City of Eaton Rapids

City Council Meeting

May 12, 2025

A regular Eaton Rapids City Council meeting was held at City Hall, 200 S. Main Street, on May 12, 2025, at 7:00 p.m.

Call To Order:

Mayor Colestock called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.

Roll Call:

Mayor Colestock, Mayor Pro-Tem Steele, Councilpersons Malewski, Nicholas, and Loftus were present.  

Invocation:

Pastor Jenny Rouble, from First Congregational Church of Eaton Rapids, provided the invocation.

Approval of the Agenda:

Steele moved, and Malewski seconded, approving the May 12, 2025, Council meeting agenda as presented. Motion carried.

Approval of the April 28, 2025, City Council Work Session Meeting Minutes:

Steele moved, and Nicholas seconded, approving the April 28, 2025, City Council Work Session meeting minutes as presented.  Motion carried.

Approval of the April 28, 2025, City Council Meeting Minutes:

Steele moved, and Malewski seconded, approving the April 28, 2025, City Council meeting minutes as presented. Motion carried.

Approval of the May 5, 2025 Special Work Session Meeting Minutes:

Steele moved, Loftus seconded, approving the May 5, 2025, Special Work Session Meeting Minutes. 

Approval of Expenditures totaling $769,020.65:

Steele moved, and Nicholas seconded, approving expenditures of the City of Eaton Rapids, totaling $769,020.65. Motion carried.

Public Comment: 

Keith Gentry, 7801 S. Clinton Trl, urged the city to get behind his project of cell phone chargers around the city. Asked that the city adds 2 stations, one at Howe Field and one at the Pocket Park. 

Keith Barber, Commissioner of the District 15, reminded Council and residents of the cuts to come. The existing budget is in effect until September 30^th, 2025. Police Officers Services for Delta will continue until September 30^th. The same with Police Officer Service to Onieda  and Winsor Township until December 31, 2025. The sheriff is obligated to operate the jail and will keep enough staff to maintain the functions of the jail, currently capable of housing 350 people, with only 186 at this time. The Prosecuting Attorney’s office will be making cuts and open positions will not be filled. 

Unfinished and Special Business: 

1. Proclamation Recognizing Emergency Medical Technician Scott Milam

Mayor Colestock honored Scott Milam with a proclamation for his heroic actions in assisting a pregnant woman in labor. His commitment to public service exemplifies doing whatever it takes for the residents of Eaton Rapids.

1. Rocking Chair Deserters, Inc., DBA Eaton Rapids Senior Center – Annual Report

Rita Honeysett gave an update on the Eaton Rapids Senior Center, showing that their financial position is in the red. She attributes this deficit to the decrease in membership and lack of participation in the events. She stated that the Euchre and bingo events are very successful, but many of their members have passed away. She wants to bring back the Saturday night bands for dancing.

New Business

1. Approve the reappointment of Brian Ross to the Local Development Finance Authority for a term ending 05/31/2029.

Steele moved, Malewski seconded to approve the reappointment of Brian Ross to the Local Development Finance Authority for term ending 05/31/2029.

1. Approve Event Application for the Friends of the Eaton Rapids Area District Library for the 5K Fun Run to be held on June 14, 2025, at G.A.R. Island Park. 

Malewski moved, Loftus seconded, to approve the event application for the Friends of the Eaton Rapids Area District Library for the 5K Fun Run to be held on June 14, 2025, at the G.A.R. Island Park. 

1. Adopt Resolution 2025-36 to approve the Settlement Agreement between the City of Eaton Rapids and Hamlin Township as reached through mediation on May 1, 2025.

Steele moved, and Nicholas seconded, to adopt Resolution 2025-36 to approve the Settlement Agreement between the City of Eaton Rapids and Hamlon Township as reached through mediation on May 1, 2025. 

Roll call vote:

Yeas: 5 – Steele, Malewski, Loftus, Nicholas and Mayor Colestock

Nays: 0

Absent: 0

1. Adopt Ordinance 2025-03 to amend Section 16-36 of Chapter 16, Article II, Division 2, Subcommittees Created, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Eaton Rapids, Eaton County, Michigan. 

Steele moved, Malewski seconded to adopt Ordinance 2025-03 to amend Section 16-36 of Chapter 16, Article II, Division 2, Subcommittees Created, of the Codified Ordinances of the City of Eaton Rapids, Eaton County, Michigan. 

 Roll call vote:

Yeas: 5 – Malewski, Loftus, Nicholas, Steele, and Mayor Colestock

Nays: 0

Absent: 0

Public Comments: None

Reports:

Fire Chief – Thanked Commissioner Barber for the List of Roads under Construction, very helpful.  

Police Chief– absent

City Manager – City Manager Ridge provided updates on several ongoing projects, including:

• Century Construction – 400 Dexter
• Main and Hamlin pedestrian signal
• Jake Forquer as the new Community and Economic Development Specialist
• Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF)
• Curb Side Grants
• Step two of the MSHDA/CDBG Housing Grant process

She also welcomed our newest officer, Ryan Hayward, and reported that the cameras on the Island are now installed and operational. Ridge is actively working on various projects that align with the city’s goals and priorities, focusing on community development, infrastructure enhancements, and economic growth. Updates will be presented to the City Council at the appropriate time to ensure alignment with strategic plans and to obtain necessary guidance or approvals.

