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CITY OF MUSKEGON
CITY COMMISSION MEETING
May 12, 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, May 12,
2026. Dr. Rob Renberg from Anchor Point Bible 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, Commissioners Jay Kilgo, Willie German, Jr.,
Katrina Kochin (left at 8:18 p.m.), and Rebecca St. Clair, City Manager
Jonathan Seyferth, City Attorney Brennen Gorman, and City Clerk Ann Marie
Meisch
Absent: Vice Mayor Destinee Keener and Commissioner Kiley Jackson
2026-31 HONORS, AWARDS, AND PRESENTATIONS
A. Recognition of Muskegon High School Lady Reds Manager's Office
Mayor Johnson recognized the Muskegon High School Lady Reds Basketball
Team for becoming the first girls basketball team in Muskegon County to win a
Michigan High School Athletic Association State Championship and presented
certificates to those in attendance.
B. Recognition of Jessica Grimm City Clerk
The Michigan Association of Municipal Clerks is an organization that promotes
and educates Michigan's Clerks. Through the Michigan Profession Municipal
Clerk certification program, Clerks are recognized for their knowledge of the
multifaceted Clerk's profession. Through Jessica's commitment to education
and desire to obtain certification, she has obtained her Level One MiPMC
certification, which clearly defines commitment to the Clerk's profession and
the City of Muskegon.
C. Dangerous Building Enforcement Process Public Safety
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Public Safety Director Tim Kozal and Inspector Steve Stout explained the
process of dealing with Dangerous Buildings in the City of Muskegon.
D. Delta Sigma Theta Mayor's Office
Shameika Johnson, President of the Muskegon Heights Alumnae Chapter of
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated stated they are celebrating 113 years
of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and are preparing to celebrate 50
years of the Muskegon Heights Alumnae Chapter on December 12. They are
committed to the vision and legacy of their founders and charter members
through service advocacy and community engagement. They are currently
developing a comprehensive civic engagement strategy focused on voter
education, voter rights, and community awareness. They hope to partner with
the City to ensure residents are informed about local, state, and national
elections understanding voting rights and remain engaged in the Democratic
process. They also understand the role that homeownership plays in the
generational wealth, particularly within the black community. They hope to
collaborate with the community leaders and partners to help educate residents
on homeownership opportunities, available resources, and pathways to long-
term economic stability. Their chapter has continued advocating for black
maternal health and access to Mental Health Services.
2026-32 PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Certificates - 312 Edison Ct., 313 Edison
Ct., and 315 Edison Ct. Economic Development
Staff is requesting the approval of Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ)
certificates for 15 years for new construction homes at 312 Edison Ct., 313
Edison Ct., and 315 Edison Ct.
Fish Partners LLC has submitted three applications for Neighborhood Enterprise
Zone (NEZ) certificates for the construction of single-family homes at 312, 313,
and 315 Edison Ct. 312 and 313 Edison Ct. will each feature three bedrooms
and two and a half bathrooms. 315 Edison Ct. will feature four bedrooms and
two and a half bathrooms. These proposed homes are located in an existing
NEZ District. The estimated project costs for each of these homes is $575,000.
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 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 312 Edison Ct.,
313 Edison Ct., and 315 Edison Ct., 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
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public. No public comments were made.
Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner St.Clair, to close the
public hearing and approve Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificates
for 15 years at 312 Edison Ct., 313 Edison Ct., and 315 Edison Ct., and authorize
the City Clerk and Mayor to sign the applications and resolutions.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, and Kilgo
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
B. Neighborhood Enterprise Zone Certificates - 541 Catherine Avenue, 551
Catherine Avenue, and 561 Catherine Avenue. Economic Development
Staff is requesting the approval of Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ)
certificates for 15 years for new construction homes at 541 Catherine Avenue,
551 Catherine Avenue, and 561 Catherine Avenue.
Habitat for Humanity of Kent County has submitted three applications for
Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificates for the construction of single-
family homes at 541, 551, and 561 Catherine Avenue. Each home is estimated
to cost $244,012 to construct. Habitat for Humanity of Kent County intends to
sell these homes to households earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income
(AMI).
The applicant has met all local and state requirements for the issuance of NEZ
certificates. 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
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 for the properties
located at 541 Catherine Avenue, 551 Catherine Avenue, and 561 Catherine
Avenue, 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. No public comments were made.
