​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.

​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.

​The city and the community have been witnessing the start --and completion-- of many projects over the summer, from numerous roads being resurfaced to the highly publicized Pocket Park in our historic downtown finally under construction. Work is proceeding on another upgrade to the WWTP; efforts are still in motion for the water system upgrade that includes a second river crossing; the DDA has initiated a series of vinyl and electronic billboards around the Grand Rapids metro area to bring awareness to Coopersville’s economic opportunities. Expansions at Betten Baker, Conveyor Concepts, fairlife, and of course the new housing development The Reserve of Coopersville is testament to the desirability of investing in Coopersville.
 
There is a certain momentum occurring here in Coopersville that is real and positive. For those with experience in project management, I’m sure you can attest to the phenomena that momentum is not natural to the process. Momentum is achieved and maintained by people with purpose, vision, and effort. Without sustained effort, momentum can reach a state of rest in a remarkably short period of time. I have witnessed this numerous times, so I took note when I came across a passage by Polybius, a Greek stateman and historian who lived around 120 BC, in which he wrote:

I highlight this subject now to bring awareness to one element of accomplishment and success here in Coopersville. I bring it up to remind myself that I also must be aware of my responsibility to maintain momentum in whatever project or program that council and others assign to me and city staff. It’s an exciting time here in Coopersville and we’re riding a wave of momentum that has significant promise for our community. May it never stop; please share your thoughts on this discussion if you so desire.
 
…may the momentum be with you…
 
 
Monday promises to be a special evening because we are thanking former Ottawa County Sheriff Gary Rosema for his service and commitment to the City of Coopersville. Gary’s personal connection to Coopersville helped motivate his desire to pilot the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office replacing our police department; it became a solid success. Yes, others were involved and were critical to implementing and sustaining the program, but Gary’s desire efforts and momentum was vital to the success of the program and we thank him. 
 
Members of the Wage & Compensation Committee will meet after the council meeting Monday night to further discuss the City Manager’s review and compensation. This is rescheduled due to my absence last week. Autumn officially begins today and tomorrow so enjoy this unusually warm weather and have a fantastic weekend; be SAFE out there!


Michigan Infrastructure Asset Management Pilot Program

“The 21st Century Infrastructure Commission identified the need to begin looking at infrastructure in an integrated and holistic way as one of the tenets to maintain Michigan’s position as a leader in public infrastructure planning. To begin the process, the Commission recommended that Michigan develop and implement an integrated asset management database system, create a statewide council to oversee the long-term coordination and strategy, invest in our infrastructure systems and remain committed to embracing emerging technologies. In April of 2017, I announced the Michigan Infrastructure Asset Management Pilot Program to help coordinate and unify infrastructure efforts across the state. The statewide asset management system and the council will help the state, regions, local governments and utilities make more informed, strategic decisions and coordinated investments.
 
The pilot includes agencies and communities in southeast and west Michigan that will begin to develop the process of integrating drinking water, storm water, sanitary systems and transportation asset data into a comprehensive database that will eventually be used to support integrated planning efforts across these assets and across the state. This collaborative pilot is key to maintaining and improving our infrastructure statewide and will help make Michigan a national leader in asset management and planning…”  Governor Rick Snyder
 
Staff will be bringing more information on the Michigan Infrastructure Asset Management Pilot Program in the forthcoming weeks. Coopersville will become part of this database collection and there are a couple of action items the city council will be asked to consider. SEMCOG (Southeast Michigan Council of Governments) and the GVMC (Grand Valley Metro Council) have already been meeting to identify what data should be collected, how best to catalog that data, and how that data will be utilized by policy and decision makers. Much has already been done, with much more needing to be done. Please contact me if you have questions or would like additional information.
 
 
DDA Billboard

As written for the last council packet, the DDA has a message on vinyl and electronic billboards around the Grand Rapids metro area; have you seen them AND have you visited the website?
Have you noticed the DDA billboard on west bound I-96 just past Fruit Ridge in Walker? We will also have “time” on a few electronic billboards located in the Grand Rapids Metro area with one specifically near Fifth Third Ball Park. The purpose of these billboards is to make more people aware of the investment in our DDA and our downtown, attributes of the community, so that ultimately more investment will take place to enhance economic vitality. In other words, please “CHECK US OUT.” As part of this new campaign, we’ve also completely revamped the DDA website to make it mobile friendly and to reflect the professionalism, vision, and vitality of DDA projects and their goals and the community in general. Check it out at http://www.coopersvilledda.com
 
 
Water Project Phase I

The project continues to move forward. City staff is working closely with Allendale Township and Ottawa County to formulate a final plan for a new booster station. Part of this plan includes the feasibility of acquiring additional real estate for the larger booster station facility. Allendale will continue to have space for their water pumps to provide redundancy and possible expansion if required as part of the project.

