On the agenda: Charlotte meeting — Flock camera (Mar 9)

PROPOSED AGENDA
REGULAR MEETING OF THE CHARLOTTE CITY COUNCIL
111 E. Lawrence Ave, Charlotte, MI 48813 (517) 543-2750
7:00 P.M. Monday, March 9, 2026
Interested persons can participate in-person or via Zoom
Connect to Zoom from your computer, tablet, or smartphone
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1. Call to Order
2. Roll Call
3. Invocation – Victor Williams, New Hope Community Church
4. Pledge of Allegiance
5. Approval of Minutes
a. February 23, 2026, Regular Council Meeting Minutes
6. Absence of Council Members
7. Public Comment - Limit presentation to five (5) minutes. Attendees desiring to address council who are

participating with ZOOM may raise their hands now or if attending via a phone call, press *9 (star nine) on your
keypad

8. Approval of Agenda
9. Communications and Committee Reports
a. Manager Report
b. Staff Report
i. Chill Grant Update
c. Councilmember Committee Reports
i. Planning Commission City Counsel Liaison Report
10. Consent Agenda
a. Approve Claims and Expenditures totaling $499,572.08
b. Approval of Mayoral Appointments to Boards and Commissions

c. Consideration to Approve 2026 Arbor Day Proclamation
11. Business Agenda
a. Consideration to Authorize the Charlotte Junior Orioles to Build a New Press Box
b. Consideration to Approve Pivot Group to Facilitate City Manager Search
c. Consideration to Approve Amendment to POLC Collective Bargaining
Agreement
d. Consideration to Authorize AMI Implementation – Required Meter Replacements
e. Consideration to Authorize EDA Disaster Recovery Grant Application
f. Consideration to Authorize the Application for MDARD and Rural Development
Fair Capital Improvement Grant
12. Public Comment - Limit presentation to five (5) minutes. Attendees desiring to address council who are

participating with ZOOM may raise their hands now or if attending via a phone call, press *9 (star nine) on your
keypad

13. Staff Comments
14. Mayor and Council Comments
15. Adjourn
~Alicia A. Smith, City Clerk
ADDRESSING THE CITY COUNCIL
Comments shall be made only during times set aside for that purpose.
Each citizen may speak for up to 5 minutes during each public hearing and comments period.
Comments made during public hearings shall be relevant to the subject of the public hearing.
Comments shall be made from the podium unless otherwise directed by the Mayor.
Comments shall be directed to the Mayor and Council members.
Speakers shall begin by stating their name and indicate if they are a resident or non-resident of the City.
Speakers shall refrain from using vulgarity, hate speech or “fighting words.”

CITY OF CHARLOTTE COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS
111 E. Lawrence Ave., Charlotte, MI 48813 (517) 543-2750
Regular Council Meeting 7:00 p.m.
February 23, 2026
CALL TO ORDER:
By Mayor Fullerton on Monday, February 23, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
Mayor Fullerton, Mayor Pro Tem Rodriguez, Council members,
Fullerton, Christensen, Scott, Chin and Neumann were present.
A quorum was met.
City staff in attendance; Interim City Manager Pastue, and City
Clerk Smith, DPW Director Stephanie Whitney
INVOCATION:
Dwight Ezop for St. Mary’s Catholic Church led the invocation.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Led by Mayor Fullerton.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
a. Three corrections were identified. Council Member
Chin noted that on page 2 of 5, the minutes incorrectly
attributed a planning committee report to him; the
correction was that the Brownfield Redevelopment
Committee had no quorum, not the planning
commission
b. Council Member Neumann noted his last name was
misspelled on page 3 of 5.
c. Mayor Fullerton noted that page 4 contained several
paragraphs of public comment from a December meeting
that did not belong, as there was no public comment at
the February 9th meeting.