Motion by Commissioner St.Clair, second by Commissioner Kochin, to close the
public hearing and approve Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) certificates
for 15 years for the properties located at 541 Catherine Avenue, 551 Catherine
Avenue, and 561 Catherine Avenue, and authorize the City Clerk and Mayor to
sign the applications and resolutions..
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, and Kilgo
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Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
C. Issuance of an Obsolete Property Certificate - 1937 Lakeshore
Dr. Economic Development
Pursuant to Public Act 146 of 2000, Lakeside Development Properties LLC has
requested the issuance of an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate for
the property located at 1937 Lakeshore Drive to support redevelopment of the
site.
Lakeside Development Properties LLC has requested the issuance of an
Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate for the property located at 1937
Lakeshore Drive. If approved, the property’s taxable value would be frozen at
the pre-rehabilitation level for the duration of the certificate. The Obsolete
Property Rehabilitation District for this site was previously established by the City
Commission.
The applicant is proposing the redevelopment of the former Harbor Theater site
as part of the Encore at Harbor Theater project, with an estimated total project
cost of $3,665,733. The project has previously been before the City Commission
for multiple incentive-related actions, including approval of a Commercial
Redevelopment Act abatement and establishment of a Neighborhood
Enterprise Zone district. Additionally, a prior Obsolete Property Rehabilitation
Certificate associated with the former property owner was revoked.
At the time of initial incentive discussions, staff recommended utilization of
incentives available under Public Act 255 of 1978, as amended. However, that
program, along with Public Act 210 of 2005, expired at the end of 2025 and has
not been extended by the State Legislature. While the State Senate approved
legislation to extend the program, it has not advanced in the State House, and
extension is not anticipated in the near term. At this time, there are no current
tax abatements for this property.
Given the project timeline and anticipated construction start in spring, staff
recommended that the applicant pursue an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation
Certificate under Public Act 146 of 2000 prior to construction in order to support
project financing.
The City’s Internal Tax Committee has reviewed the application and supporting
documentation. Based on its analysis and the applicable scoring criteria, which
are consistent with the former Public Act 255 framework, the Committee
recommends approval of the resolution granting an eight (8)-year Obsolete
Property Rehabilitation Certificate.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to close the public hearing and approve the
resolution for the issuance of an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Certificate for
1937 Lakeshore Drive and authorize the City Clerk and Mayor to sign.
The public hearing opened to hear and consider any comments from the
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public. No public comments were made.
Motion by Commissioner St.Clair, second by Commissioner German, to close
the public hearing and approve the resolution for the issuance of an Obsolete
Property Rehabilitation Certificate for 1937 Lakeshore Drive and authorize the
City Clerk and Mayor to sign.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, and German
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
D. Brownfield Plan Amendment - Encore at Harbor Theatre, Lakeside
Development Properties, LLC Economic Development
Lakeside Development Properties, LLC is requesting approval of a Brownfield
Plan Amendment. The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) approved
the original Brownfield Plan on April 14, 2026.
The proposed amendment will facilitate the redevelopment of the former
Harbor Theatre site located at 1937 Lakeshore Drive through the use of Tax
Increment Financing (TIF) to reimburse the developer for eligible environmental
and site redevelopment activities. The project will support the creation of new
residential units and commercial space.
The former Harbor Theatre, now referred to as the Encore, has remained vacant
and blighted for an extended period. The redevelopment will consist of a three-
story, 11-unit mixed-use building, with the lower level designated for
commercial space and parking. The residential component will include three
one-bedroom units, seven two-bedroom units, and one three-bedroom unit.
The total estimated project investment is $3,750,000.
The Brownfield Plan Amendment includes the following eligible activities and
costs: infrastructure and safety improvements necessary to support housing
($525,000); demolition ($165,000); Brownfield Plan Amendment preparation
($20,000); Brownfield Plan Amendment implementation ($10,000); contingency
($103,500); Authority administrative costs ($62,314); and Local Brownfield
Revolving Fund (LBRF) capture ($360,460).
The reimbursement period is anticipated to extend through 2052, with the
collection of TIF revenues beginning in 2027. The LBRF is projected to begin
capturing revenue in 2049. The duration of the reimbursement period may be
adjusted pending approval of a Neighborhood Enterprise Zone (NEZ) or
Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA) certificate.