 
Downtown Pocket Park

Relative progress continues at the Pocket Park site. There have been a few delays but work continues. Obviously if major hiccups occur and requires additional resources, responsible parties will be notified. Till then, work continues.   
 
 
UPDATED: Road and Sidewalk Construction

​Crews will be resurfacing and re-striping roads and the only section remaining is:

• 10/7 – 10/9:  O’Malley Drive (between 68th Avenue & River) will be closed during resurfacing with posted detours; local traffic will be guided by flag crews.

 
Further updates will be provided on the city’s Facebook page and website. Any questions, please call city hall at 616-997-9731 or email construction@cityofcoopersville.com. Thanks for your patience while we make the city shine!
 
 
 
REPEAT: 2017-2018 Fiscal Year

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. 

WWTP Project Phase II

Since our last council meeting, city staff has been actively working with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) to update our discharge permit application. As has been noted in past council meetings, this update will become three permits in one, giving the City flexibility in determining which way to move forward with our upgrade capacity. This is a unique situation for a West Michigan community and the MDEQ, so both parties are learning as we go. City staff and the MDEQ are taking things step-by-step to ensure things are done correctly.
 
The three permits will include: COW Water diversion (for which the new pump station was designed), a dual treatment track taking advantage of both the mechanical plant and the former activated sludge system, and/or expansion of the mechanical plant with the addition of an additional clarifier.
 

 
Water Project Phase I

I stated in the last memo that we would have something for council in terms of information on bonding. That information is more likely to be available at our July 25 meeting. Other than that update, there is not much to report in terms of new information except we’re still moving forward.
 
Prein&Newhof continues the process of designing the upgrade to the 60th Avenue Booster station, as you already know because you approve this expenditure on a regular basis. Please contact me if you have questions or would like to provide comments.
 
 
Signs

Briefly, progress continues on adding and upgrading signage around the city and around city owned property. The DPW crew has installed the new sign at the Randall Street Lift Station. It looks great! On Garfield heading west from 48th Avenue to the WWTP, there is a new solar powered LED lighted sign (Hidden Drive) to alert drivers that there is a drive-way that could have vehicles exiting as they speed over the hill. Our goal was to attempt to make that stretch of road safer for city employees as they exit the WWTP as well as drivers on Garfield.
 
 
Downtown Pocket Park

Jan Richardson informed me that she had a question from a business owner in Coopersville who was questioning the wisdom of the Pocket Park and more importantly, the cost. He said that there were a number of people that didn’t think the park was necessary. My reply to her is provided below. The reason I’m including the information is to assist others in understanding the reasoning and the logic for this investment, and it is an investment. Please contact me if you wish to discuss further.
 
The DDA has already spent millions of dollars in the downtown area to improve the north parking lot area. The DDA extended Main Street to 64th Avenue. The DDA replaced and extended water and sewer to improve infrastructure so future development/investment in the downtown could occur. Monetary grants in the amount of thousands of dollars were paid to property owners on Main Street to improve their facades in the hope more customers would want to enter their businesses. Many people objected to these expenditures because other projects needed funding. But what happened? More people visit downtown than ever, so something is working. Visitors to Coopersville routinely comment on how quaint and beautiful our downtown is and they wish they had one. Allendale, Hudsonville, Rockford and others are have commented positively on what we have.
 
The goal of the DDA is to revitalize the downtown so that it becomes a destination for residents and visitors alike. The Pocket Park will be another element to bring people downtown. Its uniqueness will draw future customers to Main Street. The Pocket Park will bring life, shade, and character to a bald asphalt car lot that currently is an eyesore to the downtown. Is the Pocket Park going to cost some money? Yes. Is it a significant amount? Yes. But what amount is too much? What amount is not enough for a project that helps bring more awareness to our historic downtown and provides a “sense of place” and a place where individuals and families can meet and share another experience in Coopersville?
 