Motion by Council Member Scott to approve the minutes as
corrected. Seconded by Council Member Christensen. Motion
Carried.
ABSENCE OF COUNCIL MEMBERS:
Mayor Fullerton reported that Council Member Brummette's
father-in-law had passed away and he was attending visitation.
Council Member Rodriguez had called to indicate he was
delayed at work and would arrive approximately 10 to 15
minutes late.
Motion by Council Member Christensen to excuse both absent
members. Seconded by Council Member Neumann. Motion
carried.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
No public comment. The clerk was unable to confirm whether
anyone was participating online.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA:
Motion by Council Member Neumann seconded by Council
Member Scott, to approve the agenda. Motion Carried
COMMUNICATIONS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS:
a. City Manager report
The Interim City Manager reported that the Brownfield
Redevelopment Authority and Local Development Finance
Authority need to be reactivated due to prior process

breakdowns, likely from staff turnover. He explained that a
$90,000+ payment to Shift Industries covered a 2023 obligation,
with a similar payment expected at the end of the current tax
season. After those payments, approximately $150,000 is
projected to remain in the Brownfield account, and he
emphasized the need to reconcile the funds and restore
committee operations to support studies, planning, and potential
remediation efforts.
He also reported that city manager search proposals were due
the next day and a review meeting may be held on Thursday. He
noted that if additional council members attend, the meeting will
be publicly posted in accordance with a State Supreme Court
ruling requiring notice even when fewer than a quorum is
present.

c. Council member committee reports
Council Member Chin reported that the EATRAN board
offered the interim manager a permanent position and will
begin a search for a new finance director. He also noted the
Brownfield Redevelopment Committee meeting was cancelled
due to the state presenter’s absence and will be rescheduled.
CONSENT AGENDA:
The Consent Agenda included:
a. approval of Claims and Expenditures totaling
$382,274.83
b. approval of the renumbering of 2026 resolutions
to correct a clerical error
c. approval of a request to apply for a Body
Camera Grant for the police department
d. approval of Resolution 2026-09 to close the
100 block of East Harris Street for the Needful
Things Anniversary event from May 8 to May
10, 2026.

The Manager stated he plans to proceed with updating job
descriptions and compensation for non-union department heads
to ensure internal equity and market competitiveness. He
estimated the study would cost $15,000–$20,000 and could be
funded through savings in the manager’s budget.
He reported that a Title VI complaint received in December was
completed under the old policy, but future complaints will be
sent directly to MDOT and the Federal Highway Administration
rather than handled internally, with a resolution to formalize the
change planned for the next meeting. He also noted the City
Attorney is finalizing the zoning update, with readings before
Council and Planning Commission anticipated and adoption
targeted by the end of April.
b. Staff Report
No staff report was presented separately.

Motion by Council Member Chin, seconded by Council
Member Neumann. Motion carried.
BUSINESS AGENDA:
a.

Consider approval of Adoption of Community
Development Block Grant Procurement Policy

Council Member Neumann commented that the policy read
well and reflected the direction the city had been working

City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 23, 2026, Page 2 of 4

toward over the past year, describing it as moving in the correct
direction.
Motion by Council Member Scott, seconded by Council
Member Christensen. Motion Carried.
b. Consider approval of Sole Source Authorization – Flow
Monitoring and Hydraulic Modeling (Fishbeck)
Director of Public Works Stephanie detailed the project, noting
the Lansing lift station services a growing area including new
apartments, the industrial park, and Michigan Can Line. The
study will assess the station's capacity for growth and guide
upgrades, with costs not exceeding $52,000. Council Member
Rodriguez questioned the certainty of developments and the
spending. Stephanie confirmed the study is necessary for any
area's expansion. Council Member Scott highlighted developer
interest, and Christensen emphasized, "If it won't flow, can't
grow,” supporting the study. Rodriguez worried about potential
upgrade costs estimated at $1,000,000, possibly covered by
grants; otherwise, the water and sewer fund would be used.
Scott mentioned benefits across systems, while Neumann
defended Fishbeck as the lowest recent bidder and caretaker of
the city’s GIS system, thus favoring sole source. Chin backed
the study but resisted the sole source, citing lower costs with
competitive bidding. Public commenter Jody supported
Fishbeck's seasoned expertise, noting they might be treated as a
sole source due to lack of other bids.
Motion by Council Member Christensen, seconded by
Neumann. Motion carried 5-1, with Council Member Chin
voting no.

