May 18, 2020

This was the fourth regular Council meeting since Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency and stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This meeting was held online, via the ZOOM application.

• At the May 11, 2020 Council work session, Interim City Administrator presented an overview of the financial challenges facing the City as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic

  • COVID-19 Financial Recovery Plan (Legistar)

  • Additional Thoughts (May 17, 2020) - COVID-19 Adjustments and City Budget

• APPROVED: $1,500,000 in engineering contracts for capital improvement, operation and maintenance projects at the Water Treatment Services Unit facilities (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $27,620 for 800 street sign posts, as well as 600 sleeves and 200 bases to install them (Legistar)

• APPROVED: 6.5% Sewer Rate increase (Legistar)

• APPROVED:11% Stormwater Rate increase (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Amendment to the Chicken/Duck Keeping Ordinance to eliminate 2-bird permit, remove neighbor notification, and allow animals outside of enclosure when someone is present (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/neighbor-permission-no-longer-required-for-backyard-chickens-ducks-in-ann-arbor.html

• APPROVED: PUD zoning and site plan for “The Garnet” at 325 E. Summit Street (Legistar, Legistar)

  • 10 condominium units

  • $88,200 negotiated contribution to the Affordable Housing Fund

  • This project was previously rejected 9/16/19 as a re-zoning without PUD benefit

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-condo-developer-gets-ok-for-project-after-jumping-through-extra-hoops.html

  • Housing Theory and Housing Facts

• APPROVED: Resolution giving direction to the City Administrator for budget adjustments: hiring freeze, negotiated salary cuts, removal of 40/40/20 millage rebate spending commitment (affordable housing, climate action, and pedestrian safety), prioritizing the needs of residents “most impacted.” (Legistar)

  • This resolution was amended to affirm the 40/40 share of millage rebate spending toward affordable housing and climate action for FY21

  • Mayor Taylor issued a selective veto of the portion of this resolution that removed the 40/40/20 millage rebate spending commitment.

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-council-divided-7-4-on-covid-19-financial-recovery-plan.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/mayor-vetoes-part-of-ann-arbors-covid-19-recovery-plan.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-councilwoman-objects-to-veto-says-mayor-is-stoking-unfounded-fear.html

  • Budget and Politics

• APPROVED: FY21 Budget Amendments (Legistar)

  • Up to $495,000 may be used (temporarily) from the Local Street Fund Balance to complete local street repair during a season of low traffic. The City anticipates a loss of $2.7 million in revenue from the State to fund Street Repair.

  • Re-affirming the City’s commitment and timeline for the Nixon Corridor Improvement Project as a Capital Improvement Project

  • Request that LDFA consider $700,000 in spending to support small business recovery

  • $140,000 removed from budget, cancelling deer cull operations for FY21

  • $1,094,000 removed from budget, delaying Hollywood Blvd Project, Ann Arbor Saline Project, Historic District Survey, and the Capital Sinking Fund Transfer for FY 2021

  • $114,144 removed from budget. This would have been additional funding for Parks, consistent with the Parks Fairness Resolution

May 4, 2020

This was the third regular Council meeting since Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency and stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This meeting was held online, via the ZOOM application.

• APPROVED: Endorsement of the Fair and Equal Campaign, to put expansion of LGBTQIA protections (against discrimination) on the ballot in November (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-council-unanimously-backs-fair-and-equal-michigan-lgbtq-rights-campaign.html

• APPROVED: $250,000 budget amendment to support Washtenaw County and Shelter Association of Washtenaw County (SAWC) for current and future COVID-19 shelter response (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-city-council-approves-250000-for-emergency-sheltering-amid-covid-19.html

• APPROVED: Unit income target goals for the DDA Housing Fund would be aligned with the City of Ann Arbor’s Affordable Housing goals, adjusted from 50% of Area Median Income (AMI) to 60% of AMI.  This is adjusted to help fund planning, studies and process of potential projects at 11 City Owned properties (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-looks-to-attract-more-affordable-housing-by-aligning-ddas-target-income-goals.html

• APPROVED: August late penalties (interest charges) would be waived for summer property taxes due July 31, 2020. September interest charges would be reduced: 2.5% (from 5%). (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/this-is-a-very-substantial-crisis-ann-arbor-reduces-penalties-for-late-tax-payments.html

• APPROVED: Direction to staff to review best practices for social distancing on sidewalks, bike lanes, and local roads. Staff will identify feasibility of expanding social distance space for cyclists and pedestrians with shared or dedicated roadways. An online public engagement tool will be used for input, a report on recommendations for implementations will be brought by June 15, 2020. (Legistar)

  • Additional Thoughts (May 2, 2020) - Social Distancing for Pedestrians and Cyclist

• APPROVED The final report of the Center of the City task force would be accepted by the City: a vision for flexible, adaptable and sustainable public spaces that are inclusive and welcoming to everyone (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/it-wont-be-like-this-forever-ann-arbor-officials-embrace-vision-for-downtown-gathering-place.html

• APPROVED $1,087,050 for signal timing technology to promote smooth flow of traffic for 29 intersections and corridors including Maple Road, West Stadium Boulevard, Glen Avenue, Fuller Road and Huron Parkway (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-approves-13m-for-smarter-traffic-signals.html

• APPROVED: Four sidewalk gap projects

  • Barton (Pontiac Trail to Brede) (Legistar)

  • Barton/Starwick (Legistar)

  • Nixon/Traver (Legistar)

  • Fuller Court (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/05/ann-arbor-moves-forward-with-sidewalk-gap-filling-street-resurfacing-projects.html

April 20, 2020

This was the second regular Council meeting since Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency and stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This meeting was held online, via the ZOOM application.

• Interim City Administrator Tom Crawford presented Council with the proposed FY21 City Budget (Legistar) and several community members presented on the topic of " COVID-19 Community Impacts and Solutions" (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbors-recovery-from-coronavirus-will-be-a-marathon-city-predicts-huge-revenue-losses.html

• APPROVED: Direction to City staff to begin a process of community engagement around affordable housing options at 353 S. Main (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $10,655,000 constructions contract for 2020 Street Resurfacing Plan (Legistar)

• POSTPONED to 7/6/20: The creation of proposed application materials and review/recommendations for development entitlements for 415 W. Washington to Support the Development of Affordable Housing in the City (Legistar) This resolution was postponed because:

  • Neighbors were not properly notified of public meetings re: this proposal

  • Treeline Trail Conservancy has asked for additional communication.

  • Jennifer Hall (Ann Arbor Housing Commission) stated that addressing these concerns would not particularly delay the project (which has a long time line).

