January 10, 2014
LIBRARY ASSOCIATES
Bids were received for professional service recommendation on the library furniture, wall
treatment, book cases etc. Only one bid was received – which was the Library Design
Associates, Pat Birtles had been working with. Their estimate of the costs of procuring all
these items and installing them at the library was just short of $117,000, which is under the
budgeted amount of $120,000. They expect this number may be further reduced as the
actual orders are placed and the ‘best’ prices are initiated. Library Design Associates will
be recommended at the next City Commission meeting for bid acceptance.
LIBRARY PROGRESS
Steve Jones Construction is moving along very nicely at the library. After the initial
unforeseen discoveries in demolition ($7,931 in foundation drainage issues, $20,532 in
asbestos removal and $22,684 in repairing walls behind the old bookcases). Since those
initial surprises, there have been 19 other changes either adding or deducting construction
activities which total an additional $2,731. While there could be a few other items that are
added as the job is completed, there is nothing that is expected to be of significant cost.
Steel is expected next week and the structural support will be installed – really starting the
‘putting of the building back together’.
EDA
An hour long telephone conference with the EDA was conducted this week to continue to
communicate with the agency concerning the Hanchett/Baldwin Bridge work. The First
quarterly report is due this month and is in process. Engineering work continues including
bridge design, coordination of EDA, Michigan MDOT, City partners, and environmental
issues on the Hanchett’s removal.
DIG GRANT
Marlies Manning is assisting in the artistic design for the Mitchell Creek Park Gazebo.
Several meetings have been held with others to follow in the next week with Ferris and the
welding class concerning the design and construction of this facility.
Roger Schneidt attended the DDA meeting Thursday to explain the road work anticipated
as a result of the DIG Grant, the construction of Hometown Pharmacy and the intersection
challenges for trucks at State and Maple. Fleis and VandenBrink have been approached
to design this effort for all concerned – with support coming from the MDOT, City and
Pharmacy. All are waiting for the formal approval from the State on the DIG grant to begin
to incur costs in this effort.
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VELOCITY SYSTEMS
Brad Looy was in to complete the discussions on his renting of the Community Hangar
office area. The City will be completing construction on the firewall (which we left
incomplete during the initial construction), and the partition wall creating a walkthrough
area. The remaining renovation of HVAC, office, conference space etc. will all be added in
deference to Brad’s operation at his cost and design – after approved by the City and
Mike. A signature on this arrangement is expected before the end of the month.
WATER LEAKS
This is the season for water main breaks. In the middle of the largest one on State Street,
another broke on Bailey Drive. That one was fixed Friday. Planning on the State Street
break presents problems due to the complexity of the location, businesses involved and
nature of the break. We anticipate completing our approach to this fix after the weekend –
which is expected to require DPW time to battle the ice and rain which may result in driving
difficulties.
MCDC
The Economic Development Executive Committee met on Friday and reviewed the
projects under construction as well as those being planned within the county. There
continues to be a significant volume of work underway in all corners of the county.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The cold temperatures and snow have kept the Fire Division busy for the last few weeks.
The Ice rink has been resurfaced many times with water from the grass rigs. The heavy
snow fall this year has made it necessary to shovel out the city’s fire hydrants. Although we
have had some volunteer help, fire division personnel have been out daily trying to make
sure the hydrants are not covered with snow and available if needed.
First Responders assisted by standing by at the Winterfest activities at Cran Hill Ranch on
Saturday 1/4/14. No one was injured and everyone had a great time.
The Fire Division assisted White Cloud Fire Department with a structure fire in Woodville
on 1/7/14. Cold temperatures hampered firefighters in fighting the blaze which burned
throughout the structure.
The Fire Division also welcomes new part-paid firefighter Nick Routley. Nick is Firefighter I
& II trained, and is an EMT-Basic.
Police Division personnel have been busy with the training of our two new officers, Greg
Turner and Katie Brandt. The City Manager sat in on one of the briefings and their very
detailed FTO Training program is going well.
