Press Alt + R to read the document text or Alt + P to download or print.
This document contains no pages.
HomeMy WebLinkAboutInterlocal Agreements - 2008.06.12 - 5866 CITY OF WALLED LAKE
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
May 6, 2008
Mayor Roberts called the meeting to order at 8:00 p.m.
Pledge to the Flag was followed by Invocation by Father Savickas.
ROLL CALL – Present – Mayor Roberts
Council – Ambrose, Bennett, Cartter, Fox, Lesnau
Absent – Maher
Attorney – Vanerian
Dept. Heads – Behrens, Cureton, Liddy, Van Sparrentak
There being a quorum present, the meeting was declared in session.
CM05-07-08 – EXCUSE COUNCIL MEMBER MAHER FROM THIS MEETING
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council excuses Council member Maher from this meeting due to absence from the Country.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
REQUESTS FOR AGENDA CHANGES
Move the Police Officer and Fire Fighter of the Year before Audience Participation.
CM05-08-08 –APPROVAL OF THE APRIL 15, 2008 REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING
MINUTES, THE APRIL 21, 2008 SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES, THE APRIL
29, 2008 SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES AND THE MAY 1, 2008 SPECIAL
COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES
Lesnau moved, Bennett seconded
That Council approves the April 15, 2008 Regular Council Meeting Minutes, the April 21, 2008
Special Council Meeting Minutes, and the May 1, 2008 Special Council Meeting Minutes as
submitted, and the April 29, 2008 Special Council Meeting Minutes with the addition of “Council
member Fox objected to creating a new line item without first determining what the City’s needs are”
to Page 5.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
1. Police Officer and Firefighter of the Year
Fire Chief Van Sparrentak recognized Captain Jason Gonzalez as the Firefighter of the Year. Captain
Gonzalez’s wife, Amanda, daughter, Alyssa and son, Richard were present. Captain Jason Gonzalez
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 2
joined the Walled Lake Fire Department in 2001. In 2003, he was named the department’s Training
Officer and has raised training standards to levels unmatched in the department’s history. He has
excelled through recognition as a nationally certified Incident Safety Officer, a Trench Collapse
Technician, a Hazardous Materials Technician, and an NFPA recognized Fire Inspector. In 2007, he
authored and received his first grant for the Fire Department from Target Safety for $2,000. This grant
provided firefighter and continuing education credits for EMS for the entire department for a full year.
A favorite among residents with young children for fire station tours, Captain Gonzalez has exhibited
professionalism throughout his career and has put the safety of Walled Lake residents above all else.
His commitment to community is exemplified through his coordination of the annual Muscular
Dystrophy “Boot Drive.” During an arson fire at the Fawn Lake Trailer Park in December, he
effectively coordinated operations of a fully involved trailer, preventing the spread to other homes.
Captain Gonzalez is the first repeat recipient of the Firefighter of the Year Award.
Acting Police Chief Liddy said that the Police Officer of the Year is Jason Tront. Officer Tront has
been with the Department for over three years and is always willing to take on extra duties. He has
successfully attended Raid School and is now a part of our Lakes Area Narcotics Enforcement Team.
Officer Tront has completed motorcycle school and has earned his wings. In early 2007, he initiated a
traffic stop which resulted in the seizure of over 3,000 pounds of marijuana and $50,000 in cash. He is
an asset to the Department.
Acting Police Chief Liddy said that the Dispatcher of the Year is Jason Hennessey. Dispatcher
Hennessey has been an asset for the Department for over six years and he is always willing to help at a
moments notice. During the past year, he has had to work multiple shifts and change shifts in order to
keep Dispatch operational due to shortages. Dispatcher Hennessey has recently completed the
DeWolfe Dispatch Training Officers School. His continued dedication to the Department is
appreciated.
Acting Police Chief Liddy stated that the Reserve Officer of the Year is Paul Windel. Officer Windel
has been with the Department since 2001 and has proved to be invaluable to the Unit. During the last
two years, he has voluntarily assumed the role of Reserve Unit Coordinator, who is responsible for
scheduling the Reserves for the many details and events in the City. Officer Windel is ready for any
emergency situation that comes up. On many occasions he has assisted the Lakes Area Narcotics
Enforcement Team outside of his normal patrol duties.
