. - Councilwoman Brandana requested written opinions from Corporation Counsel on the issues of closing debate and the council's authority to amend the budget line-by-line. - The meeting adjourned at 8:06 PM.

A special meeting of the Taylor City Council was held on October 12, 2023, at 6:30 PM in the Municipal Building, 23555 Goddard Road, Taylor, MI. The sole purpose was to consider the Tentative Agreement between the City of Taylor and the Taylor Governmental Management Association (TGMA). The meeting was dominated by extended parliamentary debate over whether to rescind a prior motion to postpone the agreement to the regular October 17, 2023 meeting, followed by final approval of the contract by a 5–2 vote. Discussion Items - Parliamentary Challenge and Agenda Acceptance: Councilwoman Brandana raised a point of order that the agenda motion to “reconsider and revoke” the prior postponement was not proper under Robert’s Rules of Order, because reconsideration must occur at the same meeting as the original motion. After debate, the Chair and Corporation Counsel indicated that the intent could be met by changing the motion to “rescind” and that the council could waive strict Robert’s Rules if a majority agreed. Councilwoman Brandana and others argued that only reconsideration could alter a postponement. The agenda was accepted by a 7–2 roll call (Rose and Daniels opposed; Ramick, Winton, Brandana, Johnson, Geis in favor). - Motion to Rescind the Postponement (Item 4.1): Councilman Johnson moved, seconded by Councilwoman Witten, to rescind the motion to postpone the TGMA agreement until October 17, 2023. The motion failed 2–5 (Winton and Geis in favor; Rose, Daniels, Ramick, Brandana, Johnson opposed). The Chair noted that the rescind motion failed, so the postponement remained in effect. - Motion to Reconsider the Failed Rescind Motion: Councilman Johnson, who had voted against the rescind, moved to reconsider the vote on the rescind motion. After further debate about procedure, the motion to reconsider passed 4–3 (Ramick, Winton, Johnson, Geis in favor; Rose, Daniels, Brandana opposed). - Renewed Motion to Rescind the Postponement: Following the reconsideration, Councilwoman Witten moved to rescind the postponement. This motion passed 4–3 (Ramick, Winton, Johnson, Geis in favor; Rose, Daniels, Brandana opposed), clearing the way for the council to vote on the TGMA agreement. - Motion to Approve the Tentative Agreement (Item 4.2): Councilwoman Brandana moved to approve the Tentative Agreement between the City of Taylor and the Taylor Governmental Management Association, seconded by Councilwoman Witten. There was no further discussion on the substance of the agreement. The motion passed 5–2 (Ramick, Winton, Brandana, Johnson, Geis in favor; Rose, Daniels opposed). Key Outcomes - After a series of procedural motions, the council successfully rescinded the prior postponement and then approved the TGMA Tentative Agreement by a 5–2 vote (Roll call: Rose – No, Daniels – No, Ramick – Yes, Winton – Yes, Brandana – Yes, Johnson – Yes, Geis – Yes). - The meeting adjourned at 7:02 PM. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were made during the meeting.

