Agenda
DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT BOARD
June 21, 2016
1. Call to Order – 7:00 P.M. – City Hall Community Room
2. Consent Agenda:
(a) Approval of the regular meeting minutes of April 19, 2016 and special meeting
minutes of June 15, 2016
(b) Payment of bills – April and May
(c) Acceptance of expense and income reports – April and May
3. New Business:
(a) Discussion and possible approval of beginning operation of the rail trolley
(b) Consider hosting the 2017 Back to the Bricks Car Show
(c) Discussion regarding revisions to the Downtown Events Schedule
(d) Reports by Downtown Management Board Committees
(e) Report by the City staff
4. Miscellaneous
5. Adjournment
MISSION STATEMENT
A self-governing board dedicated to planning, promoting, and preserving the downtown business district - the hub of our
community – for the greater good of the business, professional, social, cultural and service activities located within the
defined downtown area.
Purposes of the Downtown Development Authority Board of Directors and Downtown Management Board are to: (1)
Provide leadership for the implementation of improvements as outlined in the current Downtown plan; (2) Promote public
and private development and physical improvements in the downtown business district as initiated by individuals and
organizations; (3) Serve as an advisory body to the City of Petoskey in matters pertaining to the downtown business
district; and (4) coordinate appropriate downtown programs and services.
Agenda Memo
BOARD:
Downtown Management Board
MEETING DATE:
June 21, 2016
AGENDA SUBJECT:
Consent Agenda
PREPARED: June 17, 2016
RECOMMENDATION: That the Downtown Management Board approve items and
administrative transactions that have been included on the
Consent Agenda
The Downtown Management Board will be asked to approve the consent agenda that includes:
(1) Enclosed minutes of the Downtown Management Board regular meeting minutes of April 19,
2016 and special meeting minutes of June 15, 2016; (2) Acknowledgement of bills since March
15, 2016; and (3) Acceptance of the April and May expense and income reports as prepared by
the Downtown Director.
sb
Enclosures
Z:\DMB\dmb - consent memo format.doc
Minutes
DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT BOARD
April 19, 2016
A regular meeting of the City of Petoskey Downtown Management Board was first called to order
at 6:30 P.M., at the Department of Public Works building, 110 West Sheridan, to hear a brief
overview of the trolley; Board members asked questions; boarded the trolley; and rang the bell.
Meeting adjourned at 6:50 P.M.
The regular meeting reconvened in the City Hall Main Lobby, Petoskey, Michigan, on Tuesday,
April 19, 2016. The meeting was called to order at 7:00 P.M., and the following were
Present:
Lawrence Rochon, Chairperson
Robin Bennett
Doug Buck
David Carlson
James M. Reid, Jr.
S. Reginald Smith, Vice Chairperson
Absent:
William J. Fraser, Mayor, Jason Keiswetter and Jennifer
Shorter
Also in attendance was the Downtown Director Becky Goodman, Director of Parks and
Recreation Allen Hansen for the trolley presentation and Promotions Coordinator Kate Manthei.
Downtown
Management
Board
members
discussed the first item of routine business,
the March 15, 2016 regular session meeting
minutes; acknowledgement of bills since March 15, 2016; and acceptance of the March expense
and income reports as prepared by the Downtown Director.
Approve Consent Agenda Items
The Downtown Director reported that Winter Carnival expenses and revenue appear to be
over budget, but money is still coming in; that the March coin collection could be higher as there is
still a lapse in receiving deposit information due to the breakdown of the coin sorter at 5/3 Bank;
and that the plan for Brinks to pick up the coins is moving along.
Upon motion made by Mr. Smith and seconded by Mr. Reid, the March 15, 2016 regular
session meeting minutes were approved; acknowledgement of bills since March 15, that totaled
$52,038.54; and expense and income reports for March were approved. Said motion was
unanimously approved as submitted.
The Downtown Director reviewed that City Council
included $20,000 in the CIP for a parking study in
2016 with funds to come from the Parking Fund
which was budgeted by the DMB last year. Walker Parking Consultants provided a proposal for
the completion of a parking study on the Darling Lot including two conceptual plans: one for a
basic parking structure, and another for a parking structure that includes mixed uses. The
Downtown Director also reviewed that the cost of the study will be $21,700, plus approximately
$900 in reimbursable expenses; costs associated with obtaining geotechnical and site survey
information is estimated at $5,400; and that staff reached out to Mac McClelland, Brownfield
consultant, for information regarding what work would need to be done to officially determine if the
Darling Lot qualifies as a Brownfield and is estimated to cost $5,000 to complete.
Approve Parking Study Contract
Board members commented that both City Council and Planning Commission think a
study is the first step; inquired on the process of the City Council budgeting for this out of the
Parking Fund; heard praises of Benchmark Engineering and their work; inquired if the price had
been or could be negotiated; if the consultant was aware that one of the objectives was to create
more residential parking; and heard from those against the mixed use concept and that the
proposal be revised to include only the basic structure; and heard from those in favor of both
concepts.
Chairperson Rochon asked for public comments and heard that there had been no
public input regarding whether the structure should be a deck or a combination of a deck and
mixed use; and inquiries on using sole source contractors.
Mr. Smith moved that, seconded by Mr. Carlson to contract with Walker Parking at a
cost of $21,700 plus reimbursable expenses and approve contracting with Benchmark
Engineering and Otwell Mawby to do the geotechnical, site survey and Brownfield testing at a
total cost not to exceed $32,000. Said motion was unanimously approved as submitted.
The Downtown Director reported that there are 9
podium style maps mounted in parking lots and
other locations around town as part of the Wayfinding system that was installed in 2004 and three
of the signs are in need of serious refurbishment and repair. Sign and Design, Petoskey,
provided an estimate for work and it is estimated to cost $5,250. The Downtown Director
recommended funds to pay for repairs to come from carry over in the Programs and Services
Fund which is approximately $77,000.
Approve Carry Over Funds for
Wayfinding Signs
Board members discussed the fact that this expense was not included in the budget; that
it would be a good idea to include a line in the annual budget for maintenance every year whether
it is used or not; and heard from those in favor of using the carry over funds.
The Downtown Director reviewed that carry over funds were typically used for this sort of
matter; that the signs were originally purchased from the Programs and Services fund; that if an
expense of this kind were to be in the annual budget, some other regularly funded item would
need to be cut; that the budget was not designed to have line item balances extend into the next
year; that any excess went into carry over; and only the annual assessment was budgeted in any
given fiscal year.
Chairperson Rochon asked for public comments and heard that the project should have
been included in the budget.
Mr. Buck moved that, seconded by Mr. Carlson to use carry over funds to rehabilitate the
wayfinding signs. Said motion was unanimously approved as submitted.
The Downtown Director then reported that
Petoskey Rocks! has been included in the Downtown Events schedule since 2011 and that the
Event had its own committee the first year to
support it and has since been assigned to the Downtown Events Committee. The focus of the
event has always been on music. The Event and Marketing Committees are reviewing the entire
event schedule in preparation for a potentially different approach in 2017 at the request of the
DMB and forming a policy for accepting sponsorships to help fund downtown events.
Approve Carry Over Funds for
2016 Petoskey Rocks!
2
The Parking Committee agreed with the Event Committee that to hold a consistent
event needs to include the expensive component of good music on Friday nights during the
summer; that $6,500 should come from the Programs and Services carry-over to be used to fund
this summer’s series; that it would be a one-time expense and money will go to pay for bands;
and $10,000 which was previously approved for the Winter Carnival was not used.
Chairperson Rochon reviewed that the Parking Committee had discussed and agreed
that this was an opportunity to see if a signature event could be created and that music and
consistency were two ingredients they believed would help the event.
Board members inquired if the amount requested would be enough to make the event
remarkable and that funds could easily be doubled, but heard concerns that it had not been in the
budget.
Chairperson Rochon asked for public comments and heard criticism regarding the
budgeting process. The member became belligerent and would not give up the floor when
requested. Mr. Reid called for Sargent of Arms. Chairperson Rochon told the member that he
would be taken out of the meeting by force if he did not give up the floor. After several requests,
the member stopped his harassment. Chairperson Rochon told the member that he had already
received a letter from an attorney regarding his behavior at meetings and that he would be
reviewing by-laws and policies to find ways to limit his public comment. Mr. Carlson suggested
that public comment only be heard at the beginning and the end of the meetings in the future and
not with each agenda item.