According to the City of Muskegon Housing Needs Assessment, there is a
demonstrated need for 413 moderate-income for-sale homes and 322 high-
income for-sale homes. This project contributes toward addressing those
identified housing needs.
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to close the public hearing and approve the
resolution and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign.
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 German, to close
the public hearing and approve the resolution and authorize the Mayor and
City Clerk to sign.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Kochin, Johnson, Kilgo, German, and St.Clair
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
PUBLIC COMMENT ON AGENDA ITEMS
Public comments received.
2026-33 CONSENT AGENDA
A. Approval of Minutes City Clerk
To approve minutes of the April 13th Worksession Meeting and the April 14th
Commission Meeting.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the minutes.
B. Recommendation to Award RFP for Grocery Market Analysis and Needs
Assessment Economic Development
Staff recommends awarding a contract to Plante Moran Realpoint in the
amount of $30,000 to complete a Grocery Market Analysis and Needs
Assessment. The City issued an uncapped Request for Proposals to understand
the full range of costs for this type of study. Community partners, including the
Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and Greater Muskegon
Economic Development, support the project and are pursuing grant funding to
help offset costs.
In January, the City issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) for a Grocery Market
Analysis and Needs Assessment to better understand local food access, market
conditions, and opportunities for future grocery development. The RFP was
issued without a predefined budget in order to assess the full range of costs and
approaches from qualified firms.
This initiative was informed through ongoing discussions with community
partners, including the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce and
Greater Muskegon Economic Development, both of whom have expressed
support for the project and are currently pursuing grant funding through the
community foundation to help offset associated costs. As part of these
discussions, partners indicated a willingness to contribute toward the project
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cost, and the $30,000 proposal from Plante Moran Realpoint was identified as a
feasible shared investment.
In accordance with the City’s purchasing policy, the RFP resulted in thirteen
(13) proposals, with bids ranging from $24,500 to just over $104,000. Late
submissions were not considered in compliance with purchasing requirements.
Staff conducted an initial review and shortlisted three firms based on
qualifications, project approach, and cost:
Hafezi Capital LLC ($25,000)
New Venture Advisors ($53,000)
Plante Moran Realpoint ($30,000)
Staff also sought input from project partners, including the Muskegon Lakeshore
Chamber of Commerce and Greater Muskegon Economic Development, both
of whom expressed a preference for Plante Moran Realpoint based on the
firm’s experience and proposed project team.
Plante Moran Realpoint has proposed a qualified team to lead the market
analysis and needs assessment and demonstrated a strong understanding of
the project scope. Staff is recommending award of the contract in the amount
of $30,000.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve the award of a contract to
Plante Moran Realpoint in the amount of $30,000 for the completion of a
Grocery Market Analysis and Needs Assessment, and authorize the Director of
Development Services to execute the agreement.
C. Sale of 1936 Brunswick to Newkirk Electric Planning
Staff is seeking authorization to sell the City-owned vacant lot at 1936 Brunswick
to Newkirk Electric.
Newkirk Electric would like to purchase the City-owned buildable lot, 1936
Brunswick, for $30,000.00 (True Cash Value as determined by the Assessor) plus
half of the closing costs and the fee to register the deed. Newkirk Electric will be
using the lot for outdoor storage on the property after the acquisition of
adjacent parcels.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Authorize the Code Coordinator to complete the
sale of 1936 Brunswick, as described in the purchase agreement, with a
condition that closing be scheduled after landscaping (Arborvitaes) is revived
along Laketon Ave., and to have the Mayor and Clerk sign the purchase
agreement.
D. Big Belly Trash Compactors Contract Renewal DPW- Parks
Staff requests authorization to enter into a 36-month renewal agreement with
BigBelly for continued operation and servicing of the City’s 13 smart
solar-powered trash compactors at an annual cost of $18,476.
The City of Muskegon first deployed 13 BigBelly smart compactors as part of a
pilot initiative approved by the City Commission in 2022. The units were installed
along the shoreline at Pere Marquette Park and at Margaret Drake Elliott Park.
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They were selected to address aesthetics, reduce windblown litter, and
improve operational efficiency.
