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CITY OF MUSKEGON
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
March 24, 2026 @ 5:30 PM
MUSKEGON CITY COMMISSION CHAMBERS
933 TERRACE STREET, MUSKEGON, MI 49440
MINUTES
The Regular Commission Meeting of the City of Muskegon was held at City Hall,
933 Terrace Street, Muskegon, Michigan at 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 24, 2026.
Pastor Jeremy Lenertz from First Wesleyan Church, opened the meeting with
prayer, after which the Commission and public recited the Pledge of Allegiance
to the Flag.
ROLL CALL
Present: Mayor Ken Johnson, Vice Mayor Destinee Keener, Commissioners Willie
German, Jr. (left at 6:43 p.m.), Kiley Jackson, Katrina Kochin, Rebecca St.Clair,
and Jay Kilgo, City Manager Jonathan Seyferth, City Attorney Brennen Gorman,
and City Clerk Ann Marie Meisch
2026-21 PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Sappi PUD Parcel Acquisition, 2400 and 2850 Lakeshore Drive Manager's
Office
The City is seeking authorization to apply for an MDNR Natural Resources Trust
Fund grant for the acquisition of ten (10) lakefront parcels on the former Sappi
PUD at 2400 and 2850 Lakeshore Drive. The property would be used as a new
public parklet with increased Muskegon Lake waterfront access at the end of
the Lincoln Street extension into the development. A public hearing is a
requirement of the MDNR application process to gather feedback from the
public about the project.
The City Commission-approved Sappi Planned Unit Development (PUD), at 2400
and 2850 Lakeshore Dr, includes an Option Agreement between the City and
Parkland Properties giving the City the exclusive right to purchase an area
encompassing ten (10) lots at a reduced rate. Parkland agreed to a rate
of $148,750 per lot, representing a 15% reduction in the average projected sale
price on all waterfront lots in the PUD. This reduced rate was determined based
on cost savings from building fewer single-family homes on these parcels and
requiring fewer utility installations and other infrastructure to support these lots.
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The option commenced on the closing date (12/18/26) between Parkland and
Pure Muskegon on the property, and the City would have two (2) years to
execute these purchases.
The parcels would be acquired through an application to the MDNR Natural
Resources Trust Fund grant program to install a new public park and increase
public access to Muskegon Lake. Acquisition of the lakefront parcels will secure
public ownership and permanent public access to Muskegon Lake and support
long-term redevelopment consistent with adopted City plans.
The total estimated MNRTF-eligible project cost is $1,580,500, and the City
intends to request $1,106,300 in MNRTF assistance with a local match in the
amount of $474,200 from City funds, representing approximately 30% of the total
project cost.
The deadline to submit applications for the MDNR Natural Resources Trust Fund
grant program is April 1, 2026.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To close the public hearing and authorize staff to
apply to the MDNR Natural Resources Trust Fund acquisition grant in the amount
of $1,106,300, with a match commitment of $474,200, for the acquisition of ten
(10) parcels on the former Sappi PUD, subject to final appraisal due in October.
The Public Hearing opened to hear and consider any comments from the
public. No public comments were made.
Motion by Commissioner St.Clair, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to close the
public hearing and authorize staff to apply to the MDNR Natural Resources Trust
Fund acquisition grant in the amount of $1,106,300, with a match commitment of
$474,200, for the acquisition of ten (10) parcels on the former Sappi PUD, subject
to final appraisal due in October.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, Jackson, Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, and
Keener
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
B. Request to Create a New Neighborhood Enterprise Zone District at 2400
Lakeshore Drive Economic Development
Pursuant to Public Act 147 of the Michigan Public Acts of 1992 as amended, staff
has received a request to create a new Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ)
district at 2400 Lakeshore Drive.
This public hearing is being held to consider the establishment of the proposed
NEZ district. The applicant intends to develop single-family owner-occupied units
along 65.46 acres of the Sappi development. Inclusion in a NEZ district would
allow eligible property owners to apply for NEZ certificates, which reduce
residential property taxes on newly constructed housing.
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In accordance with Public Act 147 of 1992, as amended, notice of the
proposed NEZ district was mailed to all affected local taxing jurisdictions on
February 12, 2026.
Per State requirements:
• A public hearing must be held within 45 days of the notice being sent.
• The resolution establishing the NEZ district may not be adopted until at least 60
days after notice was issued.