Upon motion made by Mr. Smith and supported by Mr. Carlson, to use the $10,000 that
had been approved for Winter Carnival on Petoskey Rocks! and any other events held in 2016 if
necessary. Said motion was unanimously approved as submitted.
The Downtown Director reviewed that the City
purchased a rail trolley in 1999 for $37,000 and
has been stored in a city garage. The intention
was that the trolley would be used to bring people into downtown from parking lots located at
either end of the railway at such time as the railroad right-of-way was purchased. The purchased
was finalized in 2010 with DMB supporting it with an $80,000 contribution. The Downtown
Director also reviewed that in preparing the current CIP, City Council determined that there would
be no city managed funds available to operate the trolley, citing needs and priorities of public
safety equipment and pension responsibilities and Council deferred the trolley project to the DMB
if it were to be realized.
Approve Historic Trolley Consultant Funding
The DMB determined to investigate the trolley project at its meeting in February 2016
with the understanding that consideration would be given and a determination whether or not to
pursue the rail trolley project be made within one year. In March, City Council approved revisions
to the Greenway Corridor Master Plan which did not include parking along the corridor.
The Downtown Director prepared and sent out an RFP for a consultant that would
determine the feasibility and process for running the trolley at the request of the DMB. Proposals
were sent to three consultants and one bid was received from Stone Consulting in the amount of
$14,995. The Downtown Director recommended that the Board approve the proposal with funds
to come from the Parking Fund carry over.
The Downtown Director reviewed that Director of Parks and Recreation Al Hansen
reviewed proposal and found it reasonable and that the sections on the track inspection and ADA
might be negotiable; and that without the parking that had originally been included in the
Greenway Corridor Plan that the Board approach the trolley project as placemaking and not
parking management.
3
Board members expressed concern that if feasible the costs would be very high and the
disruption to traffic would be a nuisance; opposed that City Council removed parking from the plan
and that Council gave project to DMB with no support which puts the DMB in a bad situation; that
it is now time to receive solid information from a consultant on feasibility of trolley; that DMB was
deceived by City Council to contribute the $80,000 since the original deal included parking; heard
from those favoring to pass the project onto another organization since the town’s heritage was
the railroad and trains, not the trolley.
Upon motion made by Mr. Carlson, and seconded by Mr. Smith, to hire Stone
Consulting to complete the trolley feasibility study. Said motion was approved by the following
vote:
AYES: Bennett, Carlson, Reid, Rochon, Smith (5)
NAYS: Buck (1)
The Downtown Director reported that Stephen
Mullins, manager of Craig Ryan’s Fine Clothing,
expressed an interest in joining the Downtown
Events Committee. Mr. Reid moved that, seconded by Mr. Smith, to appoint Stephen Mullins to
the Events Committee. Said motion was unanimously approved as submitted.
Approve Committee Appointment
The Downtown Director reported on behalf of
the Events Committee and that surveys on
revising the event schedule had been distributed
and an article was written for the downtown newsletter; that the April Thirsty Thursday is
scheduled to be an open discussion; and that she plans to have a recommendation to the Board
by the June meeting for consideration in the budget process which begins in August.
Hear Committee Reports
The Promotions Coordinator reported that the Events Committee had two meetings to
discuss the “wish list” budget and schedule for 2017; that the Committee is working on Summer
Open House; that the Jaycees, who run the 4th of July celebration in Petoskey, reported that
Harbor Springs requested the game that determines who shoots the fireworks off first be played in
Harbor Springs this year; and that the Petoskey Rocks! schedule is almost finalized.
The Downtown Director reported on behalf of the Marketing Committee and that all ads
were sold in the shopping map; that the Committee decided to leave map layout the same and
updated the new brand; and that the Committee has been reviewing the event schedule.
In economic enhancement, the Downtown Director reported that Mottify Consulting is
hosting a business retention seminar at 10:00 A.M., Tuesday, April 26; that Leo’s sold and new
owners are from Charlevoix; that a new tenant signed for Spice Merchants location on Lake
Street; that MacProfessionals signed a new lease next to J Phillips; Lake Life signed a new lease
on Lake Street next to Items; Craig Bell purchased the Scattergood building and is opening Ciao
Bella! Patio; 7-11 is now the Mitchell Street Market; Tap 30 purchased the private parking lot and
the office and Bistro buildings; Dana Andrews purchased the Northwestern Bank building at the
corner of Lake and Howard; and commented on various buildings which are still for sale including
anchor buildings on some streets.
The Downtown Director reported on behalf of Parking and that reconstruction in the Elks
Lot is beginning; that the Committee discussed signage for pay stations; that revisions to the
meter bag policy, load and unloading policies were in process; that there are some ambassador
routes and enforcement issues; that dates for permits to expire are changing; looking at
Parkmobile and the relocation of a HC space; and that the new Chief Ambassador has made
great progress with software and sending out late notices on a regular basis.
4
The Downtown Director also reported that two car shows have contacted her for 2017
and will provide more details at a later date; that she participated on a panel speaking about
parking at the Plymouth MDA workshop; that the public art plan is tentatively planned to be
discussed at the May 16 City Council meeting; the newly formatted downtown newsletter will be
going out to merchants monthly instead of bi-monthly; and that she had been to the April 18 City
Council meeting and that a revised Brownfield plan for Bay Harbor had been discussed.
There being no further business to come before the Downtown Management Board, the meeting
was adjourned at 8:45 P.M.
5
Minutes
DOWNTOWN MANAGEMENT BOARD
June 15, 2016
A special meeting of the City of Petoskey Downtown Management Board was held in the City Hall
Community Room, Petoskey, Michigan, on Wednesday, June 15, 2016. The meeting was called
to order at 7:20 P.M., and the following were
Present:
Lawrence Rochon, Chairperson
Robin Bennett
Doug Buck
David Carlson
William J. Fraser, Mayor
S. Reginald Smith, Vice Chairperson
Absent:
James M. Reid, Jr., Jason Keiswetter and Jennifer Shorter
Also in attendance were the Downtown Director Becky Goodman, City Manager Robert Straebel,
Director of Parks and Recreation Allen Hansen, and City Councilmembers Kate Marshall, John
Murphy, Grant Dittmar and Jeremy Wills.
Harvey Stone, from Stone Consulting, Inc., gave
a presentation concerning the feasibility of
operating a trolley in downtown.
Mr. Stone
provided the Board with a report outlining three areas including regulatory oversight, training and
safety and inspections. Mr. Stone reviewed the history of the trolley car and tracks; that the rules
and regulations set forth by Great Lakes Central Railroad (GLCR), the Federal Railroad
Administration (FRA) and MDOT no longer apply to the track north of Emmet Street because they
don’t meet FRA standards; that training will be needed for an operator, flag person and track
inspector; that he inspected trolley car and track and both were in decent condition considering
age; reviewed operational costs and insurance requirements.
Hear Trolley Presentation
The consultant recommended having a test period in 2016 to see if trolley is operational
with everyday usage; that there is enough community support; that operations be tested on the
track from Winter Park to Bay Street only; and reviewed costs. Mr. Stone then reviewed a five
year operating budget beginning in 2017 if the trolley is supported, and that the annual budget
would approximately be $53,670; and that if enough interest the City could invest in capital needs
at a later date.
Lastly, Mr. Stone reported on some of the economic development opportunities other
communities have experienced with operating a trolley, and that the track in Pennsylvania Park is
a real asset and should remain as a tribute to the age of the railroads in Petoskey.
Board members inquired on various sections of the report and had concerns with liability
and regulations since the City would have authority and not the GLCR, FRA or MDOT.
The Downtown Management Board will fully discuss at a future DMB meeting and
recommend to City Council for further review.
There being no further business to come before the Downtown Management Board, the meeting
was adjourned at 8:45 P.M.
Downtown Management
Monthly Bills - April 2016
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
Business Retention Mottify Consulting/Fees
Business Retention Stafford's/Wake Up! Downtownt
Business Retention Stafford's/Mottify Consulting Seminar
DT Marketing
Atchison Paper/Welcome bags
DT Marketing
Traverse Mag/Vacation Guide
DT Marketing
Petoskey Band Boosters/Ad
DT Marketing
Adobe Photography Plan
DT Marketing
Adobe Creative Cloud ID
DT Marketing
Mail Chimp
DT Marketing
Adobe Photography Plan
Flowers
A.R. Pontius/spring urns
Gallery Walk
Amazon/raffle tickets
Summer Open House Charlie Millard/Entertainment
Winter Carnival
Stafford's/Ice carver lodging
TOTAL
PARKING FUND
Capital Outlay
Capital Outlay
Conferences&Memb.
