January 14, 2002, I took the oath of office for the City Manager of Coopersville with unanimous approval by the city council under the leadership of Mayor Ken Bush. I did not know at that moment what kind of experience I was in for, nor how this metaphorical ride might impact my personal development. I had been in the private sector for many years, and I had just recently worked for a year as the Assistant City Manager in Coopersville which included being the Planning Director, so I knew the lay of the land somewhat, but still through the lens of another career.  
 
What I discovered relatively soon was that the caliber of individuals in the public sector was significant and strong. These people were smart, knowledgeable, dedicated, and most of all were caring about the citizens they served. It wasn’t just those that worked in Coopersville, but those that worked for other cities and local governments as well. Say what you will about Washington DC, but here at the local level we have individuals providing services for residents and business owners of the highest levels. We should all feel relieved and proud that our tax dollars are being utilized responsibly by competent and thoughtful employees. Employees that for the most part have a high regard for hard work, quality performance, and an acute awareness regarding ethical behavior.
 
I discovered other aspects of the public sector and of the City Manager position as well. So, as I approach my last council meeting of my tenure here in Coopersville, my thoughts and emotions are surprisingly mixed. I worked for years to earn my Master’s Degree in Public Administration, and gave up much of my personal life to make it happen. I worked numerous “internships” to maximize my efforts to learn the complexities of the public sector in a relatively short amount of time. And it was worth every sacrifice made by myself and my wife. I would do it all over again in an instant, especially if I knew I was coming to the City of Coopersville.
 
So, I’ve begun the process of deconstructing my office in preparation for the new City Manager. I’m also finding myself beginning to construct new options for my future. As I think about those options I’m simultaneously thinking about some of the principals about Coopersville and city management I’ve learned that has had value. Here are just a few:
 

• Don’t be fearful of change, life itself is change. Fighting change is denying life itself. As individuals, our time as adolescents doesn’t necessarily mimic our development as adults. Hopefully, as we progress through our lives we learn more, develop maturity and wisdom, and are a better example of ourselves now than when we started life’s journey. The same holds true for a city and a community. Growth can be good especially if it’s smart.

 

• Coopersville will never lose its historical heritage. Change is about growing and striving for excellence. Change is not about losing your core identity. You CAN have both, just make it happen. Have the will and the vision and it will “be”.

 

• If you believe that change is not to be feared, then embrace principles that allow growth to enhance the value of the community and resist growth that doesn’t embody excellence. Coopersville is worth the quest for excellence, but you must constantly and earnestly strive for it.

 

• Resist the urge to listen to negativity. Negativity is intellectual laziness and provides a foundation to nothing, which results in nothing being achieved. Vision and the communication of what is possible brings us to the next level of excellence.

 

• Don’t mistake bullies as leaders. Leaders provide vision, direction, and communicate excellence, bullies provide the opposite. In my journeys I have worked with leaders and bullies; the former is better every single day.

 

• Don’t let the bumps in the road detour you from your vision. Vision peers down the road a mile or two; it doesn’t focus on the hood of your vehicle.

 
And now it’s time to complete my last council packet memo. Even though I’m leaving of my own motivation, I am sad to depart as I leave behind relationships I value and love. Thank you to those that have been a part of my professional and personal life here in Coopersville. You are a part of my life-long development and have contributed to me being a better person and a better City Manager. You know who you are, and I will never forget you, ever. Bless you all!
 
A heart felt thank you goes out to each city employee. We have a special team working now and I am forever grateful to be a part of this experience with all you. Regardless of what department you report to each morning, you add value to Coopersville and I wish the general public could experience it as I have. They would be impressed as I have been for years. Nicely done team.
 
KEEP IT GOING COOPERSVILLE!
 

​Pocket Park Construction
As I stated in last month’s memo, it’s a joy to see people already using the park to sit, relax, and just explore this beautiful addition to our historical downtown. We’ve had overwhelming and positive comments about this new facility within our historic downtown. Of course, we’ve had a few individuals comment on the water feature being a waste of water and that the project itself was a waste of money in general. Thankfully those comments have been quite limited. The park is doing what it was designed to do, bring people downtown.
 
 
Water Project – Phase I
At the Special Council Meeting held June 4th, council approved Prein&Newhof (P&N) as the engineering consultant for the Water Project – Phase I. I thank you as P&N has been instrumental in assisting staff in the preliminary phases of this project. In the next week or two the city is requesting a meeting with relevant parties to discuss possible improvements to the system that were tentatively scheduled for future consideration. Please contact me or Jonathan Seyferth if you have specific questions or require clarification on any aspect of the project.
 
 
WWTP Effluent Pump – UV Chamber Project
The new schedule says we’re having dirt/clay to be moved around at the beginning of next week. Long-lead items, especially the UV treatment components, have been ordered. The contractor has assured city representatives that the completion date will still be met late fall.  Please contact me if you have questions. Really, please contact me or Jonathan Seyferth. 

​My Dad was a dreamer and an engineer. The combination of the two created a man who shared with his son the concept of the “possible.” He taught me how to discover the possibility of turning dreams into reality and more importantly, “seeing” the possibilities that exist in our everyday travels, how a slight turn of the head changes perspective, and how your imagination can reveal possibilities within other possibilities. And of course, how this can be accomplished with a dash of discipline and hard work.  
 
All this is not necessarily an easy skill to develop. It has been a life-long journey with many peaks and valleys, but always a journey that is fascinating, beautiful, and filled with endless wonder. It can be disappointing at times… okay, it can seem brutal at times, especially when technology is not there to make dreams become possible or those around you have difficulty embracing the possibility when the dream is not apparent, or even more disappointing, not having certain skills to create the reality. My Dad was disappointed many, many times but it never deterred him from his deep desire to examine and embrace the possibilities that existed for him. I miss you Dad and the endless possibilities you highlighted for me; thank you.
 
Years ago, I read a book that changed me “just enough.” It didn’t change the core of the person I was, but what it did was enhance what was already there in my core. It offered a lighted path to embrace the possibilities of life, my life. Who knows, maybe it will for those that choose to read the book now as well. The book is, “The Art of Possibility” by Rosamund Stone Zander and Benjamin Zander. It’s a beautiful and enlightening read that offers unique observations to everyday life, which is routinely taken for granted. It revealed what and how I could bring the authors’ discoveries to my life at home and my life in my career. The book delves deeply into what we as individuals do that inhibits us from fulfilling our own personal possibilities and how we might change our actions and perceptions for deeper lives.
 
The book fascinated for me on many levels, of which many were very, very personal. But what also fascinated me as I read the book was how I couldn’t help but feel euphoria for Coopersville. The book prompted me to explore broadly how possibilities influenced our community. That included the people I worked and collaborated with, not only within but outside the city as well. I was euphoric because there were people that witnessed and embraced the many possibilities that existed for Coopersville. They were, and still are, dreamers that clearly see the possibilities of this fine community.
 