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CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(14) Parking
(6) Non-Conforming Signs
(1) Property Maintenance
(1) Uninhabitable Dwelling
Meetings:
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Historic District Study Committee
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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520 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
496 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
1,818 Seniors and Disabled passengers of which 247 used the wheelchair lift to
board – ($1.00 fare)
126 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
76 No Shows
0 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – No Shuttle until January 13th. Free rides to anyone
from Flite Library to Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite
Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
0 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride, students gone until January 16th. Free rides from
local establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
3,036 Total Passengers last week
1,216 Township fares in service area
Streets –
Safety: Carbon Monoxide Detectors
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Sanded and salted roads several times
Plowed Airport
Plowed alleys, sidewalks, parking lots
Removed snow from downtown sidewalks and hauled to Airport
Cleaned the gutters downtown several times
Reading meters
Repaired some lights at City Hall
Hauling snow from parking lots and alleys
Patched potholes
Removing and hauling snow from Wastewater Plant
Checked and jetted sewers per call ins and normal daily
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Opened bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup Trucks and misc:
 Replaced a radiator
 Replaced brake pads on 2 trucks
 Replaced 2 sets of tires and 4 sets of wiper blades
 Serviced 4 trucks
 Serviced & washed 2 Staff Cars
 Assisted with snow plowing as needed
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Dump Trucks and Loaders:
 Replaced main rocker switch for the salt controller
 Replaced 2 mirrors
 Replaced 3 front plow tires and made up 3 more spares
 Replaced airline and air dryer
 Replaced 4 sets of wiper blades
 Replaced some hydraulic lines and fittings
 Repaired broken tail gate
 Replaced 7 sets of under body blades
 Replaced 2 grease lines
 Replaced 4 scraper blades
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DART buses:
 Serviced and performed 2 safety inspections
 Grease and serviced 2 buses
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Police and Fire:
 Serviced 2 cars and replaced 2 sets of front tires
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous Meter Reads
Repaired stack at 120 Evergreen
Turned water on at 418 Division
Assisted with snow plowing
Read Ferris meters
Changed out meter at 314 Ives, 418 Division, 400 DeKrafft, 617 Cherry, 603 W
Pere Marquette, 1407 E Elm, 234 Mill, 734 N State and 605 Oak
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
January 17, 2014
CITY REPORTER
The City welcomes Jim Falls as the new Pioneer reporter for City events. Jim replaces
Eric Dresden who has taken a position on the Flint paper staff. Thanks should also be
extended to Eric for his reporting over the past year.
FOTA
Festival of the Arts is nearly upon us. The booklet has been printed for this year’s month
long events and will be distributed across the community over the next couple of days.
Please plan to attend all the events that you can!!!!
FURNITURE
While Library Design Associates, Inc. has done considerable work on the plans for the
interior of the library, the City has requested of them that Haworth furniture be part of the
consideration for acquisition. In that regard, the City visited Haworth with samples of the
interior furnishing needed and will be getting price quotes on all items that Haworth can
supply.
DIG GRANT
Staff met with Dave Murray’s welding students who will be working on the DIG Grant
gazebo project. Students will be designing the structure from a technical position and will
be working with Marlies Manning on artistic design to complete this element of public art.
All sides are really excited to create this pavilion for both learning and practical use.
PANERA BREAD
Staff contacted Panera Bread with the need to have a fire hydrant as part of the design
element for this building. Panera will be making a new water tap off the State Street main
and will size the service to accommodate a hydrant as the line crosses the street, before
reducing the line size for water service itself.
ASH TREES
Some dead ash trees will be removed by Doyle’s tree service over the next several weeks
from Northend Riverside Park. Many trees have become infested and need to be removed
to make the park look ‘green’ again. The trees will be chipped and sold.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Fire Division personnel were kept busy with calls for service this week. In one instance
they responded to four calls within a fifteen minute time frame. Calls ranged from power
lines down, two fire alarms, a natural gas leak, police assist at a PDA, mutual aid to a
structure fire in Colfax Twp. and twenty Medicals.
Police Division made an arrest of a suspect in multiple B&E's of vehicles and homes in the
City. Officers followed footprints in the snow back to the suspect’s residence where he was
taken into custody.