Conferences&Memb.
Conferences&Memb.
Conferences&Memb.
Conferences&Memb.
Conferences&Memb.
Contracted Services
Contracted Services
Contracted Services
Contracted Services
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
Materials & Supplies
Materials & Supplies
Materials & Supplies
Materials & Supplies
Utilities
TOTAL
May 7, 2016
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
DT Assessment
Ritchie Construction/Elks Lot Stone Wall
Jim Hoffman's Sons/bushes, Darling Lot
Goodman/MDA workshop mileage
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
PRCC Registration/CWIB
MEDC/Registration Social Media workshop
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
PaisonCompari/Networking Dinner MDA
Inn at St. John's/MDA workshop hotel
Goodman/Mackinaw City consult mileage
LexisNexis/March contract
LexisNexis/April contract
Ben Sackrider/snow removal
Northwest Services/SW snow removal
Buffy Monahan/Office Cleaning
Van's/Toner
DTE Energy/Utilities
City of Petoskey/Utilities
Meijer/coffee
Integrity/supplies
Thru Glass/window cleaning
McCardel/water
Charter/cable, internet
Wm Thompson/rent, March and April
Wages
Meyer ACE/Batteries
Meyer ACE/ice melt
The Print Shop/envelopes
USPS/postage
AT&T/cell phones
TOTAL BILLS
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
500.00
228.11
217.71
160.93
2,130.00
450.00
10.59
21.19
40.00
10.59
84.50
87.89
300.00
65.49
4,307.00
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
17,100.00
2,790.00
284.04
15.00
20.00
61.94
153.60
110.16
50.00
50.00
903.10
1,256.00
75.00
765.79
160.64
62.58
5.99
68.76
25.00
31.50
102.56
1,422.40
13,775.94
1,622.40
2,744.00
109.00
141.00
336.21
44,242.61
$
48,549.61
Downtown Management
Monthly Bills - May 2016
June 11, 2016
PROGRAMS AND SERVICES
DT Marketing
C. Fossmo/mileage for delivering shop maps
DT Assessment
DT Marketing
Traverse Mag/June ad
DT Assessment
DT Marketing
Lake Street Media/photography
DT Assessment
Flowers
A.R.Pontius/Summer urns
DT Assessment
Flowers
GT Pie Co./Snacks for students
DT Assessment
Summer Open House City of Petoskey DMB/DT dollar vol. appreciatio DT Assessment
TOTAL
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
PARKING FUND
Capital Outlay
Contracted Services
Contracted Services
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
DT Office
Materials & Supplies
Materials & Supplies
Utilities
TOTAL
$ 45,775.00
$
1,860.00
$
50.00
$
50.25
$
143.86
$
25.00
$
711.20
$ 13,928.10
$
442.00
$
16.99
$
336.04
$ 63,338.44
Traffic & Safety Control Systems
Performance Painting/Painting
LexisNexis/contract
City of Petoskey/Utilities
DTE/utilities
Thru Glass/window cleaning
Wm Thompson/rent
Wages
The Print Shop/Courtesy Parking Notices
Meyer ACE/electric cord reel
AT&T/cell phones
TOTAL BILLS
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
Parking Fund
12.15
850.00
450.00
121.00
386.88
25.00
1,845.03
$ 65,183.47
PROGRAMS SERVICES
MONTHLY REPORT
April 2016
May 9, 2016
Carry Over $76,857
BUDGET
91,400.00
500.00
3,000.00
4,000.00
5,750.00
CURRENT
MONTH
0.00
252.99
0.00
0.00
2,000.00
YTD
91,400.00
1,691.74
0.00
0.00
0.00
LAST YTD
84,878.00
199.90
0.00
500.00
250.00
BUDGET
BALANCE
(1,191.74)
3,000.00
4,000.00
5,750.00
1,600.00
1,100.00
6,283.00
750.00
(4,683.00)
1,000.00
4,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
8,600.00
4,500.00
1,500.00
5,000.00
6,250.00
7,000.00
144,100.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
300.00
3,652.99
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
250.00
0.00
0.00
300.00
99,924.74
4,500.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
50.00
1,770.00
0.00
1,120.00
0.00
94,017.90
1,000.00
4,000.00
8,600.00
4,500.00
1,500.00
5,000.00
6,000.00
44,175.26
6,000.00
1,000.00
11,000.00
0.00
0.00
300.00
1,550.00
0.00
300.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
4,450.00
1,000.00
11,000.00
4,000.00
11,750.00
500.00
7,600.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
65.49
0.00
0.00
0.00
15,002.07
0.00
2,703.00
0.00
5,123.24
4,000.00
11,750.00
500.00
(7,402.07)
MOVEABLE FEAST
5,000.00
0.00
455.00
0.00
4,545.00
Collaborating Events
CONCERTS IN THE PARK
FOURTH OF JULY
FARMERS MARKET
SANTA'S VISIT
FESTIVAL ON THE BAY
RESTAURANT WEEK PLEDGE
4,000.00
1,000.00
500.00
200.00
1,500.00
500.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
800.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
4,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
4,000.00
200.00
500.00
200.00
1,500.00
500.00
REVENUES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
PENALTIES & INTEREST
INTEREST INCOME
HOLIDAY PARADE SPONSORS
PETOSKEY ROCKS SPONSORS/income
PAVB/sponsor ship $2000
WINTER CARNIVAL
NorthGoods/ice sculpture $200
CTAC/ice sculpture $200
Petoskey Pie/$200
Monarch/ice sculpture/$200
Stafford's/ice sculpture $100
Lake Affect/ice sculpture $100
MOVEABLE FEAST
TROLLEY
MARKETING & PROMOTIONS
Shop Map Ads
Gallery Walk
Ornaments
Haunted Halloween
Shopping Scramble
Holiday Catalog
Historic Markers & Tour
Mardi Paddy Gras
SUMMER OPEN HOUSE
TOTAL REVENUES
EXPENSES
Events
HOLIDAY PARADE
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
SUMMER OPEN HOUSE
Charlie Millard/Entertainment $300
SIDEWALK SALES
PETOSKEY ROCKS
DT TRICK OR TREAT
WINTER CARNIVAL
Stafford's/ice carver lodging $65.49
2.
EXPENSES
BUDGET
MARKETING
Image Campaign
PROGRAMS SERVICES
MONTHLY REPORT
April 2016
CURRENT
MONTH
YTD
May 9, 2016
LAST YTD
BUDGET
BALANCE
40,000.00
2,823.30
10,333.90
3,926.02
29,666.10
2,500.00
87.89
87.89
0.00
2,412.11
900.00
3,500.00
9,000.00
2,500.00
4,000.00
-
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
800.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
3,245.94
0.00
900.00
3,500.00
9,000.00
1,700.00
4,000.00
-
500.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
500.00
1,500.00
945.82
945.82
30.38
554.18
0.00
0.00
0.00
-
0.00
0.00
0.00
84.50
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
84.50
13.75
-
0.00
0.00
0.00
-
500.00
100.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
500.00
100.00
TOTAL
140,650.00
4,307.00
30,359.18
19,042.33
110,290.82
Excess of Revenues Over Expenses
3,450.00
-654.01
69,565.56
74,975.57
(66,115.56)
Atchison Paper/Welcome Bags $160.93
Traverse Mag/Vacation Guide $2130
Petoskey Band Boosters/Ad $450
Adobe/Photography Plan $10.59
Adobe/Creative Cloud ID $21.19
Mail Chimp/monthly fee $40
Adobe/Photography Plan $10.59
Gallery Walk
Amazon/raffle tickets $87.89
Ornaments
Shopping Scramble
Shop Map
Holiday Catalog
Haunted Halloween
Ladies Opening Night
Mardi Paddy Gras
Other
Economic Enhancement
BUSINESS RECRUITMENT
BUSINESS RETENTION
-
Mottify/Consulting Fees $500
Stafford's/Wake Up! DT $228.11
Stafford's/Mottify Consulting Seminar $217.71
TROLLEY
-
Beautification
HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
FALL DECORATIONS
PUBLIC ART
FLOWERS
8,000.00
600.00
500.00
12,000.00
8,000.00
600.00
500.00
11,915.50
A.R. Pontius/Spring Urns $84.50
CAPITAL OUTLAY
Administrative
INSURANCE AND BONDS
OTHER
2.