I would love to name the people I’ve had the privilege to work with, but I don’t want to offend anyone that I might miss. But we have many “builders” here in Coopersville who embrace the possibilities that lie within all of us and within the geography of the city. They are the builders because they see the possibilities; they are the builders because they see the potential; they are the builders because they see the opportunities; they are the builders because they love and care for Coopersville. I applaud you each and every day because all of you deserve the recognition.
 
I would love to write so much more about this subject and how it relates to Coopersville. The subject matter touches my heart, soul, and mind deeply, but this is not the format nor do I have the time. My tenure as Coopersville’s City Manager is drawing to a close and it is important to me to share how critical it is to embrace the “possibilities” that wait to be owned by a future builder. Is that you? We cannot survive with only the status quo. We cannot survive without vision. We cannot survive without discovery. 
 
However, we can survive because we embrace the possible and are willing to work, to provide the resources, and make the possible our new friend and ally. Embracing possibilities is not about leaving behind one thing for another. It’s about standing in the present with our eyes on the future vision. It’s about appreciating the now, the reality, and the possible. 

Monday night we have two Scheduled Guests, Coopersville-Polkton Township Fire Authority to honor city employees Keith Schaffer and Austin Edmondson and Ottawa County Water Commissioner Joe Bush to present on the Eagle Ridge Drain District Special Assessment.
 
We have a rather full agenda so please contact me if you have any type of question. There may be one, maybe two items you might want to postpone but if I can answer questions prior to the meeting we may avert this. The month of May is when we have to take action on the next fiscal year’s budget. DRAFT D is not too different than DRAFT C, except for a couple of expenditures we inadvertently omitted in DRAFT C. Please contact me if you have questions. Just an FYI, Keri Rogers will not be in attendance at our June council meeting. June is when action is taken on budget amendments for the current fiscal year. Ms. Rogers will have provided me with all of the reasons for the budget amendments.
 
Enjoy your weekend whether it’s raining or not. It least it’s not snowing. Be safe out there. See everyone Monday night.

Pocket Park Construction
This week we had a final inspection and “punch list” review for the Pocket Park. The water feature is working and maybe a few of you have witnessed the water jets reaching for the sky. The LEDs that light up the water at night are turned off at this time to resolve an issue having to do with electrical codes of Michigan not agreeing with the building codes of Canada, where the water unit was fabricated. We are assured however, that this minor delay is close to resolution. It’s a joy to see people already using the park to sit, relax, and just explore this beautiful addition to our historical downtown.
 
Water Project – Phase I
We will be having a Special Council Meeting soon in May to discuss the status and the timeline of this project. There are a couple of action items needed from you so that certain preliminary, but critical, tasks can be completed before actual quotes can be pursued. 
 
WWTP Effluent Pump – UV Chamber Project
I can provide some details on this project Monday night. I’m waiting for a couple of details on the timeline as of this writing. 

I want to welcome the newest members to the DDA Board. Thank you so much for volunteering to make the DDA District a continued success; and with your energy, wisdom, and vision, the entire district can be nurtured to allow private investment to further the development. I like to think of the DDA Board as a facilitator to enhance the attractiveness of the district both aesthetically and functionally so that new economic activity can take root and flourish.

As with many aspects of government and those agencies associated with government, the DDA’s mission is often misunderstood. This is certainly understandable and that is why I have included the “Downtown Development Authority Tax Increment Financing and Development Plan” introduction below. It states quite succinctly what the DDA is authorized to do and I believe it’s an excellent document to refer when we want to remind ourselves of what the DDA’s purpose is then, and now. 

“The legislative body of a municipality is authorized under Michigan P.A. 197 of 1975, as amended (Act 197), to create a Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The Ordinance establishing the authority must also designate the boundaries of the DDA District within which the authority may exercise its powers. The Board of Directors of the Authority must consist of between eight and 12 members, plus the municipality’s Chief Executive Officer or City Manager.

The purpose of a DDA is to prevent deterioration and promote economic growth within a business district by developing, adopting and implementing plans for new and re­development. Separate plans may be adopted for different development areas within the DDA District. The plan may include proposals for construction, renovation, repair, remodeling or rehabilitation of a public facility, an existing building or a multiple­ family dwelling unit that aids economic growth in the Downtown District.

To implement a development plan, the authority may construct, rehabilitate, equip, improve, maintain, or operate any building within the District for public or private use. The authority may acquire and own, lease or dispose of any land or real and personal property that the authority determines to be reasonably necessary to prevent deterioration and promote economic growth in the business district. The authority may also acquire and construct public facilities and make land improvements. Act 197 also allows municipalities to take private property under the power of eminent domain and transfer the property to the DDA.

Funds to finance activities of the authority may be derived from several sources including taxes, revenues generated from the use of assets, proceeds from revenue bonds, municipal funds, state and federal grants, special assessment levies and tax increment financing receipts.”

I encourage new and established board members to visit the Coopersville’s DDA’s website to refresh themselves on what our mission and purpose is under the legislation that was passed many years ago (http://www.coopersvilledda.com/dda.html - scroll down to read our Mission). We also have additional information on the various projects undertaken over the years. Obviously, one can personally visit Main Street, the North Parking lot, and other locations where the DDA has revitalized infrastructure both below the ground and above. Please give me a call if you have questions or just want to have a dialogue.
 
Tuesday night we have an important agenda that includes a discussion about the 2018-2019 Budget. Please contact me if you have questions prior to Tuesday night. Spring, with the promise of Summer, has finally arrived. Enjoy your weekends and please be safe out there.


Walk Thru Park Project
Jan Richardson and I met with Matt Levandoski (Prein&Newhof landscape architect) to review the scope of the Walk Thru Park as well as possible options to split the project into phases dependent on projected costs. Matt will have preliminary sketches in another week. We will have Matt attend our June meeting to introduce himself and to share what has been proposed to date.
 
 
Pocket Park Construction – almost ready for the public
Work commenced this week to tie up all the loose ends for completing the Pocket Park. Next week Tuesday, we have a walk-through inspection (punch list) to insure the DDA and city are satisfied with the work.
 
FYI: The water feature works, however we’re waiting for a couple of electrical parts to arrive to pass final electrical inspection: The sod placed before winter has taken root: A few pavers needing replaced are done: The pavilion needed a few tweaks, and those are done. More information Tuesday night.

What I’m about to write is one of those subjects that Mr. Obvious on a certain television commercial would comment on in a sarcastic tone. That particular subject just happens to concern itself with vision, or the long-view, or the big-picture, or the 10,000-foot view, or one of many other variations of the concept. It is the ability, or the ability to learn, how to perceive future development or activities. It’s the act of preparing yourself or your organization for a successful or positive future.
 
Vision is often discussed in many contexts and in many professions and in the trades. Being able to visualize or envision a design is mandatory before you can create the physical entity itself. You can’t build a house before you create the plans and document the details, or the house you build will be the house that collapses. A tool and die maker can’t build a simple or complex die or a tool before there is a design or vision of that tool. Without plans or the vision, what is constructed probably has no value to the customer. You cannot build what you cannot visualize.
 