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Lori Haas, Vice Chair for Walled Lake’s Relay for Life, asked permission to place signs throughout
the City from May 7th through May 12th for the event this weekend.
CM05-09-08 – APPROVE THE PLACEMENT OF RELAY FOR LIFE SIGNS THROUGHOUT
THE CITY FROM MAY 7, 2008 THROUGH MAY 12, 2008
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council approves the placement of Relay for Life signs throughout the City from May 7, 2008
through May 12, 2008.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 3
COUNCIL CONSIDERATION
2. Consideration of the Cemetery Request
Attorney Vanerian said that he has reviewed the Rules and Regulations for the Cemetery. He
recommended changes to the Certificate issued to the purchaser of the cemetery lot, including Name of
Owner, the burial rights are subject to the restrictions set forth in the Rules and Regulations, and the
City has the right to purchase the lot in the event the purchaser wishes to transfer burial rights.
Attorney Vanerian indicated he would make these changes and bring the Certificate back to Council
for approval.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau stated that Mr. Hortop, who has a Walled Lake mailing address but does not
live in the corporate limits of the City, had requested purchasing three cemetery lots at the resident
rate. City Clerk Buck stated that Mr. Hortop was not present at this meeting, but had indicated he
would be attending the June 3, 2008 regular Council meeting.
Council member Fox asked if the certificate is transferrable. Attorney Vanerian said that there are
rules which indicate if someone dies, the certificate needs to be recorded with the City in order to be
recognized. The City has the right to purchase the lot before it is transferred or sold to someone else.
3. Consideration of the Decker Road Storage Update
Attorney Vanerian said that the required screening, a six-foot masonry wall, has not been erected along
the Dover Hill and Decker Road Storage property line. The property owner made a request to place a
wooden fence in place of the masonry wall. The City has the authority to allow him to do this, but not
as a substitute. If it were permanent, he would need a variance.
Mr. Mazurek stated that his loan has been approved but there was a problem that delayed the closing.
The title company discovered a petition to condemn the property from the early 1970s and a
confirmation of the same in December 2007. Mr. Mazurek believes this is a mistake on the part of the
title company. As soon as this issue is cleared, the closing can be rescheduled. He hoped that would
happen this week. Mr. Mazurek indicated that his contractor feels strongly that the brick fence is a
mistake because it will not hold up. He suggested another type of fence, possibly a white plastic fence.
The extra money would be used to purchase and plant taller trees for screening.
Mayor Roberts hoped the closing comes along soon. He would like to see this project move forward
and he would like to see the fence in place. The residents of Dover Hill have been inconvenienced for
some time.
Karl Ankrom, 1444 Dover Hill North, indicated that he was representing the Dover Hill Board. The
discussion at a previous meeting was not for a brick wall but a masonry wall faced with brick with a
limestone cap. He wondered about the time frame with a civil infraction and what came next. It has
been almost a year that the fence has been down and residents have been more than patient. Attorney
Vanerian said he was not aware of a specific date that the wall had to be in place. Further enforcement
issues would involve court intervention and take time.
Mr. Mazurek thought he would have more information in two weeks. Mayor Roberts said that action
needs to be taken. He thought waiting two weeks would be best because we might have information
that is positive in two weeks.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 4
Council member Fox commented that the court system could delay this situation further. He
understood that the residents want a fence, but we have to accept Mr. Mazurek’s good faith efforts and
give him an opportunity to bring back information. His loan has been approved and he is waiting for a
legal issue to be resolved.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau said that the residents have been extremely patient. It is important that we
have the best quality development that we can have, and the wooden fence is not the best situation for
the residents of Dover Hill. She stated that even in this hard economic time, Mr. Mazurek was able to
receive approval on his loan to move forward with this project. If we wait two weeks until the next
meeting, we will have more information.