Downtown Parking Fund
April 2016
May 9, 2016
Carry Over Amount $636,711
Budget
Current
Month
YTD
Last
YTD
Budget
Balance
REVENUES
Meters
fines
Permits
Bags
Tokens
Interest
Meter Sponsorships
Cell Phone Parking
Total Parking Revenue
315,500.00
67,000.00
30,000.00
6,000.00
2,800.00
400.00
2,000.00
32,000.00
455,700.00
15,561.72
8,210.80
2,785.00
583.00
85.00
38.15
0.00
1,519.26
28,782.93
73,750.39
37,100.35
18,476.32
1,983.00
620.00
58.27
200.00
5,712.65
137,900.98
72,129.27
14,976.89
6,210.23
677.00
920.00
10.02
700.00
8,405.72
104,029.13
241,749.61
52,023.11
11,523.68
4,017.00
2,180.00
341.73
1,800.00
26,287.35
339,922.48
EXPENSES
ADMINISTRATIVE FEES
CAPITAL OUTLAY
18,000.00
148,500.00
0.00
19,890.00
0.00
19,890.00
0.00
4,277.00
18,000.00
128,610.00
5,000.00
644.24
829.24
4,115.39
4,170.76
75,000.00
2,259.00
35,033.25
41,772.71
39,966.75
198,000.00
16,496.76
68,939.86
53,833.91
129,060.14
1,000.00
20,000.00
10,000.00
0.00
0.00
4616.40
291.38
95.08
7,598.24
446.71
21.60
3,210.03
708.62
19,904.92
2,401.76
500.00
1,000.00
5,000.00
1,500.00
3,600.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
336.21
47.04
188.35
0.00
0.00
1004.63
0.00
94.00
0.00
894.41
452.96
811.65
5,000.00
1,500.00
2,595.37
1,000.00
0.00
15.99
0.00
984.01
488,100.00
44,242.61
133,933.06
108,665.76
354,166.94
(15,459.68)
3,967.92
(4,636.63)
itchie Construction/Elks Lot Stone Wall $17,100
Jim Hoffman's Sons/bushes, Darling Lot $2,790
CONFERENCES AND MEMBERSHIPS
Goodman/MDA workshop mileage $284.04
PRCC Registration/CWIB $15
MEDC/Registration Social Media Workshop $20
PaisonCompari/Networking Dinner MDA $61.94
Inn at St. John's/MDA workshop hotel $153.00
odman/Mackinaw City Consult mileage $110.16
CONTRACTED SERVICES
LexisNexis/march contract $50
Lexis Nexis/April contract $50
Ben Sackrider/snow removal $903
Northwest Services/SW snow removal $1,256
DOWNTOWN OFFICE
Buffy Monahan/cleaning $75
Van's/Toner 765.79
DTE Enerby/Utilities $160.64
City of Petoskey/Utilities $62.58
Meijer/coffee $5.99
Integrity/supplies $68.76
Thru Glass/window cleaning $25
McCardel/water $31.50
Charter/cable, internet $102.56
Wm Thompson, Rent, March and April $1,422.40
Wages $13,775.94
EQUIPMENT REPAIR
FAÇADE GRANT
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
Meyer ACE/batteries $1,622.40
Meyer ACE/ice melt $2744
The Print Shop/envelopes $109
USPS/Postage $141
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
SIGNS
TROLLEY
UNIFORMS
UTILITIES
AT&T/cell phones $336,21
OTHER
TOTAL EXPENSES
NET
(32,400.00)
(14,244.46)
PROGRAMS SERVICES
MONTHLY REPORT
May 2016
June 11, 2016
Carry Over $76,857
REVENUES
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS
PENALTIES & INTEREST
INTEREST INCOME
HOLIDAY PARADE SPONSORS
PETOSKEY ROCKS SPONSORS/income
BUDGET
91,400.00
500.00
3,000.00
4,000.00
5,750.00
CURRENT
MONTH
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
YTD
91,400.00
1,691.74
38.15
0.00
0.00
LAST YTD
84,878.00
2,166.22
0.00
500.00
250.00
BUDGET
BALANCE
(1,191.74)
2,961.85
4,000.00
5,750.00
1,600.00
500.00
6,783.00
750.00
(5,183.00)
1,000.00
4,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
8,600.00
4,500.00
1,500.00
5,000.00
6,250.00
7,000.00
144,100.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
500.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
250.00
0.00
0.00
300.00
100,924.74
4,500.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
50.00
1,895.00
0.00
1,889.70
0.00
96,878.92
1,000.00
4,000.00
8,600.00
4,500.00
1,500.00
5,000.00
6,000.00
43,175.26
6,000.00
1,000.00
11,000.00
0.00
0.00
25.00
1,550.00
0.00
325.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
4,450.00
1,000.00
11,000.00
4,000.00
11,750.00
500.00
7,600.00
5,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
15,002.07
455.00
0.00
2,932.99
0.00
5,123.24
0.00
4,000.00
11,750.00
500.00
(7,402.07)
4,545.00
4,000.00
1,000.00
500.00
200.00
1,500.00
500.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
4,000.00
800.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
4,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1,500.00
500.00
200.00
500.00
200.00
1,500.00
500.00
PAVB/sponsor ship $2000
WINTER CARNIVAL
Ice Sculpture fees/$500
MOVEABLE FEAST
TROLLEY
MARKETING & PROMOTIONS
Shop Map Ads
Gallery Walk
Ornaments
Haunted Halloween
Shopping Scramble
Holiday Catalog
Historic Markers & Tour
Mardi Paddy Gras
SUMMER OPEN HOUSE
TOTAL REVENUES
EXPENSES
Events
HOLIDAY PARADE
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
SUMMER OPEN HOUSE
City of Petoskey DMB/DT Dollars vol appreciation
SIDEWALK SALES
PETOSKEY ROCKS
DT TRICK OR TREAT
WINTER CARNIVAL
MOVEABLE FEAST
Collaborating Events
CONCERTS IN THE PARK
FOURTH OF JULY
FARMERS MARKET
SANTA'S VISIT
FESTIVAL ON THE BAY
RESTAURANT WEEK PLEDGE
2.
EXPENSES
BUDGET
MARKETING
Image Campaign
PROGRAMS SERVICES
MONTHLY REPORT
May 2016
CURRENT
MONTH
YTD
June 11, 2016
LAST YTD
BUDGET
BALANCE
40,000.00
1,300.00
11,633.90
19,692.03
28,366.10
2,500.00
900.00
3,500.00
9,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
12.15
87.89
0.00
0.00
12.15
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
2,412.11
900.00
3,500.00
8,987.85
2,500.00
4,000.00
-
0.00
0.00
0.00
800.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
3,245.94
0.00
1,700.00
4,000.00
-
500.00
1,500.00
-
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
945.82
0.00
0.00
258.49
0.00
500.00
554.18
-
8,000.00
600.00
500.00
12,000.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
507.88
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
593.38
6,090.38
8,000.00
600.00
500.00
11,406.62
-
0.00
0.00
0.00
500.00
100.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
12,970.00
500.00
100.00
TOTAL
140,650.00
1,845.03
36,205.21
56,313.07
104,444.79
Excess of Revenues Over Expenses
3,450.00
-1,345.03
64,719.53
40,565.85
(61,269.53)
Traverse Mag/June Ad $850
Lake Street Media/photography $450
Gallery Walk
Ornaments
Shopping Scramble
Shop Map
C. Fossmo/mileage for map delivery $12.15
Holiday Catalog
Haunted Halloween
Ladies Opening Night
Mardi Paddy Gras
Other
Economic Enhancement
BUSINESS RECRUITMENT
BUSINESS RETENTION
TROLLEY
Beautification
HOLIDAY DECORATIONS
FALL DECORATIONS
PUBLIC ART
FLOWERS
-
A. R. Pontius/summer urns $121
GT Pi Co./snacks for students $386.88
CAPITAL OUTLAY
Administrative
INSURANCE AND BONDS
OTHER
-
2.