c. Consider Approval of Requested Input for Councils
Professional Development Budget
Mayor Fullerton noted the professional development budget was
reduced to $5,000 last year, spent, and required an additional
$1,900, with another $2,000 needed. The Clerk will manage
conference registration records, and by March 3, council
members should submit training plans to establish next year's
budget figures. Council Member Christensen shared his
conference schedule, while Rodriguez questioned further
spending without evidence of training’s impact, preferring staff
development over council training. Council Member Scott
linked training to recent votes, and Chin supported the
conference schedule, adding numerous free online sessions.
Chin also agreed with reporting benefits post-conference.
Council members will share plans with the Clerk, with no
motion needed.
d. Discussion of FY 2026-27 Budget Priorities
The Interim City Manager summarized council-submitted
budget priorities, highlighting infrastructure, financing,
community place-making, housing, economic development, and
organizational concerns. The General Fund has a $2.75 million
balance, exceeding both the 17% and 25% target minimums.
About $1 million could potentially be used for one-time
expenses like an HVAC replacement. The Major Local Street
Fund has a $2.5 million balance, well above its target, allowing
$2-$2.5 million for street work. Reith Riley might maintain
current rates for spring. The city requires a maintenance plan due
to worn parking lots. PA 425 agreements with townships dating
to 1998-2000 are in place, but the city has lost the processing
guide for new agreements. Revising lapsing agreements may be
necessary. The Manager emphasized the difficulty of increasing
millages due to the charter cap and Headlee Amendments. The
city's pension and retiree health care funding goals include 60%
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 23, 2026, Page 3 of 4

by 2030 for pensions—current funding almost reaches this—and
40% for retiree health care by 2031, with current funding in the
low 20% range.
Council Member Chin suggested narrowing priorities,
proposing a town hall or online survey for resident input.
Council Member Scott supported this idea for increased public
engagement. Council Member Rodriguez requested a proposed
budget timeline. The Manager plans to develop the budget, bring
decision items to the council, and incorporate public input
through hearings.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Jody commended Mikayla for her role during the clerk
vacancy, praised the transparency of the city manager report,
and inquired about whether storm and sanitary sewer systems
are separate. Mayor Fullerton confirmed they are separate and
explained the 1980s smoke-testing program used to detect and
fix improper connections.
STAFF COMMENTS:
No staff comments were presented.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL COMMENTS:
Council Member Christensen attended the soft opening of
Viking's Edge, noting a ribbon cutting for Friday at 4 PM, and
encouraged attendance at the Nordic Fire Festival. He reported
attending a pipeline safety program by MISS DIG 811,
mentioning the requirement to call 811 before any digging.

Council Member Scott supported holding a town hall meeting
outside City Hall to encourage broader participation, noting the
council's rare interactions with the public outside formal
meetings.
Council Member Chin announced State Senator Anthony's
visit to discuss state budget matters and expressed concern over
proposed state House bills shifting zoning authority away from
local governments. He called for a review of the city's policy
on Flock cameras and compliance with TIF agreements,
requested an update on audit findings, noted the governor's
budget impact, inquired about the Tom Barrett federal funding
application, and suggested lowering the purchasing bid
threshold.
Council Member Rodriguez shared concerns about TIF
compliance, opposed Flock cameras without proper policy, and
asked for a proposed budget timeline from the Manager.
ADJOURN:
Motion by Council Member Christensen to adjourn. Seconded
by Council Member Neumann. Motion carried unanimously.
The meeting was adjourned.
Adjourned at 8:43pm.
Respectfully submitted,
Alicia A. Smith
City Clerk

City Council Regular Meeting Minutes
February 23, 2026, Page 4 of 4

MEMORANDUM
TO:

Mayor Fullerton and City Council

FROM:

Vincent Pastue, Interim City Manager

DATE:

March 4, 2026

SUBJECT: City Manager Update
FOR THE AGENDA OF: March 9, 2026
1.
Flock Camera Policy – As a follow-up to a question from City Council at the last
meeting whether the City has a flock camera policy. The answer is yes. Chief Brentar
provided me with concise 90 second explanation which Chief Brentar will to present to
the City Council.
2.
Who Monitors TIF (Tax Increment Finance) Activities – This is typically handled by
the Community Development Director and/or City Manager, working in conjunction with
TIF boards. This would be the following boards in Charlotte: Downtown Development
Authority, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and Local Development Finance
Authority (LDFA). Turnover has been a problem, particularly effecting the LDFA and
Brownfield Authority; I am not as concerned with DDA given they recently adopted a new
DDA Development and Tax Increment Financing Plan. I believe reports to the MEDC
have not been filed in recent years to the MEDC which is required. More research is
required on my part. I will try and put in place with the two boards and Community
Development Director a process that includes monitoring. For example, a process in
which the board approves/ratifies payments out the funds, and reviews statutory required
filing with the MEDC. and pro-active policy decisions can take place.
3.
Title VI Policy Change – I was hoping to have this on the City Council’s March 9th
agenda. I held off because I want to discuss further with the City Attorney.
4.
Reith Riley Contract Extension – At the last meeting we discussed bringing to the
City Council formal action extending their unit bid prices from 2025 for spring work. I was
hoping to it on the March 9th agenda, but are waiting for final pricing based on the street
improvements to be recommended by Director of Public Works Stephanie Whitney.