Council member Ambrose said he appreciated the Dover Hill residents in regards to patience and
inconvenience. He asked what the City could do to satisfy them. Mr. Ankrom stated that two more
weeks would not make a difference if it allows us to reach a conclusion. He said that if something has
occurred to prevent the developer from proceeding, then it is time to move forward with court action to
get this resolved.
Council member Fox suggested bringing this back at the first meeting in June.
CM05-10-08 – APPROVAL TO REVISIT THE DECKER ROAD STORAGE AT THE JUNE 3,
2008 COUNCIL MEETING AND BE PREPARED TO MOVE AHEAD WITH A LEGAL
OPTION IF NECESSARY
Fox moved, Lesnau seconded
That Council approves to revisit the Decker Road Storage at the June 3, 2008 Council meeting and be
prepared to move ahead with a legal option if necessary.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
4. Consideration of the St. Williams Site Plan
Attorney Vanerian said that previously, the Planning Commission approved St. Williams Parish’s
revised site plan proposing the expansion of their existing parking facilities. One condition imposed
was that they receive Council approval to develop on-street parking. Director Cureton added that Mike
Boss, of Boss Engineering, recommended a reduced speed of 15 mph be posted in this area, even
though a speed lower than 25 mph can’t be enforced.
Father Savickas stated that on-street parking would be a real asset to the properties in this location.
Council member Ambrose said that on-street parking is part of the Master Plan. Mayor Roberts
thought this would be very positive. He said many of the residents were concerned about the street
closure. Father Savickas indicated that they are no longer pursuing the street closure, but they might
come back in the future to request this. He added that it might be beneficial for the Parish and the City
to work together on improvements to Common Street, such as paving and drainage.
Discussion was held regarding a traffic signal on Pontiac Trail at Nicolet. The Road Commission
would not recommend a signal at that intersection because it does not meet the traffic requirements.
As that area develops, a crosswalk may be approved.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 5
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau wondered why the school zone speed limit ended prior to St. William School.
Bruce Kushmar, 409 Common, stated that a stop sign with a painted crosswalk should be located on
Common Street where the school children cross between the school and the playground.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau asked if the change in plans, which included no longer closing Common
Street, was a more favorable plan to the residents. Mr. Kushmar replied yes.
CM05-11-08 – APPROVAL OF THE COMMON ON-STREET PARKING WITH THE
EXECUTION OF A MAINTENANCE AGREEMENT ACCEPTABE TO THE CITY, THE
EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF PUBLIC ACCESS EASEMENTS FOR PORTIONS OF
THE SIDEWALK RELOCATED OUTSIDE THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY, OBTAINING
REQUIRED VARIANCES FOR PORTIONS OF THE SIDEWALK RELOCATED OUTSIDE
THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY, THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF UTILITY
EASEMENTS AS NEEDED FOR ANY CURRENT OR FUTURE UTILITIES LOCATED
OUTSIDE THE PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY ONTO PARISH PROPERTY, AND THE
COMPLIANCE WITH ALL OTHER CONDITIONS IMPOSED BY THE PLANNING
COMMISSION
Lesnau moved, Cartter seconded
That Council approves the Common On-Street Parking with the execution of a maintenance agreement
acceptable to the City, the execution and delivery of public access easements for portions of the
sidewalk relocated outside the public right-of-way, obtaining required variances for portions of the
sidewalk relocated outside the public right-of-way, the execution and delivery of utility easements as
needed for any current or future utilities located outside the public right-of-way onto Parish property,
and the compliance with all other conditions imposed by the Planning Commission.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
5. Consideration of the Insurance Bid
Treasurer Behrens stated that bids were received from the MML and MMRMA for Property and
Liability Insurance for the City. The MML’s bid was for $106,843 with a $1,000 deductible and
MMRMA’s bid was for $102,354 with $250 deductible for each occurrence.
Tim McClorey, MMRMA Representative, stated that MMRMA is a non-profit organization that is
member-driven. There are many items that his firm offers, especially to law enforcement and fire
departments. They make available $750,000 a year for different risk management projects, such as
tasers and in-car cameras. Their attention to proactive risk management enables them to achieve
incredible success. Because of this financial success, they have been able to give over $27 million
back to their membership. Mr. McClorey said that in regards to the limits of our liability, they
matched what was asked for with $5 million with no aggregates on the liability side.
