Agenda Approval and Consent Items
The September 23, 2025 Whitehall City Council meeting began at 6 p.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance. Council quickly approved the evening’s agenda and then moved to the consent agenda. Items included the approval of the September 9 work session minutes, accounts payable, and communications. Discussion centered on why two different inspection companies billed for water tower work. City staff explained that different towers may have required different inspections, and more details would be emailed to council later. Questions were also raised about playhouse spending and unusual expense items, such as the role of an “intimacy coordinator” in theater programming. Despite concerns, the consent agenda was approved.
Community Updates and Reports
Councilmember updates included reminders about the upcoming Senior Dinner on October 27 at the Senior Center. Discussions also focused on energy efficiency, housing opportunities for families and seniors, and short-term rental data collection. The City Manager and Police Chief presented a summer police activity report, showing call types, response times, and comparisons with surrounding areas. Council requested these reports be presented quarterly. Leaf pickup will begin at the end of October, and hunting permits within city limits are already drawing strong participation.
The City Manager also explained that the city’s annual audit has been delayed until November due to scheduling conflicts with the auditing firm and file access issues. Another update noted a $900,000 payment to Eastbrook Homes as part of a brownfield redevelopment agreement, with payments continuing for several more years before tapering off. Council was reminded about the new “Contact Us” form on the city’s website, which allows residents to submit questions or concerns directly.
Public Comments and Community Concerns
Several residents spoke during public comment. Concerns centered on the rising cost of the Pocket Park project, which has now reached $379,500—far above its original estimates. Some argued that money could have been better used for road repairs, with estimates of $1.5 million needed per mile of paving. Others raised concerns about ADA accessibility, the use of public sidewalks for private businesses, and conditions at the Senior Center, which may need major repairs or relocation.
Broader political and safety concerns were also voiced. Residents referenced national events, with some calling for more civility and local collaboration before outside agencies or National Guard units are deployed into Michigan communities. Another resident highlighted the need for better communication tools, including a return to posting police logs on Facebook.
Resolutions and New Business
Council considered two resolutions. Resolution 25-26 approved the purchase of a new sidewalk snowblower for $50,000. While some members questioned its size and fit for sidewalks, DPW staff explained it had features to handle uneven concrete and was within the budgeted $55,000. The motion passed on a roll call vote.
Next, Resolution 25-27 addressed the SCADA water monitoring system, which tracks tower levels and demand. Bids for the project showed a nearly $100,000 difference between the highest and lowest proposals. Council approved the lowest responsible bid, which also includes a $2,700 annual subscription for updates and maintenance.
Closing and Adjournment
Final public comments included a reminder about an upcoming candlelight vigil at Funnel Field, related to national events. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
