The Whitehall City Council met on June 24, 2025, covering a wide range of topics—from sidewalk repairs and water billing concerns to a discussion on Electric Forest’s community impact. The meeting began with the pledge of allegiance and unanimous approval of both the agenda and consent agenda, which sparked several detailed discussions.
Consent Agenda Discussions
Council members raised questions about accounts payable items, including:
New Tables and Chairs for North Park: Confirmed as matching in style and quality to existing benches.
US Postal Service Supply Order: Expected to last about a year.
New Flag Purchases: Some were for grave markers, while others are displayed at local parks and along city streets.
Security Monitoring System: Tied to EPS alarm services at the Playhouse.
Sidewalk Construction: Jacob Construction was praised for its high-quality work on South Livingston. Council acknowledged that many more sidewalks remain in need of repair.
Council Member Comments & Community Issues
RV Parking Ordinance Concerns were raised about a camper parked long-term on city-owned property near the high school. While no ordinance currently prohibits this, council members indicated interest in revisiting a previously failed RV and camper regulation ordinance.
Water Billing Concerns Discussion about an ongoing resident water billing dispute, pointing out meter inconsistencies dating back to 2022. Council will continue monitoring the issue and may revisit water meter policies.
City Treasurer Oversight There was a request to add discussion of recent actions regarding the city treasurer position to the next work session. Some members expressed concern over a lack of notification when the position was demoted and later advertised.
City Manager Candidate Meet & Greet Several council members stressed the importance of advertising the upcoming July 26 City Manager candidate meet-and-greet. Ideas included sending notices via the city’s text alert system and sharing to additional email lists and boards.
Solid Waste Authority Update Councilmember Cabala shared insights from a recent Solid Waste Authority meeting. Whitehall’s collaboration with Montague and surrounding townships on joint recycling efforts was highlighted as a unique and valuable asset. She noted declining participation, potentially linked to aging populations, and emphasized the need for public education about recycling opportunities.
Community Reflections on Electric Forest
Councilmembers praised the Electric Forest festival for its safe execution and positive local economic impact. Councilmember Brown noted that, over the course of 60 volunteer hours, he tracked license plates from 47 states and several Canadian provinces, showing the event’s national draw. Both highlighted the respectful behavior of attendees and benefits to local businesses and nonprofits.
New Business
Budget Amendment – Resolution 25-15 Council approved the third budget amendment for fiscal year 2024-2025. The $800,000 amendment accounted for construction projects spanning multiple years, including Warner Street work and water system improvements. While some council members questioned the inclusion of grant funding not yet received, city staff clarified standard accounting practices and assured that all funds were accounted for.
Smart Buoy Funding The budget also included funding for the White Lake Association’s smart buoy. Councilmembers expressed support but encouraged the group to request funding from all municipalities on the lake—not just Whitehall and Montague.
Additional Approvals
Resolution 25-17 – Friends of the Playhouse Gaming License: Approved to recognize the group as a local charitable organization, allowing for fundraising raffles to support operations.
Walk to Beat Festival Banner Request: Approved to allow placement of promotional banners on city property after July 7, with assistance from DPW to avoid sprinkler damage.
Public Comments
A resident expressed strong disappointment with the appearance of the new public restroom in the downtown pocket park, calling it “super ugly” and questioning the decision to build a one-stall facility. Council acknowledged the feedback and noted the structure is permanent.
Looking Ahead
The next work session will include discussions on:
Oversight of the treasurer position process
Urban deer management strategies
Potential improvements to recycling education and outreach
The meeting concluded with appreciation for the city manager’s handling of budget matters and a call for continued community engagement.
Watch a livestream of the meeting here:
Looking Ahead
The next City Council Work Session will be held at 5:00 PM, followed by the regular City Council Meeting at 6:00 PM.
📅 Tuesday, July 8, 2025 📍 Whitehall City Hall
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