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.

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.

​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. 

​With the cool mornings that we’ve been having lately, there’s no denying that summer is quickly coming to an end! Summer’s end has not slowed the activity in the city, however. Coopersville continues to be a hub of activity for construction projects – both public and private. You’re aware of our public infrastructure projects, and I thought you’d find it interesting to hear a few highlights of current activity in the private sector.
 
Betten-Baker is well underway on their expansion project – already moving much of their inventory to their new parking lot on the north side of O’Malley, making way for two new showrooms on their main site. Conveyor Concepts is nearing completion of its new facility on Mason and St. John’s Trucking/Exit 16 has completed its new building on O’Malley. There’s always activity at CDF/Fairlife – the past few months are no exception.  Even our local fast food establishments are getting in on the remodel/construction game: Taco Bell recently completed a remodel project, remodel work has begun on Arby’s, and McDonalds is slated for a facelift later this year. All told, there is about $10 million worth of private investment currently going on in Coopersville.
 
I bring this up because sometimes it’s easy to overlook how much activity is actually going on in our city. This is something to be proud of and is a sign that not only do businesses and residents want to be here, but that both are willing to make significant investments to make Coopersville home.
 
In relation to ongoing private investment in the city, we’ll start our evening with a Council Workshop at 5:45 PM prior to the Council meeting to discuss a payback agreement between the Reserve of Coopersville and the City. Assistant City Manager Jonathan Seyferth and I will go into more detail on the agreement that was in place when the Reserve first decided to invest in the City and what Council is now being asked to consider. 
 
I want to thank Jonathan Seyferth and Anisa Williams for preparing the greater part of this memo while I took a couple of extra days off after the Labor Day weekend. Please contact me if you have questions regarding this memo or any issues of interest to you. Have a fine weekend and be SAFE out there!


DDA Billboard

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

​After encountering a few underground surprises as construction got underway, things are now moving along smoothly. The underground infrastructure has been improved and a water connection has been brought into the park. Flatwork has begun and we’ll start to see things really taking shape over the next few weeks and months.   
 
 
UPDATED: Road and Sidewalk Construction

​Sidewalk replacement along the north side of Main Street between Church and East Streets is complete. All residents who were impacted were very cooperative during the process and the finish product looks great. Sidewalk replacement continued this week when crews began removing sidewalk on the east side of Eastmanville. The crew is moving swiftly and the project should be completed on schedule.
 
On Sunday, Sept. 10, Main Street between Eastmanville and Church will be closed from 6AM-Noon for crews to crack-seal the road. Businesses on Main Street were notified by a hand-delivered letter and notices went out on social media. Staff will be following up with the businesses at the end of the week to remind them of the closure and temporary signs will be placed at various locations on Main Street to let others know of the temporary closure as well.
 
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: Muskegon Waste Water Treatment Plant Option

(Below is a repeat from the last council packet and is included keep you informed. As new information is obtained, this memo will be updated.)
Engineers from Prein&Newhof met with city staff this week to review the proposed route of the sewer forcemain from Coopersville to the Muskegon County Wastewater Management System. The distance is slightly over 19 miles with a few segments of route needing to be finalized. The meeting was to discuss the route but other questions were discussed and will be revisited at the appropriate time. As new information becomes available, and is sharable, I will keep members of this council informed. Please contact me if you have comments or require answers to questions.
 
 
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. 

Monday night, Council will be asked to take action on the new Master Plan 2035. For those individuals that may not be familiar with that term or are a bit nervous as to its intent, the following is offered. Master Plans simply state the goals or policies of a local government for future land use, economic development elements, walkability, and transportation related questions, parks and recreation, and other typical issues. The master plan provides a “road map” for elected officials and city staff to follow when decisions must be made regarding growth and its potential impact.
 
It’s a delicate balance between maintaining the unique flavor and nuance of a community with managing the inevitable growth that simultaneously comes with that. In other words, the very elements that generated the attraction for residents and business owners to locate in Coopersville in the first place can be in jeopardy without a plan to manage the impact of that growth. And that’s exactly what the city’s new Master Plan 2035 was designed to accomplish and I believe that goal was achieved.
 
I want to thank the Planning Commission Chairman Ross Conran and Planning Commission members, Planning Director Jonathan Seyferth, the consultant, and the participation and involvement of our citizens in the creation of our new Master Plan. It was a long and laborious effort by all and it’s a testament to the resolve of our volunteers and city staff; well done. The document is on the website for those that have yet to review its contents.
 
Monday night, we have a few interesting agenda items to study and take action on if Council so desires. Have a great meeting and an even greater weekend. Be safe out! 
​

Downtown Pocket Park
It’s finally happening; the downtown Pocket Park project will begin in earnest Monday July 24th. This project has been in limbo for the past few years mainly of funding challenges. Those challenges have been resolved, the bids are in, and the project awarded by the DDA Board. In the next few weeks and months updates will be provided by this office and notifications on Facebook and the city’s website.  
 