With the train bringing in tens of thousands of riders a year, the Pocket Park will become a focal point for them as they wait for a train ride. Without a doubt, they will share with others their experience on the train and how cute and unique Coopersville’s Pocket Park is and how they wish their own city, village, or township could have one.
 
Change and growth is difficult, it simply is. But without change and growth a community will eventually die or become less than desirable. Less than desirable leads to store vacancies and the economic dominos will fall, leaving downtown dusty and unattractive.

Recently the City of Coopersville, the Coopersville Rotary Club, and the NEO Forum organized and hosted an annual event known as “Celebrate Coopersville.” Everyone is, and was welcomed in the community to attend and many did, including Rotary members, city employees, Coopersville Area Public School staff and facility, elected officials from Ottawa County, City Council, the Board of Education, and even elected officials from Lansing. It is a special night where individuals who have demonstrated something unique or have shown a higher level of performance are recognized and awarded in front of the community that has benefited from their involvement. There is a silent auction where money is raised to support the NEO Forum program that has received much praise for its success with our youth and their families as well.
 
For some undefined reason after the event, I began to contemplate seriously about what “Celebrate Coopersville” really stands for and why. It’s obvious that many of us who work for the City of Coopersville have a rather unique view of the city. Yes, we’re responsible for roads, we’re responsible for water and sewer, we’re responsible for community policing, we’re responsible for recreation programs, and we’re responsible for economic development, planning, and many, many more services. We see it from a perspective that involves citizens and business owners but at the end of the day, the city staff is responsible for infrastructure that allows the rest of the community to function. As an example, roads with two feet of snow covering them can serious hinder transportation requirements.

But our unique perspective allows us to witness many other elements that truly is the “glue” which binds everything together into one cohesive community. We have many volunteers that maintain our beautiful landscapes from the Roundabout to Perennial Park. We have volunteers that spread mulch downtown in the spring, saving the DDA significant costs. Rotary picks up trash along the roadways at certain times of the year for beautification. The many, many coaches and other volunteers who are critical to the success of our recreation department’s varied programs. The volunteers who ultimately determine the aesthetics and feel of our community, such as the Planning Commission, the Downtown Development Authority Board, the Recreation Board, the Zoning Board of Appeals, and the countless other volunteers that assist with Del Shannon Days, the Outhouse 500, the Chili Cook-off, Miss Coopersville, the Historical Museum Board, Christmas Parade, etc. The list can literally go on and on.

Thus back to the second paragraph. What does Celebrate Coopersville really mean? For me, it’s something I haven’t really experienced in my earlier life. My family moved often when I was young from California to Michigan, back to California and finally back to the lakeshore near North Muskegon. My sense of community was limited (and even foreign to me) to a certain degree of definition. But Coopersville demonstrates year after year that “community” is much more than a word: it is a way of life; it’s the human glue that binds the community and brings a unique lifestyle that is different from other cities. Not better, for that would be presumptuous and alienating, but it is still unique nevertheless. The blending of individuals with diverse backgrounds and skills creates a special sense of place that anyone who spends enough time here affectionately calls it home.

I have met many people that live in the surrounding townships that call Coopersville their home. They shop, they bank they visit their doctor, lawyer, and insurance agent all in Coopersville. There are many business owners that live elsewhere but ALWAYS attend Coopersville events. Why? Because Coopersville is special, just ask them. I have. They tell me that there is a “can do” attitude here and people come together to make the improbable happen. Think about this next time you travel through the roundabout. When you’re downtown on Main Street, look up at the clock tower. Slow down on Ironwood and visually savor the flowers under the Coopersville sign; count the number of businesses that sponsor recreation next time you’re visiting Vets Park during a softball game.

Celebrate Coopersville? Absolutely! Everyday!

Monday night at 6:00 PM we will have a Budget Workshop prior to the council meeting. Our discussion will focus on more of the details, especially the larger capital equipment expenditures and many of the road maintenance projects. Draft A has us spending in the red over $500,000. We have a fund balance to support it but our job as policy makers and budget engineers is to make decisions on the needs of today in context of the financial future of the city.
 
As always, I wish all of you an enjoyable and safe weekend. Life is short, as they say, and our obligation as beings of awareness is to live it each day, drinking in the beauty as well as the bitterness, if it so happens to get in the way. You got to admit that life can be a lot of fun. 