Sgt. Eddinger and Detective Miller attended training for the Statewide Network of Agency
Photos. This SNAP Training uses facial recognition software to help identify suspects
during investigations.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(1) Blight
(8) Parking
(1) Yard Waste/Landscape Debris
(11) Non-Conforming Signs
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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219 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
387 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
514 Seniors and Disabled passengers of which 64 used the wheelchair lift to board
– ($1.00 fare)
42 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
76 No Shows
0 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – No Shuttle until January 13th. Free rides to anyone
from Flite Library to Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite
Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
0 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride, students gone until January 16th. Free rides from
local establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
1,207 Total Passengers last week
403 Township fares in service area
Streets –
• Sanded and salted roads several times
• Plowed Airport
• Plowed alleys, sidewalks, parking lots
• Installed water valve on State Street in front of McDonalds and stopped large leak
• Repaired watermain on 700 block of Chestnut
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Picking up Christmas trees
Will be repairing watermain break on South Street this weekend
Hauled snow from parking lots
Checked and jetted sewers per call ins and normal daily
Opened bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
•
Pickup Trucks and misc:
 319 – replaced turn flasher
 306 – replaced light
 101 – new cylinder on blade
 Assisted with snow plowing as needed
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DART buses:
 903 – performed preventative maintenance
 905 – performed preventative maintenance, also service call to replace belt
Main Maintenance –
• Miss Digs
• Miscellaneous Meter Reads
• Worked with Ferris to find large water leak
• Turned water off at Ferris State Bituminous Lab on Maple St
• Checked high consumption at 203 S State St
• Assisted with snow plowing
• Turned water on at 1016 Milton
• Shut offs for non-payment
• Took samples at Library
Water –
Weekly safety topic: Distracted Driving Safety
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Treated: 11.9 MG the week of 1-5-14
Ran QA/QC on M coli blue coliform detection
Ran QA/QC on R2A agar
Ran QA/QC on Readycult and Readycult bottles
Calibrated Turbidimeter
Dealt with leaking access hatch at Perry Tower
Removed and replaced valve nipple at Perry Tower sump
Plowed snow
Bump tested and calibrated gas tech gas detectors
Replaced cover on Hach Turbidimeter
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
3
January 24, 2014
DIG GRANT
The State has notified the City that costs may be authorized with engineers to begin the
design of the project. This is a very major positive advance!! The City has been working
with Ferris and Marlies Manning on the design/construction options of the public art
(gazebo in the park). Fleis and VandenBrink are engineering the remaining elements of
the project.
A message was received this week that the State would like to have a ‘check presentation
ceremony’ for the DIG Grant on February 28, 2014 at 1:00. Please save the date.
EDA
The State of Michigan (MDOT) has signed off on the Baldwin Street Project as a corecipient of the EDA Grant. This is also a major advance to this project. The next step in
the process is to complete the title certifications for land ownership (Eric Williams). This
would seem easy, but streets have been platted years ago and titles to them are not
always the easiest to track. Once these particulars are complete, authorization to draw
funds should be forthcoming.
LIBRARY
A meeting is being arranged with Haworth to review library furniture. It is hoped that there
can be some savings with this furniture to allow some additional insolation within the
building.
FIRE TRUCK
Last year the City put away some funds in anticipation of rebuilding a second Fire engine.
The previous rebuild was a cost of around $60,000 and this one is expected to be slightly
more. It is anticipated that the 2014-15 budget will again dedicate $30,000 to the truck
fund. In the meantime, the USDA has advised that perhaps a grant of $32,000 may be
available from their grant funds for safety equipment. Cindy is working through an
application for this assistance, which would allow the repairs to be completed a year ahead
of the previously anticipated schedule. A new pumper remains on the ‘wish list’ as a
serious need within the next several years. This cost could reach $450,000 or more.
WASTEWATER TREATMENT PLANT INTERVIEWS
Interviews for the replacement of promoted Dave Cushway took place Friday, January 24,
2014. Ten candidates were interviewed. Background and references will be checked
before an offer is completed.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police Division spent some time this week with weather related accidents. Some of
these had minor injuries but no major accidents were reported.
Training continues with our new Police Officer and two new Sergeants. We are looking
forward to the return of Sgt. Jeff Hauger and Officer Sean Shantz in the near future. (both
are now back in the city)
Fire Division had one call this week for a smoke odor in a residence, and also ran 15
medical calls including two personal injury accidents on the freeway.
PARKS & RECREATION
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Held Park and Recreation Board meeting.
Second session classes have begun.
Fliers for Daddy-Daughter Dance have been distributed to the schools.
Co-ed Volleyball season has begun.
Ice Rink use is going well.
Assisting in keeping the skating rink clear of snow.
