The Montague City Council met Monday, December 15, 2025, for its regular meeting, followed immediately by a work session. The meeting covered routine approvals, several policy decisions, and ongoing discussions about city property, infrastructure, and operations.
Meeting Opening and Agenda Changes
Mayor Tom Lohman called the meeting to order, followed by roll call and the Pledge of Allegiance. Council approved a minor agenda change, moving one item to the work session later in the evening.
Consent Agenda Approved
Council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included:
- Minutes from recent council and special meetings
- Board and commission reports
- Payment of regular bills totaling $194,603.60, including $28,658.93 paid to others
2026 City Council Meeting Schedule
Council approved the 2026 City Council meeting schedule, maintaining:
- Regular meetings on the third Monday of each month at 5:30 p.m.
- A June 1 budget work session ahead of budget adoption
- A December special meeting for the annual audit presentation
Charitable Gaming License for White Lake Fireworks
Council approved a resolution authorizing a charitable gaming license for the White Lake Fireworks Committee. The license allows several fundraising raffles in 2026, including:
- Two “100 for $100” raffles
- Three 50/50 raffles
- A kayak raffle
The license is valid for one year and helps support the annual fireworks display.
Pedestrian Crossing Ordinances Adopted
Two ordinances were adopted to update pedestrian crossing rules:
- Ordinance 313 applies to the U.S. 31 Business Route, using language required by MDOT so the city can regulate crosswalks, signage, and lighting.
- Ordinance 314 applies to city streets, updating local pedestrian regulations to mirror state law, including expanded protections for blind and visually impaired pedestrians. Updates reflect newer state standards involving guide dogs, walkers, and other mobility aids.
City staff noted that education and outreach will be a priority in 2026 to ensure residents and drivers understand the updated rules.
Real Estate Gift Creates New City Park
Council approved both a real estate gift agreement and a resolution accepting the donation of 14.48 acres of land from Chick Caluwaert. The donated property will become a charter park named Caluwaert Park.
Key points:
- The land is appraised at $375,000
- The park is protected under the city charter, meaning it could only be sold in the future with a supermajority council vote and voter approval
- Council emphasized that the naming was a city decision and was not requested by the donor
Council members expressed appreciation for the donation and its long-term benefit to the community.
Board and Commission Appointments
Council affirmed several mayoral appointments, including:
- Bruce Froelich reappointed to the White Lake Ambulance Authority
- Greg Johnson reappointed to the Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Commission
- Sarah Riel appointed to the Planning Commission
- Miranda Coombs, owner of Busy Bee Café, appointed to the Downtown Development Authority
Staff also clarified that board and commission applications are valid for one year and must be resubmitted to show continued interest.
Public Comment Highlights
During public comment, residents addressed a range of topics, including:
- Broader concerns about democratic norms and constitutional governance
- Environmental and water quality issues, including fish consumption advisories
- Appreciation for holiday decorations, snow removal, and city services
Council members also issued an apology for issues that occurred during public comment at a previous meeting.
City Manager’s Update
City Manager Jeff Auch reported on several ongoing and upcoming projects:
- Formation of a Senior Millage Subcommittee
- A conditional $1.2 million MDOT commitment for the State/Prospect School project
- A $267,600 Trust Fund recommendation for Cullen Field parking lot improvements
- A low bid of $326,493 for the Maple Beach shoreline project
- Distribution of emergency preparedness contact forms following the discontinuation of CodeRED notifications
Student Representative Report
Student representative Olive Carlson shared updates from Montague Area Public Schools, including:
- National Honor Society tutoring programs
- Successful band and choir concerts
- Writing Club competition submissions
- Upcoming FFA leadership contests
Work Session: Teddy’s Car Wash Property
During the work session, council discussed options for the former Teddy’s Car Wash property on Water Street. Options included:
- Demolishing the building (estimated at $10,000)
- Retrofitting the structure for storage or city vehicle washing (estimated at $20,000)
- Exploring long-term redevelopment or potential resale
Council asked staff to return with clearer options, cost comparisons, and long-term planning recommendations tied to broader DPW facility needs.
Leaf and Yard Waste License Discussion
Council reviewed a proposed annual leaf and yard waste license for individuals who are paid to remove leaves from residential properties. The goal is to prevent misuse of the city’s disposal site while allowing small operators to work legally. The proposed fee is $10 per residential address, with higher penalties for violations.
Next Steps
The meeting adjourned with additional discussion planned for early 2026 on:
- DPW facility planning
- Property use decisions
The next regular City Council meeting is scheduled for January 19, 2026.
City of Montague Council Meeting Recap – November 17, 2025
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