It is extremely difficult, maybe impossible, to move forward without having a vision of to where you want to move forward. If there is no vision for your organization whether in the private or public sector, there is certainty of chaos or a zig-zagging of efforts going in no particular direction. Lost effort, inefficiency, and waste of resources are the results. This environment often reminds me of the UCLA basketball coach John Wooden who had ten NCAA Basketball Champions in 12 years when he stated, “Don’t confuse activity with accomplishments.” Organizations without vision is activity without accomplishment.
 
Quite recently, I was looking through old photos of my nephew Joe at a time when he was learning to drive. A few images brought back strong, very succinct memories of when he and I were bow hunting one season near Hesperia; I always loved those times. Anyway, around noon we decided to visit a local convenient store and I let him take the wheel of the Pathfinder. As we headed down a flat straight road, I noticed he had a difficult time in keeping the truck going straight. He was consistently over-correcting from right to left and back again to stay between the lines. I asked him what he was looking at as he drove. His answer, “I’m looking at the road in front of the truck, of course.” He quickly added that it was all good. But it was clear that the line he was driving certainly wasn’t.
 
After a couple of miles, I asked if I could make a suggestion. He nodded yes, with a bit of teenage reluctance. I looked at him and said, “Joe, you have excellent hand eye coordination. I’ve seen you play video games, you’re awesome. Try this: Make your eyes look way down the middle of your lane. Your hands on the steering wheel will follow your eyes.” Sounds obvious to all of us doesn’t it? But it isn’t obvious.
 
He quickly glanced at me and just as quickly looked back at the road saying nothing. “Seriously Joe, just try it, it’ll be okay.” It only took a few moments when the Pathfinder began straightening out and following an imaginary line down the center of the lane, just like a luge sled speeding down a mountain track. After a minute or so he looked at me and said, “It works! How did you know that? How come my Mom and Dad didn’t tell me that?” I kind of grinned, “Joe, I always said you had great hand eye coordination. Now you see how that can be used behind the wheel of a car. The hands trust the eyes for the vision and the eyes trust that the hands will perform the task. In this case, it’s driving a vehicle in the center of the lane.” He did whisper, “That’s cool.”

​It is cool. Having organizational vision is exactly the same as driving a vehicle. Okay, maybe not exactly, but the concepts overlay quite nicely.  Having vision is the ability to look farther down the road, into the future and create a path back to the present. That is how connectivity is created between the two in conjunction with available resources as well as preparing you to seek additional resources based on the vision. Vision is not where you stand physically, it’s where you stand intellectually and creatively. It works, it’s fun, It’s absolutely necessary for Coopersville.   

Monday night we have a Special Guest, Ray Befus of Highpoint Training. Ray is the consultant that the city hired to assist us in building a stronger more trustful and effective team. We’ve asked him to speak to city council for a few minutes to introduce himself and to share what he does for organizations. I’m very excited to have him attend and meet all of our elected officials.
 
April is Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM) for those that appreciate the uniqueness, the creativity, and the richness of this genre of music. It was created by the National Museum of American History – Smithsonian in 2001. Before today I did not know about JAM and April, thought I would share.
 
Please review this packet and contact me if you have questions or comments. For that have contacted me in the past, I thank you. Increased communication cultivates better understanding of the issues we have to address. Have a sunny and enjoyable weekend. Be safe out there! 


Pocket Park Construction – almost ready for the public

We love that people are excited to use the Pocket Park and are already planning events in the Pocket Park this summer for their events. However, we need to remind everyone that the park is still under construction and not quite complete! The work to finish the park will be starting again soon and hopefully finish this spring. In order to use Pocket Park Pavilion for your event, you will have to make a reservation by contacting City Hall’s front desk and place a deposit, like our other pavilions. Stay tuned to the city’s Facebook page and the City Manager’s blog for more information about when the Park will be ready for your use.
 
 
Water Project – Phase I

Jonathan Seyferth and I attended a meeting with individuals at the Economic Development Administration (EDA) located in Chicago last week Wednesday. It was also a part of a conference call that included City Treasurer Keri Rogers, Allendale Township, Polkton Township, and Ottawa County Road Commission Utilities. The purpose of the meeting was to review with all the partnering communities how to administratively manage and report to the EDA expenditures relating to the Water Project – Phase I including the monies provided by the EDA in the form of a $2.1 million grant. Interesting meeting.
 
Progress continues on the finalization of the land purchase in Allendale for the upgraded water booster station. Zoning issues have been resolved, we’re getting close. More information as it becomes available.
 
 
WWTP Effluent Pump – UV Chamber Project

​The Contractor has the notice of Award and is gathering bond and insurance documents.  They should have them soon.  The exact date for start of the project will be available to us shortly. We will inform council of the exact start date.

​This past Tuesday, the Coopersville Rotary Club met at the Coopersville District Library for lunch and its weekly meeting. The purpose of meeting at the library instead of at our usual home, The Farm Museum, was to hear a brief report about the Rotary sponsored "Reading Rocks" 2018 Summer Reading Program and other related programs LaVonne Marshall and her amazing staff provide each and every summer.
 
For those of you that have not visited the newly renovated and expanded facility, you need to stop reading this memo, don a coat, place boots on feet, and get over to the library for a look-see. It is gorgeous and compliments not only the Coopersville community but our surrounding neighbors as well. LaVonne and the Library staff have truly created a sense of place, intellectual growth, reading platforms, and a sanctuary of learning. We are truly blessed to have this facility downtown and managed by dedicated, thoughtful, and inspired people.
 
It makes me proud to walk its interiors; it also makes me think of how libraries originally emerged and how they eventually evolved over these many centuries. One source I studied introduced a word I haven’t seen for decades; philology, from the Greek meaning “love of learning and literature.” Philology was actually established at the world-famous Library and University of Alexandria in the 2nd century BCE.  It seems the scholars or “Philologists” of Alexandria set out to write a statement of all human knowledge, which, prior to then was largely passed on from generation to generation, from community to community in the form of intricate oration and storytelling. The knowledge collected was then written into books and other mediums that eventually became the content of the Library and University of Alexandria.

 The Philologists described the Library as the “world’s memory.” How inspiring and how extremely aware they were of the depth and wealth of their collection! To understand that the Library held within its confines the evolution of the human intellect, its experiences and observations, and the self-awareness of its existence in the physical and metaphysical world.  Philologists were the curators of this new written history and documentation of wisdom. They were “sort of” the first “librarians.” What a truly exciting era of history where the abstractness of thought became physical to the touch of one’s hand and fingers, visual to their eyes, and now reachable by the hundredfold.
 
So, it makes me smile as I walk through the Coopersville District Library. If you look very closely, the shadows of ancient scrolls and books are faintly etched amongst the current collection. Close your eyes
 
and concentrate; you can sense a bit of the aroma of those ancient writings. Yes, there are computers, tablets, high definition TVs, and audio programs replacing the pages of books and magazines. But they will not replace the ancient roots or the thoughtful nurturing that grew them into existence; there is always a beginning. Embrace our “Library and University of Alexandria” here in Coopersville.
 