The Taylor City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, October 3, 2023 at 6:30 PM in the Taylor Municipal Building. The meeting was called to order by Chairman Douglas A. Geiss with all council members present, including newly appointed Councilwoman Tina Daniels who was sworn in on September 29. The agenda included proclamations, appointments, a contested labor contract, and numerous routine approvals for purchases, budget amendments, and settlements. Consent Calendar - Agenda and Minutes: Approved the agenda and the minutes from September 19, 2023 unanimously. - Proclamation: Received and filed the proclamation honoring the Taylor North Intermediate Baseball Team for winning the 2023 Central Region Championship. - Library Board Reappointment: Approved the reappointment of Diana Chavez to the Library Board for a five-year term expiring October 3, 2028. Discussion Items - Tentative Agreement with Taylor Governmental Management Association (TGMA): Extensive debate occurred over a motion to postpone the vote on the tentative agreement. Councilwoman Daniels requested a two-week postponement to review new information, citing she was not provided the contract until being sworn in on September 29. Other council members and administration argued that the contract had been pending since 2018 and that further delay was unfair to the 28 employees who have been without a raise. After a failed challenge to the chair's ruling, the council voted 4–3 to postpone the item to October 17, 2023. The vote was: Yes – Councilwoman Rose, Daniels, Ramik, Brandana; No – Councilman Johnson, Councilwoman Winton, Chairman Geiss. - Rezoning Case 23-23(Z): Approved the second reading to rezone two parcels from O-1 (Office) to B-2 (Regional Business) on Goddard Road east of Beech Daly Road. Vote: 5–2 in favor (Johnson, Ramik, Winton, Brandana, Geiss yes; Rose, Daniels no). - Budget Amendment 2024-003: Approved to account for purchases of police Tahoe vehicles through federal forfeiture funds and the Ecorse Creek utility fund Vactor truck. Passed unanimously. - CodeRED Renewal: Approved renewal of the CodeRED emergency notification system for $14,661. Unanimously approved. - Vehicle Repairs and Purchases: Approved Down River Body Works repair of police Tahoe 216 ($8,942), purchase of two 2023 Tahoe police vehicles from Berger Chevrolet ($81,830), purchase of a 2023 F-250 from Gorno Ford ($57,200), and purchase of a Vactor Storm Sewer Truck from Jack Doheny Inc. ($550,882). All passed unanimously. - Police Training: Approved sending two detectives to forensic interviewing training in Frankenmuth at a cost not to exceed $645. Passed unanimously. - Zamboni Batteries: Received and filed the emergency purchase of Zamboni batteries for $9,098. Passed unanimously. - Badge Access Prox Cards: Approved purchase of 200 proximity cards from D/A Central for $1,107. Passed unanimously. - Early Voting Plan: Approved the City of Taylor Early Voting Plan as approved by the Election Commission. Discussion included clarification from Clerk Bower about staffing 20 workers for nine days at double time, with costs likely exceeding budget and a grant application pending. Vote: unanimously approved. - Closed Session: Approved entering closed session to discuss pending litigation for two risk management claims. Unanimously approved. - Settlement of Claim P6152200456: Approved settlement as recommended by Risk Management. Vote: 6–1 (Johnson opposed). - Settlement of Claim QL-0827: Approved settlement as recommended by Risk Management. Vote: 5–2 (Johnson and Winton opposed). Key Outcomes - TGMA Contract Postponed: The tentative agreement with the Taylor Governmental Management Association was postponed to the October 17, 2023 meeting by a 4–3 vote. - Multiple Purchases and Approvals: Over $700,000 in expenditures were approved, including vehicles, repairs, software, and equipment. - Early Voting Plan Adopted: The city will implement its own early voting site in the Community Development office, staffed with up to 20 workers for nine days per election cycle. - Settlements Approved: Two risk management claim settlements were approved with dissenting votes.