During the previous term, the compactors provided several benefits based on
staff experience and system data:
Reduced frequency of trash collection due to on-site compaction
Decrease in windblown trash compared to open metal receptacles
Remote monitoring that allowed staff to dispatch collection only when needed
Units remained durable in beach conditions, including sand and high winds
Enclosed design improved cleanliness and visitor experience
The new proposal from BigBelly outlines a renewal of the Connect Service
Agreement for the upcoming 36-month term of May 23, 2026, through May 22,
2029. The annual cost for all 13 compactors is $18,476, which is less than the cost
of hiring one seasonal employee, even before factoring in equipment, fuel,
and supervision. The compactors are deployed in locations where high visitor
volume makes it difficult to keep up with traditional trash cans. Food containers
and bulky waste quickly fill standard cans, leading to overflowing bins and litter
blowing across the beach. BigBelly’s compaction system greatly reduces the
number of liners used, extends the time between collections, and keeps
high-traffic areas significantly cleaner compared to standard receptacles.
The total cost of this 3-year contract is $55,430.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Move to authorize staff to enter into a 36-month
renewal agreement with BigBelly for continued operation and servicing of the
City’s 13 smart solar-powered trash compactors at an annual cost of $18,476
E. Parks - Toro Mower Purchase DPW- Parks
The Parks Department is requesting authorization to purchase two Toro 3200
4wd mowers at a cost of $30,032 each from Spartan Distributors through the
Sourcewell purchasing contract.
These units are part of our core mowing fleet and are essential for maintaining
the more than 800 acres of public parkland, open space, and City-owned
parcels cared for by Parks staff.
The Toro 3200 is a reliable mid-size mower that performs well across a wide
variety of park environments. These new units will replace aging equipment that
has far exceeded their recommended lifespan. Procuring two new 3200s will
improve fleet reliability, reduce downtime from mechanical failures, and ensure
that staff can maintain mowing schedules during periods of heavy growth.
The proposed mowers have a 6-foot cutting width and an effective mowing
capacity suitable for daily use across neighborhood parks, roadside parcels,
and smaller open areas where larger mowers cannot operate efficiently.
Adding these two units will increase overall productivity by allowing crews to
cover more acreage per day and distribute workload across a broader, more
dependable fleet.
The purchase also supports long-term cost efficiency. New units carry
significantly lower maintenance costs and reduce the amount of staff time
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dedicated to repairs on older mowers. These mowers are eligible for purchase
through the Sourcewell cooperative purchasing program. Sourcewell bids
products and services nationwide and allows member agencies to purchase at
the same low bid price, which satisfies the City’s competitive purchasing
requirements and ensures contract pricing is in line with national standards.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Authorize the purchase of two Toro 3200 mowers at
a cost of $30,032 each from Spartan Distributors through the Sourcewell
purchasing contract.
F. Equipment Division: Purchase of Five (5) 2026 F-250's Public Works
The equipment division is requesting to purchase five 2026 F-250's from Gorno
Ford for a total of $233,045. These vehicles would replace 4 Parks Department
vehicles and 1 traffic vehicle.
For the Parks Department, these vehicles will transport employees and
equipment to parks throughout the City. F-250's are required as they will tow
trailers, and some of the staff are responsible for plowing alleys in the Winter.
The traffic truck is used to haul road barricades, street signs, and a mobile arrow
board for road construction. The vehicles being replaced are between 15 and
25 years old. These older vehicles require more maintenance and have
significantly lower fuel efficiency than the new option.
As of now, there is no electric vehicle option with the towing and plowing
capabilities required for these vehicles. Gorno Ford is a MI-Deal vendor. MI-Deal
is a voluntary state purchasing program that allows local units of government to
use State of Michigan prebid contracts.
Please note this is not a general fund expense.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve the purchase of five (5) 2026 F-
250's from Gorno Ford for the amount of $233,045.
G. Filtration HVAC Service Agreement Public Works
Staff is requesting authorization to renew an Energy Service Agreement (ESA)
with Hurst Mechanical for HVAC equipment located at the Filtration Plant.
The Water Filtration Plant’s HVAC system comprises several pieces of
equipment, including 2 hot water boilers and associated equipment, 2
dehumidifiers, 4 heating/coolant units, and 4 back flow prevention devices. Our
current ESA was approved in April 2023 and currently expires at the end of April
2026.
This renewal includes 2 visits a year at a cost of $4,687 each year for a total of
$14,061 over 3 years. This pricing has not changed from the previous 3 years.