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/plans-for-blighted-ann-arbor-historic-district-property-tabled-by-ann-arbor-city-council.html (Note: this headline was corrected to reflect that the resolution was postponed, not tabled)

• APPROVED: The creation of proposed application materials and review/recommendations for development entitlements for 350 S. Fifth Avenue (former Y lot) to Support the Development of Affordable Housing in the City (Legistar)

  • ​​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-moves-forward-with-development-plans-for-y-lot-site.html

• APPROVED: A2ZERO Carbon Neutrality Plan is accepted (rather than adopted) (Legistar) with amendments clarifying that:

  • A funding plan and prioritization framework must be presented

  • The Sustainability & Innovations department will begin and continue to work to implement the plan, with quarterly updates on progress

  • In answer to questions at the meeting, City Administrator Tom Crawford clarified that the current budget includes nearly all funding for beginning and implementing this plan (“almost all of it, there were a couple of minor items that were not included"). It was also clarified that nothing in the amended resolution impeded progress or shifted directions in terms of pursuing climate action goals in the plan. Dr. Stults characterized the amendments as a “totally appropriate” issue of transparency and “not anything I’m concerned about.”

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-council-not-ready-to-adopt-a2zero-carbon-neutrality-plan.html

• APPROVED: The City’s nondiscrimination ordinance to add definition to the protected class of “ethnicity” and also address discrimination in housing related to source of income. (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Resolution asking the state to change regulatory policy re: use of food assistance benefits (EBT cards with SNAP program) (Legistar)

  • Current regulation prevents the use of these benefits to place orders online or by phone, which is an obstacle for people trying to access food safely during the pandemic (e.g. deliveries and curbside pickups).

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-city-council-resolution-urges-lawmakers-to-allow-virtual-snap-ebt-benefit-use-during-covid-19.html​

  • Additional Thoughts (Apr 18, 2020) - Allow Virtual SNAP Benefit and EBT Card Use

• APPROVED: Re-zoning and site plan for a new credit union at 2151 Stadium Boulevard. (Legistar, Legistar)

April 6, 2020

This was the first regular Council meeting since Governor Whitmer declared a state of emergency and stay-at-home order due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This meeting was held online, via the ZOOM application.

• APPROVED: $115,000 for plans and specifications to fill the sidewalk gap on S. Main (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-moves-forward-with-three-sidewalks-gap-projects.html

• APPROVED: $409,402 contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation for repaving of road surface, replacement of pedestrian islands, and creation of buffered bike lanes for Plymouth Road Improvement Project (Murfin Rd./Upland Dr. to Nixon) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Special assessment district for Jackson Avenue Sidewalk Gap Elimination Project (Westover Ave. to Park Lake Ave.) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $396,752 agreement with Downtown Development Authority for design of South State Street and North University improvements, including: design for street resurfacing and watermain consolidation on State Street from South University Street to Washington Street and North University from State Street to Fletcher Street, and streetscape, safety, and mobility improvements on State Street from William Street to Washington Street (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: Reallocation of $100,500 out of the Resident-Driven Sidewalk Gap Filling Program to subsidize the current Barton Drive Improvement Project and the Jackson Avenue Sidewalk Gap Project. (Legistar)

  • This budget amendment would have depleted most of the total funds — $150,000 — approved 11/18/19 for the Resident-Driven Sidewalk Gap Filling Program (Legistar)

  • My post from Nov 2018 about this program: Filling the Sidewalk Gaps that Neighborhoods Want

  • ​​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-council-rejects-proposal-to-reallocate-funds-from-resident-driven-sidewalk-program.html

• APPROVED: Amendment to the Nondiscrimination Ordinance to add reference and description of “ethnicity” as a protected category. Source of income calculations must multiply the value of housing assistance (X3) in order to more accurately assess a person’s ability to pay rent, prevent discrimination against housing vouchers in market rate rentals. (Legistar)

  • ​​Additional Thoughts (Apr 5, 2020) - Amendment to Non-Discrimination Ordinance

• APPROVED: $200,000 in emergency aid for the Ann Arbor Affordable Housing Commission to protect residents: anticipate likely future evictions due to loss of income, food security for homebound households, and response to a possible outbreak of COVID-19 at congregate settings (e.g. Miller Manor & Baker Commons) with high risk households. (Legistar)​

• APPROVED: $40,323 for sampling and testing for 1,4 dioxine in wet basements that are high risk, in the footprint of the Gelman dioxane plume. (Legistar)

  • ​​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-launches-40k-effort-to-test-high-risk-basements-for-dioxane.html

• TABLED: Resolution directing Planning Commission to consider designation of transit- supported zoning districts to increase housing density and options along major corridors. The commission would be asked to consider increasing allowable Floor Area Ratio (FAR) density, decreasing and/or eliminating parking requirements for new development along transit corridors and bring a recommendation to Council by June 15, 2020. (Legistar)​​​

  • This resolution was tabled until such time as the Governor lifts state of emergency and stay-at-home orders.

  • Additional Thoughts (Apr 5, 2020) - Transit Oriented Development

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/transit-oriented-development-proposal-stalls-with-divided-ann-arbor-council.html

• APPROVED: Resolution encouraging the Governor to make an executive order addressing the need for political candidates to collect nominating signatures before an April 21 deadline, in compliance with the current stay-at-home orders. (Legistar)

  • ​​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/ann-arbor-urges-governor-to-address-dilemma-political-candidates-face-amid-covid-19-outbreak.html

• APPROVED: Resolution recognizing the public service and contributions of Ethel “Eppie” Potts. (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/03/ethel-potts-former-ann-arbor-planning-official-and-pottery-artist-dies-at-95.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/04/a-positive-force-ann-arbor-council-honors-the-late-ethel-potts.html

Mar 16, 2020

• The following 5 Council Members were absent due to COVID-19 self-isolation

  • CM Bannister

  • CM Eaton

  • CM Griswold

  • CM Nelson

  • CM Smith

• 5 CMs + the Mayor were present, giving the required 6 members needed for a quorum. All items requiring 8 votes for approval were removed from the agenda at the start of the meeting.

• APPROVED: $2,334,383 agreement with Downtown Development Authority for First and Ashley Street Improvement project: road resurfacing, watermain upsizing and consolidation, stormwater improvements, crosswalk, streetscape, sidewalk enhancements, and restoration of two-way traffic on First and Ashley Streets (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $20,347 for electric vehicle chargers for the City building department (to support 10 electric City vehicles) paid from FY20 Construction Fund budget (Legistar)

  • This will be the second purchase of chargers from Chargepoint this fiscal year and the total of these combined purchases will exceed the $25,000threshold for City Council action. The first purchase was also in the amount of $20,347 for a combined total of $40,694.