Council member Ambrose asked if any surrounding communities were members of MMRMA. Mr.
McClorey indicated that Sylvan Lake, Keego Harbor, and Wixom are all MMRMA members.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 6
Ms. Judy Thomson-Torosian, MML Representative, commented that Walled Lake has been with the
MML since 1988. The MML has devoted its resources to programs that help all of their members.
They offer programs for the police departments through the LEAF (Law Enforcement Action Forum)
Committee, which is nationally renowned. LEAF developed model policies, which can be downloaded
and tweaked by the departments. The MML is made up of over 400 members and they have chosen
not to distribute their surplus in forms of dividends, but by reducing premiums for members. She
stated that Walled Lake has a fairly high loss ratio, which is a comparison of losses versus our
premium. This is why our reductions haven’t been as great.
Mayor Roberts asked if there was any way of getting the City’s deductible down to $250 per
occurrence. Ms. Thomson-Torosian replied that they could offer the City a $250 per occurrence
deductible with the premium remaining the same.
Council member Fox said he would like to see the Management Team discuss this and make a
recommendation to Council. Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau agreed.
Director Cureton wondered about the self-insurance retention of $75,000 that the MMRMA offered.
He asked how sizeable the premium reduction would be if the City were to adopt the same type of
philosophy. Mr. McClorey said that it is tough for him to say. He said he would be happy to secure a
proposal from their underwriters. Council member Fox asked about the amount they roll back to their
clients. Mr. McClorey indicated these rewards are based on longevity and range between 1-5%.
Acting Police Chief Liddy asked about the MMRMA’s matching grants. Mr. McClorey said that he
didn’t know if there was a limit, but there is an application process. The grants are designed for
proactive risk management.
The Management Team will present their recommendation at the next Council meeting.
6. Consideration of the Shew Development
Mike Nelson, Attorney for Shew Development, submitted a program outline for the development of
the Walled Lake Municipal Campus. He indicated that one of the first things necessary is to obtain
authorization to start spending money on site engineering work. There is a necessity to investigate the
environmental conditions of the property.
Attorney Vanerian stated that the concept is good, but he would need a proposal that contains more
detail relative to the legal and financing relationship between Shew Development and the City of
Walled Lake. He said he would then take this back to his office to review with other attorneys.
Council member Fox suggested tabling the discussion on the Shew Development to discuss the update
on the Carnival in June.
CARNIVAL UPDATE
Tony Hopeck distributed information regarding Miller Spectacular Shows and the layout of the
carnival.
Mayor Roberts asked how many people this type of carnival draws. Mr. Hopeck thought anywhere
from 8,000 to 20,000. He expected a smaller turnout for the first year with exposure creating more
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 7
people in coming years. Mayor Roberts stated that the Council has already given conceptual approval
to this carnival.
Council member Ambrose stated that he has spoken to realtors that handle the vacant property in the
area and they have agreed to allow living quarters there. Also, the insurance issue is not a problem.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau asked how the other business owners in the area feel about the carnival. Mr.
Semma stated that the owner of the Coffee Shop has no problem with it. Mr. Hopeck said that Shag
Salon and the Bike Shop are excited about the foot traffic.
CM05-12-08 – APPROVAL TO MOVE FORWARD WITH THE CARNIVAL PROVIDED
INSURANCE AND REQUIRED DOCUMENTS AS REQUIRED BY THE CITY ARE IN
PLACE
Fox moved, Ambrose seconded
That Council approves to move forward with the Carnival provided insurance and required documents
as required by the City are in place.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau asked about the parking. Council member Ambrose stated that parking would
be located in the Farmer Jack parking lot with shuttle service to the carnival. Parking would also be
available in the City lot.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
SHEW DEVELOPMENT
Council member Fox stated that through the budget process, we were able to find $3-4 million in cost
savings or revenue enhancement over the next four years or so. He suggested forming a smaller
committee to take this project to the next level. This committee could meet with a representative from
Shew Development to break down how the money will be spent and in what order to limit our
exposure and not spend more money than we need.