Downtown Parking Fund
May 2016
June 11, 2016
Carry Over Amount $636,711
Budget
Current
Month
YTD
Last
YTD
Budget
Balance
REVENUES
Meters
fines
Permits
Bags
Tokens
Interest
Meter Sponsorships
Cell Phone Parking
Total Parking Revenue
315,500.00
67,000.00
30,000.00
6,000.00
2,800.00
400.00
2,000.00
32,000.00
455,700.00
36,717.87
13,266.46
2,128.00
355.00
185.00
38.49
0.00
1,404.75
54,095.57
110,468.26
50,366.81
20,604.32
2,338.00
805.00
96.76
200.00
7,117.40
191,996.55
95,235.46
20,997.54
9,632.71
1,042.13
1,350.00
11.47
700.00
10,997.73
139,967.04
EXPENSES
ADMINISTRATIVE FEES
CAPITAL OUTLAY
18,000.00
148,500.00
0.00
45,775.00
0.00
65,665.00
0.00
9,597.00
75,000.00
1,910.00
36,943.25
47,924.91
38,056.75
5,000.00
198,000.00
644.24
14,858.41
829.24
83,798.27
4,115.39
68,607.53
4,170.76
114,201.73
1,000.00
20,000.00
10,000.00
0.00
0.00
458.99
291.38
95.08
8,057.23
446.71
969.50
3,500.02
708.62
19,904.92
1,942.77
500.00
1,000.00
5,000.00
1,500.00
3,600.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
336.04
47.04
188.35
0.00
0.00
1340.67
0.00
94.00
173.92
1,118.05
452.96
811.65
5,000.00
1,500.00
2,259.33
1,000.00
0.00
15.99
0.00
984.01
488,100.00
63,982.68
198,100.74
(32,400.00)
(9,887.11)
(6,104.19)
205,031.74
46,002.46
9,395.68
3,662.00
1,995.00
303.24
1,800.00
24,882.60
293,072.72
18,000.00
82,835.00
Traffic & Safety Control Systems $45,775
CONTRACTED SERVICES
LexisNexis/contract $50
Performance Painging/Painting $1,860
CONFERENCES AND MEMBERSHIPS
DOWNTOWN OFFICE
City of Petoskey/Utilities $50.25
DTE/utilities $143.86
Thru Glass/Window Cleaning $25
Wm Thompson/rent $711.20
Wages $13,928.10
EQUIPMENT REPAIR
FAÇADE GRANT
MATERIALS AND SUPPLIES
The Print Shop/courtesy notices $442
Meyer ACE/electric cord reel $16.99
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
SIGNS
TROLLEY
UNIFORMS
UTILITIES
AT&T/cell phones $336,04
OTHER
TOTAL EXPENSES
NET
140,662.42
(695.38)
289,999.26
3,073.46
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Downtown Management Board
FROM:
Becky Goodman
DATE:
June 6, 2016
RE:
Discussion and Possible Action to Approve or Deny Beginning Operation of the
Rail Trolley
Background. The City of Petoskey purchased a rail trolley in 1999 for $37,000. That trolley has
been safely stored in a City garage since that time. The intention has always been that the
trolley would be used to bring people into Downtown from parking lots located at either end of
the railway at such time as the railroad right of way was purchased. That purchase was
finalized in 2010 with the DMB supporting it with a contribution of $80,000. Since that time, City
staff have invested many hours investigating the many layers of regulations that will be involved
to operate the trolley on the tracks without finalizing a strategy.
In preparing the current Capital Improvement Plan, City Council determined that there would be
no City managed funds available to operate the trolley, citing needs and priorities of public
safety equipment and pension responsibilities. Council deferred the trolley project to the DMB if
it were to be realized. The DMB determined to investigate the trolley project at its meeting in
February 2016 with the understanding that consideration would be given and a determination of
whether or not to pursue the rail trolley project be made within one year.
In March of this year, Council approved revisions to the Greenway Corridor Master Plan that did
not include parking along the corridor.
At the request of the DMB, staff prepared and sent out an RFP for a consultant that would
determine the feasibility and process for running the trolley that is owned by the City on the City
owned tracks as a placemaking initiative. A proposal from Stone Consulting, was accepted at
the April 2016 meeting. Stone Consulting visited Petoskey and prepared a public presentation
that was given at a joint meeting of the DMB and the City Council. A final report is attached to
this memo.
Action. The DMB should discuss the final report from Stone Consulting for the purpose of
determining if they want to recommend operation of the trolley to City Council. Likely the most
challenging facet of the plan is the cost. If the DMB believes that running the trolley would be
advantageous to Downtown, there are potential ways to decrease that cost. The first would be
to cut the hours and run it on fewer days. The second would be to crowdfund for the money
through the MEDC’s Patronicity Crowd Granting program. You can read more about this
program at patronicity.com.
Recommendation. Before the end of the summer we will be receiving a report from Walker
Parking that will give us costs to build a parking structure. We also will be looking at the
potential of increased expenses in our event schedule. It is the recommendation of staff that the
trolley project not be completely abandoned but that the event and parking information be
received and built into the budget before funds are committed to running the trolley. If it turns
out that there is room in the budget or that other operating funds become available, we could
recommend to have the trial period occur in 2017.
Please call me if you have questions or concerns.
Feasibility Report for
the Petoskey Trolley
Prepared for Petoskey Downtown
June 15, 2016
Prepared by:
Stone Consulting, Inc.
324 Pennsylvania Avenue West
P.O. Box 306
Warren PA 16365
(814) 726-9870 tel (814) 726-9855 fax
www.stoneconsulting.com
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
INTRODUCTION
Stone Consulting, Inc. was retained by Petoskey Downtown to review the downtown
trolley project and make a determination of what is required for Petoskey Downtown to
operate the trolley. Specifically, the project was divided into three main areas:
1. Who has regulatory oversight?
2. What type of training is required?
3. Is the streetcar safe and what inspections are required, is safety signing adequate
or do changes need to be made?
HISTORY OF THE TROLLEY CAR
This car is one of four gasoline engine two-axle cars built by Wm. H. Ziegler Company
(now ZieglerCAT) of Bloomington, Minnesota. The cars were originally built for the
Valley Fair Amusement Park in Shakopee, Minnesota. They didn't work out well at
Valley Fair and two of them went to the Minnesota Transportation Museum around
1996 to run on the Excelsior Streetcar Line which was being built at that time. The
other Valley Fair cars went to Stillwater, Minnesota. The Stillwater cars were to be used
as a shuttle between the Minnesota Zephyr dinner train's depot on the north end of
Stillwater and the "downtown" area of Stillwater, about a half-mile run, thus the "St.
Croix & Stillwater Valley Transit Co." name on the car. To the best of our knowledge,
they were never actually used for that purpose.
HISTORY OF THE TRACK
The Grand Rapids & Indiana Railroad (GR&I) was organized in 1854 and successively
built north out of Cincinnati, Ohio towards the Straits of Mackinac. The line between
Paris, MI and Petoskey, MI was completed on November 25, 1873. The railroad was
opened to Mackinaw City, MI and the Straits of Mackinac on July 3, 1882. The total
length of the line at this time was 529 miles.
The major business in Northern Michigan at the time was timber and passenger service
related to tourism. By the early 1900's the timber had largely been depleted and
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
passenger revenues were not supporting operating costs. The GR&I was sold to the
Pennsylvania Railroad incorporating it into a larger system in 1918. In 1968 the Penn
Central took over operation of the bankrupt Pennsylvania Railroad and itself entered
bankruptcy in June 1970.
Due to the unprofitable nature of rail freight in Northern Michigan in the 1970's the
State of Michigan stepped in and purchased many light density lines in an effort to
preserve rail service. Many lines in the area including the line into Petoskey were part of
the MDOT line purchases.
The Great Lakes Central (GLC) is the current operator into Emmet County with freight
service being operated on the south edge of town and the City having bought the
northern mile plus of railroad of which only .6 miles of track through town to the former
PRR (GR&I) passenger depot opposite the Perry Hotel still remains.
WHO WILL HAVE REGULATORY OVERSIGHT FOR THE TROLLEY
The answer to this question is not an easy one. According to a letter from Chris Bagwell,
General Manager of the Great Lakes Central Railroad dated February 26, 2016, they
determined that the track north of Emmet Street that is owned by the City of Petoskey
no longer meets FRA standards and that they will be severing the track from the general
system by removing two sticks of rail south of Emmet Street.
Once the rail has been severed, it is the opinion of the GLC that the Petoskey owned
track will no longer fall in the general railroad system and therefore the rules and
regulations set forth by GLC, Michigan DOT Rail Division and the Federal Railroad
Administration (FRA) will no longer apply to that track.