 
Road Construction
​Crews will be resurfacing and re-striping roads around the city beginning August 1. The roads will be closed during resurfacing with posted detours; local traffic will be guided by flag crews. Here is the schedule for closures and construction:
 

• 64th Avenue (between Randall & Cleveland) – 8/1 - 8/4
• Randall Street (between Ironwood & Eastmanville) – 8/3 - 8/4
• Watson Street (between Main & Division) – 8/16 - 8/17
• O’Malley Drive (between 68th Avenue & River) – 9/5 - 9/8

Road patching will occur on the following streets on 8/23 - 8/24 with no road closures: First Street, Ann Street, East Street, East Randall, Spring Street, Roberts Court.
​
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!
 
 
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.
 
 
Water Project Phase I
Next week the city is meeting with relevant parties to finalize the details of the project which now includes constructing a new booster station building in Allendale as retrofitting the existing facility is impractical and will create additional challenges and new costs. Details will be provided in an upcoming council workshop once costs are recalculated. As always please contact me if you required further detail.
 
 
Muskegon Waste Water Treatment Plant Option
Again, nothing major to report at this time other than we had a meeting last week with Fairlife, CDF, Muskegon County, and of course Jonathan Seyferth and myself. Financial options were discussed and presented by representatives from Muskegon County that included bonding scenarios and possible grants. As new information becomes available, and is sharable, I will keep members of this council informed. Please contact me if you have comments or require answers to questions.
 

VOLUNTEERISM: The principle of donating time and energy for the benefit of other people in the community as a social responsibility rather than for any financial reward. (Collins English Dictionary – Complete and Unabridged, 2014)
 
Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Rotary, Del Shannon Car Show, the Santa Parade, and many, many more events and organizations in this community and the immediate area function because of volunteers. Centers of worship function because of volunteers. The Outhouse 500, landscaping assistance around the city have been touched by volunteers. Various events at the school happen because of the efforts and investments by volunteers. It’s a very positive and bold statement about the character of a community and the affection that motivates people to volunteer and give back to the community.
 
The City of Coopersville also functions and relies on volunteers through its various boards from the Recreation Advisory Board to the Planning Commission. There is also the DDA Board (Downtown Development Authority), the Zoning Board of Appeals, the Cemetery Board, Construction Board of Appeals, Election Commission, Local Officers Commission, and the Board of Review. We also rely on individuals to give of their time for a minimum monetary payment to serve in the Emergency Services as first responders on medical emergencies. The Coopersville-Polkton Fire Department heavily relies on volunteers to serve as first responders for fire calls, significant accidents on I-96, and mutual aid to surrounding communities.
 
Without volunteers, the City of Coopersville and the community at large would cease to function properly. Sure, the city has the administrative staff which manages the mandates and requirements of the City Charter and the State of Michigan as well as the day-to-day responsibilities of answering questions of the public, managing the various financial funds required to provide services to the residents, and providing support for the city council. The Department of Public Works removes snow from our streets, maintains various landscaping tasks, empties trash containers, sweeps the streets, and many more tasks to make the city look attractive. The Water and Sewer Departments provide and maintains these utilities to the highest standards.  

However, to name but a few:

• Policy is determined by city council members, NOT city staff.
• The Planning Commission takes action on development within the community and makes recommendations to the city council on ordinance language and updates; NOT city staff.
• The DDA Board oversees the economic development of the DDA District to enhance the economic growth within the city; NOT city staff.
• The Zoning Board of Appeals acts on requests to make a variance on existing ordinances; NOT city staff.

 
I could go on and on, but the point is fairly simple and profound. Volunteers are the life blood of a city and its community, without them there is no functioning city or community. The reason for this memo is this; we are having difficulty filling vacancies in most of the boards, Emergency Services, and the Fire Department. It will be critical within a year especially for our medical first responders in the Emergency Rescue Department. We will have multiply vacancies at the end of this year on the DDA Board. 
 
All of our lives have become busy, complicated, and the societal distractions are endless. When I pause and evaluate what I have done in the “volunteering mode” I’m a little embarrassed as I probably could do more. It’s difficult to carve out a couple more hours a month for yet another item on our “To Do List”, and we all have that annoying list. I hope all of us can at least consider where we might be most effective in the areas mentioned above and at least contact city hall and ask a few questions. Until then, thank you for reviewing this memo and enjoy your summer.

Monday night we have a fairly “light” agenda, relatively speaking. There are a couple of resolutions which I will detail later in this memo. Enjoy your weekend, and be safe out there.


Water Project Phase I
​
The application to the EDA (Economic Development Administration) is still being processed by staff and Ken Rizzio at Lakeshore Advantage. Application is on schedule to be sent to the EDA before the end of June. As always if you have questions please contact me.
 