• APPROVED: $23,290.08 for lease of Solar Compacting Trash and Recycling Containers for use on sidewalks in certain high pedestrian areas (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Proposed Fuller Court and Nixon/Traver Sidewalk Gap Project - Special Assessment (Districts #57 & 56). Estimated project cost ($650,000) will be covered by federal funds, local millage finds, and special assessment to property owners. (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Matthew Horning appointed Interim Controller and Chief Financial Officer (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Local Emergency Declaration (Legistar)

  • This declaration is valid until lifted by Council

  • Council Meeting of 3/16/20 - Local State of Emergency

Mar 2, 2020

• CM Ackerman absent

• CM Smith absent

• APPROVED: Appoint Tom Crawford as Interim City Administrator (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Reinstatement of Police Chief Michael Cox (Legistar)

  • Additional Thoughts (Feb 29, 2020) - City Administrator and Police Chief​

• APPROVED: Collective bargaining agreements with Ann Arbor Firefighters Union (Legistar) and Ann Arbor Police Deputy Chiefs (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/03/firefighter-union-ann-arbor-agree-to-first-new-contract-in-25-years.html

• APPROVED: $811,524.50 for ramp and sidewalk repair, 2020 Sidewalk Repair Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $90,350 for sidewalk levelling, 2020 Sidewalk Repair Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $196,001 for sidewalk cutting, 2020 Sidewalk Repair Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Site Plan and Development Agreement for "The Standard" at 405 South Main Street (Legistar)

  • ​218 dwelling units, 421 bedrooms (2 units at 80% of AMI)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/03/ann-arbor-council-oks-plan-for-10-story-high-rise-on-main-street.html​​

Feb 18, 2020

• APPROVED: Concluding employment agreement with City Administrator Howard Lazarus (Legistar)

  • ​Statement Regarding Separation Agreement with City Administrator

• APPROVED: To increase transparency, Council liaison(s) & commissioner(s) may recommend Board and Commission appointments to the Mayor (Legistar)​​​

• APPROVED: To improve transparency, Resolution for City Council Communications (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/02/ann-arbor-council-sets-goal-to-improve-communications-collaboration.html​

• APPROVED: Resolution to Establish Council Mobility Committee (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/02/ann-arbor-council-votes-7-4-to-form-new-committee-to-tackle-mobility-issues.html

• APPROVED: Barton drive sidewalk improvements: $98,500 Brede Place to Pontiac Trail (Legistar), $51,000 Barton at Starwick (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/02/barton-drive-sidewalk-improvement-to-cost-nearly-150k-in-ann-arbor.html

• APPROVED:  $10,000 increase in funding for Veterans Treatment Court, support and services for veterans in the criminal justice system (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $38,913 for lighting design services for Ann Arbor Skate Park (Legistar)

• APPROVED:  Washtenaw Housing Alliance Pledge: housing is a human right, government plays a role to increase access, we value mixed income density in urban centers (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $593,201 appropriation of Affordable Housing Trust Funds without regard to fiscal year (Legistar)

• Additional Thoughts (Feb 15, 2020) - Administrative Leave of Police Chief

Feb 3, 2020

• APPROVED: $3,400,000 Water Supply System Revenue Bonds for additions/improvements including water disinfection technology (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Add two youth members (16-25) to Energy Commission (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Add two youth members (16-25) to Environmental Commission (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Naming of Stadium Bridge "John D Dingell Jr Memorial Bridges" (Legistar)

• Additional Thoughts (Feb 1, 2020) - Boards and Commissions Appointment Process​

Jan 21, 2020

• CM Smith absent

• APPROVED: Street closings for Mayor's Green Fair June 12, 2020 (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/01/should-ann-arbor-move-mayors-green-fair-to-the-center-of-the-city.html

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/01/main-street-business-group-supports-moving-green-fair-to-center-of-the-city.html

• APPROVED: $90,000 from Sustainability & Innovations to complete preliminary engineering review and distribution study for developing a solar energy facility at the City landfill. (Legistar)

• TABLED: Prohibit On-Street Parking on Both Sides of Barton Drive from Longshore Drive to Pontiac Trail (Legistar)

  • Resolution was TABLED until Lower Town Area Mobility Study Completed​

  • Lower Town Area Mobility Study was approved Sept 3, 2019 for $579,478 as part of FY20 budget (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/01/ann-arbor-debates-replacing-street-parking-with-bike-lanes-along-barton-drive.html

• Additional Thoughts (Jan 18, 2020) - Gelman Plume Update​

Jan 6, 2020

• APPROVED: City Administrator will develop Ordinance Amendments to regulate short-term rentals (Legistar)

  • Short Term Rental remarks from Jan 6, 2020 Council meeting​

  • Additional Thoughts (Jan 4, 2020) - Short Term Rentals

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2020/01/ann-arbor-may-ban-dedicated-airbnb-short-term-rental-properties.html

• APPROVED: $31,700 support for the Ann Arbor Housing Commission. One FTE (five months) for administration of additional housing vouchers (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $75,000 for one FTE (partial year) -Lieutenant for Audit & Review, supporting Independent Community Police Oversight Commission (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $117,465 agreement with Dawn Farms to provide drug abuse counselling and rehab services through the Fifteenth Judicial Court District (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $102,538 through Washtenaw Community Mental Health for mental health services through the Fifteenth Judicial Court District (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $29,322.59 additional funds for Confidential Victim Support Services through the Fifteenth Judicial Court District (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $38,431 for drug abuse screening program by the Sheriff’s office, through the Fifteenth Judicial Court District (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $39,772 Purchase of a Vehicle from LaFontaine Chrysler Dodge (Legistar)

  • $21,006 from the Sustainability & Innovations County Mental Health Millage Fund to subsidize the purchase of a plug-in hybrid electric minivan for use by City Administration Services and System Planning

• APPROVED:  $114,492 Purchase of Vehicles from Berger Chevrolet (Legistar)

  • $28,026 from the Sustainability & Innovations County Mental Health Millage Fund to subsidize the purchase of two electric vehicles for use by Police Community Standards Unit

Dec 16, 2019

• APPROVED: Support for Center of the City Interim Use and Long-Term Planning (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $2,980,000 for South University Pavement and Utility Improvements Project (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/12/ann-arbor-um-partner-on-9m-south-university-improvement-project.html

• APPROVED: $428,363 Rehabilitate/replace park bridges (North & South Barton Nature Areas, Mitchell Field, Gallup Park, Lower Argo Cascades) (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/12/ann-arbor-oks-428k-contract-to-repair-replace-park-bridges.html

• APPROVED: $312,141 additional funds for 2019 Sidewalk Repair Project (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $56,000 for plans and specifications for Sidewalk Gap Elimination Project on Jackson Avenue (Westover to Parklake) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Hideaway Lane Planned Project Site Plan and Development Agreement at 2000 Traver Road (Legistar)

  • 34 duplex units and a single family home

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/12/ann-arbor-oks-plan-for-duplex-housing-development.html

• Additional Thoughts (Dec 14, 2019) - Council Appointments

Dec 2, 2019

• APPROVED: Negotiate an Agreement with Recycle Ann Arbor to Rebuild and Operate the Ann Arbor MRF for an Initial Period of Ten Years (Legistar)

  • Additional Thoughts (Nov 29, 2019) - Material Recovery Facility & Recycle Ann Arbor​

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/12/ann-arbor-sets-sights-on-reopening-citys-recycling-plant.html

• APPROVED: resolution to oppose expansion of concealed-carry laws being considered at the state level (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $211,865 Purchase of Vehicles from Berger Chevrolet (Legistar)

  • ​$14,013.00 from the Sustainability & Innovations County Mental Health Millage Fund budget to subsidize the purchase of five fully electric vehicles for use by Planning and Development Services