5.
Water and Sewer Rates – This was an item that was mentioned regarding budget
priorities. I found a 2023 Study prepared by Municipal Analytics which recommended a
series of rate increases over the next several years. The City did not take any action on
with these recommendations. The City is approximately 15% behind on the rates
recommended in which for a $4.7 Million Water and Sewer Budget is approximately
$700,000 per year. I am planning on a 7 to 10% proposed increase in the upcoming
budget to start the catch up. I spoke with the owner of Municipal Analytics and he can
update the rate analysis for $7,000 for which I signed the proposal to proceed. Operating
and construction costs have been increasing as well as the cost issuing debt. The update
involves review of operating costs for the last three years and incorporate capital projects
with updated costs into the rate projection. If you were to bid a new rate study it would
cost you in excess of $20,000. Below is the bid sheet from the City of Farmington which
serves a comparable population but operationally is not nearly as complex as Charlotte.

Bid Opening - City of Farmington
Water Sewer Rate Study
Date: May 27, 2025 - Time: 3:00 p.m.

Contractor/Vendor
CROWE LLP
RAFTELIS
STANTEC
MUNICIPAL ANALYTICS
BENDZINSKI & CO

Time
Bid
Received Bond
Yes/No

5/14/2025
1:33 pm
5/14/2025
9:38 PM
5/14/2025
9:13 PM
5/13/2025
5:21 PM
5/7/2025
6:42 PM

Total Bid
Amount
$18-20K Base
$39,312
$78,470
$21,375
$23,000

Memo
To:
City Council
From: Salena Benavidez, Community Development Director
Date: March 9, 2026
Re:
CHILL Grant Updates
CHILL Grant
The City of Charlotte was awarded $200,000 by the Michigan State Housing Development
Authority (MSHDA) to provide eligible homeowners in the City with much needed health- and
safety-related repairs to their homes. This is a great opportunity for the City to provide additional
assistance to homeowners in the community. The following memorandum provides a status
update on the grant activities that have been completed as of March 9, 2026.
Grant Activities Update
The following activities have been completed:
● Closed the application and updated the website to reflect the changes.
● Completed pre-inspections to confirm the scope of work identified in each application
and determine if other repairs outside of those identified in the application need to be
made.
● Received estimates from applicants for approved projects. McKenna staff and inspectors
are currently reviewing these estimates and corresponding with these contractors to
clarify questions and get required documentation.
● Completed two applicants' work and passed inspection.
● Completed three financial status reports and reimbursement requests submitted and
approved by MSHDA.
Next Steps
In collaboration with the City and MSHDA, McKenna will continue with the following next
steps:
● Continue to coordinate with qualified applicants on the pre-inspection and Tier II
Environmental Review process.
● Review estimates for qualified applicants once received.
● Draw construction contracts once a contractor is determined to be qualified and selected
by the homeowner.

Charlotte Planning Commission City Council Liaison Report
Meeting was held on Tuesday, March 3 2026 @ 7:00 PM

Meeting Highlights
1) James McRae was elected as the new Chairperson via 8-0 vote.
2) Richard Bearup was elected as the new Vice Chairperson via 8-0 vote.
3) Kristy Snyder was elected as the new Secretary via 8-0 vote.
4) A temporary use permit was approved for TNT fireworks @ Meijer. It was noted by
McRae to the commission members that this may be the last time that a fireworks
temporary use permit comes before the Planning commission as the approval
process is changing via new zoning ordinances.
5) Commonwealth Development Corporation, located in Madison WI was approved for
their site plan for the apartment complex located at 440 Spring Street. CDC also
has other developments in Michigan located in Grand Rapids and Manistee. They
described their project as “workforce housing” that will be income based, but not
Section 8. Rents will be based on income. 1 bedroom apartments will be available
for incomes as low as $21,000. 2 bedrooms will be available for incomes as low as
$48,000 and 3 bedrooms will be available for incomes from $48,001 up to $75,000.
Rents are based off from 30-70% of median incomes. They will be filing their
application to MSHDA on April 1 2026. Rents will include water, sewer and trash.
Tenants will be responsible for electric and gas. All 1st floor units will be ADA
accessible or have the ability to be converted into ADA accessible units. No ADA
units will be available on 2nd or 3rd floors. The project consists of 4 buildings. A
clubhouse, two 24 unit buildings and a 12 unit building. There will be no basements.
A question was brought up as to who would be responsible to pay for the paving of
the gravel portion of Spring Street? The developer stated that they would be open to
pay for a portion of it if it was necessary. They will be leaving all of the existing trees
that they can and will be adding all other necessary landscaping as required.
Respectfully submitted,