***
​
We have an interesting and substantive agenda for March 12, 2018. From the East Gateway Plat to the awarding of the Wastewater Treatment Plant Effluent Pump and UV Plant Upgrade Project to an Intergovernmental Agreement to Establish a Joint Senior Services Board, we will be busy. A quick reminder that we have our first Budget Workshop prior to council meeting at 6:00 PM. The agenda for this meeting is to review a number of capital projects that the city needs to address in 2018-2019 and a few in 2019-2020.
 
I invite questions prior to Monday night on any of the agenda items as a few of them are complex. For those intense college basketball fans, Selection Sunday will take place this Sunday March 11, when the NCAA Division I Men's Basketball Committee reveals which 68 teams will compete during March Madness. Please have a safe and enjoyable weekend.   

NON-AGENDA ITEMS
 
SOLD OUT: Celebrate Coopersville 2018

We are ***SOLD OUT*** and at maximum capacity for tickets. We’re sorry if you’ve missed your chance to joining us for this spectacular event, but you can still donate to the Rotary Silent Auction. Drop off your donation to City Hall or the NEO Forum office at the CAPS High School by March 20. Celebrate Coopersville will be taking place this year on March 22, 2018, at the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters, and Service Trades Union Hall at 1008 O’Malley Drive. Find out about our entertainment and when to decorate your sponsored table here: http://tinyurl.com/CelebrateCoops2018. Be prepared to Honor Service with a Smile at this year’s Celebrate Coopersville!

As you know, I represent the City of Coopersville on the WEMET Policy Board (West Michigan Enforcement Team). At our last meeting there was recognition for the accomplishments of a large team of law enforcement individuals that included undercover personnel to federal prosecutors in a large drug case and the prosecution of those arrested. Later in the meeting, there was the usual and brief overview of significant case summaries. All of this continues to be a very sobering awareness of challenges our law enforcement teams face each and every day and the consequences of those challenges. Every meeting I attend is as sobering as the last and the cases WEMET is involved with reflect the country at large.
 
These Policy Board meetings provide a number of valuable insights to drug issues facing West Michigan as well as the scope of drug use itself. After every meeting, I leave with a heavy emotional weight due to the tragedy that Heroin, Fentanyl, Meth, Cocaine, Crack, and other countless drugs and variation of drugs that affects individuals and their families every single day. It saddens me to learn that the potential of many people to lead successful and prosperous lives is taken away from them because they have chosen to place these poisons in their bodies. They are now captives of the drugs that once made them feel euphoric and “free.” It is also, literally, a death sentence for many. 

At the same time, I also leave these meetings energized knowing that there are professional law enforcement personnel battling to take these drugs off the market. And make no mistake about it, it is a battle. From the “border wars” in the southwest United States where massive quantities of drugs find their way to our front porches here in West Michigan. Whatever you may watch, documentaries on National Geographic Channel, news on cable about massive drug trafficking, is not simply happening somewhere else; it’s happening here too.
 
There was a time, and not that many years ago, I believed Federal, State, and local governments were spending too money and manhours to fight this battle. It appeared to me that the cost-benefit of the investment wasn’t yielding significant results. I believed drug use was a personal choice and the choice didn’t affect me. I’ve changed my perspective though, because it isn’t solely the resources we’re spending to fight the battle on drugs. It is the loss of productive lives of our own citizens and neighbors. It is the loss of building families, starting new businesses, volunteering in our communities, future scientists and teachers building dreams, and most of all the ever-present lost opportunities both individually and collectively.
 
I write these words today not as commentary on our war on drugs, but as a vivid reminder that our battle on drugs and those that promote it, is here in West Michigan. It is here in Coopersville. Our Emergency Wards in local hospitals around the region are seeing more and more heroin overdoses, the increased use of Fentanyl, and the overuse of opioids. Our community and family members are being killed by bad decisions and by drugs. If we don’t find a means to combat this increasing specter, we as a country and community will lose our spirit and the possibility for a promising and fulfilling future.
 
This memo is not expressing anything new concerning drugs and their negative impact. What this memo is though, is a gentle reminder that here in West Michigan, WEMET, the various Sheriffs’ Offices, and local law enforcement are fighting a battle here at home. It is real, it is serious business, and it is our responsibility in whatever fashion we can devise to reduce the demand for the very substances that will be the eventual ruin of “us.” We must acknowledge this reality.
 
 
Monday night, we have a full agenda. Andy Campbell from Umbaugh and Ian Koffler from Miller Canfield will present the Wastewater Treatment System Bond Refinance Ordinance and Resolution and be available for questions. We will also have a Public Hearing and Ordinance Amendment for the Zoning Board of Appeals. Enclosed in Council info is an East Gateway Preliminary Site Plan for your review. Please review this packet and contact me for whatever reason - questions, not understanding how I described an event, or an agenda item. Try and survive more snow in the forecast and if you must hit the roads, be SAFE out there.  See you all Monday night.


Tickets are on sale now: Celebrate Coopersville 2018

Celebrate Coopersville will be taking place this year on March 22, 2018, at the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters, and Service Trades Union Hall at 1008 O’Malley Drive. We’ve sold out the last two years in a row – don’t wait to RSVP. Get tickets now for this stellar event to honor the hard-working city staff and deserving volunteers of our great city. Pay online by visiting http://tinyurl.com/CelebrateCoops2018 or Reserve by email by contacting Sgt. Dennis Luce: dluce@cityofcoopersville.com and send a check payable to “Coopersville Rotary Club.” Mail or drop off to Attn: Sgt. Luce/Celebrate Coopersville, 289 Danforth Street, Coopersville, MI 49404.
 
 
Regional Forcemain – Muskegon Option

​Enclosed in Council Info is a “Frequently Asked Questions” information sheet as provided by Muskegon County and Prein&Newhof. There have been many questions asked about this possible project from the public and of course there is the usually misinformation and resulting rumors that are circulating the region. Please review and if you have further questions, I strongly urge you to contact me to have a discussion or provide clarification.
 
 
East Gateway (48th Avenue & I-96)
For the first time in many years, the city is reviewing a plat application. This relates to the East Gateway area of the city along 48th Street. Enclosed with the packet is a preliminary sketch plat submitted by the property owner for how they see the area developing. This plat is consistent with the 2017 Master Plan and it is proposed for a mix of light industrial and commercial uses.
 
On Monday, Feb. 19 the Planning Commission will review the preliminary plat during a public hearing and at the March City Council meeting, Council will also have the opportunity to formally weigh in as this will be an action/discussion item at that meeting.
 
The plat process is a rather lengthy one and the plat will be looked at several times by the Planning Commission and Council.  Planning Director Jonathan Seyferth will be at our meeting Monday night and can answer any questions you might have.
 