Doyle Forest Products, Inc. clearing dead Ash trees from Northend Riverside Park.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(6) Parking
(1) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
(4) Uninhabitable Dwelling
(6) Non-Conforming Signs
(2) Garbage & Rubbish
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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239 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
391 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
708 Seniors and Disabled passengers of which 113 used the wheelchair lift to board
– ($1.00 fare)
70 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
47 No Shows
3,335 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
19 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
4,809 Total Passengers last week
471 Out of City
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Streets –
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Sanded and salted roads several times
Plowed Airport
Plowed alleys, sidewalks, parking lots
Reading meters
Repairing signs
Putting up banners
Repaired lights at City Hall
Repaired shelf in Commission Room
Building shelves at City Hall
Moving filing cabinets at City Hall
Cleaned up the leaf pit
Painting trash cans for the parks
Washed trucks and cleaned the boxes out
Picking up Christmas trees
Repaired watermain break on South Street
Checked and jetted sewers per call ins and normal daily
Opened bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup Trucks and misc:
 Serviced 4 trucks and replaced 1 fuel filter
 Replaced 5 sets of wiper blades
 Washed 3 trucks
 Started replacing the exhaust manifolds
 Service calls for 2 dead battery’s
 Service call to the Airport to replace 2 tractor tires
 Replaced the main drive belt on the big snow blower
 Prepped new car for Airport and delivered to the Airport
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Front plows:
 Reversed 2 sets of blades
 Repaired and replaced a set of wing skid plates
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Dump trucks:
 Replaced 6 sets of underbody blades
 Replaced leaky oil pan
 Replaced bad radiator hose
 Repaired some brake and top caution lights
 Replaced an air valve
 Replaced multifunction turn signal switch
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DART buses:
 Serviced and performed 2 safety inspections
 Replaced 2 sets of wipers
3
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous Meter Reads
Checked water leak at 218 Hutchinson
Checked high consumption at 401 W Bridge
Reading meters
Assisted with water main break repair on South Street
Shut water off at 502 N State
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
January 31, 2014
AERIAL
The City of Big Rapids has the opportunity to acquire new aerials, which will be flown in
conjunction with other communities in the region for a very affordable cost for a 3”
resolution picture. The overall cost is in the area of $27,000 some of which may be
assisted by Ferris or townships.
INTERSTATE BRIDGE
The State of Michigan will be working on the 131 expressway bridge over the next two
summers, with complete closings on 4 occasions for 1-4 days. This maintenance will
cause additional traffic in town and will be scheduled during summer when Ferris is not in
session. When actual dates are picked, additional notification will be forthcoming.
BALDWIN STREET BRIDGE
The City Attorney is nearing completion of the right-of-way certifications that are needed to
satisfy ownership issues with the State and the EDA for the bridge project.
SNOW
The snow this winter has been a challenge in both depth and frequency. The City has
been working and hauling since November – and continues to do so. The DBA with all the
weather, has had questions concerning the approach on several snow events and is
asking for a meeting to explore the approach to snow issues this upcoming Tuesday.
LIBRARY
The library, to save funds, did not plan to insulate the walls more than presently done. In
checking wall temperatures, 8 to 10 degrees differentials were found between ‘normal’
walls and those which would remain uninsulated. The cost of completing the insulation for
all the library is $18,770. While it would be wise to do this installation, it is too significant of
a cost without city Commission approval or a commensurate reduction in costs elsewhere.
The City anticipates receiving a cost bid for furniture, which may resolve this issue.
Staff did meet with Haworth representatives to review the possibilities of purchasing
furniture from the local manufacturing company. A response is expected by the first of
next week.
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FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
The 2014 Event starts with an opening ceremony at City Hall on Saturday at 6:30 p.m. A
great month of events is planned for all to participate. Please check your booklets and
mark your calendars!!!!
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
The Capital Improvement Program review will be completed in the upcoming week.
Department Heads have submitted their wishes for 2014-15 budget year and the Planning
Commission representatives, along with staff and the finance department will review and
recommend action on these items.
MICHIGAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT MANAGER’S ASSOCIATION
The City Manager attended the State Local Government Manager’s conference in Battle
Creek, Wednesday and Thursday. The focus on the conference was financial reporting
and analysis, state activities, union negotiating, and health care.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
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The Fire Division was called to a Chimney Fire in Norwich Twp. last Saturday, but
arrived to find the fire already out. They checked the structure around the chimney
and in the attic and found no extension of the fire so they were able to clear and
return to the City.