Jeffrey A. Christensen

Memo
To:
From:
Date:
Re:

Honorable Mayor Fullerton; City Council
Alicia Smith
March 04, 2026
Claims and Expenditures for Council approval on March 09, 2026

Background

Section 7.7(B) of the City Charter requires Council approval for the expenditure of city funds.
Recommendation

A report of claims is provided to council for review on the Wednesday preceding a council
meeting at which the claims are approved. Questions about these claims should be directed to
the Finance Director/Treasurer and answers resolved by the Friday preceding said council
meeting. Claims and expenditures are budgeted items and/or larger purchases pre-approved by
Council. While review is recommended, approval should not be hindered.
Answers to Council inquiries, if any, are included in the meeting packet.
Financial Impacts
HRA Insurance claims week of February 22, 2026
HRA Insurance claims week of March 01, 2026
Payroll paid March 06, 2026
Invoiced claims as of March 04, 2026

$4,700.64
$8,054.66
$137,028.77
$349,788.01

Total

$499,572.08

Suggested Motion
Motion to approve Claims and Expenditures in the amount of $499,572.08

1

Memo
To:
From:
Date:
Re:

Honorable Mayor Fullerton; City Council
Alicia Smith, City Clerk
March 04, 2026
Staff report on Mayoral appointments to boards and commissions.

Background
In accordance with Section 4.4 (7) of the City Charter, the Mayor shall make appointments of members
to the boards and commissions of the city which are authorized by law or direction of the Council.
Recommendation
It is recommended that Council approves the following Mayoral appointment(s);
NAME

BOARD/COMMISSION

EXPIRATION OF TERM

Tony Caporali

Downtown Development Authority

03/15/2030

Renee Lester

Planning Commission

03/31/2029

Cooper Frost

Planning Commission

03/31/2029

John Laupp

Brownfield Development Authority

08/31/2029

Financial Impacts
No financial impact
Suggested Motion
Motion to approve the Mayoral appointment(s) as outlined herein to their respective board or
commission for the term of expiration given.

1

CITY OF CHARLOTTE
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-10
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING 2026 ARBOR DAY PROCLAMATION

WHEREAS, in 1872, J. Sterling Morton proposed to the Nebraska Board of Agriculture that a special
day be set aside for the planting of trees; and
WHEREAS, this holiday, called Arbor Day, was first observed with the planting of more than a million
trees in Nebraska; and
WHEREAS, Arbor Day is now observed throughout the nation and the world; and
WHEREAS, trees can reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut heating and
cooling costs, moderate the temperature, clean the air, produce oxygen and provide habitat for wildlife;
and
WHEREAS, trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes, fuel for our fires and
countless other wood products; an
WHEREAS, trees in our city increase property values, enhance the economic vitality of business areas,
and beautify our community; and
WHEREAS, trees wherever they are planted are a source of joy; and
WHEREAS, the City of Charlotte has been recognized as a Tree City USA by the National Arbor
Foundation and desires to continue its tree planting practices. By planting trees around the City of
Charlotte; and
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of Charlotte, Michigan does hereby proclaim
Friday, April 24, 2026 as ARBOR DAY in the City of Charlotte and urges all citizens to celebrate Arbor
Day; and
FURTHER, the City Council of the City of Charlotte, Michigan urges citizens to plant trees to gladden the
heart and promote the wellbeing of this and future generations
Motion made by_____________ supported by ______________to proclaim Friday, April 24, 2026 as
Arbor Day in the City of Charlotte and urge all citizens to celebrate Arbor Day. Resolution adopted by the
City Council by following vote:
Yea___; Nay___; Absent___.