• APPROVED: 212 S. State Street Site Plan and Development Agreement (Legistar)

  • ​19 residential units (studio to 2 bedroom)

• APPROVED: 616 East Washington Planned Project Site Plan and Development Agreement (Legistar)

  • ​240 dwelling units (13 at 80% of AMI, 6 at 60% of AMI)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/12/ann-arbor-oks-tallest-high-rise-in-over-50-years.html

Nov 18, 2019

• APPROVED: All recommendations from the Ann Arbor Housing Commission (AAHC). Study was directed by Resolution 19-0605 passed April 1, 2019 - written by CMs Eaton, Nelson, Bannister - cosponsored by Smith, Taylor (Legistar)

  • AAHC to Develop 121 E. Catherine as Affordable Housing (Legistar)

  • AAHC to Develop 404 N. Ashley as Affordable Housing (Legistar)

  • AAHC to Pursue Affordable Housing Development of 2000 S. Industrial (Legistar)

  • Conduct Community Engagement Around Development Options for Ashley/William and First/William Surface Parking Lots to Support Affordable Housing in the City (Legistar)

  • Conduct Community Engagement Around Development Options for 721 N Main in Support of Affordable Housing in the City (Legistar)

  • Continue Community Engagement around Development Options for the AAHC-Owned Properties at 3432 - 3440 Platt Road and 3435 - 3443 Springbrook to Support Affordable Housing in the City (Legistar)

  • AAHC to Determine Feasibility of using 1510 E. Stadium for Temporary or Permanent AAHC or Other City Office Space (Legistar)

  • Collaborate with the AAHC to Provide Coordinated Analysis on the Feasibility of the City-Owned Property at 353 S. Main as a Potential Location for Affordable Housing (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Plan to Expand Access to Voting and Registration Beyond the Minimum Required by the Michigan Constitution for Even-Year November General Elections (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Resident-Driven Sidewalk Gap-Filling Program and Appropriate $150,000 from the General Fund (Legistar) 

  • Filling the Sidewalk Gaps that Neighborhoods Want​

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/11/ann-arbor-to-help-residents-fill-sidewalk-gaps-with-50-contributions.html

• APPROVED: $15,000 budget amendment for plans and specifications to fill the sidewalk gap on Stimson Street (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $20,000 budget amendment for plans and specifications to fill the sidewalk gap on Scio Church Road (Legistar)

• APPROVED: The Vic Village South Site Plan and Development Agreement, 1100 South University Avenue (Legistar)

  • 42 one bedroom, 33 two bedroom, 32 three bedroom, 24 four bedroom (14 units at 80% AMI)

Nov 4, 2019

• APPROVED: Plan to Achieve Ann Arbor Community-Wide Climate Neutrality by 2030 (Legistar)

  • Initially proposed with a target date of 2035. CM Eaton's amendment to ​change the target to 2030 was passed unanimously

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/11/ann-arbor-declares-climate-emergency-sets-2030-carbon-neutral-goal.html

• APPROVED: Premium options in D1,D2 districts to incentivize development of affordable housing: increased FAR allowances for affordable housing dwelling units (Legistar)​

• APPROVED: Six 30-Minute Limited Parking Spots at Dewey (West of Packard) (Legistar)​

  • Newsletter Excerpt (Nov 2, 2019) - Parking on Packard

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/11/ann-arbor-approves-free-30-minute-parking-spots-near-packard-street.html

• APPROVED: $34,685 for five streetlight poles and fixtures on Stadium (Hutchins-Industrial) (Legistar)

• APPROVED:  $30,000 to support 2020 Rain Garden Program Partnership, Master Rain Gardener Certification program, Rain Garden Assistance Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Settlement of litigation related to PUD zoning 2857 Packard (Legistar)​

  • 51 total units (25 single family homes, 26 units in four two-story townhouses)

  • The PUD zoning ordinance for this property was initially defeated at ​Oct 7, 2019 Council meeting (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/11/ann-arbor-decides-against-buying-tree-filled-site-to-stop-subdivision.html

• Additional Thoughts (Nov 2, 2019) - One Year In Office​

Oct 21, 2019

• APPROVED: $593,201 of Ann Arbor Affordable Housing Funds to Avalon Housing to support housing at Hickory Way Phase 2 & 108/110 Glendale and to support three Ann Arbor Housing Commission projects: Miller Manor, Maple Meadows, and Baker Commons (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $55,296 for staffing requested by the office of Sustainability and Innovations and Community Services to launch a Green Rental and Building Efficiency Program (Legistar)​

  • $27,648 from Sustainability & Innovations budget for 50% share of an FTE to support growing demand for energy and sustainability-related services within rental, building development, and homeowner communities.

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/10/ann-arbor-wants-to-make-rental-housing-new-buildings-greener.html

• APPROVED: Brownfield fund reimbursement for cleanup of Leslie Science Center (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Old West Side Residential Parking District - Third Street (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Amendment to Burns Park Residential Parking District - Woodlawn Avenue (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Shell Gas Station PUD Site Plan and Landscape Modification, 2679 Ann Arbor-Saline Road (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: Issuance of $23,000,000 General Obligation Capital Improvement Bonds for the DDA to expand the Ann Ashley Parking Structure (Legistar)

  • Note: this was initially proposed at $27,000,000 and was defeated at the Sept 3, 2020 Council meeting (Legistar)​

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/10/council-blocks-23m-expansion-of-downtown-ann-arbor-parking-deck.html

• Additional Thoughts (Oct 19, 2019) - New York Times article about Michigan Daily

Oct 7, 2019

• APPROVED: City permits for recreational marijuana businesses (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Regulation of recreational marijuana facilities (Legistar)

• APPROVED: PUD changes to height, parking for "The Glen" (201, 213, 215, 271 Glen Ave & 1025 E Ann St) (Legistar) + site plan approved (Legistar)

  • ​162-room hotel, 24 apartments, a restaurant, and 5,181 square feet of retail

• DEFEATED: Rezone R1E to PUD 2857 Packard Road (Legistar) + site plan (Legistar)

  • Note: Subsequent Council meeting of Nov 4, 2019 approved a legal settlement allowing PUD rezoning at this property (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/10/fate-of-trees-in-question-after-ann-arbor-rejects-subdivision-plan.html

• APPROVED: $259,086 to purchase Police Vehicles from Signature Ford (Legistar)

  • ​$18,690.00 from Sustainability & Innovations budget to subsidize the purchase of six hybrid vehicles for use by the Ann Arbor Police Department

• APPROVED: $130,000 for proposed Fuller Court and Nixon/Traver Sidewalk Gap Project (Legistar)

• APPROVED:  $53,900 for ramp and sidewalk repair for vaulted or displaced joints in sidewalks (Legistar)

• APPROVED Review of City Transportation Planning and Operations Management and Related Staffing (Legistar)

• Elections Have Consequences

Sep 16, 2019

• CM Ackerman absent

• APPROVED: $126,500  for extension of sanitary sewer service through Hickory Way affordable housing project for the benefit of a future Avalon Housing project at 1146 S. Maple (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: Rezone C1B to C1A (Legistar) and site plan (Legistar) for “The Garnet” at 325 East Summit Street