The Taylor City Council met on September 19, 2023, beginning with an invocation, a moment of silence for the late Councilman Ira Sherman Slavin, and the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting covered routine approvals, a failed tentative agreement with the Taylor Governmental Management Association, approval of personal service contracts, a public hearing on the CDBG annual report, and the second reading of marijuana commercial business ordinances. The council also appointed Tina Daniels to fill the vacant council seat. Consent Calendar - Roll call and approvals: Unanimous approval of the agenda and minutes from September 5, 2023. - Proclamation for Taylor North Junior Baseball Team: Unanimous approval to recognize the team as U.S. Junior League World Series champions. Team members and coaches addressed the council. - Personal service contracts for fire chief and recreation department assistant manager: Both approved unanimously. - Risk management claim 23-08-11 TM: Approved 5-1 (Councilman Johnson dissenting). - Rezone parcels (7.2): First reading approved to rezone parcels from 01 Office to B2 Regional Business. - Public hearing on CAPER (7.3-7.4): Opened and closed; no public comment. Chris Klimchalk, CDBG Director, reported $183,922 in CDBG expenditures for FY2022, including $104,000 on administration, park improvements, and housing rehab. - Various routine approvals (7.5-7.19): All approved unanimously, including: - Monroe Motorsports for Polaris repairs ($2,189) - Code official conference attendance ($600) - August 2023 budget performance report (received and filed) - August 2023 paid invoice report (received and filed) - AKT Peer for well abandonment ($28,150) - PK Contracting for pavement marking (three-year, up to $160,000/year) - Intergovernmental agreement for Pennsylvania Road improvements ($64,885) - BSA software renewal ($4,570) - Google Workspace licenses renewal ($93,193) - Multi-factor authentication software renewal ($5,740) - CBTS system administration block of hours ($40,000) - Dell laptops for police training ($5,700) - Haworth chairs ($43,468) - Employment agreement with Deruda Labs/Instawork for golf course staffing ($35,000) - Early voting grant application (received and filed) - Second reading of marijuana ordinances (7.20-7.21): Both passed 4-2 (Councilmembers Winton and Rose dissenting). Public comment from Philip Nestle raised traffic safety concerns near proposed locations. Public Comments & Testimony - Philip Nestle (14,000 Raccoon): Expressed support for the 2,500-foot distance requirement in the marijuana ordinance but urged traffic studies at proposed locations due to safety concerns, citing a recent accident at Pennsylvania and Raccoon. He questioned whether the property at that intersection should be allowed. - Caroline Patts (Taylor Historical Society): Announced October events including a scarecrow stroll, cemetery walk (Oct 22), Jalapalooza (Oct 27), and Halloween portraits (Oct 28). - Paul Siddhu (Taylor taxpayer since 1993): Complained about high property tax assessments on two unfinished homes (on Vicro Road and Cape Cod). He stated the city’s contractor caused damage years ago and he has had no recourse. He asked for reassessment relief. Council members noted the property has been a long-standing issue and directed him to the Board of Review and Michigan Tax Tribunal. Discussion Items - Item 6.3 – Tentative Agreement with Taylor Governmental Management Association: Debate over postponing the vote until a new council member could be appointed. Councilwoman Brandana and Councilman Ramack favored postponement; Mayor Woolley argued the council had sufficient information. Vote failed 3-3 (Winton, Johnson, Geis in favor; Rose, Ramack, Brandana opposed). The mayor requested guidance for renegotiation. - Item 7.15 – CBTS block of hours ($40,000): Discussion included concerns about ongoing IT spending and the aging AS400 system. Councilman Ramack pressed for a long-term solution. IT director explained the block is temporary pending a Plant Moran assessment to modernize systems. Approved unanimously. - Item 7.22 – Appointment to fill vacant council seat: Councilman Ramack nominated Tina Daniels. After brief remarks from Councilwoman Brandana thanking all applicants, the vote passed 5-1 (Councilwoman Winton dissenting). Mrs. Daniels was absent (in California); she will be sworn in before the next meeting. Key Outcomes - Failed agreement: Tentative agreement with Taylor Governmental Management Association failed 3-3; will return to negotiations. - Personal service contracts approved: Fire chief and recreation department assistant manager contracts approved unanimously. - Marijuana ordinances passed: Second readings of zoning ordinance and code amendment for adult-use marijuana businesses both passed 4-2. - Council vacancy filled: Tina Daniels appointed to the Taylor City Council (5-1). - Public hearing held: No objections to the CAPER report; report is received and filed. - Open business: Discussion of water bill delinquency rollover to winter taxes, railroad crossing repairs, missing code books, and DTE pole replacement; council will follow up. - Adjournment: Meeting adjourned at 8:52 PM.