Mayor Roberts wondered about the environmental findings on the City Event field. Director Cureton
said that he didn’t think they found any contamination during a base line study. In order to complete
closure to this site, four quarterly samples are necessary. The first three samples have consistently
come up clean, but the fourth has always been slightly above the threshold. He thought the fourth
sample would be clean during the next testing.
Mr. Nelson said that he is thrilled to hear that the City has found $3-4 million. He said he appreciates
the suggestion of a committee as a way to move forward with the project. We can start to anticipate
timeliness and expenditures. Soil borings are necessary and we will have to look at utilities on site.
Council member Fox commented that the City is probably looking at a longer timeframe than the
developers. He said he was thinking six months to a year to get all these things accomplished. We
should be receiving the Five Year Forecast within the next 30-60 days.
Larry Shew said that he is very excited to move forward.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 8
Mayor Roberts stated that the Finance Budget Committee’s number one priority was to take care of the
current fiscal situation and make sure things are stable. We are looking to the future for a road bond
because some of our roads have not been improved for 30 years.
Council member Cartter asked what would happen to the Library. Mayor Roberts stated that would
have to be addressed.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau said she liked the idea of a committee. She also liked the idea of doing a
separate legal committee to see the relationships a little more well-defined, especially for the adjacent
property owners and how that may affect the timeline. Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau wondered if the DDA
members would be interested in serving on a committee, since half of this project is in the DDA
district.
CM05-13-08 – AUTHORIZE COUNCIL TO FORM A COMMITTEE FOR THE
DEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY HALL PROPERTY
Lesnau moved, Ambrose seconded
That Council authorizes formation of a Committee for the development of the City Hall property.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
Mayor Roberts suggested Council members Bennett, Cartter and Fox be appointed to this Committee.
Council member Cartter respectfully declined the appointment.
CM05-14-08 – APPROVE THE APPOINTMENT OF MAYOR PRO TEM LESNAU,
COUNCIL MEMBER FOX AND COUNCIL MEMBER BENNETT TO THE COMMITTEE
FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF THE CITY HALL PROPERTY
Fox moved, Cartter seconded
That Council approves the appointment of Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau, Council member Fox and Council
member Bennett to the Committee for the Development of the City Hall Property.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
Heather Hill said she was under the impression that this Council was fiscally responsible. She said she
understands the Departments had to cut back on staff and they have not replaced people who have
retired. She wondered if Council member Fox was able to save money by removing services to the
citizens. Ms. Hill said she thought this was highly irresponsible of the Council to build a new City
complex. She added that this would come back to haunt each and every one of the Council members.
Council member Fox stated that this was part of the plan submitted by Plante Moran. After the Budget
Committee completed their work, the revenues exceeded the expenses by the end of 2009. There were
hard choices made by the Budget Committee. He thought it was unfortunate that people don’t know
the facts. The Council and the Department Heads worked hard to consider a project to revitalize the
City. Mayor Roberts added that the Council had budgeted for a $1.5 million road bond.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 9
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau stated that the Council is not just building a new building. We are leveraging
the property along Maple Road to generate tax dollars. This enables us to pay for some of these
services and it is an important part of the revitalization. She said it is important to take a look at the
entire project. Everyone on the Finance Committee was surprised at how many things we are able to
accomplish. There are still some things we need to discuss, but this is a work in progress.
Council member Fox added that based on the projections, our fund balance will be equivalent to what
it is now within five years. Mayor Roberts said that the City will get the financial credit for the
footprint of these buildings.
MAYOR’S REPORT
Mayor Roberts said that last week, he, Council member Bennett, and the City Clerk attended the MML
Regional meeting at the City of Wixom where Representatives DeRoche and Miesner both said they
would work to get a ten percent increase in Revenue Sharing for municipalities. Mayor Roberts
suggested that communication be sent to Lansing urging no less than a four percent increase in
Revenue Sharing.