  • ​10 condominium units

  • ​Developers were asked to re-propose project as a PUD including public benefit

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/ann-arbor-rejects-rezoning-for-proposed-condo-development.html

• APPROVED: $67,403.56 to purchase equipment to clear protected bike lanes (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $431,000 for soil borings, testing, and remediation at Leslie Science and Nature Center (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/ann-arbor-oks-environmental-cleanup-plan-for-leslie-nature-center.html

• APPROVED: Road Reconfiguration Pilot for Traverwood Drive, from Huron Parkway to Plymouth Road (Legistar)

• Additional Thoughts (Sep 14, 2019)- Gelman Plume Update​

Sep 3, 2019

• DEFEATED: CM Ackerman reappointment to Planning Commission (defeated 6-5) (Legistar)

  • State law allows CM Ackerman to serve on the Planning Commission until the Mayor nominates another Council Member​

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/ann-arbor-council-divided-6-5-on-reappointing-colleague-to-planning-commission.html

  • A month after this Council meeting, I wrote a post about this issue: Elections Have Consequences

• APPROVED: $579,478 Lower Town Area Mobility Study (Legistar)​​​

  • This study was part of the FY20 approved budget for $649,478 ($579,478 plus $70,000 contingencies)

  • This study was defeated when first proposed for $732,992 at Feb 19, 2019 Council Meeting (Legistar) - at the time it was an 8-vote requirement to amend FY19 budget

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/ann-arbor-to-spend-nearly-650k-on-lower-town-mobility-study.html

• APPROVED: Public Release, redacted report about former HR Director Robyn Wilkerson (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/former-ann-arbor-human-resources-director-frequently-caused-conflicts-with-others-report-finds.html

• APPROVED: $73,710 for Sustainability and Innovations to purchase solar panels to be installed at Fire Station 6, 1881 Briarwood Circle (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/ann-arbor-oks-74k-contract-for-solar-panels-on-city-fire-station.html

• DEFEATED: Road Reconfiguration Pilot for Green Road, from Burbank Drive to Plymouth Road (Legistar)

  • Note: a similar resolution was defeated at the Aug 5, 2019 Council meeting ​(Legistar)

• DEFEATED: $27,000,000 General Obligation Capital Improvement Bonds for the DDA to expand Ann Ashley Parking Structure Expansion, including $5,000,000 for office space (Legistar)

  • Note: ​This was brought back to the Oct 21, 2019 Council Meeting with a reduced cost of $23,000,000 and was also defeated (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/09/ann-arbor-council-rejects-4m-plan-for-new-dda-office-meeting-space.html

• US versus THEM: The Guilty Pleasure​

Aug 19, 2019

• Mayor Taylor absent (trip to Japan)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/08/ann-arbor-mayor-visits-japan-to-celebrate-50th-sister-city-anniversary.html

• APPROVED: $75,000 Public engagement for design concepts of 415 W Washington (to be reimbursed by DDA) (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/08/ann-arbor-hires-consultant-to-evaluate-development-options-for-blighted-site.html

• APPROVED: Revised fees for Planned Unit Development Districts - increase affordable housing contribution in lieu of units to $126/sq ft (Legistar)

• Additional Thoughts (Aug 17, 2019) - Informed Decision Making

Aug 5, 2019

• APPROVED: Review of the City's Policies on Assessing Fees for Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), alternatives and recommendations to Council that promote transparency and the public interest (written by CM Eaton) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $213,182.50 for renovation of pathways, new ADA compliant picnic tables and benches at Riverside Park (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $45,000 from Sustainability & Innovations Budget approved for legal services to intervene in a case before the Michigan Public Services Commission (Legistar)

  • Our intervention would urge DTE to make more significant investment in renewable energy to increase supply, reduce price, and reduce barriers to accessing green power.

• DEFEATED: $75,000 Road Reconfiguration for Earhart Road (US-23 to South Waldenwood Drive) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Road Reconfiguration Pilot for Traverwood Drive (Huron Parkway to Plymouth Rd. (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: Road Reconfiguration Pilot for Green Road (Burbank Drive to Plymouth Rd) (Legistar)​

  • Note: a similar resolution was brought back to the Sept 3, 2019 Council meeting and was also defeated (Legistar)​

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/08/ann-arbor-approves-one-road-diet-plan-rejects-two-others.html

• Additional Thoughts (Aug 3, 2019) - Sidewalk Gaps, Traffic Reconfigurations, Short Term Rentals

July 15, 2019

• APPROVED: $5,160,500 Contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation for the Allen Creek Railroad Berm Opening Project (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-approves-nearly-1m-mdot-contract-for-pedestrian-tunnel-to-riverfront.html

• APPROVED: $25,000 Plans for proposed Barton Drive Resurfacing Project's Sidewalk Gap Portion (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-to-prepare-sidewalk-gap-improvement-on-barton-drive.html

• APPROVED: $24,563.39  special assessment district for sidewalks on Scio Church Rd. (south side from Main to Seventh) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $83,159.71 special assessment district for sidewalks, Dhu Varren Sidewalk Project (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: $7,322.40 Sidewalk Assessment 1425 Pontiac Street (Legistar)

  • ​Resident objection raised the standard for approval to 8 votes

• DEFEATED: Attempt to override mayoral veto of ballot question about non-partisan local elections (Legistar)

  • A resolution for a ballot question about non-partisan local elections was approved at the July 1, 2019 Council meeting (Legistar)

  • ​Mayor Taylor VETOED this resolution on July 5, 2019 (Legistar)

  • Additional Thoughts (July 13, 2019) - Mayoral Veto of Non Partisan Elections

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/veto-override-falls-short-in-7-4-ann-arbor-council-vote.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/tempers-flare-as-ann-arbor-council-debates-nonpartisan-elections.html​

• Diversity of Ideas​

July 1, 2019

• APPROVED: Appoint Michael Cox as the City of Ann Arbor Police Chief (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-council-hires-boston-cop-to-serve-as-new-police-chief.html

• APPROVED: $75,000 Public engagement for design concepts, 350 S. Fifth (Y Lot) (Legistar)

• ​APPROVED: Agreement with Michigan Department of Transportation to accept federal grant money for an Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) at a crosswalk on Eisenhower Parkway at Plaza Road (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Ballot question for 11/5/19 election about non-partisan local elections (Legistar)

  • ​Mayor Taylor VETOED this resolution on July 5, 2019 (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-mayor-issues-veto-to-block-nonpartisan-elections-proposal.html

  • Attempt to override veto was defeated at July 15, 2019 Council meeting (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Rezoning from M1 (Limited Industrial District) to PUD for 841 Broadway (Legistar)

  • 90 residential units, restaurant, hotel, public open space

  • ​​​​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-paves-way-for-transformation-of-black-eye-along-citys-riverfront.html

• ​APPROVED: Settlement of lawsuit, Trinitas/Barton Green development (Legistar)