Generally, the FRA takes jurisdiction for any track that has active grade crossings (noninsular) regardless of whether or not it is connected to the general railroading system. A
document that is available at the following web site http://utu.org/worksite/PDFs/safetylawsummary/FRA_lightrail_operations.pdf
and was prepared by the FRA (49CFR Part 209 Appendix A) states in part;
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Urban Rapid Transit Operations
One type of short-haul passenger service requires special treatment under
the safety statutes: “rapid transit operations in an urban area.”
Only these
operations are excluded from FRA’s jurisdiction, and only if they are “not
connected to the general railroad system.” . . . . . . . . . . It goes on to state “the
kinds of vehicles ordinarily associated with street railways, trolleys, subways and
elevated railways are the types of vehicles most often used for urban rapid transit
operations.”
There are many trolley operations in cities and towns throughout the US and the FRA
has declined to take jurisdiction for these operations. It is our opinion that once the
track is severed and if a trolley is operated on the remaining track, it will not be under
the jurisdiction of the FRA.
To try to clarify if Michigan DOT Rail Division would have oversight on the severed
track section, City Manager Robert Straebel and Director of Parks and Recreation Al
Hansen contacted Daniel Harris, the State Safety Oversight Manager to request a
determination. We spoke with Mr. Harris and he is of the opinion that if the FRA does
not have jurisdiction (and he would want to see a letter from FRA to that effect), he
might have jurisdiction depending upon the funding used to purchase the track by the
City. Regardless of who has jurisdiction, we are recommending that the first year will be
a shake-down period with no passenger service on a piece of track that does not include
any road crossings (insular track). If that is successful, then we are recommending a
second year where it will be considered a demonstration period where Petoskey
Downtown can determine if the trolley adds a positive benefit to the downtown and if it
is worth perpetuating the service on a yearly basis.
Mr. Harris suggested that as an absolute minimum, the City have a letter from any
municipal body that owns the roads that would be crossed by the trolley, agreeing to the
use of the crossing for the trolley operations. The City owns most of the roads so a
resolution from the city would be in order. Mitchell Street might require permission
from the county or the state depending upon who has jurisdiction.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 4
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
TRAINING
In most of the communities where streetcars are operated, they are operated by
qualified bus drivers. Little Rock, Kenosha and Tampa are all examples of this. The
operator is required (by the operating entity) to have a CDL license in good standing and
meet all of the requirements, including drug testing. The operator should also be
familiar with the trolley equipment and be able to perform the safety check required
before each day’s runs.
The flag person will be required to undergo training as required by the operating entity
and be familiar with the operating requirements of the trolley. Generally, the training is
similar to that for a school crossing guard. They will need to be physically capable of
getting on and off the trolley at each intersection and flagging it across the intersections.
At the very least, a reflective safety vest will be necessary for the flag person.
A track inspector will be required but it may be the operator or the flagging person can
be qualified. They should be familiar with the track and know what to look for in the
way of track defects that might require shutting down the trolley operation until a defect
that has been found is corrected. As the trolley will not fall under the track safety
standards of the FRA, the operating entity will have to establish the inspection protocol.
The three safety items that will be looked for are tight joints and joint bolts, no breaks in
the rail and proper gage for the track.
SAFETY INSPECTION OF TROLLEY CAR AND TRACK
The trolley car was viewed by representatives of Stone Consulting, Inc. in the storage
facility at the City of Petoskey Public Works garage. The car appears to be in better
condition than was expected given its age. The body appears to be in excellent condition
as is the roof canopy. The car was not started up so we cannot issue an opinion on the
engine or running gear.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 5
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
The car is equipped with operating controls at both ends of the car. There is a throttle,
brake and kill switch at each end. It does not have tail lights or warning lights, just a
headlight and an overhead light in the canopy for night running. Before it is put into
regular service it will be necessary to install tail lights at each end and some type of
warning strobe light to aid drivers in spotting the car as it crosses the street. Brakes will
need to be checked and tested and the operator should become familiar with the
equipment. It was also noted that the step into the trolley is very high off the ground.
Initially, the driver should have a step stool to be used for boarding passengers. If it is
decided to modify the car for ADA accessibility, an additional hinged step can be added
at each corner of the vehicle to reduce the height of the first step for boarding and
disembarking.
A check list should be developed for the operator with a list of things that should be
checked each morning when starting up the trolley.
Crossing signs were inspected. The cross-bucks are the correct size and the correct
height. Some of the cross-buck signs are somewhat further from the track than the ±15’
that is shown in the MUTCD. All of the cross-buck signs lack a 2” wide white reflecting
tape on the pole beneath the sign. Reflecting tape should be added to each sign post
from 2’ above the ground to just below the center of the cross-bucks.
Pavement
markings are missing at all of the grade crossings and depending upon the requirements
of Table 2C-4, the advance signs may need to be relocated.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 7
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Although the requirement for marking the grade crossings is one the City is responsible
for and has been while the track has been in service, it will be important to get the
streets painted where the trolley will be using the crossings.
That should not be
necessary until 2017 at the earliest.
INSURANCE
The most cost effective way to acquire the insurance for general liability as well as
damage is to obtain a rider to the City’s insurance. If it is necessary for the Petoskey
Downtown to obtain the insurance on their own, it will cost in excess of $10,000 per
year for minimal general liability insurance. We highly recommend that the insurance
be procured through the city. We have included recommendations by the city’s insurer
in the safety plan.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Before any new transportation system starts up, a shakedown period is scheduled for
operator training, making sure the infrastructure is properly installed and to make sure
the vehicle will perform as it is required to.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 8
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
We have inspected the track and found it to be adequate for the proposed service, but it
is important to take the time to train the operator and at the same time make sure that
the trolley will perform as required and be dependable.
This car has not been used in regular service for many years and just starting it up and
moving it back and forth is not an indication of how it will perform in regular service.
It is our recommendation that the car be moved from the DPW garage to the track
behind the former depot and an operator be engaged to operate the car for at least four
weeks on that section of track. The track is about 800’ in length and it has no road
crossings. No flag person will be required for the test period and that will be an
adequate test to determine if the car can be depended upon to run a regular schedule for
the following summer. We have prepared a budget for operating the car over a 4-week
period this summer. It will also be interesting to see what type of interest the car
generates while being tested on the track from Winter Park to Bay Street.
We have discussed tourist volumes with the Visitor’s Bureau. We believe that the car
should not be expected to run 7 days per week during the peak tourist season as it will
need a day a week to be serviced, and it is their recommendation that we shut down the
car on Tuesday’s as that is the slowest day of the week from a tourist standpoint during
the summer. We have prepared an operating budget for years 2 – 5 if it is decided to
run the car on a regular basis after the shakedown shows that the car is dependable or
that it can be repaired to be dependable.
Our recommendation is that for regular operations the car runs from Winter Park to
Mitchell Street behind the Chamber of Commerce building. There is no pressing reason
to go any further south and it avoids crossing the double intersection at JC Penney. The
car can be housed in the future, permanently, at some location between Grove and
Emmet Streets but that would only require a move across those intersections twice a day
instead of at every run.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 9
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
If the trolley operation proves to be a viable use of funds for the Petoskey Downtown,
then additional improvements can be made and they are budgeted for the third year
with proposed 5 year financing.
They include upgrading the track, adding ADA
accessibility to the car, repainting the car, changing the lettering and installing a
building over the end of the track for storage and security. That work should all be done
in the third year once the decision has been made to continue the operation. To keep
costs down we are recommending that a pole building be erected over the existing track,
that way no additional switches or track is needed and costs are kept to a minimum.
We are also concerned about the replacement of the ties.
Our costs include the
replacement of every third tie between Bay and E. Lake Streets and then between E.
Lake Street and Mitchell Street. All of the track in this area is embedded in the ground
with no ballast or adequate drainage.
That will cause standard hardwood ties to
deteriorate at a much faster rate than if they were in ballasted track. To improve the
longevity of the ties, we are recommending that composite ties be used instead of wood.
They are made from recycled materials and will last a lot longer than wood ties in this
environment. Cost for these ties is about $30 per tie more than timber, and we have
costed out the tie replacement projects accordingly in the budget.
WHY DO IT AT ALL???
Admittedly, we are biased towards the use of trolley cars. History now shows that a
trolley on rails is a much bigger draw than a trolley or bus on rubber tires. People
generally will not seek out a bus just to take a ride. They will seek out a trolley car if it is
available. It does not matter that it does not go anywhere, the important thing is that it
goes on the rails and you know you will get back to where you started from.