___________________________
Kevin Fullerton, Mayor

Staff Report
TO:

Mayor Fullerton and City Council

FROM:

Vincent Pastue, Interim City Manager

DATE:

March 4, 2026

SUBJECT: Consideration to Authorize the Charlotte Junior Orioles to Build a New
Press Box
FOR THE AGENDA OF: March 9, 2026

BACKGROUND
Attached is a letter from the Megan Gleason, President of the Charlotte Junior Orioles,
requesting authorization from the City Council to build a new press box at 1149 S.
Cochran Avenue. The City leases this field to the Junior Orioles for their use. The letter
from Ms. Gleason contains the dimensions and location of the press box, with the lower
area used for storage. Furthermore, the project is will be fully funded by the Junior Orioles
at no cost to the City. A representative from the Junior Orioles will be at the City Council
meeting to answer any questions.
ACTION REQUESTED
Move to authorize the Charlotte Junior Orioles to construct a new press box on the field
located at 1149 S. Cochran Avenue.

Megan Gleason, President
Charlotte Junior Orioles
PO Box 94
Charlotte, MI 48813
[email protected]
City of Charlotte
111 E. Lawrence Avenue
Charlotte, MI 48813
February 24, 2026
To whom it may concern.
I am writing on behalf of the Charlotte Junior Orioles to request approval to construct a new
press box at the Charlotte Junior Orioles field located at 1149 S. Cochran Ave, Charlotte, MI
48813. Our organization is committed to maintaining and improving the facilities our youth
and community rely on, and this project represents an important investment in both safety
and functionality.
We propose to build a new press box structure approximately 20 feet wide by 24 feet high
by 18 feet deep. The design includes an enclosed second-level press box, accessible via
exterior stairs, to support game operations such as announcing, scorekeeping, and media
needs. The lower level of the structure will serve as a secure storage area for field and
program equipment, improving organization and access for coaches and volunteers.
The new press box will be very close to the same footprint as the original structure, along
the north side of the field near the 50-yard line. This placement ensures continuity with
existing infrastructure and maintains optimal sightlines for field activities.
Importantly, the entire project will be fully funded by the Charlotte Junior Orioles program,
with no financial requirement from the City. We are committed to meeting all city building
requirements, safety standards, and permitting processes.

We respectfully request permission to proceed with this improvement and would
appreciate guidance on any next steps, including required approvals, documentation, or
review processes. Thank you for your time and consideration. We value our partnership
with the City and remain dedicated to enhancing community resources for Charlotte’s
youth.
Sincerely,
Megan Gleason
President
Charlotte Junior Orioles

Below is an aerial map of the current field and previous bleachers and press box. The
bleachers and press box have been removed, and our intention is to put a new press box in
the original location and have rental/removable bleachers during the fall tackle season on
either side.

Memo
To: City Manager Vince Pastue; Honorable Mayor Kevin Fullerton; City Council
From: Stephanie Whitney, DPW Director; Christina Horton, Finance Director/Treasurer
Date: 03/02/2026
Re: AMI Implementation – Required Meter Replacements
Background
In September 2025, Council approved the purchase and implementation of the Sensus AMI FlexNet
Meter System to improve revenue protection, operational efficiency, and customer service. Following
Council approval and during detailed implementation planning, staff conducted a comprehensive review
of the City’s existing meter inventory to confirm full system compatibility.
Compatibility Issue Identified
That review determined that approximately 2,200 of the City’s 4,111 water meters are not compatible
with the new AMI system due to age and model limitations. These meters cannot support the required
radio endpoints and will not function within the approved AMI network.
Without replacement of these meters, approximately half of the City’s system would be unable to operate
on the new AMI network, resulting in a partially implemented system with reduced operational and
financial benefit. Failing to replace these meters would significantly limit the effectiveness and long-term
return on investment of the AMI system previously approved by Council.
Proposed Solution
Staff obtained a quote from ETNA Supply Company for AMI-compatible replacement meters and radio
endpoints, along with installation services.
Cost Breakdown (per ETNA quote dated 12/23/2025 ):
• Replacement Meters and Endpoints: $745,965
• Installation (2,200 meter/radio replacements): $275,000
• Total Project Cost: $1,020,965
Utilizing a third-party contractor will allow the city to complete replacements efficiently, minimize
disruption to residents, and avoid overextending city staff during system deployment.
Financial Considerations
Replacement of these aging meters ensures:
• Full functionality of the AMI system citywide
• Accurate consumption data and billing
• Elimination of obsolete meters prone to under-registration
• Protection of long-term water and sewer revenue
• Maximization of the City’s AMI investment
Completing this work in conjunction with AMI implementation is the most efficient and cost-effective
approach.
Recommendation
Staff recommend Council approve the purchase of approximately 2,200 AMI-compatible water meters
and authorize the Director of Public Works to execute the necessary agreements for materials and
installation services in the amount of $1,020,965.
1