  • ​48 one bedroom units, 36 two bedroom units, 13 three bedroom units, 47 four bedroom units,  67 five bedroom units (211 units total)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-settles-lawsuit-with-student-housing-developer.html

June 17, 2019

• APPROVED: $1,247,529 allocation to Non-Profit Entities for Human Services (Legistar)

  • Agencies included: Ann Arbor Meals on Wheels at Michigan Medicine, Avalon Housing, Barrier Busters, Community Action Network, Food Gatherers, Home of New Vision, Home of New Vision, Ozone House, Peace Neighborhood Center, Shelter Association of Washtenaw County, The Salvation Army of Washtenaw County, Washtenaw County Community Mental Health

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/06/ann-arbor-doles-out-125m-to-nonprofit-human-service-agencies.html

• APPROVED: $260,000 purchase of 1148 S. Maple in anticipation of use for affordable housing (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $950,400 Water Treatment Plant purchase of granulated activated carbon filters for PFAS removal (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/06/ann-arbor-spending-another-950k-on-pfas-filters-for-water-plant.html

• APPROVED: $83,159.71 Special assessment district, Dhu Varren sidewalk project (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $44,467 2019 Caterpillar Electric Forklift from Fraza Forklift (Legistar)

  • ​$6,000 from Sustainability & Innovations budget subsidized purchase of a fully electric forklift for use by Public Works

• Consent Agenda Length

June 3, 2019

• APPROVED: $4,230,645 for FY2020 Street Surface Treatment Project, pavement preservation applications (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $852,409.60 Contract with MDOT for Dhu Varren Rd. Sidewalk Project (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $635,000 for pavement marking maintenance (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $100,000 for pedestrian improvement projects (beacons, signals, devices) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $17,500 Sidewalk Special Assessment District 1425 Pontiac Trail (adjacent to Beckley Park) (Legistar)​

• APPROVED: $12,000 Traffic Calming Devices on Scio Church Service Drive (Legistar)

  • These traffic calming measures were requested by local residents

  • In Feb 2019 I wrote about the process these residents followed: Resident Requested Traffic Calming Studies

• APPROVED: Site plan “Bristol Ridge” 2750 Pontiac Trail (Legistar)

  • 69 townhouse dwelling units

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/06/69-unit-townhome-development-on-pontiac-trail-gets-ann-arbors-ok.html

• DEFEATED:  Rezoning from R4B to R4D (moderate sized multi-family to higher density and high rise multi-family) "Brightdawn Village" 2805 Burton Road (Legistar)

  • 160 apartment units (20 units below 80% AMI, 20 units below 60% AMI)

  • ​Planning commission recommended DENIAL (7-0 vote)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/06/ann-arbor-city-council-rejects-brightdawn-village-rezoning.html

• Additional Thoughts (June 1, 2019) - Resident Requested Traffic Calming, Gallup Goats​

May 20, 2019

• APPROVED: FY20 Budget amendments: (Legistar)

  • $3,000,000 Additional road improvements

  • $2,020,000 Advanced funding for Nixon Corridor improvements project

  • $199,144 Two additional FTE, Ann Arbor Police Department

  • $100,000 One-time expenditure: new streetlights

  • $300,000 Oakbrook Drive asphalt path improvements moved to FY2020

  • $389,168 Additional budget for Parks​

• DEFEATED: Northside STEAM Sidewalk Special Assessment District (Legistar)

  • Resident protest raised approval standard to 8 votes

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/05/special-assessments-for-sidewalk-safety-project-nixed-by-ann-arbor-council.html

  • Working Together, Building Bridges To Move Forward

May 6, 2019

• APPROVED: 6% increase Water Rates (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/ann-arbor-must-raise-water-rates-to-keep-system-adequate-mayor-says.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/05/ann-arbor-council-oks-water-rate-increases-in-8-3-vote.html

• APPROVED: 7% increase Sewer Rates (Legistar)​

• APPROVED: 13% increase Stormwater Rates (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $1,135,000 for shared use, non-motorized paths at Wheeler Service Center and on Stone School Road (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $8,995,000 for 2019 Street Resurfacing and Restoration project (Legistar)

• APPROVED:  $95,750 for installation of flashing beacons (RRFB’s) at five crosswalks (Legistar)

  • N. Maple Rd. (near S. Circle Dr)

  • N. Maple Rd. (between Pamela Ave. & Sequoia Pkwy)

  • S. Maple Rd. (between Bens St. & Russell St)

  • Green Rd. (Greenbrier Blvd)

  • Geddes Rd. (east of Earhart Rd)

• APPROVED: Site plan and development agreement for 309 N. Ashley (Legistar)

  • 17 - 25 condominium units

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/05/5-story-condo-development-in-downtown-ann-arbor-okd.html

• APPROVED: Rezoning to allow temporary uses of large parking lots (Briarwood) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Amendment to zoning for food trucks (will be permitted in all but residential areas) (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: Zoning expansion for Accessory Dwelling Units to all residential areas (except mobile home parks) that would allow for building new accessory structures and remove requirement for minimum lot size (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/05/accessory-apartments-threat-to-ann-arbor-neighborhoods-or-boost-for-affordable-housing.html

• Additional Thoughts (May 4, 2019) - Boards and Commissions Appointment Process

April 15, 2019

• APPROVED: $1,329,964 Agreement with Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for the William Street Improvement Project (protected bike lane) (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/ann-arbor-dda-to-split-william-street-construction-cost.html

• APPROVED: $60,000 operating support for the Ann Arbor Housing Commission to administer voucher program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $2,582,770 for Water Treatment Plant UV Disinfection System (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/ann-arbor-oks-plan-to-keep-diarrhea-causing-parasite-out-of-citys-water.html

• Two rezonings as directed by City Council resolution from 9/4/18 (sponsored by CM Smith, Legistar) to maintain existing scale and character, preserving single and two-family residential, consistent with the Master Plan

  • APPROVED: Rezone from R4C to R1D/R1E (Multiple-Family Dwelling District to Single Family Dwelling District) W. Hoover and W. Davis (Legistar)

    • ​Planning Commission recommended DENIAL (5-3)

  • DEFEATED: Rezone from C2B to R2A (Business Service District to Two-Family Dwelling District) S. Ashley Street (Legistar)​​

    • Planning Commission recommended DENIAL (0-8)

• APPROVED: Site plan for 327 E. Hoover (Legistar)

  • 6 units and 885 sq. ft. of retail

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/new-apartments-next-to-noisy-train-tracks-get-ann-arbor-councils-ok.html

• DEFEATED: Attempt to override Mayor’s VETO of millage rebate (unrestricted) money allocations consistent with community survey results (Legistar)​

  • Council meeting of April 2, 2019 approved resolution to allocate 2019 millage rebate (unrestricted) funds consistent with community survey results (adjusted, based on funding already committed) (Legistar)

  • Mayor Taylor VETOED this resolution on April 5, 2019 (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/attempt-to-override-ann-arbor-mayors-veto-falls-short-in-7-4-vote.html

