Montague City Council’s February 16 meeting centered on operational decisions that shape how the city functions day to day — from utility rates and budget amendments to regional election coordination.

While the agenda included a variety of routine approvals, several actions taken Monday night will have practical implications for residents and city operations moving forward.

Utility rate structure amended following study

Council approved Ordinance No. 315, amending Section 82-42 of the city’s utility rate schedule following a rate study completed by Michigan Rural Water.

The adjustment lowers the per–thousand gallon usage charge slightly while increasing the ready-to-serve component. City Manager Jeff Auch described the change as a structural recalibration designed to align the system with study recommendations rather than a broad rate increase.

Because utility rates must be adopted by ordinance, council approved both the ordinance and corresponding updates within the city’s fee schedule.

Why it matters: Utility rate structure directly impacts long-term system stability. Adjustments are intended to keep water and sewer operations financially sustainable without sudden shifts.

Fee schedule updates formalize policy changes

Council also approved FY (Fiscal Year) 2025/26 fee schedule amendments, which include:

• Incorporating the newly adopted water and sewer rates,
• Establishing an annual $10 license for small commercial leaf and yard waste disposal (with a $100 after-tax license option),
• Clarifying tax penalty and interest language already reflected on bills,
• Rounding cash transactions to the nearest five cents due to the elimination of the penny.

Council members emphasized that individual residents may continue to deposit leaves at no charge; the licensing fee applies only to commercial activity.

Mid-year budget amendments reflect revenue increases and timing adjustments

Council approved mid-year budget amendments reflecting approximately $160,000 in additional revenue, including a donation tied to beach restoration efforts.

The amendments also account for property purchases that closed during the current fiscal year and reduce appropriations in funds where projects will extend into the next fiscal year.

According to staff, the adjustments maintain overall balance when revenue increases and project timing are factored in.

Early voting agreement amended as participation expands

Council approved an updated Muskegon County early voting agreement, expanding participation as additional municipalities join the shared early voting site model.

With more jurisdictions participating, Montague’s estimated cost per election decreases under the agreement.

Council also discussed required video monitoring related to drop boxes, noting that equipment is installed and activation is being coordinated.

Public comment raises accessibility concerns

During public comment in the regular meeting, a resident urged the city to consider how local businesses and public facilities address ADA accessibility.

The speaker cited examples of restroom configurations, entry access, and door functionality, and asked whether compliance could be encouraged through permitting processes, ownership transitions, or local incentives.

Council members acknowledged the concerns. No formal action was taken during the meeting, but the issue was placed on record as part of the evening’s public input.

Work session: Senior Center repairs and sidewalk planning

Following a brief recess, council entered a work session focused on longer-term planning.

Senior Center structural priorities

A structural engineering report identified repair needs at the Senior Center, including stabilization work on the rear wall and tuckpointing. Council discussed using funds already set aside to address the most pressing structural concerns, with additional estimates being gathered for facade and drainage improvements.

During the discussion, Councilwoman Laura LaGuire suggested using available funds to modify the restroom sink configuration to improve wheelchair accessibility — a concern raised earlier during public comment regarding ADA compliance. The proposed update would remove the cabinet beneath the sink to allow individuals using wheelchairs to roll underneath more easily.

The senior millage subcommittee also reviewed plans for the 2026 farmers market voucher program. City Clerk Kelly Markley explained that the program allows eligible senior residents to receive monthly vouchers to use at the Montague Farmers Market, helping stretch fixed incomes while supporting local vendors.

Last year, vouchers were distributed one Saturday per month. The proposal would expand distribution to the second and fourth Saturdays of each month beginning in late June, making pickup more accessible and convenient for seniors throughout the market season. According to Markley, participation has remained strong, with most vouchers redeemed each year — a sign the program is both valued and used.

Sidewalk planning continues

The sidewalk subcommittee outlined segments to be completed this fiscal year and discussed priorities for upcoming years. Longer-term planning tied to MDOT Safe Routes to School funding remains targeted for a 2028 construction window.

Additional city updates

Staff also provided updates on:

• A potential grant opportunity for solar-powered streetlights to maintain lighting during outages,
• Submission of a boat launch dredging permit with hopes of completing work before Memorial Day,
• Ongoing planning and estimates for police department renovations,
• A health update noting Councilman Paul Schultz is recovering from a heart procedure.

The takeaway

The Feb. 16 meeting reflected steady municipal governance rather than sweeping policy shifts.

Utility rates were recalibrated.
The budget was aligned with actual revenue and expenditures.
Election coordination moved forward regionally.
Infrastructure planning continued.

It was a meeting focused on maintenance, management, and incremental progress — the kind of decisions that often draw less attention but quietly shape how the city operates.

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