We don’t believe that a trolley car in Petoskey running back and forth through
Pennsylvania Park will draw crowds of people that would not otherwise visit Petoskey,
but people will be attracted to the trolley car and ride it just because it is there. There is
not another trolley car in the area. It is something special to do and to talk about. Word
will get around and yes, some people will come to Petoskey just because it is there.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 10
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
The trolley car can also be rented out for weddings and other receptions where people
will think it is cool to have an old time trolley car on rails for photo opportunities or just
to give their guests rides. Although not a major source of income, it can help defray the
operating cost of the trolley.
A WORD ABOUT THE TRACK
There has been some discussion that if the trolley car is not used, the track should be
removed. Communities all around the country have decided to remove their track from
parks and other areas to make it easier to mow or to insure that a train will never come
back. Many years after the track is removed, the communities regret the loss of their
history as well as their ability to bring back the track for a new industry or tourism.
Once the track is gone, it will never come back. Parks such as the Highline Park in New
York City celebrate the passing of the railroads and reconstruct sections of track to give
the feeling that a railroad was there.
Here in Petoskey you have a unique park. Pennsylvania Park celebrates the passing of
the railroad and whether the trolley runs or not, the track is a real reminder of why the
park is there. We don’t know what is coming in the future or what regrets future
residents of Petoskey may have about the passing of the railroad, but we think that the
track in Pennsylvania Park is a real asset and should remain as a tribute to the age of the
railroads.
Respectfully submitted,
Harvey H. Stone, P.E.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 11
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Attachment 1
Budget
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 12
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Petoskey Trolley Car
5 Year Budget
1st Year Mid July to Labor Day
Engine Repairs
Move Trolley to and from Track
Signs and Pavement Marking
8 hrs, 5days, 4 weeks
Operator hours 160
Flag person
Trolley Operating Costs $10/hr
Uniforms
Administration
Insurance
2nd Year June to September
Engine Repairs
Move Trolley to and from Track
ADA compliance
Refurbish and Paint
Pavement Marking
Labor
Operator 594+59=653 hours
Flag Person 653 hours
Trolley Operating Costs $10/hr
Uniforms
Administration
Insurance
3rd Year
Design of Car Storage Facility
ADA compliance
Refurbish and Paint
Car Storage Facility 20x40x$40
Tie Replacement Bay to E. Lake
Tie Replacement East Lake to Mitchel
Engine Repairs
Move Trolley to Track
Pavement Marking
Labor
Operator 653 hours
Flag Person 653 hours
Trolley Operating Costs $11/hr
Uniforms
Administration
Insurance
1,500
4,000
0
2,640
0
1,600
0
500
0
$10,240
2,500
4,000
0
0
250
10,775
8,163
6,530
800
2,000
3,000
$38,017
5000
8,500
8,000
32,000
17,000
17,000
1,500
2,000
250
4th Year
Engine Repairs
Pavement Marking
Labor
Operator 653 hours
Flag Person 653 hours
Trolley Operating Costs $11/hr
Uniforms
Administration
Insurance
Capital Loan
Total
5th Year
Engine Repairs
Pavement Marking
Labor
Operator 653 hours
Flag Person 653 hours
Trolley Operating Costs $11/hr
Uniforms
Administration
Insurance
Capital Loan
Total
1,500
250
10,775
8,163
7,183
800
2,000
3,000
$33,670
$20,000
$53,670
1,500
250
10,775
8,163
7,183
800
2,000
3,000
$33,670
$20,000
$53,670
10,775
8,163
7,183
800
2,000
3,000
$123,170
Take Capital Loan for $87,500 to pay over 5 yeears
Would be about $20,000 per year.
-$87,500
Total
$35,670
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 13
Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Attachment 2 – Safety Plan
Petoskey Trolley
Operational Safety Plan
Safety & Training
Safety is the most important function of the job.
All personnel involved with the trolley operation will be under the jurisdiction and must
comply with all rules and regulations of City and Municipal policy and hiring practices
including pre-employment screening and drug & alcohol random testing.
Trolley Operator (Bus Driver)
The Trolley Operator will be responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the rail
trolley. The employee will be trained in the operation of the vehicle by an approved
supervisor or designated trainer.
No one who is not authorized, trained and certified will be permitted to operate the
vehicle.
Each day before operations begin, the operator will do a thorough safety check to make
sure the following are in good order:
 Safety Hand Holds
 Seats
 Aisle free of trash or obstructions
 All lights are in working order
 Warning horn and or bell is operative
 Wheels show no abnormal wear pattern
 Fuel and Lube Oil Levels are adequate
 Nothing is loose or dragging under the car
 No fluid leaks are visible
 Normal service and maintenance dates are in compliance
 Fire extinguisher and first aid kits are in proper order
After starting the vehicle it must be ascertained that:
 The vehicle properly takes forward and reverse power
 The vehicle when moved will stop properly (brake check)
 Any parking brake applied is properly functioning and or the car can be properly
secured
While operating the car in service, written note must be made of any safety or
operational functions not compliant and properly reported. The car must not remain in
service if there is any question as to the safety of the car in any way that could injure the
operator, flagman, or general public. A signed and dated post trip inspection report
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
must be made and filed noting any defects, and if there are none, “No defects noted”
must be entered.
The operator must not move the car either in the forward direction or reverse direction
unless the way is known to be clear of any and all obstructions, vehicles or persons. A
warning bell or horn must be annunciated prior to initiating all movements in any
direction. This also includes making sure no one is under the car.
Operators must carefully and gently stop and start the car in order to give a smooth ride
and avoid injury to riders.
Operator must not attempt to move the car while persons are boarding
The operator will not allow riders who are visibly intoxicated to board the car, and any
riders noted to be intoxicated will be put off at the next stop.
If taking leave of the car for any reason, or any length of time, the operator must
ascertain that the car is secure in that no unauthorized person or persons can move it by
manipulating the controls and the car is securely parked in that it cannot roll free.
Operators will be tested by a supervisor at least once every 30 days or more often if
called for under the rules of the governing body of which the employee operates under.
The supervisor will keep a copy of this test and retain it on record. Any deficiencies will
be brought to the attention of the operator for remediation.
A written safety test will be devised and administered by the governing department with
the employee needing a passing grade of 90% in order to stay proficient. This test will be
given at a cycle not to exceed 360 days.
Operator will sound horn / bell at all highway crossings and upon approaching all
station stops.
Operator will be responsible for the on-board safety of all riders and any rider not
obeying the operator’s instructions will be discharged at the next station.
In case of emergency, the operator will comply with the emergency communication
protocol of the governing agency by cell phone, radio or other means provided.
During the course of the day, the operator will monitor and observe the condition of the
track structure and any deviations, deficiencies or concerns will be reported to the
supervisor. If there is doubt as to the safety of any deficiency, the safe course must be
taken and the operation ceased until it can be determined safe to resume and / or the
deficiency is repaired. Observation is to include the normal gage of the rails, joint bolts
and joint bars in place, rails not broken or debris fouling the track or flangeways.
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Flagman
A flagman will be assigned to ride with the operator and flag all public highway grade
crossings. If no riding flagman is assigned to the car, a qualified ground flagman or
police officer can be substituted as needed.
The flagman will dismount the vehicle upon the operator stopping prior to fouling the
grade crossing. The flagman will carry a red / orange flag and wear a Hi-Viz vest
compliant with City “Hi-Viz” specifications. After determining that highway and
pedestrian traffic is stopped, he will communicate to the operator to move the car
through the intersection while at all times remaining vigilant to traffic and pedestrians.
After the vehicle is safely across the flagman will remount the vehicle and continue to
the next crossing. No riders will be allowed to board or dismount while the car is
crossing a public street during the flagging operation.
Each day the operator and flagman will hold a job briefing with their supervisor to go
over the proposed operation for the day. Each will verify they understand the operation,
and anomalies and the nature of their job and duties. Any safety concerns discussed will
be resolved or mitigated before the operation commences.
The flagman will assist the operator as needed in functions related to safety of the
general public and vehicle riders. The flagman is not permitted to operate or take
control of the vehicle unless also qualified as an operator. If the flagman is a volunteer,
all applicable screenings, rules, regulations and policies shall apply as if the volunteer
was an employee. Flag persons shall have training and guidance in proper traffic
flagging and safety operations by the DPW or equivalent department prior to and or
during their qualification period.