Memo
To: City Council
From: Stephanie Whitney, Director of Public Works
Date: 03/03/2026
Re: EDA Disaster Recovery Grant Application – Recovery to Resilience: Modernizing Wastewater
Infrastructure
Background
The U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration (EDA) has made available
Disaster Recovery funding to support infrastructure modernization and economic resilience in
communities impacted by federally declared disasters. Staff is preparing an application for the project
entitled: “Recovery to Resilience: Modernizing Wastewater Infrastructure to Enhance Disaster
Recovery and Power Sustainable Economic Growth.” This project focuses on modernizing critical
wastewater infrastructure to improve system reliability, strengthen disaster resilience, and support longterm economic growth within the City of Charlotte.
Project Scope
The proposed project includes the following major components:
• Industrial Park Road Extension
• Replacement of tertiary filters
• Replacement of trickling filter media
• Upgrades to the Lansing Lift Station
• Replacement of digester domes
Collectively, these improvements will strengthen the City’s wastewater system, reduce vulnerability to
system failures, and position the city to support future industrial and commercial growth.
Project Cost and Required Match
The total estimated project cost is $14,138,054.20. The EDA Disaster Recovery program requires a 20%
local match of total eligible project costs. For this project, the required match equals $2,827,610.84.
The proposed local match will be funded as follows:
• $1,300,000 – Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) Fund
• $1,027,610.84 – Water and Sewer Fund
• $500,000 – Michigan Infrastructure Office Technical Assistance Center (MIO TAC)
Fiscal Impact
The City’s direct contribution totals $2,327,610.84, supported by LDFA and Water/Sewer funds. The
additional $500,000 contribution from MIO TAC strengthens the competitiveness of the application.
If awarded, the EDA grant would provide approximately $11,310,443.36 in federal funding toward
modernization of the City’s wastewater infrastructure. Acceptance of any award and final project
authorization will require subsequent City Council approval.
Recommendation
Staff recommend approval of the attached resolution authorizing submission of the EDA Disaster
Recovery Fund application and committing the required 20% local match.

1

CITY OF CHARLOTTE
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-11
A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING SUBMISSION OF AN APPLICATION TO THE U.S.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ADMINISTRATION (EDA) DISASTER RECOVERY
FUND FOR
“RECOVERY TO RESILIENCE: MODERNIZING WASTEWATER
INFRASTRUCTURE TO ENHANCE DISASTER RECOVERY AND POWER
SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH” AND COMMITTING THE REQUIRED
LOCAL MATCH
WHEREAS, the U.S. Department of Commerce, Economic Development Administration
(EDA) has made available Disaster Recovery funding to support infrastructure modernization
and economic resilience in communities impacted by federally declared disasters; and
WHEREAS, the EDA Disaster Recovery Fund requires a local match of twenty percent (20%)
of total eligible project costs; and
WHEREAS, the City of Charlotte seeks to submit an application to the EDA Disaster Recovery
Fund for the project entitled “Recovery to Resilience: Modernizing Wastewater
Infrastructure to Enhance Disaster Recovery and Power Sustainable Economic Growth”;
and
WHEREAS, the proposed project will modernize and strengthen the City’s wastewater
infrastructure to improve system reliability, enhance disaster resilience, and support long-term
sustainable economic growth; and
WHEREAS, the total estimated project cost is $14,138,054.20; and
WHEREAS, the City will provide the required 20% local match in the total amount of
$2,827,610.84, consisting of:
•
•
•

$1,300,000 from the City of Charlotte Local Development Finance Authority
(LDFA) Fund;
$1,027,610.84 from the City of Charlotte Water and Sewer Fund; and
$500,000 from the Michigan Infrastructure Office Technical Assistance Center
(MIO TAC); and

WHEREAS, acceptance of any EDA award and confirmation of final project costs shall require
subsequent City Council approval.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Charlotte that:
1. The City Council hereby authorizes submission of an application to the U.S. Economic
Development Administration for Disaster Recovery funding for the project entitled

“Recovery to Resilience: Modernizing Wastewater Infrastructure to Enhance
Disaster Recovery and Power Sustainable Economic Growth.”
2. The City Council hereby commits the required 20% local match in the amount of
$2,827,610.84, consisting of funding from the LDFA Fund, the Water and Sewer Fund,
and the Michigan Infrastructure Office Technical Assistance Center.
3. Acceptance of any EDA Disaster Recovery award and confirmation of final project costs
shall require subsequent City Council approval by resolution.

