I wanted to give updates regarding topics I often get asked about. First, the recycling center. As you know, the city closed its’ recycling center a year ago, but we’ve been working with our township neighbors to come up with a collaborative way to build a new center for our entire community.
We created a committee made up of both City, Hamlin and Eaton Rapids township board members and have been meeting regularly. We were accepted into a program called Next Cycle, that helps develop our building plans, the types of items to accept for recycling and gets us in front of companies that offer grants for infrastructure and building equipment. We estimate that this new structure, located in the south industrial park, will cost around $400,000. We will be making a pitch to these companies on October 23rd and hopefully will be awarded some if not all the funding needed. Even with some grant funding, we will need to have an interlocal agreement with the townships to fund the operational costs of the center. It is our intention, the City’s, and Townships, to make this work for our community, but there are many details that have to be considered, that is why it’s taking longer than first anticipated. We have an opportunity to make this a great recycling resource for our community so if it takes a little longer to bring to fruition, then it does, and we will keep you updated as more progress happens. We thank you for your continued patience!
Another issue of concern is the crosswalks downtown, especially the one at Hamlin and Main. We are currently working with MDOT (Michigan Department of Transportation) on coming up with a way to highlight or emphasize this crosswalk, but until we can do that, it’s important to STOP when pedestrians are in the crosswalk. This makes it unsafe for those crossing the street and it’s the LAW so please watch for pedestrians crossing. We want our downtown to be safe and enjoyable for everyone!
Have a great fall!
Mayor Pam Colestock