Inspections, preventative maintenance, filters, CSD-1 inspections on both
boilers, as well as backflow preventer inspections are all included in this ESA.
Any issues found during inspection will be quoted and need approval prior to
work being performed. This ESA also includes a 10% discount on labor for any
issues discovered during inspections.
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Quotes were solicited from 3 mechanical contractors, Northern Boiler, Franklin-
Holwerda Company (FHC), and Hurst Mechanical. Northern was unable to
provide a quote and FHC has not responded. Hurst Mechanical has been a
reliable and knowledgeable contractor that is familiar with the equipment.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to authorize staff to renew the City’s Energy
Service Agreement (ESA) for the Water Filtration Plant HVAC equipment with
Hurst Mechanical for 3 - years.
H. Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance - Waterfront Setbacks in FBC,
LMR. Planning (REQUIRES SECOND READING)
Staff-initiated request to amend Section XX of the zoning ordinance to change
the required front setbacks for waterfront properties in the Lakeside Mixed
Residential context area.
The Lakeside Mixed Residential context area has a front build-to-zone of 5-12
feet. The Form-Based Code allows waterfront properties to consider either the
street side or the waterfront side as the front of the property. This means that a
building may be required to be placed anywhere from 5 to 12 feet from the
property line facing the water. Since all of the property may not be above the
ordinary high watermark, and also since water levels fluctuate, it would not be
possible to place a building this close to the water in many situations.
Staff is proposing to amend the ordinance to require waterfront properties to
only build above the ordinary high watermark and not to have a traditional
setback from the waterfront property line.
The Lakeside Mixed Residential context area allows detached houses,
duplexes, rowhouses, small multiplexes, and cottage retail buildings.
The Planning Commission unanimously (5-0, 4 members absent) recommended
approval of the amendment.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move the request to amend Section XX of the
zoning ordinance to change the required front setbacks for waterfront
properties in the Lakeside Mixed Residential context area be approved.
I. Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance - Several Changes to the Form
Based Code Planning (REQUIRES SECOND READING)
Staff-initiated request to amend Section XX of the zoning ordinance to
remove/edit several areas of the form-based code.
Staff is proposing several amendments to the Form-Based Code (FBC). The
reasoning behind these amendments is as follows:
o The FBC has been used for over 10 years now, staff have noticed some
regulations that need to be removed or revised.
o Rezonings have brought about multiple expansions across eight
neighborhoods (Nelson, Lakeside, Nims, Jackson Hill, Campbell Field,
Northeast, Angell, McLaughlin).
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o Creation of new Context Areas specific to the Lakeside Business District
and adjacent residential areas in May 2019. Modeled after, but never
fully integrated into the original FBC document.
o Continued rezonings/expansion anticipated to implement the goals of
the Master Land Use Plan.
o Eliminate redundancies to improve readability for users and generally
make the document more accessible.
o Simplify regulations to ensure that the code regulates the things that it
should be, and not the things it shouldn’t be.
o Opportunity to address document formatting as the Zoning Ordinance
transitions to the Municode platform.
In general, the proposed updates include:
o Updated wording to be more specific, clear, or concise, where
necessary.
o Eliminated redundant language and references to Zoning Ordinance
sections with overlapping regulations.
o Corrected Zoning Ordinance section references throughout.
o Removed unhelpful regulations that have minor effect on intended
results.
o Removed "suggested" regulations, some of which will be used to draft
actual regulations.
The Planning Commission unanimously (5-0, 4 members absent) recommended
approval of the amendments.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move the request to amend Section XX of the
zoning ordinance to edit several areas of the form-based code be approved
as presented.
J. Equipment Division: 2026 Ford Explorer Fire Department Public Works
Staff is requesting to purchase a 2026 Ford Explorer from Gorno Ford for $46,610
to replace an existing vehicle in the Fire Department.
The Equipment division would like to purchase a 2026 Ford Explorer from Gorno
Ford through the MI-Deal program for $46,610. The current vehicle being used is
a retired police vehicle that is 10 years old. An updated version would reduce
maintenance costs, increase fuel economy, and ensure reliable transportation
for first responders. This vehicle will be red so it will represent our Fire Department
well. Hybrid or electric versions of this vehicle are not readily available. Gorno
Ford is a MI-Deal vendor. MI-Deal is a statewide voluntary purchasing program
that allows local governments to use state bid contracts.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to authorize the purchase of a 2026 Ford
Explorer from Gorno Ford for the amount of $46,610.