CM05-15-08 – AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO SEND A LETTER TO LANSING TO
SUPPORT AN INCREASE IN STATE REVENUE SHARING
Fox moved, Lesnau seconded
That Council authorizes the Mayor to send a letter to Lansing to support an increase in State Revenue
Sharing.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
Mayor Roberts said that he attended the Brownfield Conference at Cobo Hall. There were many
interesting sessions and exhibits.
Mayor Roberts asked about the DDA Bylaws. Attorney Vanerian said he would have them ready for
the next DDA meeting.
Mayor Roberts referred to a communication requested from the Post Office relative to posting their
food drive signs in the City.
CM05-16-08 – AUTHORIZE THE POST OFFICE TO PLACE THEIR FOOD DRIVE SIGNS
THROUGHOUT THE CITY FROM MAY 7 THROUGH MAY 12, 2008
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council authorizes the Post Office to place their food drive signs throughout the City from May 7
through May 12, 2008.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
Mayor Roberts thanked Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau for standing in for him at the Benefit for Private
Werda.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 10
COUNCIL REPORT
1. Cas Werda Benefit
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau said that she attended the April 26th fundraiser held at Home Interior
Warehouse for Army Specialist Cas Werda who is blind from injuries he sustained from a roadside
bomb in Iraq. She found it interesting to see how the community came out to support him.
Congressman McCotter, Senator Cassis, Representative DeRoche, Commissioner Bullard and the
Former Novi Mayor Csordas were a few of the people in attendance at this event. She stated that Cas
chose to serve his community by enlisting in the Army, but on that day, the community chose to serve
him.
CITY MANAGER’S REPORT - None
CORRESPONDENCE
City Clerk Buck stated that a thank you note was received from Gail Glennie upon her retirement.
ATTORNEY’S REPORT
1. Consideration of Charter Amendments
Attorney Vanerian submitted three proposed Charter Amendments for the August 5th ballot. The first
ballot question would extend the budget adoption date to the second Monday of June. The second
would extend the budget submission date to the third Monday in May and the third ballot question
would amend the penalty provisions allowed by state law for certain offenses. These amendments
would have to be approved by the Governor and Attorney Vanerian hoped it would be completed in
time for the August 5th Primary Election.
CM05-17-08 – APPROVAL OF CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 1 FOR THE AUGUST 5TH
BALLOT
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council approves Charter Amendment No. 1 for the August 5th Ballot.
ROLL CALL VOTE: (6) AYES – Ambrose, Bennett, Cartter, Fox, Lesnau, Roberts
(0) NAYS
(1) ABSENT - Maher
MOTION CARRIED
CM05-18-08 – APPROVAL OF CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 2 FOR THE AUGUST 5TH
BALLOT
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council approves Charter Amendment No. 2 for the August 5th Ballot.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 11
ROLL CALL VOTE: (6) AYES – Ambrose, Bennett, Cartter, Fox, Lesnau, Roberts
(0) NAYS
(1) ABSENT - Maher
MOTION CARRIED
CM05-19-08 – APPROVAL OF CHARTER AMENDMENT NO. 3 FOR THE AUGUST 5TH
BALLOT
Lesnau moved, Bennett seconded
That Council approves Charter Amendment No. 3 for the August 5th Ballot.
ROLL CALL VOTE: (6) AYES – Ambrose, Bennett, Cartter, Fox, Lesnau, Roberts
(0) NAYS
(1) ABSENT - Maher
MOTION CARRIED
2. Consideration of Administrative Police Service Fees
CM05-20-08 – APPROVAL OF THE ADMINISTRATIVE POLICE SERVICE FEE
RESOLUTION
Fox moved, Lesnau seconded
That Council approves the Administrative Police Service Fee Resolution.
Mayor Roberts asked about the on-site outdoor and indoor vehicle storage. Acting Police Chief Liddy
stated that this is for forfeiture vehicles. Council member Fox was concerned about the people who
would have to pay these fees. He indicated that most would not be able to afford them.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
3. Consideration of Going Out of Business License
Attorney Vanerian said that the Attorney General is requiring the cities, townships and villages to
charge for a license for going out of business sales held in their communities. The statute allows us to
charge $50 for this license.