 
Water Project – Phase I

There is momentum on this project. However, that momentum is in the form of defining the scope of the project in terms of how to integrate respective assets of Allendale Township and Polkton Township with the City of Coopersville. Pat Staskiewicz from the Ottawa County Road Commission–Utilities has been instrumental in drafting a proposal that delves into the details of how the upgrade will be paid by the respective units of government and whom owns what and what percentage. I know this sounds a bit awkward, but it will make more sense when it comes before Council hopefully before May of this year. Please feel free to contact me in whatever manner is best for you for additional information.
 
 
Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade

The MDEQ has approved the plans for the WWTP upgrades as well as issuing the permits. The proposed timeline is as follows for the execution and completion of this project.
 
Proposed project schedule
Advertise for bid:                January 31, 2018 - 4 weeks of bid time
Bid opening:                       February 27, 2018 at 10:00 am at City Hall
Council Award:                    March 12, 2018
Execution of contract:          Approx. March 30, 2018
Construction:                       April to September 28, 2018
Substantial Completion:       September 28, 2018
Final Completion:                 October 5, 2018
 
  
REPEAT: Snow Plowing and Salt

The staff and I have been asked on a number of occasions about what our snow plowing policy will be. The answer is simple. We are going to continue with what was done last year both in plowing and the laying down of salt. Our goal is not to make the roads 100% clear and dry of snow and ice since this is winter in Michigan after all. We will salt the major intersections and roads as conditions dictate. The Sheriff’s Department will notify the personnel on call if road conditions deteriorate during the night. Major roads are done first then local roads. Priority is given to roads leading to the school in the morning.
 
The city, as in other years, is following the Ottawa County Road Commission in its use of salt. Salt will be mixed with sand to reduce its introduction to the environment and to also save money for the city and the taxpayers. Obviously, if there are severe conditions safety will always be a priority and we will do whatever is necessary. The best information drivers can be given of course is to slow down and be cautious at intersections and stop signs. Please call if you have further questions.  
 
 
NOTE:
Obviously, there are other projects and issues I’m involved with as is Jonathan Seyferth and others. It’s not always a wise decision to write about the status of these projects and issues when there are delicate, complicated, or confidentiality aspects still in motion. I will always be available to answer any of your questions to the best of my ability within the confines of the aspects just mentioned. There is certainly never a dull day in the bustling and thriving environment of Coopersville.

Before proceeding, I must warn you of a spoiler alert if you haven’t seen the movie, The Polar Express. If you haven’t, and wish to experience the movie for yourself, please proceed to the agenda comments and ignore any further words relating to this movie; you’ve been gently alerted.
 
Over Christmas my wife and I watched the “The Polar Express” yet one more time. As just about all of you know, the affection for this movie is not just the rich story line with so many unique and touching layers, and the number of adventures the characters experience, but also that the author, Chris Van Allsburg, was from East Grand Rapids and used a number of references in the story from the Grand Rapids area. The story is basically about a boy that is beginning to have doubts about believing in Santa. Each year we watch the movie and each year, I discover another aspect of the story I hadn’t noticed before. I learn something new based on the experiences I gathered over the previous year. These experiences and the passing of time are keys that unlock the door to experiencing additional insights and flavors of the story previously hidden from me.
 
Certainly 2017 has been a year packed tightly with experiences at the city and in my personal life. From the Water Project and the EDA, waste water issues, the WWTP Upgrade, Muskegon Sewer Forcemain Project, the Reserve of Coopersville, DDA Pocket Park, future DDA projects, the Historical Museum merger with the City, the Fire Authority and the new proposed fire station, economic development, Emergency Rescue, the State of Michigan, the issues that are being discussed at several of the boards I sit on as representative for the City, and the recent announcement of my upcoming departure at the end of June.
 
There are also the routine tasks associated with the management of the city, from serving our citizens’ needs, to human resources, filling employee vacancies, assisting our elected officials as required, collaborating with others as we market our community, on-going team building with members of the city staff, and the constant need to be alert for both opportunities for the city and potential hazards that would impede its success. There is much going on in the City of Coopersville.
 
So, what on earth does any of this have to do with The Polar Express? Plenty!  At the end of the movie, and after a number of stunning and magical adventures, the boy receives a special present from Santa Claus (“Mr. C”) in a handsomely wrapped box under the tree. Sarah, his sister, discovers the perfectly wrapped box and gives it to her brother. He sits by the tree with his sister, opens the present and brings out a beautiful sleigh bell that he thought he lost earlier in the movie. He brings it to his ear and shakes the bell. The bell delightfully rings. His sister hears the bell ring as well and the boy passes the bell to his mother and father. They also bring the bell to their ears and this time, they cannot hear the bell ring. His father says, “What a beautiful bell. Broken; Sorry about that, Sport.”
 
At the end of the movie, the narrator (the boy) shares one last memory with us:
 
“At one time most of my friends could hear the bell. But as years passed, the bell fell silent for all of them. Even Sarah found one Christmas that she could not hear its sweet sound. Though I’ve grown old, it still rings for me, as it does for all that truly believe.”
 
For me, the movie is about believing. Not necessarily about a sleigh bell, but about believing in the sound that resonates within your soul, which ignites the energy to discover what others cannot see or cannot hear.  The weight of all of the tasks and projects mentioned above have the potential to gradually and unknowingly gnaw away at the spirit, not just for me, but for others as well. It has the potential to erase the sweet sound of the bell. But it is believing in whatever ignites the energy in your soul that insures the bell does not lose its sweet sound. It is about believing in Coopersville – believing in the potential of Coopersville. It is about believing what is possible for Coopersville and preparing for that possibility, no matter what.
 
During this time in my life, I still hear the beautiful sound of the bell. At times the sound may be faint and I have to bring it ever close to my ear, but it still rings and eventually the sound becomes robust and full of life again. I still hear the beautiful sound of Coopersville even when others do not. That’s okay, as many of my colleagues and friends still hear the bell and smile, because they believe as well. They believe as I that opportunity and success are best achieved when you believe.

On Monday night, we will be honoring Joel Meintsma’s 12 years of service to the City as a Council Member and as Mayor. Joel, you will be missed as you were able to bring reason and leadership at the most critical of times. May life provide you with what sustains your spirit and sense of accomplishment. Thank you for your service to Coopersville and the community.
 
We have a number of agenda items including a discussion on park reservation fees and the 2018 SWAP Agreement with Ottawa County, among others. Please contact me if you have questions or require further information. I wish everyone on council a healthy and prosperous 2018. Enjoy your weekend, stay warm, and be safe out there!


Save the Date: Celebrate Coopersville 2018

Celebrate Coopersville will be taking place this year on March 22, 2018, at the West Michigan Plumbers, Fitters, and Service Trades Union Hall at 1008 O’Malley Drive. Save the date for this stellar event to honor the hard-working city staff and deserving volunteers of our great city.
 

Downtown Pocket Park

The Pocket Park is now blanketed in white. When Spring arrives, and it won’t be soon enough, there are a few details that require completion. Until then, enjoy what is there and we’ll finish it up when the snow departs.
 