  • ​Additional Thoughts (Apr 14, 2019) - Mayoral Veto of Mental Health Millage Compromise

April 1, 2019

• APPROVED: $75,000 to the Ann Arbor Housing Commission to analyze feasibility of city-owned properties for development as affordable housing (Legistar)​

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/g66l-2019/04/7e243683485105/ann-arbor-adds-to-list-of-potential-affordable-housing-sites.html

• APPROVED: $74,450  for lifting and leveling of displaced sidewalk slabs, 2019 Sidewalk Repair Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $658,511.54  for sidewalk slab replacement for displaced joints and installation of ramps, 2019 Sidewalk Repair Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $147,001 for cutting sidewalk slabs to correct vaulted and displaced joints, 2019 Sidewalk Repair Program (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $150,000 partnership with Community Action Network to operate Bryant and Northside Community Centers (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $50,000 for 2019 Bike Share program (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/ann-arbor-agrees-to-fund-bike-share-program.html

• APPROVED: Ordinance banning two-stroke power equipment in DDA area (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/07/ann-arbor-bans-2-cycle-leaf-blowers-other-equipment-downtown.html

• APPROVED: Establishment of Center of the City task force (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Requirement that City street-related improvement projects (e.g. lane reductions/road diets) come to Council for approval (Legistar)

• Two resolutions related to allocation of 2019 millage rebate (unrestricted) funds:

  • APPROVED: Allocations described in the Sept 2017 resolution - affordable housing, climate action, and public safety - will be fully funded in the 2020 general budget (Legistar)

  • APPROVED: The millage rebate will be used to fund community priorities, consistent with survey results (adjusted, based on funding already committed) (Legistar)

    • Mayor Taylor VETOED this resolution on April 5, 2019 (Legistar)

  • ​Background: the Washtenaw County Community Mental Health and Public Safety Preservation Millage passed in Nov 2017, which included "rebate" funds that would enter the City budget at a future date, untethered as to purpose. Ballots for the county millage named only two purposes: public safety and community mental health

    • Link to Washtenaw County page on the millage, including ballot language

  • Prior to the millage vote, in Sept 2017 City Council passed a non-binding resolution promising specific allocations of those rebate funds for climate action, affordable housing, and pedestrian safety (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/mayors-planned-veto-an-insult-to-democracy-ann-arbor-council-member-says.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/04/ann-arbor-mayor-delivers-promised-veto-of-council-vote-on-new-tax-money.html

  • ​Additional Thoughts (Mar 31, 2019) - Mental Health Millage Compromise​​

  • Surveys, Studies, and Commissions

• Personal Interest vs Public Interest

March 18, 2019

• APPROVED: Resolution to pursue affordable housing options at city-owned properties:

  • 721 N. Main Street​ (Legistar)

  • 2000 S. Industrial (Legistar)

  • 1510 E. Stadium Boulevard (amended by CM Ackerman to include the option of market rate sale for the benefit of proceeds) (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/03/ann-arbor-exploring-new-options-for-affordable-housing-on-3-sites.html

  • Additional Thoughts (Mar 17, 2019) - Affordable Housing Studies On All Ten City Owned Properties

• APPROVED: Resolution asking for recommendations to increase the Downtown Affordable Housing Premium with the goal of increasing the development of affordable housing (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Direction to City Administrator to study potential regulation of short-term rentals (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $50,032.56 for design/engineering to repair park bridges (Barton Nature Area, Bandemer Park, Mitchell Field and Gallup Park) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Implementation of safety improvements at Fuller Road crosswalk, Huron High School (Legistar)​

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/03/ann-arbor-approves-fuller-road-crosswalk-improvements.html

• APPROVED: Rezoning and PUD site plan for Malletts Wood project, 3300 Cardinal Avenue (Legistar)

  • 19 condominium dwelling units

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/03/19-new-homes-to-be-built-on-wooded-land-in-southeast-ann-arbor.html

• DEFEATED: Rezoning from R1C single family zoning to PUD, Lockwood development at 3365 Jackson Road (Legistar)

  • 95 units (34 at no more than 50% AMI), Senior Independent Living

  • Site of three MDEQ monitoring wells for the Gelman Plume, and adjacent to one of only two natural lakes in Ann Arbor

  • Parcel next to Dolph Park, and was previously considered for acquisition by the park system

  • Additional Thoughts (Feb 17, 2019) - Lockwood and the Gelman Plume

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/03/ann-arbor-council-rejects-affordable-senior-housing-development.html​​

March 4, 2019

• Council Caucus resumed Sunday, March 3rd

• APPROVED: Direct City Administrator to include $649,478 for Lower Town Mobility study in the FY20 budget (Legistar)

  • The study was initially proposed for $732,992 in Feb 19, 2019 Council meeting as a FY19 budget amendment requiring 8 votes (Legistar) but was defeated

  • The study was reduced in cost to $649,478 ($579,478 + $70,000 contingencies) after staff renegotiations to adjust the number of public meetings and relocating project coordination meetings.

  • This resolution required only 6 votes because it is a direction to the City Administrator for the FY20 budget

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/03/ann-arbor-to-add-650k-lower-town-mobility-study-to-2020-budget-proposal.html

• APPROVED:  $400,000 for stormwater control measures through FY20 Tree Planting Project  in the Huron River Green Infrastructure Drainage District (Legistar)

• TABLED: Approval of Articles of Incorporation, membership in the Washtenaw Regional Resource Management Authority (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Resolution to develop a solar access ordinance that would formalize a “solar easement” and “solar permits” to prevent shading for residents with solar energy systems (Legistar)

• Additional Thoughts (Mar 3, 2019) - Mental Health Millage Rebate

Feb 19, 2019

• APPROVED: Waive employment restriction for Independent Community Police Oversight Commission for temporary City employees with 7 or fewer paychecks per year (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: Resolution to ensure compliance with process for appointments to Independent Community Police Oversight Commission (Legistar)

  • Police Oversight on the Feb 19th Council Agenda

  • FOLLOWUP: Police Oversight & Accountability

• APPROVED: Agreement for public/private, collaborative partnership between the TreeLine Conservancy and the City. The City will seek grants and other funding and retains ownership of the infrastructure, while the Conservancy provides support in consultation, advice, donations, and fundraising. (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/ann-arbor-to-join-treeline-conservancy-in-pedestrian-trail-project.html

• APPROVED: $546,924 for replacement of 73 street lights in parts of Fourth Avenue and Liberty Street (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Site plan for 814-830 Henry Street (Legistar)

  • 11 units (six bedroom each)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/ann-arbor-officials-see-hope-for-car-free-lifestyle-in-new-development.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/group-living-with-co-working-space-for-young-professionals-coming-to-ann-arbor.html

• APPROVED: Direct City attorney to stay proceedings, consider alternative site plan for 2857 Packard (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/ann-arbor-to-consider-new-subdivision-plan-from-developer-suing-city.html​

• DEFEATED: $732,992 Lower Town Area Mobility Study (Legistar)

