The Montague City Council met on Monday, April 21, 2025, followed by a city work session. The evening covered a wide range of topics including the future of the city’s Social District, sidewalk improvement plans, a corrected grant resolution, and a community call for volunteers.
Social District Discussion Tabled
Council revisited Montague’s Social District, which is nearing its one-year mark. While there have been no issues reported by police or city officials, the group discussed two key items: whether to continue the agreement annually or long-term, and whether to reduce the current $1 cup charge to 50 cents to encourage participation.
City Manager Jeff Auch shared that the current cost more than covers expenses and recommended the reduced fee. However, because three council members were absent, the council voted to table the decision until the next meeting to ensure full representation.
Lighting Contract Finalized
The council approved a resolution to revise its contract with Consumers Energy, officially removing outdated light poles near the boat launch from the city’s billing. The removal follows the installation of updated street lighting.
Community Comments and Volunteer Opportunities
During the public comment period, CatchMark Technologies invited residents to volunteer with CatchMark Community and CatchMark SportsNet. Volunteers—named NewsNuts and SportsNuts—help cover local events and sports, expanding community coverage.
Other residents shared concerns and appreciation. One expressed gratitude for the quick and professional response of first responders during a recent emergency. Another raised concerns about Jackson County’s agreement with ICE, citing fears of racial profiling and reduced participation from immigrant communities if such practices expanded locally.
Resolution 2025-05 Amended
Council approved a corrected version of Resolution 2025-05, updating the language in a grant application for the Colman Field improvement project. The amendment now reflects the full value of both cash and in-kind match contributions, bringing the city’s total commitment to $284,400 toward the $684,400 project.
Student Report
Montague’s student representative shared upcoming school events:
- May 1: FFA Animal Day
- May 2: Senior Decision Day Assembly
- April 30: Rubber Duck Toss fundraiser during the girls’ soccer game
- May 15: Senior Awards Night
- May 16 at 7 p.m.: Graduation on the football field
Mayor and Council Comments
Susan Newhof praised improvements at the city’s dog park, including brush cleanup and progress on the new concrete path. She also expressed concerns over the Planning Commission’s recent handling of the Bowen Street PUD, emphasizing the need for unresolved questions to be addressed before council review.
Work Session Highlights
Sports & Shorts Voucher Program
Council revisited funding for the summer Sports & Shorts youth program. While budgeted for $1,750, participation in recent years has declined. Concerns were raised over previous non-resident use and whether the program still offers value. The item will return at a future meeting for potential action.
Subcommittee Tracking and Progress Forms
New documentation was shared to help council subcommittees track duties, accomplishments, and priorities. Several sidewalk projects were prioritized for 2025, with a $162,000 estimate covering improvements on Logan, Williams, Sheridan, and Stanton Boulevard North.
Senior Center Committee Debate
A lengthy discussion unfolded regarding which subcommittee should handle oversight of the senior center—its physical condition and operational challenges. Some council members argued both funding and facility concerns should stay under the Senior Millage committee, while others believed the Facilities subcommittee should manage the building as city property. The Senior Millage committee will meet again to determine the next steps.
Poverty Exemption Brackets
Council reviewed a draft resolution to introduce partial poverty exemptions (25%, 50%, and 75%) for residents just above federal poverty guidelines. Currently, the city only offers a full exemption for those under 100% of the threshold. Only a small number of residents are expected to qualify under the new tiers. A vote is expected at an upcoming meeting.
Upcoming Dates & Reminders
- April 24: Meet Your Local Treasurer – Property Tax Education Evening
- May 5 at 5:30 p.m.: Town Hall Meeting
- May 6: Special election for Muskegon County Museum millage
- May 19: Next regular City Council meeting