 
REPEAT: Snow Plowing and Salt

The staff and I have been asked on a number of occasions about what our snow plowing policy will be. The answer is simple. We are going to continue with what was done last year both in plowing and the laying down of salt. Our goal is not to make the roads 100% clear and dry of snow and ice since this is winter in Michigan after all. We will salt the major intersections and roads as conditions dictate. The Sheriff’s Department will notify the personnel on call if road conditions deteriorate during the night. Major roads are done first then local roads. Priority is given to roads leading to the school in the morning.
 
The city, as in other years, is following the Ottawa County Road Commission in its use of salt. Salt will be mixed with sand to reduce its introduction to the environment and to also save money for the city and the taxpayers. Obviously, if there are severe conditions safety will always be a priority and we will do whatever is necessary. The best information drivers can be given of course is to slow down and be cautious at intersections and stop signs. Please call if you have further questions.  
 
 
REPEAT: Multi-Purpose Rink & Ice

I’m sure as more cold weather engulfs us, Recreation Director Matt McKinnon will be inundated with questions as to when the multi-purpose rink will become an ice rink. The one advantage about this cold weather we’ve been recently experiencing (and will be experiencing) is that the ground surrounding and under the rink concrete is getting valuable time to cool off and hopefully start to freeze. This will allow us to begin making ice sooner than previous years, but exactly when is still unknown. Keep in mind that making ice is not the same as maintaining ice in the typical fickle weather that defines Michigan. Once we begin to make ice, we’ll keep everyone updated on the website and social media. Cross your fingers.
 
 
REPEAT: Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
​
Design plans and specifications were sent to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) over a month ago for review and the issuance of a permit. We are still in a holding pattern waiting to hear from the MDEQ on where we are in the process.
 
 
NOTE:
Obviously, there are other projects and issues I’m involved with as is Jonathan Seyferth and others. It’s not always a wise decision to write about the status of these projects and issues when there are delicate, complicated, or confidentiality aspects still in motion. I will always be available to answer any of your questions to the best of my ability within the confines of the aspects just mentioned. There is certainly never a dull day in the bustling and thriving environment of Coopersville.

​In preparation for this memorandum for the Special Joint Meeting, I reviewed past memos and the subject matter discussed. I smiled as I read them mainly because of the variety of subject matters covered over the years, which is directly related to the wide spectrum of issues that Coopersville faced yesterday and continues through today. Here are but a few:
 

• December 12, 2016: There are known knowns; there are things we know we know. We also know there are known unknowns; that is to say we know there are some things we do not know. But there are also unknown unknowns – the ones we don't know that we don't know.
• December 14, 2015: Political correctness and saying Merry Christmas.
• December 8, 2014: Pride of the contributions made by Council, DDA, and Planning members.
• December 9, 2013: W. Randall Street was opened to traffic as well as the intersection at 64th Avenue.
• December 5, 2012: Working with some of the finest and brightest people I have met in Coopersville.
• December 12, 2011: Where stakeholders in Coopersville want to share a common vision and willing to cooperate on a path towards that vision.

 
Having read the above over the past couple of days, I realize that what was observed in 2011 or 2014 are as relevant and timely today as they were back then. This community and city is very dynamic and always moving in some fashion or another; there is momentum wherever you turn. From the Reserves of Coopersville to the new expansion at Betten Baker, to continued expansion at Fairlife, there is constant movement.
 
In other words, there is “change.” I still remember back in January sharing a few thoughts with staff about my premonition that 2017 would certainly be a year of not just change, but significant change.  And there was, from Mayor Lloyd stepping down through a transition (Joel Meintsma) to our current Mayor, Larry Crandle. There has been on-going work for the Water Project Phase I which includes a much needed second river crossing and hopefully a $2 million plus grant from the Economic Development Administration. The DDA hired an excellent person, Greg Van Weelde, to perform much needed maintenance and beautification around the district, in addition to two more excellent staff additions to the DPW and WWTP teams, Brett Martin and Austin Edmonson, respectively. We had an employee with 21 years seniority (Mike Hammond) resign and start another adventure. The long-anticipated Pocket Park has miraculously appeared. The West Randall Street corridor is now lined with welcoming decorative lights, celebrating Coopersville every night. The Coopersville Area District Library completed a major renovation and expansion and continues to blossom under its Director LaVonne Marshall and her staff.
 
As Heraclitus (535-475 BC) stated, “The only thing that is constant is change.” And that is the condition here in Coopersville. There are some that may find this condition somewhat deplorable because of misguided fears that change will taint fond memories of years gone by. Emotionally I understand that fear, but without change and growth there is stagnation and ultimately decay. As long as change is planned and controlled and is in the best interest of the citizens of Coopersville, then the change will gradually become our new fond memories.
 
Who knows what will happen next, there’s still 25 days left in December. 

Remember, December 11, 2017 is the annual Joint City Council, DDA Board, and Planning Commission meeting. It will be at the new Community Room at the Coopersville Area Library, starting at 6:00 PM. This is always an informative meeting where the boards and city departments update each other on their respective areas of responsibilities and goals. There’s always new information revealed that is timely and useful. Hope everyone can attend. FYI, it’s the only meeting the boards and council will have in December. The public is always welcome and we encourage all to attend. 
 
Monday night we will also have Special Guests Lukas Hill and Tara Weise (Planning Commission) from Friends of the North Bank Trail. They will present a brief introduction about the Trail, its progress and future in Coopersville. We’re having them attend the Joint Meeting as most of the current and future decision makers will be present and the update will provide welcomed facts. Please contact me if you have questions or require additional information prior to Monday night.
 
Lastly, I would like to quote myself from 2015: “I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas. I know and understand that wishing someone a Merry Christmas is not politically correct especially from an employee working at the city. It is also not a clear separation of church and state, or any other reason unknown to me.  But for those fans of history and for those that have studied the origin of this country, you’ll understand the point being made. We still live in a marvelous and beautiful country both aesthetically and politically. Because of this I still wish everyone a Merry Christmas and for those that have differing beliefs, I wish you an enjoyable holiday season and may you have a new year of happiness and success.”
 
It has been a joy and an honor to serve as your city manager; this year and in past years. I wish nothing but the best for this city and those that work, live, and play here. Coopersville is truly a unique and treasured gem. Have a fantastic Holiday Season and may your New Year be the GREATEST EVER. If you travel or you stay close to home, please be safe out there. 


Downtown Pocket Park
Phase II of the Pocket Park is nearing completion. The water feature is still being assembled and tested and there are a few “touch-ups” that require attention, but for the most part the park is usable, for now. Come Spring the water feature will be fully functional, the trees will have leaves, and the grass will be lush, soft, and cool. Please enjoy this park! Thank you DDA Board.
 
 
Residential Recycle Carts
For those who currently have residential recycling service, recycle carts will be dropped off at your driveway on Thursday, December 7 and Friday, December 8. The recycle pickup schedule will remain the same – every two weeks with the next recycle pickup scheduled for December 15. After December 8, trucks will ONLY pick up recycle carts; the old bins can’t be used anymore.
 