  • This was a budget amendment to the FY19 budget and required 8 votes​

  • The cost of the study was later reduced by staff negotiations to $649,478 ($579,478 plus $70,000 contingencies), added to the FY20 budget by Council on Mar 4 2019, and approved by Council on Sept 3, 2019 

• APPROVED: $478,867 for Greenbelt purchase of Conservation Easement on the Lepkowski Property in Northfield Township (Legistar)

  • This purchase was initially defeated at the Jan 7, 2019 Council meeting​

• Additional Thoughts (Feb 17, 2019) - Greenbelt Purchases

Feb 4, 2019

• APPROVED: $30,704 agreement with Washtenaw Community Mental Health for treatment services through Mental Health Court for 15th District Court participants (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $45,801 agreement with Avalon Housing for case management services through Mental Health Court for 15th District Court participants (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $135,750 agreement with Dawn Farms for drug abuse counselling and rehab services through Sobriety Court, Veterans Treatment Court, and Mental Health Court for 15th District Court participants (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Special assessment district for new curbs, gutters, sidewalks on Scio Church Rd (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $27,495 for additional study of water rates by Arcadis, to analyze alternative fee structures such as: eliminating the fourth tier, reverting to previous fee system, applying tiers to commercial classes, identifying other customer classes, or imposing flat rates (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $27,495 additional fund to Stantec, to collaborate with Arcadis to analyze alternative fee structures for water rates (Legistar)​

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/ann-arbor-spending-50k-55k-to-find-out-if-it-got-water-rates-right.html

• APPROVED: Resolution in support of farmworker’s rights, boycott Wendy’s and other food service providers that do not participate in the Fair Food Program (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/ann-arbor-officials-urge-residents-um-to-boycott-wendys.html

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/wendys-takes-issue-with-ann-arbor-councils-call-for-boycott.html

• APPROVED: Amendment to the city’s trespass ordinance, creating a process of citation rather than warrant. This procedural change is intended to prevent additional penalties for “failure to appear” when mailed notice is not received. (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/02/ann-arbor-approves-new-approach-to-prosecuting-trespassers.html

• Additional Thoughts (Feb 3, 2019) - Snow Removal, Trespass Ordinance, Fair Food Program

Jan 22, 2019

• APPROVED: $50,778.06 additional funds to complete maintenance and repair of sidewalk curb ramps in the downtown area (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Rezone R1C to R2A (single family to two-family district) 3786 and 3802 Platt Rd (Legistar)​

• APPROVED: Amendment of the City Seal & Flag ordinance to prevent use of the city seal or flag to obtain anything of value or its use on merchandise for sale that implies City endorsement (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/01/ann-arbor-oks-changes-to-controversial-city-seal-and-flag-ordinance.html

• APPROVED: Three year contract with Ann Arbor Firefighters Union, retroactive base wage increases of 2.5% (starting January 2017) and increased retirement contributions (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/01/retroactive-raises-for-ann-arbor-firefighters-okd.html

• Additional Thoughts (Jan 20, 2019) - Greenbelt Purchases, Trespass Ordinance

Jan 7, 2019

• DEFEATED: An ordinance to amend our water rates, increasing them by 6% (Legistar)

  • Note: this passed at the May 6, 2019 Council meeting, after study completed of alternative fee structures

• APPROVED:  An ordinance to amend our sewer rates, increasing them by 6% (Legistar)

• DEFEATED: $478,867 for Greenbelt purchase of conservation easement at Lepkowski property in Northfield township (Legistar)​​

  • This purchase was approved at the Feb 19, 2019 Council meeting

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2019/01/ann-arbor-council-rejects-75-acre-greenbelt-purchase-in-7-4-vote.html

• Commissions and Transparency

Dec 17, 2018

• APPROVED: Direction to the city administrator to update on crosswalk design guidelines, list all improvements made in the last three years, inventory all crosswalk assets and their conditions, estimate cost and timeline to bring all into substantial compliance with standards (Legistar)

  • https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2018/12/ann-arbor-to-aggressively-improve-pedestrian-safety-in-2019.html

• APPROVED: An additional full time employee (FTE) to support the Independent Community Police Oversight Commission and the Human Rights Commission (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Resolution to add the Center of the City to the list of public parks available for temporary rental and use - referred to the Parks Advisory Commission (Legistar)

• APPROVED: In response to a request from the City Administrator and CFO for guidance, Council requests a resident survey that can generate statistically valid input on utilization of the mental health and public safety millage rebate money. A simple, straightforward survey (including explanation of background and purpose) will be closed, and inclusive of broad cross-section of residents and of sufficient size to be statistically significant. (Legistar)

• Surveys, Studies, and Commissions

Dec 3, 2018

• APPROVED: To improve transparency, when considering budget items that are the result of an RFP (Request for Proposal), Council will be provided with discussion of method, criteria and the number scores of all proposals received (and rank ordering), with explanation about the choice of contract. (Legistar)

• APPROVED: To improve transparency, draft minutes for all boards, commissions, task forces and committees will be made available and published on Legistar (or any future system of publication) in a timely manner, consistent with MCL 15.269(3) (Legistar)

  • ​https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2018/12/ann-arbors-new-council-takes-steps-to-increase-transparency.html

• APPROVED: $72,000 contract with Shelter Association of Washtenaw County for 2018-19 Winter Emergency Shelter and Warming Center (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $189,500 to remove and replace the boardwalk in Riverside Park along the Border to Border Trail that connects to the Argo Cascades (Riverside Park Boardwalk Replacement Project) (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Re-location of the Fuller Road crosswalk is delayed in order to evaluate possible safety improvement options to improve the Fuller Road crosswalk at its current location. Recommendations and a report will be delivered in 180 days. (Legistar)

• City Council Boards and Commissions Assignments

• Additional Thoughts (Dec 2, 2018) - Deer Cull, Millage Rebate, Sidewalks

Nov 19, 2018

• APPROVED: $250,000 budget amendment to the office of Sustainability and Innovations (Legistar) Approved projects:

  • $200,000 for Net Zero Affordable Housing (solar, electrification, other upgrades to property on Broadway)

  • $15,000 for additional EV stations

  • $10,000 seed funding for resilience hubs

  • $25,000 for feasibility studies, legal analysis, and other pre-work needed for large scale solar installations at city-owned properties

  • Three line items were rejected: $14,000 for professional development, $10,000 for educational and community outreach materials, and $39,000 for staffing.

• APPROVED: A survey of residents will be conducted (using funds previously allocated) to collect input on use of the untethered rebate money from the mental health and public safety millage. (Legistar)

• APPROVED: Staff recommended updates to the City’s Traffic Calming Program, including industry best practices, staff observations, past project area feedback, and peer community review (Legistar)

• APPROVED: $32,779 additional funds to complete Scio Church Road Improvements Project (Legistar)

• https://www.mlive.com/news/ann-arbor/2018/11/ann_arbors_new_council_finds_c.html

• Additional Thoughts (Nov 18, 2018) - Sustainability and Innovations Funding

• Climate Change Action Funding