CM05-21-08 – APPROVAL OF THE GOING OUT OF BUSINESS FEE RESOLUTION
Fox moved, Cartter seconded
That Council approves the Going Out of Business Fee Resolution.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 12
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
1. Consideration of Part Time Request
City Clerk Buck said that because the Clerical Union Contract does not cover temporary or part time
employees, a Letter of Understanding is not necessary from the Union to allow Gail Glennie work part
time until June 30, 2008.
Labor Attorney Gary King did not feel this would be an issue with the Union because Section 1.7 of
the Clerical Contract states that the City agrees not to contract any work normally performed by
members of the bargaining unit when such contracted work will result in a reduction of bargaining unit
positions or normal hours of work. There is no reduction of positions or hours for the current staff.
Due to IRS regulations, Ms. Glennie is not eligible to return to part time work until 30 days after her
retirement, or Monday, May 12, 2008. Attorney King recommended that the Employment Contract
not be signed by Ms. Glennie and the City until the expiration of the 30 day period on May 12th.
CM05-22-08 – AMEND MOTION CM04-24-08 TO APPROVE GAIL GLENNIE WORKING
PART TIME, NOT TO EXCEED 32 HOURS A WEEK, FROM MAY 12, 2008 UNTIL JUNE
30, 2008, PENDING A SIGNED AGREEMENT WITH GAIL GLENNIE
Lesnau moved, Bennett seconded
That Council amends motion CM04-24-08 to approve Gail Glennie working part time, not to exceed
32 hours a week, from May 12, 2008 until June 30, 2008, pending a signed agreement with Gail
Glennie.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
NEW BUSINESS
1. Consideration of the Assessing Contract
Treasurer Behrens indicated this contract contains the same provisions as the current one with a 3.1%
increase in per parcel rates.
CM05-23-08 – AUTHORIZE THE MAYOR TO EXECUTE THE OAKLAND COUNTY
ASSESSING CONTRACT
Fox moved, Cartter seconded
That Council authorizes the Mayor to execute the Oakland County Assessing Contract.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
2. Consideration of the Police Vehicle Purchase
Acting Police Chief Liddy said that he decided not to purchase the MSU Tahoe’s, which were
previously approved by Council, because of the added mileage and the poor condition of the vehicles.
Instead he proposed the purchase of a 2008 Ford 4 x 4 Expedition.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 13
CM05-24-08 – APPROVE THE PURCHASE OF A 4 X4 EXPEDITION FROM JORGENSON
FORD
Fox moved, Cartter seconded
That Council approves the purchase of a 4 x 4 Expedition from Jorgenson Ford.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau asked about the car rotation. Acting Police Chief Liddy indicated that the
Building Department would have to keep their current car one more year. This vehicle can pull the
Fire Department’s trailer, if needed. He indicated that this vehicle would not accumulate as many
miles on it because it will only be driven by the day supervision staff.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
3. Consideration of Water System Emergency Connection
CM05-25-08 – AUTHORIZE THE AGREEMENT FOR EMERENCY CONNECTION TO
PUBLIC WATER WITH THE CITY OF NOVI
Fox moved, Lesnau seconded
That Council authorizes the Agreement for Emergency Connection to Public Water with the City of
Novi.
Director Cureton stated that some of the Novi accounts will be coming off our system. This
connection would only be used in an emergency situation.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
4. Consideration of Bank Signers Resolution
CM05-26-08 – APPROVE THE BANK SIGNERS RESOLUTION
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council approves the Bank Signers Resolution.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
AUDIENCE PARTICIPATION
Bill Compton commented that we seldom see anything good said about Walled Lake. Recently, a
Central High School student received a perfect score on the SAT test. Also, the new Miss America
attended Walled Lake Western High School. Mayor Roberts added that Allstate is now running a
national ad featuring a Walled Lake business, Petz Automotive.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 14
COUNCIL COMMENTS
Council member Maher – Absent.
Council member Bennett – No comment.