The Taylor City Council met on September 5, 2023, to address a wide-ranging agenda including budget adjustments, police equipment, property sales, marijuana business regulations, and the process to fill a vacant council seat. The meeting opened with a prayer, pledge of allegiance, and roll call establishing a quorum. A moment of silence for deceased Councilman Ira Sherman Slavin was deferred to the next meeting at the family's request. The meeting recessed from approximately 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. and adjourned at 9:19 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda (5.1) and minutes of August 15, 2023 (5.2) were approved unanimously. Mayor's Communications & Appointments - Corey Morris Appointment to Veteran Museum: Sworn in after a 5-1 vote (Councilwoman Winton opposed). - Petting Farm Assistant Manager and Deputy Fire Chief Personal Service Contracts: Councilwoman Winton raised concerns about the fiscal impact of such contracts, including sick leave cash-outs and pension implications. After discussion, both contracts were approved unanimously. Deputy Chief Al Young was sworn in. Public Comments & Testimony - Marijuana Administrative Rules and Zoning Amendments: Multiple residents and business representatives spoke. Philip Nestley questioned co-location and measurement approaches. Kurt Molino (Kinship Cannabis Co.) requested a variance for a property 3.7% short of the 2500-foot setback from a school, advocating to keep door-to-door measurement. Ferris Haddad (attorney) supported the administrative rules and addressed hypothetical measurement issues. Mary Susa urged maintaining setbacks for neighboring communities. Another resident highlighted the impact of marijuana businesses near churches across city borders. Discussion Items - Police Services for TCDC (Villages of Taylor): The chief explained the contract funds two officers for four hours daily, seven days a week in a high-call area. Councilman Geis voiced concerns about repeating past concentration of officers in the south end. The motion passed unanimously. - HVAC Maintenance Contract (Decal Inc.): Councilman Geis voted no, citing the need for improved skilled trades wages. Passed 5-1. - Land Sales (Items 7.16 and 7.17): The mayor declined to name potential buyers. Item 7.16 passed unanimously; Item 7.17 passed 5-1 (Councilwoman Rose opposed, noting the appraised value of $95,000 versus the sale price of $300,000). - AS400 System Replacement: Councilman Geis and IT Director Moore discussed the aging system. The city has engaged Plant Moran to design an RFP for a new ERP system, with a hoped timeline of one year. Two support contracts (7.22 and 7.23) passed unanimously after discussion. - Marijuana Administrative Rules (7.28): The clerk presented rules for permitting. Debate centered on whether setback variances should go through the Zoning Board of Appeals or directly to council. The rules were adopted, with a commitment to clarify the variance process. - Zoning Ordinance Amendment (7.29) - First Reading: Proposed changes included removing co-location prohibition (required by state law), switching measurement from door-to-door to property line, and limiting setbacks to uses within Taylor boundaries. Council voted to adopt the state-mandated change and the Taylor-only boundary change but rejected the measurement change. Passed 4-2 (Winton and Rose opposed). - Commercial Marijuana Ordinance Amendment (7.30) - First Reading: Only change was removing the co-location prohibition. Passed 4-2 (same split). - Filling Council Vacancy: Chairman announced the process to fill the seat of Councilman Slavin. Resumes must be submitted to the council secretary by September 12, 5 p.m. The council will nominate and vote at the September 19 meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved appointments, contracts, and routine items with most passing unanimously or by 5-1 votes. - Adopted administrative rules for marijuana business permitting (7.28). - Passed first readings of zoning and commercial marijuana ordinance amendments (7.29 and 7.30) with 4-2 votes. - Established a formal process for filling the vacant council seat, with a submission deadline of September 12 and action scheduled for the next meeting. - Councilwoman Brandana announced upcoming events: Shred Day (September 16), Jalapalooza (October 27), and a law enforcement appreciation softball game (September 15).

The Taylor City Council met on August 15, 2023, at 6:30 PM (adjourned at 8:21 PM). The meeting opened with an invocation, Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call (six members present, quorum). The council approved the agenda with amendments (adding a closed session item and deleting one), approved minutes from August 1, 2023, and heard the Mayor's communication regarding a demolition contract for three properties ($42,008 via CDBG), an update on the Junior League World Series (Taylor team playing), and a free family event. The regular agenda included numerous approvals for contracts, purchases, and policy items, followed by a closed session for personnel issues and public comments. Consent Calendar - Approval of the agenda (with changes) and minutes from August 1, 2023. Public Comments & Testimony - Residents expressed strong concerns about the Chrysnet facility (a soup kitchen/mental health center) in their neighborhood, citing increased homelessness, panhandling, and safety issues near a school and park. They urged the council to find solutions. - A resident from Wick Road complained about extensive damage to his driveway and property from water main work by Wade Trim, stating incomplete restoration and lack of response from the contractor and city staff. - A legally blind resident from Robin Street raised issues about unsafe sidewalks and street conditions in his subdivision, requesting a sidewalk replacement program and attention to tripping hazards. - Another resident voiced frustration about the Chrysnet location and perceived inaction, questioning why a mental health facility was placed near a school and elderly home. - A resident on Goddard Road reported unfinished restoration after a water line repair, noting difficulty entering his driveway and multiple unsuccessful visits to City Hall. Discussion Items - 7.1 – E911 Annual Renewal: Approved $7,233 for the E911 location data system, a federally mandated requirement for emergency calls. - 7.2 – Planning Conference: Approved $1,430 for the planning director to attend the 2023 Michigan Association of Planning Conference in Traverse City. - 7.3 – Capital Improvement Program (CIP): Received and filed the 2023-2028 CIP. Discussion included the need for a new ladder truck (quint) to maintain ISO rating; a fire battalion chief explained the lengthy build-out process. - 7.4 – Hostage Negotiators Conference: Approved $1,714 plus out-of-pocket expenses for four police officers to attend. - 7.5 – Flock Safety Camera Pilot: Approved a 60-day pilot program for 25 live-time cameras in parks at no cost. The police chief and Mr. Guido described "Project Prove It" to address park complaints, with integration into existing systems and 30-day retention. - 7.6 – Fire Truck Repairs: Approved $17,202 for repairs to engine one, engine two, and ladder one. - 7.7 – Demolition Surveys: Approved $2,400 for hazardous air pollutant surveys on three properties. - 7.8 – Sale of Vacant Lot: Approved sale of parcel ID 60-022-01-0073-000 for $2,000 (proceeds to general fund). The mayor explained the practice of selling unbuildable lots to neighbors to return them to tax rolls. Vote: 5 yes, 1 no, 1 excused. - 7.9 – Sale to Downriver for Veterans: Approved sale of parcel ID 60-010-02-0091-30 for $1 plus closing costs (not to exceed $1,501) to Downriver for Veterans, who will build a single-family home for a veteran. The mayor noted conditions on square footage (1,300 sq ft min) and title retention. - 7.10 – Community Development Conference: Approved $1,500 for community development manager to attend the MCDA fall conference. - 7.11 – Joint and Crack Sealing Contract Extension: Approved one-year extension with Cars Outdoor Services for 2023-2024. - 7.12 – PASER Rating Updates: Approved $12,600 to Wade Trim for pavement surface evaluation and rating updates (state requirement). Staff explained the scoring system and that the cost increased from $9,800; future bidding was discussed. - 7.13 – Pavement Markings Bid Documents: Approved $9,800 to Wade Trim for bid documents. - 7.14 – ENTA Supply Hosting Fees: Approved $39,500 for annual census flex net hosting. - 7.15 – Delinquent Water Bills Transfer: Approved transferring accounts delinquent for six months or more (as of June 30, 2023) to the tax roll with a 15% administrative fee. Discussion included a recent mail delay in water bill delivery. - 7.16 – Playscapes and Pavilion at Rotary and Homestead Parks: Approved $357,000 (with a 5% contingency) to replace two failing playscapes and install a pavilion, funded by CDBG. Discussion included justification for replacement due to safety and condition; a resident asked about Fletcher Park, and the mayor outlined future plans for a parking lot and pickleball courts. - 7.17 – Little Wedding Chapel Lease: Approved a three-year lease agreement for the restored chapel. - 7.18 – Two Ford F-350s: Approved $113,457 from state contract. - 7.19 – Vermeer Tree Chipper: Approved $52,934 from state contract. - 7.20 – July 2023 Paid Invoice Report: Received and filed. - 7.21 – July 2023 Budget Performance Report: Received and filed. - 7.22 – Contract Renewal with Davies Claims Solutions: Approved one-year renewal. - 7.23 – Closed Session: Motion approved to enter closed session to discuss personnel issues (roll call: all present in favor). Key Outcomes - Approved demolition contract for three properties (Mayor's communication). - Approved all routine agenda items as listed above. - Approved Flock Safety camera pilot (no-cost 60-day trial in parks). - Approved sale of a city lot to Downriver for Veterans for $1 plus closing costs. - Approved replacement of playscapes and pavilion at Rotary and Homestead Parks ($357,000). - Council entered closed session for personnel issues; after reconvening, public comments were heard. The mayor and administration committed to follow up on specific resident complaints regarding property damage from construction (Wick Road, Goddard Road), sidewalk and street conditions, and the Chrysnet situation. - Meeting adjourned at 8:21 PM.