The resolution to establish the NEZ district at 2400 Lakeshore Drive is scheduled to
return to the City Commission for consideration on April 14, 2026. State law
allows up to 15% of a local government’s total land area to be designated as
NEZ districts. The City of Muskegon is currently at 13.34%. The addition of the
proposed NEZ district would remain within the allowable statutory limit. If
approved, staff estimates that the NEZ District’s total area will fall under 14.1% of
the City’s total acreage.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to close the public hearing for the NEZ District
at 2400 Lakeshore Drive.
The Public Hearing opened to hear and consider any comments from the
public. No public comments were made.
Motion by Vice Mayor Keener, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to close the
public hearing for the NEZ District at 2400 Lakeshore Drive.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Jackson, Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, Keener, and
German
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
C. Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Certificates - 577 Amity Ave. and 723 Amity
Ave. Economic Development
Staff is requesting the approval of Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ)
certificates for 15 years for a new construction home at 577 Amity Ave. and 723
Amity Ave.
Robert Muusse Builders LLC has submitted two applications for Neighborhood
Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificates for the construction of single-family homes at
577 Amity Avenue and 723 Amity Avenue. 577 Amity Ave. will feature three
bedrooms and one and a half bathrooms. 723 Amity Ave. will have two
bedrooms and one bathroom, with the potential to add an additional bedroom
and bathroom. The Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Act provides for the
development and rehabilitation of residential housing located within eligible
distressed communities. Approval of these applications would grant the future
property owners a tax abatement that reduces their property taxes by
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approximately 50% for up to 15 years.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to close the public hearing and approve
Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificates for 15 years at 577 Amity Ave.
and 723 Amity Ave. and authorize the City Clerk and Mayor to sign the
applications and resolutions.
The Public Hearing opened to hear and consider any comments from the
public. Pat Jones asked about the creation of the districts.
Motion by Commissioner Kochin, second by Vice Mayor Keener, to close the
public hearing and approve Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificates for
15 years at 577 Amity Ave. and 723 Amity Ave. and authorize the City Clerk and
Mayor to sign the applications and resolutions.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, Keener, German, and
Jackson
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
No public comments were made.
2026-22 CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes City Clerk
To approve minutes of the March 9th Worksession Meeting and the March 10th
City Commission Meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the minutes.
C. Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund Request – OB’s Southern
Brunch House Economic Development
OB’s Southern Brunch House has submitted a request for a $50,000 loan through
the City’s Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund (RLF). The requested
funds will provide gap financing between the owners’ equity investment and
their commercial loan.
The business will be located at 379 W. Western Avenue, Suite 102, within the
Sidock Group building. OB’s Southern Brunch House will offer southern-inspired
brunch dishes and craft beverages. The business is expected to create several
new job opportunities and serve as a positive addition to the downtown business
district.
The owners, Will and Fatima Roberson, are experienced entrepreneurs who
have successfully operated other businesses, including a staffing agency.
The proposed loan term is five (5) years, with the loan anticipated to conclude
in April 2031. Additional details regarding the loan terms are included in the loan
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term agreement.
The Ad Hoc Economic Development Loan Fund Advisory Committee met to
review the application and supporting materials and recommends approval of
the $50,000 loan.
The Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund has traditionally been used to
supplement conventional financing sources and assist with financial gaps for
new or expanding businesses that contribute to the City’s economic
development goals.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve a loan in the amount of $50,000 to
Roberson Entertainment, LLC from the Economic Development Revolving Loan
Fund for OB's Southern Brunch House.
D. Goal Setting Facilitation Contract Manager's Office
Staff is seeking approval to enter a contract with Double Haul Solutions for
facilitation of goal setting with the City Commission.
Staff interviewed 3 firms capable of facilitating a goal setting session with the
Commission and recommends contracting with Double Haul Solutions. DHS is
located within Michigan and has worked diligently to form a process based on
the needs of our community and organization. They have shown themselves to
be flexible and have offered guidance that aligns with our values for
engagement, visioning, and teamwork. We feel that they will work as partners
who are invested in the success of our community, and their approach is
comprehensive and affordable.
The other two companies that were considered are MGT Consulting and
LeaderGov both of which gave strong proposals but would work more remotely,
and in one case cost much more than the recommended firm.
While the current long term goals don't expire until 2027, staff would like to better
align the long term goals with Commission terms. We look forward to beginning
the process to create a vision and prioritize the goals to lead Muskegon forward.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To approve the contract with Double Haul Solutions
and authorize the City Manager to sign.
E. Contract Award: Material Testing - 215733 Lakeshore Dr DPW- Engineering
Staff is requesting authorization to approve a contract with Material Testing
Consultants in the amount of $30,000 for material testing on the Lakeshore Drive
road reconstruction project, as outlined within the RFP.