Water Project Phase I

City Treasurer Keri Rogers and I have met with our bond attorney and have given him a series of tasks as his homework assignment. One of the series of tasks is to analyze what the city’s obligation for a $9.6 million bond and a scaled down version of the Water Project – Phase I, which is closer to $5 million would be for 30 and 40 years. The “how” in which we would pay for the bond is still under discussion and, fortunately for the city, we have a couple of options available for us to consider. Once those numbers are in, I will schedule a workshop to study those options open to us and how best to proceed. 
 
 
WWTP Project Phase II

I believe we are close to making a recommendation to council as to what is the best route, in terms of policy and practice, to accommodate the growth that CDF and Fairlife are experiencing. There are still interested parties coming to the “party” wanting to participate in this project. Staff and I will evaluate as necessitated. As always, I will keep Council and the Utility Advisory Committee (UAC) updated as more information becomes available.
 
 
Strategic Planning

The arrival of our Assistant City Manager Jonathan Seyferth has allowed more attention and time to revise the City’s Master Plan (Comprehensive Plan). I would like to begin exercises in strategic planning from the City Council as to how we want to control the city’s future. Yes, the Planning Commission does extensive work and drafts the Master Plan, and will perform professionally in that task. But the City Council must take action on the approval/disapproval of that plan. According to the ICMA (International City/County Management Association) and Gerald L. Gordon PHD, strategic planning is:
 
“…a means of understanding change, forecasting change, and setting a course of action to manage the expected implications of change. Even in the most negative situations in the life of a community, strategic planning is a positive means of moving forward.”
 
City Council must begin a conversation of where you want the community to grow and what our future will look like in the next five, ten, and twenty-five years. More information will come to you in the next few months.

Michael Young was the City Manager of Rockford. Michael passed last week due to complications from a stroke; he was 48 years old. He was respected for his accomplishments and successes and I learned a few things from those accomplishments that helped me in my role here. He had his detractors, which is unavoidable in this profession, but he made notable differences nonetheless. While we were professional associates whose paths crossed on occasion at various board meetings and conferences, we were not personally close but we knew of each other’s communities and some of the issues that occupied our attention. I always wanted to tell Michael that I learned a number of valuable lessons from him, but I didn’t, and the opportunity is now lost.
 
I write about this now because his passing reminds me that I need to be more in the moment, to communicate in a timelier manner how much I appreciate the special relationships I have formed over these many years as City Manager both in the community and in my personal life. The opportunity to share with friends, family, and colleagues how much they add value and depth to my life is TODAY, not tomorrow. The moment is ours, tomorrow is not. I must remember this simple truth as I move through my life so there will be fewer lost moments and fewer regrets. Thank you Michael for this lesson and may you be blessed with ever lasting peace. 


20th Anniversary Policing Partnership

Recently I talked with Sheriff Gary Rosema and he expressed a desire to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the relationship between the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office and the City of Coopersville. Sheriff Rosema subsequently sent me an email that stated, “…Steve, as I had mentioned at the Policy Board,  I would like the opportunity to stop into your first City Council meeting in February 2016.  As you know it is our 20 year anniversary of our policing partnership with the City of Coopersville and what a GREAT partnership it has been.  I truly believe because of Coopersville and the relationships that have had over the years that it has really allowed other communities to move forward in their initiatives as well…”  Monday night we had a brief acknowledgment of the occasion and a few words from Sheriff Rosema and maybe Councilman Bush, as he is the only one standing that was present when the partnership began. What a truly remarkable achievement and I congratulate everyone involved as it took vision, dedication, and WILL to make this experiment a success.


Water Project Phase I
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Information is still being gathered on the feasibility to inspect the interior diameter of the 16 inch water transmission main under the Grand River. Preliminary study is leaning towards not inspecting the line due to the possible need of significant downtime required to complete the inspection. A detailed scope of the project should be finalized by the end of next week.
 
 
WWTP Project Phase II
 
Since our last council meeting, very little action/progress on the WWTP Phase II has been done. Most of my time has been spent on permit issues with CDF and personnel related tasks. My expectations for the next two weeks, is to meet with Utility Advisory Committee and begin discussing in more detail relevant options to pursue in the forthcoming months. As was stated in previous memos, the difficult work of formulating long-term utility policy must take place so we as council and staff have a logical and deliberate course to follow. (1-25-16)