Adopted by the City Council of the City of Charlotte on this ___ day of __________, 2026.
The foregoing Resolution was moved for adoption by Council Member ___________
and seconded by Council Member __________ and declared adopted by the following vote:
Yea;____ Nay;____ Absent;___
RESOLUTION DECLARED ADOPTED.
I, the undersigned, the duly qualified City Clerk of the City of Charlotte, County of Eaton,
State of Michigan, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and complete copy of a
resolution adopted by the City Council of the City of Charlotte at a regular scheduled
meeting held on this ______ day of _______ 2026 relevant to the Michigan Open Meetings
Act, the original of which is on file in my office as part of the council minutes.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my official signature, this ________
day of __________ 2026.
__________________________________
Alicia A. Smith, City Clerk
City of Charlotte
Eaton County, Michigan

CITY OF CHARLOTTE
RESOLUTION NO. 2026-12
A RESOLUTION SUPPORTING THE APPLICATION FOR THE MICHIGAN DEPARTMENT
OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL DEVELOPMENT COUNTY FAIR CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT GRANT FOR THE FAIRGROUNDS RESTROOM AND SHOWER HOUSE
REMODEL PROJECT

WHEREAS, the City of Charlotte is the owner of the property known as the Eaton County
Fairgrounds, which property is leased to the Eaton County Agricultural Society; and
WHEREAS, the lease between the City and the Eaton County Agricultural Society provides, in
part, that the Society must maintain the buildings and structures on the property; and
WHEREAS, the Eaton County Fairgrounds is an essential community asset that serves
thousands of visitors annually, including those who attend animal shows, festivals, and other
events such as the Charlotte Bluegrass Festival, Michigan Nordic Fire Festival, Charlotte
Frontier Days, and the Magical Realm Fantasy Faire; and
WHEREAS, the Campground Restroom and Shower House at the Fairgrounds, which is a
critical facility used throughout the year by campers, event attendees, and visitors, is over 30
years old and requires essential upgrades to maintain functionality, accessibility, and safety; and
WHEREAS, the proposed project will include the replacement of all mechanical components,
restroom and shower fixtures, installation of energy-efficient lighting, hand dryers, and
ventilation, as well as improvements to ADA-accessible restroom and shower stalls; and
WHEREAS, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) offers
the County Fair Capital Improvement Grant, which provides funding to defray the costs of
improving buildings or other capital improvements at county fairgrounds to enhance the
usefulness or productivity; and
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, that the City Council of Charlotte hereby supports
the application for the MDARD County Fair Capital Improvement Grant for the remodeling of
the Campground Restroom and Shower House at the Eaton County Fairgrounds; and
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the City Council expresses its full endorsement of this
project, recognizing its positive impact on improving accessibility, efficiency, and the overall
experience of Fairgrounds visitors and participants; and
BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED, that the City Council encourages the Michigan Department of
Agriculture and Rural Development to consider this application favorably and provide the
necessary funding for the proposed project.

Adopted by the City Council of the City of Charlotte on this ___ day of __________, 2026.

The foregoing Resolution was moved for adoption by Council Member ___________ and
seconded by Council Member __________ and declared adopted by the following vote:
Yea;____ Nay;____ Absent;___
RESOLUTION DECLARED ADOPTED.
I, the undersigned, the duly qualified City Clerk of the City of Charlotte, County of Eaton, State
of Michigan, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and complete copy of a resolution
adopted by the City Council of the City of Charlotte at a regular scheduled meeting held on this
______ day of _______ 2026 relevant to the Michigan Open Meetings Act, the original of which
is on file in my office as part of the council minutes.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my official signature, this ________ day
of __________ 2026.
__________________________________
Alicia A. Smith, City Clerk
City of Charlotte
Eaton County, Michigan