City Manager’s Newsletter

2009-2010 Budget Approved—At the May 26, 2009 City Commission meeting, commissioners took testimony and comments regarding the proposed budget for the coming fiscal year. The Commission then approved the budget by unanimous vote. As in past years, a balanced budget was proposed and approved, as required by the Michigan State Constitution.

It is worth noting that the City is operating in a time of declining revenues. State revenue sharing has been cut by the legislature and is at 1998 levels. Revenues from taxation are on the decline and the mill rate is static. While the City will make every effort to provide the essential public services to which residents are accustomed, some major projects may be affected by the reduced revenue stream.

Summer Parking—As a reminder, overnight parking of vehicles, including RVs, is prohibited on city streets from 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. However, in exceptional situations a homeowner or resident can contact Central Dispatch (911) or the City Police (224-6721) and request permission to park on the street during these restricted hours.

Sidewalk Replacement/Repair—Sidewalk repairs are the responsibility of the property owners per city ordinance. Safe sidewalks make our city more walker-friendly for residents, and promote healthy lifestyles. As in the past, the City has allocated funds to partner with property owners for sidewalk repairs and replacements. This fiscal year the Commission has authorized up to $27,000 to assist in defraying the cost of replacing deteriorating sidewalks. If you would like to apply for funding assistance please contact Jeff Stephens, Director of Public Services, or Steve Rademacher, DPW Supervisor, at 224-8944 (extensions 281 or 229).

Noxious Weed Ordinance Enforcement—As the old song goes, summer means fun, but it also signals an increase in the growth of noxious weeds. City Ordinance 93.50 requires that noxious weeds be cleared before reaching the seed-bearing stage and lawn grasses be cut before reaching 8″ in growth. The ordinance also mandates that any accumulation of dead weeds, grass or brush be cleared by the occupant/owner of a premise. This ordinance applies to unoccupied structures as well as occupied residences and buildings. A violation of this ordinance will result in a warning letter from the City Clerk. If non-compliance persists for 10 days the City will do the needed work and charge the occupant or owner of the property. This and all ordinances can be reviewed on line at the City’s website. Paper copies of ordinances can be obtained at City Offices, or by calling 224-8944.

Smoke Testing Of Sanitary Sewer System—The City is working with the Michigan Rural Water Association to evaluate the integrity of the sanitary sewer lines by using smoke testing. This procedure uses white smoke forced through the public sewer lines using air pressure. This methodology helps locate any breaks in the lines, broken clean-outs, compromised manholes and unlawful private sewer connections. The latter category includes improper connection of downspouts, weep tiles and sump pump lines to the public sanitary sewer system. There is the slight possibility smoke could enter buildings and residences hooked into the sanitary sewer system. The smoke is not noxious and will clear if doors and windows are opened. Residents will be notified well in advance of any testing done in their neighborhood. The City will use the data from this testing to develop a strategy to deal with the infiltration. More information will be provided to residents through upcoming newsletters, the public access channel, and media releases.

The City is making this effort as a means of identifying areas in the City that allow infiltration of storm water into its sanitary sewer system. Failure to take this pre-emptive approach could result in the City receiving sanctions from the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality. Stay tuned for more information.

Summer Events—Get geared up for the 6th season of Music in the Park at the St. Johns City Park Performance Shell. The first concert begins on June 17. All concerts are held on Wednesday evenings, 7:00 p.m., rain or shine. Also, the 2nd Annual Clinton County Idol competition will be held on July 14th and 15th, 2009 at the Performance Shell. Last year there were 14 talented participants. We are hoping for even more folks to display their talents this year.

On August 19 the Community Theatre Group will put on the musical “Grease” in this outdoor venue. This is guaranteed fun for the whole family. So please join us this summer for a variety of musical events in our beautiful City Park.

Finally, come downtown to the 3rd annual Taste of the Town festival on June 26th and 27th on the Depot lawn. You will enjoy the entertainment, tasty barbecue and offerings of the street vendors. A beverage tent with live music is also part of the festivities. For car enthusiasts, you won’t want to miss the “Classic Car Cruise” on Saturday, June 27th. Tune in to the Public Access TV channel for more information.