Council member Cartter – Read the following: I will be brief. A couple of meetings ago, I made a
point, which I brought up so it could be discussed. I was told by Councilman Fox, “That’s your
opinion and I respect that but I don’t agree with you.” I was looking for logic and I received a polite
“shut up.”
After all that has occurred since the 3 of you were elected and the 4 of you had a majority vote on
Council, you have maintained a “my way or the highway” attitude. I have always been able to work
well with everyone no matter what differences of opinion there might have been. I thought I would be
able to work with you also. But cooperation is something none of you have in mind.
As a result, I feel I can better serve this city and her citizens from the other side of this table. That
being so, when the Mayor gavels this meeting adjourned tonight, it will be Diane Cartter’s Sine Die.
I hereby resign my Council seat.”
Mayor Roberts stated that according to the City Charter, when a resignation is presented, it has to be
laid over to the next meeting. Council member Cartter said that she has tried to make points but has
tried not to be argumentative. She said that she goes home at night and is upset because of the way the
meeting has gone. She said she no longer feels of use here now.
Council member Ambrose said that on April 16, 2008, he, Mayor Roberts and Council member
Bennett attended the Ribbon Cutting of Beaumont Hospital at Maple and M-5. Walled Lake is in the
fortunate position of being in the center of four hospitals – Providence Park in Novi, Huron Valley in
Commerce Township, Henry Ford in West Bloomfield, and now Beaumont Hospital on Maple Road.
Hopefully, Walled Lake can provide doctors with reasonable office space. Also, last month at the
CW3 meeting in Wixom, a comment was made regarding County bond ratings. Director Cureton
added that the County made the initial purchase of the GIS software, which is available via the
internet. The bigger problem is that there may be some expense to gathering the information. If
Council wishes to move forward with this, a letter of commitment is necessary. Director Cureton
indicated that he would get more information and report back to Council at a later date.
Council member Ambrose said that the County website lists properties for sale and they encourage
municipalities to link to their site. Mayor Roberts said that our website is already linked to the
County’s website. He added that when people look at a website, they will not click more than twice to
find what they are looking for before moving to another website.
Council member Fox – Stated that it is too bad that Council member Cartter feels she can no longer
serve the city. She has served the City for a long time. He clarified that the point she brought up
happened during a budget meeting. The issue dealt with the day-to-day operations of the City and that
the Council was in charge. Council member Fox said that his comment at that meeting was that he
disagreed. He thought the Management Team is in charge of the day-to-day operations. He said he
was sorry that she took it the wrong way.
REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING May 6, 2008 Page 15
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau – Expressed regret that Council member Cartter would like to resign. She has
been on Council for 20 years and she has served the City for a long time. There have been a few times
within this past year when she has understood what it is like to be in the minority. Overall, she has
been very proud of this Council and the work they have been doing. Any time you go into a new
situation, there is that unknown. Looking at the work that has been done, this Council has done a very
good job. Overall, we can be proud of this Council and we have been getting a lot accomplished. We
could’ve spent the first six months not getting anything done, but that has not been the case. She said
she respects Council member Cartter’s decision. She, too, decided a while ago that she would not run
for further office. She wished Council member Cartter good luck and thanked her.
Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau commented that in regards to the City’s website, we do make reference to
Oakland County’s website for a variety of reasons, such as GIS and their mapping system. The
website is still a work in progress. She said that Treasurer Behrens warned her that this would be quite
an undertaking. Tech Resources has put in twice as many hours as they originally thought and we are
paying the same fixed rate we agreed. Mayor Pro Tem Lesnau said that the website is coming along
very well and she appreciated all the help from the staff. She indicated that the DDA is interested in
developing a new DDA site. This is not in the original scope, but Tech Resources can do it.
CM05-27-08 – BILLS FOR APPROVAL
Lesnau moved, Fox seconded
That Council authorizes the Treasurer to make disbursements and transfer on Warrant #09-2008 in the
amount of $593,333.18, this being in the best interest of the City.
VOTE: UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED
Mayor Roberts reminded everyone of the Grand Opening of the Farmers Market tomorrow morning at
7:00 a.m.
The meeting adjourned at 11:22 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Catherine Buck, CMC, City Clerk