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P. Development and Reimbursement Agreement — Encore at Harbor
Theatre, 1937 Lakeshore Dr. Economic Development
Lakeside Development Properties, LLC is seeking approval of the development
and reimbursement agreement for their Encore at Harbor Theatre, 1937
Lakeshore Dr. project.
The draft development and reimbursement agreement between the Brownfield
Redevelopment Authority (BRA), the City of Muskegon, and the developer
extends through 2052, or until all eligible activities have been reimbursed
though tax increment financing (TIF) capture, whichever occurs first.
The Brownfield Plan Amendment was approved by the BRA on April 14, 2026,
and the development and reimbursement agreement was approved on May
12, 2026.
The development and reimbursement agreement complements the Brownfield
Plan Amendment by defining the specific terms, conditions, and timeline for
reimbursement.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve the development and
reimbursement agreement as presented and to authorize the Mayor and City
Clerk to sign.
Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner Kochin, to adopt the
Consent Agenda as presented minus items K, L, M, N, O, and Q.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Johnson, Kilgo, German, Kochin, and St.Clair
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
2026-34 ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
K. Steele Middle School Purchase and Development
Agreement Economic Development
Staff is requesting that the City of Muskegon be made party to the Steele
Middle School Redevelopment Agreement to ensure compliance.
For several months, staff has been working with the City Attorney as well as
representatives from Muskegon Public Schools and the Q9 Development
Group, LLC in order to ensure that the neighbors in Steele neighborhood are
secured in any redevelopment agreement. Namely, staff wanted to ensure
that in the event of non-performance of the proposed redevelopment that the
City of Muskegon could quickly gain site control of the project. This is in order to
avoid the school site sitting vacant and deteriorating for several years which
leads to a more difficult prospect of eventual investment.
The agreement essentially splits the Steele Middle School site into two halves,
with the vacant land comprising the football field and some of the parking
immediately deeded to Q9 for single-family housing redevelopment. The half
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that is made up of the school building and the remaining parking will be
conveyed to the City of Muskegon, with Q9 being granted the exclusive option
to purchase, as long as they hit certain development milestones on the housing
phase of the project. Specifically, Q9 must complete the housing component
within 5 years after closing or make sufficient progress, defined as 80% of the
housing having a certificate of occupancy. There is also a milestone at 2 years,
which requires the developer to have invested at least 3 million dollars of hard
costs into the housing phase of the project.
At that point, the City will deed the property to Q9, and they will have 5 years
to complete or make substantial progress to the planned community fitness
facility that is planned for the Steele Middle School building site. They again
have a 2 year milestone after closing on the building to invest 4 million dollars
into the project. If at any point they fail to meet milestones, the school building
could revert to the City so we can responsibly pursue redevelopment or
demolition.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve the Purchase and Development
Agreement as presented, and to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign.
Motion by Commissioner German, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to approve
the Purchase and Development Agreement as presented, and to authorize the
Mayor and Clerk to sign.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Kilgo, German, Kochin, St.Clair, and Johnson
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
L. Amendment to the Harbor 31 Planned Unit Development (PUD) Planning
(REQUIRES SECOND READING)
Request to amend the Harbor 31 Planned Unit Development (PUD) at 600
Shoreline Dr. (PUD address) for a new residential development at 170 Viridian
Dr. (development address), and to amend the waterfront access paths within
Harbor 31.
The proposed development is located within the Harbor 31 Planned Unit
Development (PUD). Much of the interior of the subject parcel is considered a
wetland and is prohibited from development by the Michigan Department of
Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DELEG). The areas restricted from
development are enclosed by split rail fencing and are considered an
environmental easement.
The project consists of four large multiplex buildings, each containing 12 units,
for a total of 48 units. There are 67 off-street parking spaces and five parking
spaces in the terrace proposed.
Large multiplex buildings are an allowed building type in this context area.
However, the location of the wetlands prohibits traditional building and parking
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placement, requiring the need to amend the PUD. The initial project for this
parcel was townhomes, but the environmental easements caused issues with
the site layout.