Council Members:

Malewski— Councilwoman Malewski extended her congratulations to Scott Milam and Dave Hendon. She announced that the City of Eaton Rapids secured a $1000 grant for signage for downtown businesses, and G.A.R. obtained a $1000 grant for a new computer. Brian Derosha is actively working on relocating the Depot to Crandall Lake and is currently exploring options and seeking funding. Angela Whitwer awarded the April Small Business of the Month to Darb’s Patio. She also nominated Sara Curry, a second-grade teacher, for Teacher of the Month. Additionally, she will be leading tours of the Oakwood Cemetery on June 12th. Volunteers needed for flag placement at the Rosehill and Oakwood Cemeteries on May 24^th. 

Steele – Councilman Steele congratulated Scott Milam and Dave Hendon for their heroism. He thanked Commissioner Barber for announcing the road closures. He enjoyed the visit from the 2^nd graders. He was able to exercise his Mayor Pro-Tem role and considered it an interesting experience.

Nicholas – No Report

Loftus – Councilman Loftus observed the installation of cameras at G.A.R. Island Park today. He praised Clerk Webb and her team for efficiently managing the May 6th election. He participated in a special City Council and staff meeting to explore options for implementing a water infrastructure bond. He also enjoyed a visit from the Eaton Rapids Public School 2nd grade class to City Hall and took part in the Grand River Clean-up. Additionally, he mentioned that the G.A.R. Museum will host a talk on Michigan flags at Gettysburg on May 20th at 7:00 p.m. He is eagerly anticipating the city’s Memorial Day weekend events.

Mayor Colestock – Mayor Colestock extended her congratulations to Councilman Loftus for his book launch and to former Mayor Paul Malewski for his efforts in the river clean-up. She also announced the Chamber Dinner scheduled for Thursday, along with the St. Peter’s Ox Roast, happening from Thursday to Saturday. Additionally, the placement of veterans’ flags is set for May 24th, and the G.A.R. will organize the Memorial Parade.

Adjournment

Malewski moved, and Steele seconded, adjourning the Council meeting.  Motion carried.

The meeting adjourned at 7:51 pm.

____________________________ _____________________________

 Pamela Colestock, Mayor Robin Webb, City Clerk

City of Eaton Rapids Work Session Meeting

May 12, 2025

The Work Session of the Eaton Rapids City Council was held at City Hall, 200 S. Main Street, on May 12, 2025, at 5:00 p.m.

CallToOrder:

Mayor Colestock called the work session to order at 5:00 p.m. Present were Mayor Colestock, Mayor Pro-Tem Steele, Councilmembers Malewski, Nicholas, and Loftus.  

Administrative Staff present included City Manager Ridge, Public Works/Utilities Director Pierce, Treasurer/Finance Director Allen, Clerk Webb, Fire Chief McNutt, Police Chief Weeks, and City Attorney Harkness.

PublicComments: 

Police Chief Weeks introduced the newest officer that was sworn in earlier in the day Ryan Hayward. Council and staff welcomed him. 

UnfinishedandSpecialBusiness: 

1. 2025/2026 Budget Review

  Treasurer/Finance Director Allen gave a brief update on the last proposed budget that will be presented at a public hearing and potentially approved at the May 28, 2025, Council Meeting.  

New Business

1. Source Water Protection Grant. 
2. Wellhead Protection Viewer

Christine Spitzley presented a PowerPoint on the Wellhead Protection Viewer, highlighting the benefits and purposes of a Wellhead Protection Plan. Education and Outreach are just a couple of strategies to enlighten the public about the importance of having a Wellhead Protection Plan. 

1. Environments Permits Checklist

   Christine Spitzley presented the Environmental Permit Checklist to Council, giving some details and important information on how this checklist can benefit municipalities. Discussion ensued.

 Steele moved, Malewski seconded to go into Closed Session at 5:57 pm. 

 Roll call vote:

Yeas: 5 – Steele, Malewski, Loftus, Nicholas and Mayor Colestock

Nays: 0

Absent: 0

Closed Session under MCL 15.268 8(e) of the Open Meetings Act to consult with attorney regarding trial or settlement strategy in connection with pending litigation.  

Board & Committee Reports: 

Ken Nicholas – No Report

Rick Loftus – The Parks, Recreation, and Events Board is working on the Wooden Boat Show, discussing arrangements with Director Cagel and Director Pierce. He also commended Director Cagle, and all involved in the Grand River Clean-up event on May 10^th. 

Deb Malewski – Meetings will be held next week. 

William Steele – Planning Commission meeting focused on 2 items:

• Conditional use for 117 E. Knight Street for a tattoo studio. Clients are by referral only. Only by appointment. 
• Annual Report – this item was reviewed and tabled until the June meeting.  

Lastly, Building Official Hummel gave a brief update on Taco Bell moving forward, O’Reilly’s moving forward in the old Rite Aid, and the progress on the Master Plan and 400 Dexter Rd. All projects are underway. 

Mayor Colestock – DDA- Squishman Event raised $2400. She welcomed the new Community and Economic Development Specialist, Jake Forquer. There is a committee working on forming and developing a social district plan. She announced there will be a beer tent in parking lot #4 for the Urban Air event, with permission from the First Congregational Church due to its location within 100 yards of the church. Currently, there are 7 applications for the Façade Grants. The review of the applicants will begin, and the award letters will be mailed out soon. Lastly, Rachel Chagnon has resigned from the DDA Board.

Public Comment: None

Adjourn

Steele moved, and Malewski seconded, adjourning the meeting at 6:44 p.m. Motion carried.

Pamela Colestock, Mayor Robin Webb, City Clerk