Firefighters are still looking after the Ice Rink in Hemlock Park and cleared the snow
from last weekend’s storm with their snow blower. They also continue to resurface
the ice, keeping it as smooth as possible.
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The Police Division welcomed back Officer Elizabeth West this week, who has
spent the last four years at CMET. The experience and training she received there
will be a huge asset to our Department.
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Cold temperatures have kept schools closed, and people inside this past week
keeping calls for service lower than usual. No matter what the weather, our officers
are still out patrolling the city, keeping things safe for our community.
PARKS & RECREATION
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Recreation programs have been cancelled this week due to the multiple school
closures. Make up classes will be added to the end of session one.
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Girls on the Run coaches are being requested to contact the Recreation
Department or the Health District.
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Coordination of registration forms and shoe fitting night for Girls on the Run are
underway.
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Daddy-Daughter Dance, Friday, February 21, 2014 from 7 p.m.-9 p.m. at the Big
Rapids Middle School, registrations forms are available. Pre-registered participants
are $7 per person and at the door $10 per person.
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Volleyball league does not meet on February 2 due to Super Bowl. League begins
first round of games on February 9th.
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CIP’s for parks have been submitted.
• Ice Rink was cleared by the Fire Department.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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253 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
400 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
668 Seniors (236) and Disabled (432)passengers of which 83 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
57 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
56 No Shows
2,390 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
30 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride on Friday the 24th due to the weather. Free
rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday
and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
3,854 Total Passengers last week
414 Out of City
Streets –
Safety: “Combustible Dust Hazards”
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Plowed, sanded and salted roads, alleys and parking lots several times
Picked up snow from middle of roads on Saturday the 25th
Plowed Airport
Used snow blower at Airport to clean around the lights and help push snow back
Repaired some lights at the Garage
Reading meters
Cleaning some street corners of excessive snow piles
Using sidewalk plows to blow snow out from around fire hydrants and using front
end loader to pull snow away from hydrants
Pushed the snow back at the Airport snow dump area
Checked and jetted sewers per call ins and normal daily
Opened bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
3
Motor Pool –
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Pickup Trucks and misc:
 Serviced 3 trucks and replaced fuel filter
 Replaced exhaust manifolds and EGR tub
 Replaced rear springs and straightened frame and rear box
 Replaced driver’s seat pad
 Replaced tie-rod end
 Replaced 4 sets of wipers
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Loaders, wing plows, tractors and snow blowers:
 Replaced hydraulic fitting on pump
 Replaced a bearing on a blower
 Fabricated and replaced cutting edge on a blower
 Diagnosed and repaired a PTO
 Replaced main drive belt on the big blower
 Repaired wiring and replaced skid plates on the wing plow
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Dump trucks:
 Replaced a rusted leaking oil pan
 Replaced 3 sets of wiper blades
 Replaced 5 sets of underbody blades
 Replaced a top light and 2 head lamps and 1 head lamp assembly
 Fabricated 2 front plow latches
 Replaced a wiper motor and 2 radiator hoses
 Replaced 2 leaking hydraulic hoses
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DART buses:
 Serviced 2 busses
 Repaired and adjusted a wheel chair lift
 Replaced rear heater motor
 Performed a state safety inspection on 1 bus
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Staff Cars and Police Cars:
 Serviced and washed 3 cars
 Replaced 2 sets of wipers
 Repaired tire pressure monitor
 Repaired door and trunk locks on a car
 Replaced 4 tires
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Monthly Meter Reads
Assisted with snow plowing
Read Ferris and Township meters
Collected weekly distribution samples
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Water
Weekly Safety Topic: Compressed Air Safety
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Treated 8.1 MG of drinking water the week of 1-19-14
Fixed frozen locks on water plant doors
Fixed stuck main gate
Made lab reagents
Calculated chemical feed rates
Defrosted lab fridge
Removed yet more snow
Conducted internal lab audit for lab accreditation
Hung storage cabinet in Perry Tower building
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
February 28, 2014
BRIDGE ACTIVITY
Major 4 hour meeting on the design review by MDOT for the Fleis & VandenBrink Bridge
plans. Many small issues resolved and questions answered. The meeting was attended
by representatives from MDOT, City and all the utilities involved in relocations for the
construction project. It was a very positive meeting.