A portion of the Grand Valley State University (GVSU) parking lot to the west of
the development actually encroaches onto the Meadows property. This will
have to be removed prior to construction. Page 2 of the site plan depicts the
existing parking lot in relation to the proposed development, and Page 3
depicts what the revised GVSU parking lot could look like, although this is not a
finalized concept. GVSU will have to apply to the city to reconfigure their
parking lot.
A stormwater management permit application will need to be submitted to the
Engineering Department, and the original storm water management permit for
the overall site may need to be modified if changes to the original
management plan are contemplated.
Notice was sent to all addresses within 300 feet of the property. At the time of
this writing, staff had received one comment from the public. Kevin Murphy,
who is an owner of the Vida Nova condominiums, made several comments
regarding issues he has with the overall development of Harbor 31. His
comments appear to be issues with the Harbor 31 board, the lack of boardwalk
signage for the public, and issues with the placement of electrical equipment,
but there were no specific comments about the proposed development.
Staff recommends approval of the request with the condition that the western
path to the boardwalk is installed and functional before Certificates of
Occupancy are issued for the Meadows.
The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the request
with the following conditions:
1. The stormwater permit must be updated with the Engineering Dept.
2. The Certificates of Occupancy for the Meadows are not issued until the
western path to the boardwalk is constructed and usable and includes a
public access sign.
3. Any street trees removed for terrace parking must be replaced elsewhere
within Harbor 31, as approved by staff.
4. The landscaping plan shall be revised to include an additional 10 canopy
trees on-site, including at least two per parking lot.
5. The drive entrance to the north be realigned, as approved by staff. The
eight parking spaces in this area must also be removed.
The site plan has been updated since the Planning Commission meeting and
has addressed items 3–5.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move the request to amend the Harbor 31 Planned
Unit Development for a new residential development at 170 Viridian Dr, and to
amend the waterfront access paths within Harbor 31, be approved with the
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following conditions:
1. The stormwater permit must be updated with the Engineering Dept.
2. The Certificates of Occupancy for the Meadows are not issued until the
western path to the boardwalk is constructed and usable and includes a public
access sign.
Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner St.Clair, to move the
request to amend the Harbor 31 Planned Unit Development for a new
residential development at 170 Viridian Dr, and to amend the waterfront access
paths within Harbor 31, be approved with the following conditions:
1. The stormwater permit must be updated with the Engineering Dept.
2. The Certificates of Occupancy for the Meadows are not issued until the
western path to the boardwalk is constructed and usable and includes a public
access sign.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, St.Clair, Johnson, and Kilgo
Nays: Kochin
MOTION PASSES (Requires Second Reading)
2026-35 CLOSED SESSION
A. Attorney/Client Communication City Clerk
Motion by Commissioner St.Clair, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to go into
Closed Session to consider material exempt from discussion or disclosure under
State or Federal Statute as an attorney client communication.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, Kochin, St.Clair, Johnson, and Kilgo
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
Motion by Commissioner German, second by Commissioner St.Clair, to come
out of Closed Session.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, and German
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
2026-34 CONTINUATION OF ITEMS REMOVED FROM THE CONSENT AGENDA
M. Purchase of Vacant Lot at 1338 Arthur for Future Housing Infill Economic
Development
This lot is ideal for infill housing and is being offered to the City with a waiver of
the Land Bank "5 in 50 Rule" for $3,500.
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve the lot purchase agreement as
presented for 1338 Arthur and to authorize the Mayor and Clerk to sign.
Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner St.Clair, to approve
the lot purchase agreement as presented for 1338 Arthur and to authorize the
Mayor and Clerk to sign.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Johnson, Kilgo, German, and St.Clair
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
N. SafeBuilt Contract Amendment Public Safety
Approve two amendments to the SafeBuilt contract:
1. Liquor license fees and re-inspection fees to be deleted in their entirety.
2. Rental program fee schedule change.
• A 3% inflator will be implemented January 01, 2027 and every
January 1st thereafter through December 31, 2029.
• A rate-opener will be held to determine the rate for years
beginning January 01, 2030 and thereafter.
• Rental Program Revenue Sharing shall be subject to a 50/50 split for
all annual revenue in excess of $400,000. The City shall retain the
first $400,000 in annual revenue.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve the amended contract.
Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner German, to approve
the amended contract.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: Kilgo, German, St.Clair, and Johnson
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
O. Police Patrol Wage Union Contract Agreement Public Safety
Updated wage scale and wage adjustment effective July 1, 2026, for the
Muskegon Patrol Union.
