9/12/2024 - Northport Village | Regular Meeting Minutes

Summary

The Northport Village Council meeting held on September 12, 2024, concluded with several key decisions including the approval of a dimensional variance, updates on the water rate study, and the codification of village ordinances. The council discussed various community issues, such as the cleanup of the wind turbine at the wastewater treatment plant and potential infrastructure challenges.

Public Comments

Douglas McGinnis provided an update on the removal of the wind turbine tower at the wastewater treatment plant. He explained the process of disassembling the tower due to damage and shared that he and Tom Gallery were coordinating with Elmer's Crane Service and Michigan Tower for the removal. A detailed summary of the process was promised to the council.

Infrastructure Projects

The Village Manager, James Dyer, updated the council about the Fourth Street project expected to commence around September 23, contingent on conditions. He also noted that the cleanup efforts concerning the wind turbine were unrelated to recent debris cleanup performed by the DPW. There were concerns raised regarding large stones in Northport Creek affecting the shoreline and tree stability, which Dyer plans to address through investigation with the EGLE Water Division.

Other Business

The council discussed multiple items including a **Public Hearing on a Variance Request for 320 Shabwasung Street**, which was approved after a unanimous vote. Additionally, discussions on the **Northport Village Nuisance Ordinance** and the **Social District Permit Applications** were held, both resulting in approvals. A decision to gather more community input on the **Water Rate Study** was also made, postponing immediate actions to address rate increases.

Financial Summary

1. **Payment of Bills**: The council approved the payment of bills for August totaling $127,483.94. 2. **Planning Commission Technical Assistance**: A budget amendment was authorized for technical assistance for the master plan revision not to exceed $7,500. 3. **Civic Plus Ordinance Codification Proposal**: The council approved a resolution for $8,950 to codify and maintain village ordinances, with a necessary budget amendment.

Action Items

1. Village Manager Dyer is to confirm the cleanup timeline for the wind turbine site within 30 days. 2. Investigate the issue regarding the placement of stones in Northport Creek with the EGLE Water Division. 3. Gather public feedback on the water rate adjustments before the next meeting. 4. Village Manager to oversee the hiring of a consultant for the statistical narrative of the master plan revision after council authorization. 5. Review and rectify unclear definitions in the revised Northport Zoning Ordinance.