 
REPEAT - Muskegon Waste Water Treatment Plant Option 

Nothing new to report at this time. There have been some rumblings as to possible funding mechanisms, but nothing of any substance. As information becomes available, and is sharable, I will keep members of this council. Please contact me if you have comments or require answers to questions.
 
 
REPEAT - Master Plan Update: Jonathan Seyferth

We are nearing the end of feedback window on the draft master plan which has been ongoing since mid-February. The end of the feedback window back in March started a timeline that, if all goes according to plan, should allow the master plan to be considered for final adoption in July.
The timeline is as follows:

• Late June – The 9-week feedback window will close in late June which is also the June Planning Commission meeting date.
  
  
• July 17 – The Planning Commission would hold a Public Hearing on formal adoption of the master plan – step one in a two-step adoption process. If approved by the PC, it is sent to the City Council for final adoption.

 

• July 24 – At the second City Council meeting in July, the City Council will be asked to take the second step in the process with a final adoption of the master plan.

 
A draft and executive summary of the Master Plan can be found at  www.plancoopersville.com. Updates and comments on the final draft will also be accepted on the website. ​

By Mark Horoszowski, Next Avenue Contributor 

(This article previously appeared on MovingWorlds.org.)

The power of volunteering has been documented for the last 2,500+ years, however a slew of recent research is shedding even more light onto its surprising benefits. Science now proves what great leaders and philosophers have known for years:

“One of the great ironies of life is this: He or she who serves almost always benefits more than he or she who is served.” - Gordon Hinckle

Here are five surprising benefits of volunteering:

1. Volunteering time makes you feel like you have more time. Wharton professor Cassie Mogilner wrote in the Harvard Business Review that her research found those who volunteer their time feel like they have more of it. This is similar to other research showing that people who donate to charity feel wealthier.

Said Mogliner: “The results show that giving your time to others can make you feel more ‘time affluent’ and less time-constrained than wasting your time, spending it on yourself, or even getting a windfall of free time.”

2. Volunteering your skills helps you develop new skills. In my experience, skills-based volunteering is an excellent opportunity to develop talents to help you get ahead in your career. In fact, an article in Stanford Social Innovation Review called skills-based volunteering overseas “the next executive training ground.”

At MovingWorlds, we’ve found that skills development in technical and leadership-related areas is the primary reason corporations invest in international skills-based volunteering programs.

(MORE: Volunteering Pays for Job Hunters)

3. Volunteering your body helps you have a healthier body. A Corporation for National & Community Service report noted: “Research demonstrates that volunteering leads to better health… those who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression later in life than those who do not volunteer.”

The fact that volunteering has been proven to make you healthier is reason enough to engage in pro bono activities. For more information on this, read “Can Volunteering Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease?”

4. Volunteering your experience helps build your experience. We consistently see this with highly skilled professionals like investment bankers and business consultants. Also, volunteering in a new industry will give you knowledge to help you switch fields. And if you want to move from the corporate world to the nonprofit sector, volunteering first can help prove your commitment.

Beyond our own research, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal and Next Avenue have published articles about how volunteering can help you earn your next job.

As the Journal wrote: “According to the survey of 202 human-resource executives, skilled volunteer work — such as helping a nonprofit with its finances — makes job applicants look more appealing to hiring manager.”

5. Volunteering your love makes you feel more love. Admittedly, love is a hard thing to measure. But when researchers at the London School of Economics examined the relationship between volunteering and measures of happiness, they found the more people volunteered, the happier they were. Volunteering builds empathy, strengthens social bonds and makes you smile  — all factors that increase the feeling of love.
​

We have a special council meeting Monday night in that we honor the tenure of Rodney Lloyd as Coopersville’s Mayor from November 2013 to April 2017. Representative Roger Victory will be on hand to present former Mayor Rodney C. Lloyd with an Honorarium. The city will also present Mr. Lloyd with a gift of appreciation for his outstanding service to the city and its citizens. Mr. Lloyd had to step down as mayor because his residency changed from the City of Coopersville to Wright Township. I want to thank Mr. Lloyd for his service, his dedication, and his enthusiasm for this community and for the voters that placed him there and the trust that was bestowed to him.
 
Running for public office and serving in an elected position is one of the basic tenets of our form of government. I applaud those that choose to serve in an age where other events, responsibilities, and social distractions vie for everyone’s time and attention. Late night workshops, personal appearances at city events, and of course council meetings can put a strain on one’s personal and professional life. But as I have witnessed, there is a personal commitment to the betterment of Coopersville and it is reflected by those that “serve” not only on city council but on the Planning Commission, the Downtown Development Authority Board, Zoning Board of Appeals, and others. Elected and appointed officials are the foundation to the continuation of this endeavor called local government.
 