Bids were solicited for material testing for the Lakeshore Drive road
reconstruction project, which is required by the State to ensure the contractor is
meeting construction standards. Two bids were received:
Material Testing Consultants $30,000.00
Soils & Structures $67,287.00
This work is budgeted for and included in the street funds associated with the
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project.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Move to authorize staff to enter into a contract with
Material Testing Consultants in the amount of $30,000.00 for material testing for
the Lakeshore Drive road reconstruction project, as defined within the RFP.
H. Invoice for Maintenance of Voting Equipment - REMOVE PER STAFF
REQUEST City Clerk
I. Resolution for Charitable Gaming License - Watch Us Go Boating -
Muskegon City Clerk
Watch Us Go Boating - Muskegon is requesting a resolution recognizing them as
a non-profit organization operating in the City for the purpose of obtaining a
gaming license. They have been recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization by the
State.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the resolution for a Charitable Gaming
License.
J. Resolution for Charitable Gaming License - Route 31 Foundation City Clerk
Route 31 Foundation is requesting a resolution recognizing them as a non-profit
organization operating in the City for the purpose of obtaining a gaming
license. They have been recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization by the State.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the resolution for a Charitable Gaming
License.
K. Muskegon Farmers Market Vendor Rates City Clerk
To approve the proposed rates for vendors at the Farmers Market in 2026.
It is recommended that the City increase rates for seasonal vendors by
approximately 3% in 2026. The remaining rates will remain the same. Staff
reviewed rates of other farmers market and we are comparable. The Muskegon
Farmers Market Advisory Board also reviewed the proposed increase.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To approve the rate increases for the Farmers Market
as proposed.
Motion by Commissioner German, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to adopt the
Consent Agenda as presented minus items B, F, G, and L.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, Keener, German, Jackson, and
Kochin
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
2026-23 ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
B. Deficit Elimination Plan-Brownfield Redevelopment Activities Finance
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To approve the Deficit Elimination plan and resolution for the Brownfield
Redevelopment Authority (combined) and direct staff to submit plan to the
State of Michigan.
At June 30, 2025 the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (combined) had a
$133,849.00 deficit. Act 275 of Public Acts of 1980 requires the City to formulate
a deficit elimination plan and submit it to the Michigan Department of Treasury.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To approve the Deficit Elimination plan and resolution
for the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (combined) and direct staff to
submit plan to the State of Michigan.
Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner Kochin, to approve the
Deficit Elimination plan and resolution for the Brownfield Redevelopment
Authority (combined) and direct staff to submit plan to the State of Michigan.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Johnson, Kilgo, Keener, German, Jackson, Kochin, and
St.Clair
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
F. Mobile Food Vending Ordinance Update Manager's Office
This action would update Article VIII. Mobile Food Vending Ordinance Section
50-304 Regulations by adding a subsection (p) creating an additional exception
to the 1,000 ft. exclusion zone for mobile food vending that events can enforce.
Per the direction of the City Commission at our December, 2025, LPC meeting,
the staff is presenting an ordinance update related to mobile food vending on
private property within 1,000 feet of an approved event. Under our current
ordinance, no mobile food vending may exist within 1,000 feet of an approved
event unless the event has given permission or it's part of a brick and mortar's
ongoing general operations. This update will create an additional exception
and is outlined below.
(p) Subsection (j) shall not apply to a mobile food vendor operating on private
property when all of the following conditions are met:
1. The property shall not be used as a commercial kitchen permitted for the
preparation of food, where such use constitutes more than fifty percent
(50%) of the gross revenue generated on the property.
2. Any water supply or electrical service utilized by a mobile food vendor
shall be provided only through utility connections that have been installed
for use by a mobile food vendor and lawfully installed and maintained in
compliance with all applicable building, plumbing, electrical, health, and
safety codes.
3. The property owner or occupant in lawful possession of the property has
allowed mobile food vendors to operate on the property for no fewer
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than ten (10) days during the thirty (30) day period immediately
preceding the date the vendor operates on the property pursuant to this
subsection; and
4. The vendor operates on the property with the express written permission of
the property owner or occupant in lawful possession of the property.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to update Article VIII, Mobile Food Vending
Ordinance, Section 50-304 Regulations, by adding Subsection P as presented.