Track Inspector
The track inspector will also report to the trolley supervisor and be required to inspect
the track a minimum of once each 7 days. The inspector will look for defects that would
compromise the safety of the operation. This may include but not be limited to:
 Damaged track by highway vehicles or storms
 Debris on track
 Wide gage; greater than 57-1/2 inches
 Broken rails
 Center broken joint bars
 Broken, missing or loose bolts
 Ties worn so as to not support the track structure under the weight of the car,
hold gage or maintain structural integrity
 Missing or damaged signage
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Trolley Mechanic
Once every 30 days, or less as required a qualified mechanic will perform a safety
inspection on the car to verify:
 The vehicle operates as intended; starts, stops and can be properly secured.
 All lights and warning devices such as horns, bells or other indicators work
 Fluid levels are topped off and no abnormal leaks are occurring.
 The cooling system is properly operating and if cold weather is approaching it is
either drained or has anti-freeze so as to not freeze damage the engine or cooling
system.
 Oil changes are made at the proper time intervals according to manufactures
recommendations
 Oil is not showing contamination
 All hoses and belts are in good working order
 All filter changeouts are not overdue
 All safety handholds are in place and secure
 Steps are secure and safe to use
 The operator controls respond properly and nothing is “rigged” or otherwise
modified to bypass normal operation.
 Wheels and suspension parts are in good order and wheel flanges are not getting
thin or sharp due to wear.
 Wheels are in-line and properly in tram with no wheel or axle bearing defects
 All defects written up by the operator in his post trip report have been reviewed
and repairs signed off.
Trolley Safety Equipment
The safety equipment of the trolley shall at a minimum consist of:
 A radio or cell phone to alert emergency personnel in case of an accident or
incident and as a way to communicate with and be reached by supervisory
personnel shall be provided. The operator will not use a cell phone while under
motion to either call or text.
 A fire extinguisher suitable for use with a gas powered engine – properly
inspected and in date
 A first aid kit equivalent to that on a city bus or shuttle as designated by local
municipal ordinance and or MDOT.
 Reflective warning strips on the sides of the vehicle for enhanced visibility
 Safety signage in the interior of the car to alert passengers to prohibited acts or
safety issues
Stone Consulting, Inc.
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Petoskey Downtown
Feasibility Report for the Petoskey Trolley
June 15, 2016
Prohibited Acts
 No smoking allowed on vehicle
 No eating or drinks
 Riders are to keep heads, arms and hands inside at all times
POSTED TROLLEY RULES
Please wait for trolley to come to a complete stop before boarding or exiting the trolley.
While waiting for the trolley, always stand behind the yellow line on the platform.
DO NOT stand on the tracks at any time. Do not skateboard or rollerblade on platforms.
No food or drink is allowed on the trolley.
Please place any garbage in the disposal bins on the platforms.
Strollers are welcome on trolley.
Please give seniors and people with disabilities priority for seating
While riding, please remain seated.
Stay alert and stay safe around train stations, on rail station platforms and on trains
Stone Consulting, Inc.
Page 18
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Downtown Management Board
FROM:
Becky Goodman
DATE:
June 6, 2016
RE:
Discussion and Possible Decision to Host 2017 Back to the Bricks Car Show
Staff has been officially approached by the Back to the Bricks Car Show organizers regarding
hosting a car show on the evening of Monday, June 12, 2017. As you recall, the Board
discussed the opportunity in 2015 and decided that closing the streets for this event was not in
the best interests of the merchant community. Since that time there has been continuing
discussion from a number of merchants regarding their desire to have Downtown host a car
show.
The Back to the Bricks organizational committee seems to be working much further ahead of
the event this year. They will be choosing the communities they would like to visit on their tour
at their September meeting. If the DMB is interested in hosting them, the Board should confirm
their interest as soon as possible.
The location for the show would be on the streets in the center of town and spreading outward.
There is a total of 233 spaces on Howard, Lake, and Mitchell. We are being asked to reserve a
minimum of 200 for the car show.
A sheet detailing the arrangement between the host communities and the Back to the Bricks
organizers is enclosed. Staff is requesting that the Board discuss this proposal and give
direction regarding applying to be a host community. You can find more information about the
Back to the Bricks organization at backtothebricks.org.
A copy of their City Host Requirements is enclosed. Please contact me if you have questions or
concerns.
Back to the Bricks Promo Tour 2017 - Overview
Fast facts

The tentative dates are June 9–14, 2017

The tour runs for 5½ days with overnight stays in five Host cities

The tour promotes the Back to the Bricks (BttB) event held in Flint each year during the third week
of August

Host city merchants generate increased revenue from two sources: tour members bring their
diverse collection of cars to your city for a car show and overnight stay; the car show attracts locals
and visitors to your downtown district

The 2015 Tour marked the sixth year of this annual event and set a new record of 187 registered
vehicles with approximately 370 participants.
A Typical Day in the Life of a Host City

Tour members begin arriving in town by early afternoon

Check in occurs at the local hotels

Police escort leads the cars to the downtown Car Show

Downtown Car Show from 5p to 9p with local merchant participation

Tour participants frequent your restaurants, shops and other local attractions

The well-publicized Car Show attracts locals and visitors to a fun summertime event
Success Story
The city of Cadillac was a first time host city on the 2012 Tour. At that time, it had not closed its main
street in over 20 years for any event. The tour was a profound success and, more importantly, gave city
officials a vision of future opportunities for increased downtown exposure and commerce. Several years
ago, Cadillac became an official BttB franchisee and has hosted its own BttB event every year since. This
annual event has become so successful that it has become a two day event!
1
BttB Promo Tour 2017 - Host City Requirements
The BttB Promo Tour Committee agrees to:






Designate a Host City Captain to work collaboratively with your local designee to plan, coordinate
and manage all arrangements needed for a successful event;
Provide the host community with a diverse collection of cars to be prominently showcased on your
main street for the evening Car Show event from 5p to 9p;
Tour participants will stay overnight at local hotels, shop at local stores, and eat at local restaurants;
Provide effective promotional materials
o high quality posters and counter cards for display throughout the community;
o ongoing TV coverage leading up to and during the event;
o ongoing internet exposure via the BttB website and Facebook page;
Provide DJ services at no cost to:
o create a festive atmosphere during the Car Show,
o showcase local businesses and services,
o and promote upcoming local events;
Collaborate with Host city to foster a spirit of inclusion with local car enthusiasts and clubs.
The Host City agrees to:









Designate a local Coordinator who will work collaboratively with the Promo Tour Committee to plan,
coordinate and manage all arrangements needed for a successful show;
Schedule the Car Show as the exclusive entertainment event taking place that day;
Ensure local hotel capacity for 200 cars; blocks of rooms are reserved six months in advance;
Hold the Car Show in the heart of the city, preferably on your main street, to showcase the cars and
maximize the potential economic benefit for shops and restaurants;
Provide sufficient street closure to showcase 200 cars during the Car Show;
Provide a police escort from a nearby staging area (i.e. parking lot) to the downtown Car Show;
Secure all permits, manage street closures, and provide the needed public safety as deemed
necessary by your city officials;
Provide sufficient space for the following tour vehicles at the Car Show
o ABC-12 TV satellite truck (signal strength determines final location)
o Baker College mechanical support (trailer)
o BttB merchandising tent (trailer with tent awning)
DJ has pop up canopy, must be centrally located within Car Show and requires electric power
2
MEMORANDUM
TO:
Downtown Management Board
FROM:
Becky Goodman
DATE:
June 6, 2016
RE:
Discussion Regarding Revisions to the Downtown Events Schedule
Per direction of the DMB, staff and the Downtown Events and Marketing Committees have been
working on revisions to the Downtown Events Schedule that will likely affect the 2017 Programs
and Services budget. There will be an introductory presentation of some potential changes at
the June meeting. Discussion will be considered for the final plan.
Agenda Memo
BOARD:
Downtown Management Board
MEETING DATE:
June 21, 2016
AGENDA SUBJECT:
Downtown Management Board Committee Reports
DATE PREPARED: June 17, 2016
RECOMMENDATION: That the Downtown Management Board hear these reports
Reports could be received from Downtown Management Board committees.
sb
Agenda Memo
BOARD:
Downtown Management Board
MEETING DATE:
June 21, 2016
AGENDA SUBJECT:
City Staff Report
DATE PREPARED: June 17, 2016
RECOMMENDATION: That the Downtown Management Board hear this report
The City Manager will provide status reports concerning downtown-area projects.
sb