Commissioners are expected to finalize a months-long debate over whether to continue curbside recycling in the city. During the meeting, the commission will consider approval of an exclusive franchise agreement with Borden Waste-Away Service LLC, the city’s current recycling provider.
Residents also asked city officials for answers about a separate recent death involving a 60-year-old man found deceased near the intersection of Stockbridge Avenue and Mills Street. Chief Boysen said the death was ruled a suicide and that there was no evidence of foul play or involvement by other individuals. He said the man had a history of mental illness and other challenges.
The Three Rivers City Commission will meet this evening and is expected to again attempt to select a mayor pro tem. The commission will also consider a funding request tied to a Michigan State Housing Development Authority Neighborhood Community Development Block Grant. The city previously submitted a letter of intent requesting $600,000, but staff are requesting a revision to $700,000 after receiving higher-than-expected cost estimates. The funds would be used to renovate the upper floors of 111 Portage Ave. into three apartments.
Farrand Hall is hosting its first art show on December 18, featuring photo prints from artist Lynne Kasey, a Klinger Lake resident. The show will be held at the Farrand Hall Market & Workshop in downtown Colon at 113 E. State St. Beginning at 6 p.m., attendees can view Kasey’s prints and explore the Farrand Hall Market & Workshop space. Kasey’s subject matter varies, with nature being one of her favorites. From photos of birds and macro images of water drops to interesting textures and vintage items, she finds artistry in a wide range of objects.
To start off new business, commissioners unanimously approved a fundraiser in partnership with Gest Pro Tree Services and United Way. For a minimum $25 donation to United Way, Gest Pro Tree Services will pick up Christmas trees from a participating resident’s curbside, chip the tree, and compost the chippings. Donations must be made in advance, and the deadline to sign up is January 4.
Watershed Voice spoke with the new Dowagiac mayor about his first month in office, the goals he hopes to pursue, and his approach to transparency. Bakeman has served as mayor for just over a month, or three City Council meetings. He emphasized that significant policy changes take time.
The Sturgis City Commission will meet tonight in City Hall at 6 p.m. Electric Department Superintendent Chris McArthur will present the commission with the Sturgis Electric Center final design and the proposed purchase of a Hydro Line Three-Phase Transformer. A Christmas Tree pickup fundraiser and the sorting out of leases and sales of the city vehicle fleets will also be discussed.
Jonathan Current, business manager of IBEW Local 131, recently shared his perspective on the state and future of blue collar jobs in Southwest Michigan with Watershed Voice. We spoke with Current about unions and their role in today’s economy, the different states of certain trades such as electrical versus construction, and legislative efforts impacting trade and skilled workers in Southwest Michigan.
TRCP has been part of the Three Rivers arts landscape since 1973, often blending entertainment and education into its programing. The theater’s junior summer productions have introduced generations of young actors to the stage – including this show’s director who said those experiences were foundational to his creative life.
Cass County Board of Commissioners previously used the format to allow commissioners to meet in a more informal setting before taking formal action at a regular business meeting. In a session, no final votes are taken, commissioners can ask detailed questions about upcoming agenda items, sponsors of new business or department heads can provide additional context, and the board can workshop ideas or identify issues that may require more research.
A NOTE FROM OUR EDITOR
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