Motion by Vice Mayor Keener, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to update Article
VIII, Mobile Food Vending Ordinance, Section 50-304 Regulations, by adding
Subsection P as presented.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Kilgo, Keener, German, Jackson, Kochin, St.Clair, and
Johnson
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
G. Street Sweeping Contract Public Works
Staff seeks authorization to enter into a three-year agreement with Tri-Us
Services, Inc. to provide street sweeping services in the amount of $450,645 per
year for 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Street sweeping is funded through the City’s sanitation budget. Street sweeping
is a critical component of street maintenance, drainage best practices, and
environmental protection. By collecting and properly disposing of sediment,
leaves, chemicals and other debris that collect on our roadways, the City
prevents those items from entering the storm sewer system. This reduces
drainage problems, helps limit clogs, and prevents the items from ending up
polluting our water ways. Sanitation revenues are derived from several sources,
including property taxes, the sanitation fee on our utility bills, and various service
fees. The portion of the contract expenses related to state trunkline sweeping on
Apple Avenue and Seaway Drive are reimbursed by MDOT.
The City’s previous contract expired after last season. On February 16, 2026, staff
issued an invitation for bids for street sweeping services for 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Two sealed bids were received, and the costs are summarized in the bid
tabulation. Bids were submitted by Tri-Us Services, Inc. and SCA of MI, the same
two companies that submitted bids for the 2023-2025 contract.
Tri-Us Services, Inc. has been contracted by the City for over two decades to
perform street sweeping services. During that time, the company has
consistently performed high-quality work, met required deadlines, and
maintained strong communication with City staff. Their familiarity with the City’s
streets and operational needs has allowed them to efficiently complete
sweeping operations while working closely with City staff to address potential
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issues and accommodate special sweeping requests.
SCA of MI submitted the lowest bid. Of note, the company's 2026 bid is
$173,120.44 per year lower than the company’s own 2023 bid. Due to this drastic
reduction in their bid amid fuel price increases, labor cost increases, and other
cost indicators, staff contacted two large, adjacent local government agencies
with prior experience working with SCA of MI as references. Based on those
discussions, along with the long-standing and reliable performance of Tri-Us
Services, Inc. in providing street sweeping services to the City, staff recommends
awarding the contract to Tri-Us Services, Inc. for the 2026-2028 contract
period. Notably, both of the references we contacted have since returned to
Tri-US for their street sweeping services.
The increased cost of the contract will be incorporated into the sanitation
budget for the upcoming fiscal year. It is estimated that an additional $78,000
will be required this fiscal year, and the sanitation budget will be adjusted
accordingly. During upcoming FY26-27 budget discussions, DPW and Finance
staff will work together to determine if a sanitation fee increase will be necessary
and bring a recommendation to the Commission later this spring if so.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Move to authorize staff to enter into a three-year
agreement with Tri-Us Services, Inc. to provide street sweeping services in the
amount of $450,645 per year for 2026, 2027, and 2028.
Motion by Vice Mayor Keener, second by Commissioner St.Clair, to authorize
staff to enter into a three-year agreement with Tri-Us Services, Inc. to provide
street sweeping services in the amount of $450,645 per year for 2026, 2027, and
2028.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Keener, Jackson, Kochin, St.Clair, and Johnson
Nays: Kilgo
MOTION PASSES
L. MDNR Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant Application
Resolution Manager's Office
The City is seeking to exercise the purchase option in the Sappi site PUD to
acquire (10) lakefront parcels at 2400 and 2850 Lakeshore Drive. The parcels
would be acquired through application to the MDNR Natural Resources Trust
Fund grant program. The property would be used as a new public parklet with
increased Muskegon Lake waterfront access at the end of the Lincoln Street
extension into the development.
The MDNR requires a resolution of support from the local unit of government to
be included as part of the application. Acquisition of the lakefront parcels will
secure public ownership and permanent public access to Muskegon Lake and
support long-term redevelopment consistent with adopted City plans.
Page 9 of 10
The total estimated MNRTF-eligible project cost is $1,580,500, and the City
intends to request $1,106,300 in MNRTF assistance with a local match in the
amount of $474,200 from City funds, representing approximately 30% of the total
project cost.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To approve the Resolution of support as presented
and authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign.
Motion by Commissioner Kochin, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to approve the
Resolution of support as presented and authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Jackson, Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, and Keener
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Deputy City Manager LeighAnn Mikesell gave an update on the summer transit
conversation. She explained the changes with the proposal. This will be brought
back to Commission.
Commissioner St.Clair wanted to recognize the Muskegon High School Girls
Basketball Team as our Division 1 State Champion for the first time ever.
GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT
Public comments received.
ADJOURNMENT
The City Commission meeting adjourned at 7:40 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ann Marie Meisch, MMC City Clerk
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