The current Patrol Union Contract did not include updated wages for the last
two years of the contract, which required discussions with the union to finalize.
The City and the Muskegon Patrol Union agreed to a new wage scale and
wage adjustment for calendar years 2027 and 2028. These adjustments are set
forth in Appendix A. These wage adjustments shall occur on July 1 of each
calendar year, starting July 1, 2026, and are built into the FY 2026-27 budget.
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve the Memorandum of Agreement
between the City of Muskegon and the Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council.
Motion by Commissioner German, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to approve
the Memorandum of Agreement between the City of Muskegon and the
Fraternal Order of Police Labor Council.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, St.Clair, Johnson, and Kilgo
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
Q. Muskegon Farmers Market Grant & Professional Services
Authorization City Clerk
Staff is seeking approval to accept a state grant in the amount of $481,267
from the MI Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) as
well as approval of a Professional Services Authorization for the renovation and
expansion of the Muskegon Farmers Market (MFM).
The City recently received a State grant from MDARD in the amount of $481,267
for the expansion of Kitchen 242 as well as expansion of the barn at the
Muskegon Farmers Market (MFM). Kitchen 242 is a licensed shared-use
commercial kitchen that supports food entrepreneurs, value-added producers,
and farmers. It is a critical link between local agriculture and affordable food
access. The initial phase of the project would include using approximately
$231,267 of the grant to increase the commercial kitchen capacity to support
additional food entrepreneurs, year-round production, and small business
growth. The second phase of the project would include utilizing $250,000 of the
grant to begin expansion efforts of the barn to offer year-round food access.
The expectation is that this renovation and expansion will allow for increased
winter capacity, additional vendor stalls, and enhanced programming space.
This is the largest capital component and would proceed as additional funding
sources are secured.
State grant funds must be spent by 12/31/27. The total project cost will be
finalized as design and bidding are completed. Preliminary estimates are $1.5-
2M. The MDARD grant provides approximately a third of the funding. A
community capital campaign will be conducted to secure the balance. Staff
has worked with Integrated Architecture to develop a Professional Services
Authorization Agreement to develop this full project scope of work. The
professional services would be paid using the grant funds.
The Muskegon Farmers Market (MFM) has always served as a cornerstone of
food access, local economic development, and community connection in
Muskegon County. The City of Muskegon is appreciative that these state funds
will support 100+ food-based small businesses annually; drive substantial
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seasonal foot traffic to downtown Muskegon; circulate Federal nutrition
assistance dollars directly to local farmers; serve as an entry point for emerging
food entrepreneurs; and strengthen the West Michigan regional food system.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to accept the State MDARD grant funding in
the amount of $481,267, and authorize the City Clerk to sign the Professional
Service Authorization Agreement.
Motion by Commissioner St.Clair, second by Commissioner German, to accept
the State MDARD grant funding in the amount of $481,267, and authorize the
City Clerk to sign the Professional Service Authorization Agreement.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: German, St.Clair, Johnson, and Kilgo
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
2026-36 NEW BUSINESS
A. Concurrence with the Housing Board of Appeals Notice and Order to
Demolish 779 Yuba Street Public Safety
This is to request that the City Commission concur with the findings of the
Housing Board of Appeals that the structure at 779 Yuba Street is unsafe,
substandard, public nuisance and that it be demolished within thirty (30) days.
It is further requested that administration be directed to obtain bids for the
demolition of the structure and that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized
and directed to execute a contract for the demolition with the lowest
responsible bidder.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To concur with the Housing Board of Appeals
decision to demolish.
Motion by Commissioner St.Clair, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to concur
with the Housing Board of Appeals decision to demolish.
ROLL VOTE: Ayes: St.Clair, Johnson, Kilgo, and German
Nays: None
MOTION PASSES
ANY OTHER BUSINESS
Mayor Johnson commented on the violence that occurred after the prom
party in a neighboring municipality. There are a lot of unknown answers at this
time, but he encouraged us to love and invest in our youth. If you know
something about this incident, say something.
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GENERAL PUBLIC COMMENT
Public comments received.
ADJOURNMENT
The City Commission meeting adjourned at 10:08 p.m.
Respectfully Submitted,
Ann Marie Meisch, MMC City Clerk
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