All-in-One Recycling means you can put everything into the same cart. We just ask that you adhere to the guidelines of what can and cannot be recycled, and how best to package small or light items like paper and plastic film. There will be a guide which will be included with your cart that you can keep inside when you are preparing your recycling. We’ll also share it on our website and social media pages. Just be sure all your recycled goods are empty, clean, and dry.
 
So, what do you do with your old bins? You may keep them for personal storage in your home or garage. Alternately, you can drop them off at the DPW Storage facility at 98 Main Street for recycling by Sunday, 12/17. Please wash your bins before bringing them for recycling to ensure they are clear of all debris and recyclables.
 
Alternately, the Farm Museum as asked for donations of the recycle bins for use in some of their programs. If you would like to donate your bin to the Farm Museum, please contact Lee Ann Proia at (616) 997-8555.
 
Please feel free to contact us with questions at (616) 997-9731.
 
 
Historical Museum Merger
Real progress has been made over the last couple of months in preparation for the merger of the Historical Museum with the City of Coopersville. The city’s attorney is completing a second draft of the Purchase Agreement for council’s review in January. There are also a number of details still being discussed and clarified such as fund raising, accounting questions, and how the new organization will be structured and operated. We’re very close. I want to thank Craig Wheeler for representing the city council as his presence I believe has been invaluable.
 
 
Snow Plowing and Salt
The staff and I have been asked on a number of occasions about what our snow plowing policy will be. The answer is simple. We are going to continue with what was done last year both in plowing and the laying down of salt. Our goal is not to make the roads 100% clear and dry of snow and ice since this is winter in Michigan after all. We will salt the major intersections and roads as conditions dictate. The Sheriff’s Department will notify the personnel on call if road conditions deteriorate during the night. Major roads are done first then local roads. Priority is given to roads leading to the school in the morning.
 
The city, as in other years, is following the Ottawa County Road Commission in its use of salt. Salt will be mixed with sand to reduce its introduction to the environment and to also save money for the city and the taxpayers. Obviously, if there are severe conditions safety will always be a priority and we will do whatever is necessary. The best information drivers can be given of course is to slow down and be cautious at intersections and stop signs. Please call if you have further questions.  
 
 
Multi-Purpose Rink & Ice
I’m sure as more cold weather engulfs us, Recreation Director Matt McKinnon will be inundated with questions as to when the multi-purpose rink will become an ice rink. The one advantage about this cold weather we’ve been recently experiencing (and will be experiencing) is that the ground surrounding and under the rink concrete is getting valuable time to cool off and hopefully start to freeze. This will allow us to begin making ice sooner than previous years, but exactly when is still unknown. Keep in mind that making ice is not the same as maintaining ice in the typical fickle weather that defines Michigan. Once we begin to make ice, we’ll keep everyone updated on the website and social media. Cross your fingers.
 
 
REPEAT: Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
Design plans and specifications were sent to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) over a month ago for review and the issuance of a permit. We are still in a holding pattern waiting to hear from the MDEQ on where we are in the process.
 
 
NOTE:
Obviously, there are other projects and issues I’m involved with as is Jonathan Seyferth and others. It’s not always a wise decision to write about the status of these projects and issues when there are delicate, complicated, or confidentiality aspects still in motion. I will always be available to answer any of your questions to the best of my ability within the confines of the aspects just mentioned. There is certainly never a dull day in the bustling and thriving environment of Coopersville.

As we all know the Thanksgiving Holiday is within sight. Many of us can’t believe Thanksgiving Day is already here, but it is, and the clock just keeps ticking one second at a time and the next time you turn your head, it’ll be New Year’s Eve. 3, 2, 1…Yeah…  
 
It’s natural to reflect on what we’re thankful for during this time of year. Personally, I’m thankful that my mother is home after a trip to the ER and a few days in the hospital last week. Here in Coopersville, I am thankful for the privilege of working with wonderful colleagues, each and every one of them, and because we have become a team that not only has numerous accomplishments together, but that our time here is personally enhanced not lessened. I am thankful for the privilege of working and collaborating with individuals here in the community and elsewhere. There are many outstanding associates that are smart, that are committed, and that bring value to their communities as well as Coopersville.
 
I am thankful, most of the time, for being challenged that in turn repels complacency and boredom, which are cousins to mediocrity and the status quo. This reminds me of a quote by Alphonse Karr that I read the other day which states,

“Some people are always grumbling because roses have thorns; I am thankful that thorns have roses.”

I’m surprised on a regular basis, and ultimately thankful, of what each day brings to my life and to the lives of others. More often than not, the challenges that come our way are thorns that deliver roses; challenges that deliver opportunities.
 
Happy Thanksgiving and I wish you and yours a most enjoyable day!
 
 
Save Monday, December 11, 2017 for the annual Joint City Council, DDA Board, and Planning Commission meeting. It will be at the new Community Room at the Coopersville Area Library, starting at 6:00 PM. This is always an informative meeting where the boards and city departments update each other on their respective areas of responsibilities and goals. There’s always new information revealed that is timely and useful. Hope everyone can attend. FYI, it’s the only meeting the boards and council will have in December.
 
For the November 27, 2017 agenda, we have a number of resolutions requiring action from council members as well as a couple of guest including Mike Hammond. Mike has served the city for 21 years and yesterday Monday, he made public that he is resigning effective November 30, 2017. I have always admired Mike for his dedication, attention to detail, and willingness to do whatever is required. He will be missed, and he is wished well on his new career endeavor.
 
In the Council Information packet is a memo and scope of work pertaining to the Cross-Connection Control Program, which is an annual compliance program that the city must provide to the DEQ. We are introducing the program and DEQ recommendations here that you can have time to read up on it to take action at the December 11 Joint Council meeting. 
 
As a FYI, I will not be in attendance as I have taken a PTO day for an extended Thanksgiving weekend. Jonathan Seyferth has graciously “volunteered” to fill in for me as he has done so before. Have a fantastic Thanksgiving with friends, family, or whomever or however you choose to celebrate. If you travel or you stay close to home, please be safe out there. 


Downtown Pocket Park

The past two weeks have been busy at the Pocket Park site.

• Laying of sod complete
• The water feature plumbing and electrical near completion with final cement pour schedule for Monday November 27th
• Cement slab for utility controls scheduled for Monday November 27th
• The roof for the pavilion is scheduled for Friday November 24th
• Fencing will be installed before the Santa Parade

All-in-all, each day shows progress, yet it does seem slow at times.
 
 
Residential Recycle Carts

For those who currently have residential recycling service, recycle carts will be dropped off at your driveway on Thursday, December 7 and Friday, December 8. The recycle pickup schedule will remain the same – every two weeks with the next recycle pickup scheduled for December 15. After December 8, trucks will ONLY pick up recycle carts; the old bins can’t be used anymore.
 