As Coopersville continues to grow economically, it fortunately has kept its essence as a friendly community with a rich tradition and a desire to continually improve its quality of life. Those that serve can take  significant pride in this fact as they have influenced the energy that has made it a reality. So again, thank Mr. Lloyd for your service, and thank you to all the other elected and appointed individuals that continue to respect and love this community.
 
As a reminder, the NEO-Forum Golf Outing is scheduled for Saturday, June 17 at Western Greens Golf Course, just southeast of Coopersville on Johnson Street. This golf outing is a “scramble” so don’t be too intimidated if you are not a good golfer or not a golfer at all. It’s really a great day of fun, an outstanding catered lunch, and a chance to receive some very nice gifts. Above all else, the golf outing is a fund raiser for the NEO Forum, a program that provides “counseling services, education, support and resources to youth in order to reduce substance abuse, violence, juvenile delinquency and other risky behaviors. The NEO Forum staff is a unique combination of a full-time counselor and an on-site Sheriff Deputy who work closely with the school personnel and community members to help our youth.” Hope to see you there, but if you have conflicts please consider sponsoring a “hole” where your name or business will be placed at the “tee-box.” Sgt. Dennis Luce has all the particulars plus there is a brochure enclosed in Council Information.
 
 As always, please have an enjoyable weekend now that decent weather has enveloped us. See you all Monday night; be SAFE out there!


Medical Marijuana Dispensary Discussion
There is a meeting at the Pinnacle Center in Hudsonville June 20, 2017 from 1:00 – 5:00 PM for township officials and city council members. There are a couple of keynote speakers as well as a panel discussion on the subject of Medical Marijuana that include County Prosecutors from Ottawa, Muskegon, and Allegan Counties, as well as the WEMET Section Commander. If you are interested, seating is limited so please contact me or Anisa Williams and we can register you; free to attend but you must register. 
 
 
REPEAT: Medical Marihuana (marijuana): Jonathan Seyferth
Due to scheduling conflicts the May 15, 2017 medical marijuana presentation was cancelled and is tentatively rescheduled for June 19, 2017 at the next Planning Commission. The public is always welcome.
 
Over the next few months we are going to engage in a long-term and slow education process on Michigan’s new medical marihuana law. That education process will include hearing from groups on both sides of the topic. At the conclusion of that education process (likely in June or July) the City Council and Planning Commission can then decide if it would like to tackle any changes to the city’s current medical marihuana ordinance.
 
This is being precipitated for two different reasons. First off, in December 2016 the state legislature passed a new law regarding commercial activities related to medical marihuana. This change authorizes five different type of commercial activities that can be engaged in when explicitly allowed by a municipality. Secondly, the city has received requests that the city consider allowing one or more of those five activities.
 
Our current ordinance regulating medical marihuana, which is found in Section 1280.21 – prohibits any commercial activity related to medical marihuana. This was put into place in July 2013. Several communities throughout the state enacted similar ordinances in the absents of clear state action on the topic. 
 
The state’s new law, the Medical Marihuana Facilities Licensing Act (PA 281 of 2016) will come into effect in December 2017. The delay on implementation is to allow communities to determine what (if any) of the five activities they’ll allow and to allow the state to develop permitting for these activities.
 
The Michigan Municipal League (MML) has produced a few brief documents on the topic, I’ve included those for your reading pleasure. The MML memos outline the five activities and provides a FAQ sheet on the topic.
 
The good thing about the new state law is it gives municipalities a lot of flexibility. 1. Communities do not have to explicitly outlaw medical marijuana facilities – it’s an opt in law. 2. It’s not an all or nothing thing, a municipality can choose which of five activities to allow and how many of each it would allow (again, if any at all).

 
REPEAT - Muskegon Waste Water Treatment Plant Option
Nothing new to report at this time. There have been some rumblings as to possible funding mechanisms, but nothing of any substance. As information becomes available, and is sharable, I will keep members of this council. Please contact me if you have comments or require answers to questions.

Water Project Phase I
SEE AGENDA ITEM 8. A.
 
 
REPEAT - Master Plan Update: Jonathan Seyferth
We are nearing the end of feedback window on the draft master plan which has been ongoing since mid-February. The end of the feedback window back in March started a timeline that, if all goes according to plan, should allow the master plan to be considered for final adoption in July.
The timeline is as follows:

• Late June – The 9-week feedback window will close in late June which is also the June Planning Commission meeting date.
  
  
• July 17 – The Planning Commission would hold a Public Hearing on formal adoption of the master plan – step one in a two-step adoption process. If approved by the PC, it is sent to the City Council for final adoption.

 

• July 24 – At the second City Council meeting in July, the City Council will be asked to take the second step in the process with a final adoption of the master plan.

 
A draft and executive summary of the Master Plan can be found at  www.plancoopersville.com. Updates and comments on the final draft will also be accepted on the website.