All-in-One Recycling means you can put everything into the same cart. We just ask that you adhere to the guidelines of what can and cannot be recycled, and how best to package small or light items like paper and plastic film. The guide can be found here:https://www.republicservices.com/resid…/all-in-one-recycling Just be sure all your recycled goods are empty, clean, and dry.
 
So, what do you do with your old bins? You may keep them for personal storage in your home or garage. Alternately, you can drop them off at the DPW Storage facility at 98 Main Street for recycling by Sunday, 12/17. Please wash your bins before bringing them for recycling to ensure they are clear of all debris and recyclables.
 
Please feel free to contact us with questions at (616) 997-9731.
 
 
REPEAT: Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade

Design plans and specifications were sent to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) over a month ago for review and the issuance of a permit. We are still in a holding pattern waiting to hear from the MDEQ on where we are in the process.
 
 
More on “Thankful” from: Glaser & Associates

“Saying “thank you” is the ultimate win/win. Research shows that expressing gratitude increases feelings of personal well-being. As Americans approach our official day of giving thanks, perhaps all of us can take a moment to consider how we might make gratitude an ongoing part of our lives.”
 
If you are looking for someone to practice your “thank you” on, start close to home (Tweet it!). John Gottman, Executive Director of the Relationship Research Institute of Seattle says: “Masters of relationships have a habit of scanning the world for things they can thank their partner for. People whose relationships go down the tubes scan the world for their partner’s mistakes.”
 
 
NOTE:
Obviously, there are other projects and issues I’m involved with as is Jonathan Seyferth and others. It’s not always a wise decision to write about the status of these projects and issues when there are delicate, complicated, or confidentiality aspects still in motion. I will always be available to answer any of your questions to the best of my ability within the confines of the aspects just mentioned. There is certainly never a dull day in the bustling and thriving environment of Coopersville.

There are numerous subjects to write about this week, each with its own unique importance and urgency. However, I thought I would use this time and space to review five issues and topics that are not prone to an “expiration” date, so to speak. As an FYI, I encourage others to send me ideas that may be of interest to them or to the community as a whole.
 
1. If you’ve ever thought about becoming part of a rewarding team of Rescue medical first responders, please contact City Hall or submit one of our applications (http://www.cityofcoopersville.com/human-resources). There are a number of forthcoming changes that will make training more affordable to those that need it. There will be other changes in the works to reflect the current reality of doing more with less. As we make progress, future updates will appear here and on the city manager’s blog.
 
2. As was stated months ago, beginning July 1, 2017, the City of Coopersville began its new fiscal year. The city’s web site has the 2017-2018 Budget, the Annual Financial Report, and a simple dashboard of how the 2017-2018 tax dollars are being utilized for citizen and property owners to review. I encourage all citizens, business owners, and students to visit the website and learn more of the details of how our local government operates and how taxpayers’ dollars support that effort. This city hall is very transparent on all financial details of the city operations and its budgets. We welcome any suggestions that might enhance the information provided.
 
3. The Pocket Park located in our beautiful historic downtown is methodically progressing in its creation. Trees were planted today with sod scheduled to be laid next week. It’s all coming together, it really is. There are lists of details being addressed as there always is with projects of this scope and complexity. I welcome everyone to walk by the site before its completion to get an idea of the “before” and “after.”
 
The Pocket Park project reminds me of a phrase I heard at my ICMA Conference a week or so ago. A keynote speaker stated, “You can’t be what you can’t see.” In Coopersville, there were many that had a vision of the Pocket Park and the significance and beauty it would add to the downtown. They could “see” the vision and thank goodness they could, as the final results will be a positive testament to the value added to our downtown.
 
Interesting that the same phrase can be applied to a plethora of concepts, situations, and strategic thinking. Part of building for the future is being able to see or visualize what kind of future you want, either as a person or as a community. As we all fully realize, the future arrives each and every morning whether we want it to or not. If you want the future to be a positive and enlightening goal, then you must visualize what that future will look like and then take action to realize that vision, all the while keeping your eyes and your effort glued to that vision. “You can’t be what you can’t see:” if you can’t see it or visualize it, it will not come to fruition. It’s a simple but profound observation.
 
4. Lastly, summer is over, Daylight Savings Time is over, the bulk of the construction season is over, and now the elections are over as well. Now is the time for the “new.” On Monday night, we will swear in council members, a new mayor, the beginning glimpse of winter is present, and a new year will quickly follow in its path. I always believed that 2017 would be a time of change for the City of Coopersville and its citizens; and guess what?
 
5. Save the date for the annual Joint City Council, DDA Board, and Planning Commission meeting on Monday, December 12, 2017.  It will be at the new Community Room at the Coopersville Area Library, starting at 6:00 PM. This is always an informative meeting where the boards and city departments update each other on their respective areas of responsibilities and goals. There’s always new information revealed that is timely and useful. Hope everyone can attend. FYI, it’s the only meeting the boards and council will have in December.
 
We have a full agenda for Monday night in that we basically have two agendas. The first half of the council meeting will be to address “old business” which will include a presentation from Joe Kuiper from Kiekover Scholma & Shumaker PC on the 2016-2017 Financial Audit as well as going into closed session to discuss the City Manager’s compensation. This has been on-going for months. We will also discuss the updates occurring in the Emergency Rescue Department. Please, please contact me if you have questions or are in need of further information. Have a fantastic weekend and don’t exhaust yourselves raking leaves. Be SAFE out there!


Downtown Pocket Park
The past two weeks have been busy at the Pocket Park site.

• Pavers are close to completion;
• Trees are planted;
• Light posts have been installed and functional;
• The water feature plumbing and electrical are in motion; and
• Installation of sod scheduled for Monday and Tuesday of next week.

All-in-all, each day shows progress.
 
 
UPDATE: Water Project Phase I
Our sources from Lakeshore Advantage (our economic development consultants) is that the EDA is ready to make a decision on our water project any day now. Below is a repeat summary of our current status.
 
The EDA grant application, as you know, has been submitted and now they are requesting supplemental information and data. This is a positive sign, but requests take up additional time of staff; hopefully it will generate positive results. Purchasing land from the church next to the existing booster station has delayed the project somewhat as finalizing the design is dependent on how much land will be acquired. It also should be noted that there is a bit of uncertainty in water demand from CDF and fairlife due to recycling discussions now taking place. This may or may not be an issue. I will keep you updated as new information is obtained. As always, you’re are welcome to contact me if you have questions.
 
 
Waste Water Treatment Plant Upgrade
Design plans and specifications were sent to the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) over a month ago for review and the issuance of a permit. We are still in a holding pattern waiting to hear from the MDEQ on where we are in the process.
 
 
NOTE:
Obviously, there are other projects and issues I’m involved with as is Jonathan Seyferth and others. It’s not always a wise decision to write about the status of these projects and issues when there are delicate, complicated, or confidentiality aspects still in motion. I will always be available to answer any of your questions to the best of my ability within the confines of the aspects just mentioned. There is certainly never a dull day in the bustling and thriving environment of Coopersville.