Eric Williams, City Attorney, is in the final stages of filing the Baldwin Street title lawsuit.
All property owners along the streets are being personally contacted so that there will be
no misunderstanding with the actions needed for the City to actually certify ownership of
Baldwin Street.
Hanchett has been advised that being out of the building is a priority for the next 30 days.
All of their equipment is gone and the remaining items, they are confident, will be out by
March 24, 2014. This will ‘button up’ the facility and will help insure that potential liability
issues, like the recent fire there, will not recur.
DIG GRANT
Students continue to work on the gazebo portion of this grant. The State has now formally
approved the grant and conducted a ‘photo opportunity’ for this event in the City
Commission room. MEDC representatives and community leaders gathered to express
appreciation for the improvements that will be coming to Maple Street.
TASTE OF MECOSTA
Remember that next Tuesday the Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring the Taste of
Mecosta.
VETERANS MEMORIAL
The military group interested in establishing a veteran’s memorial at Holland Park had a
meeting this week to look at plans from Marlies Manning. It is expected that they will make
a presentation at the next Park and Recreation Board meeting before final adoption of the
plan.
K-MART
Staff called K-Mart plaza owners to express support for any new development which may
occur there. A productive discussion was held on the future possibilities for this space and
potential development support, which might be available from the City.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
On Tuesday, 2/18/14, Fire Fighters responded to a structure fire at Hanchett MFG building.
The fire was contained to one small area of the building and was determined to be started
from sparks from a cutting torch.
Wednesday, 2/19/14, Fire Fighters responded to a dryer fire at the laundry mat on 3rd Ave.
Lint in the dryer had caught fire. The Manager used a portable extinguisher to knock the
fire down and the fire was contained to the one dryer unit.
Firefighters attended a two day I.T.L.S. (International Trauma Life Support) class held at
our department. The class covers the rapid treatment of trauma victims and other medical
emergencies.
Detective Brian Miller attended a conference in Traverse City this week
titled "Investigations in the Cyber Age" specialized in Child Abuse Training. The one day
training covered cellular phones, social networking, and social media in investigations.
PARKS & RECREATION
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Finalized Girls on the Run program information. Flyers were distributed to the
schools. There are coaches signed up for the program and registrations are due
March 10. Shoe fitting date at MC Sports is on March 16 from 6-8pm. (See
attached flyer)
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Daddy Daughter Dance was held Friday, February 21, 2014 at the Big Rapids
Middle School from 7pm-9pm and was a success, even with a blizzard. Over 200
people came to the event and danced the night away!
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Volleyball league met at Crossroads High School gym last weekend due to a
scheduling conflict at the Big Rapids Middle School.
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Park and Recreation Board met on Thursday the 13th.
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Session two classes are going to end the week of March 10 due to snow days.
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Additional computer classes are going to be offered next week.
information is available on the recreation website.
Program
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(6) Parking
(9) Non-Conforming Signs
(1) Garbage & Rubbish
Meetings:
(4) Furniture
(5) Poly-cart Placement
(2) Disabled/Inoperable Vehicles
Good Neighbors
2
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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636 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
855 Children riders – ($1.00 fare), no school 2/17, 2/18 & 2/21
1,551 Seniors (474) and Disabled (1,077)passengers of which 219 used the
wheelchair lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
151 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
136 No Shows
6,411 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
103 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am. No
Safe Ride on 2/24 due to weather.
9,843 Total Passengers last 2 weeks
869 Out of City
Streets –
Safety: “Color Coding” and “A Flood of Danger”
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Repaired a leak in the Hanchett building
Secured Hanchett building by repairing hole in the side of the building caused from
extinguishing the fire
Assisting people with frozen pipes – our machine doesn’t work due to the way
houses are plumbed
Hauling snow from parking lots
Reading meters
Removing snow from corners to improve vision
Plowed snow on streets, parking lots, alleys, sidewalks and at Airport
Sanded and salted several times
Using sidewalk blowers to assist with cleaning snow around fire hydrants
Fixed shelves for the Clerk’s Office
Chipped a tree that fell on Willow Street
Working on signs
Thawed the storm drain at Public Safety
Thawed the catch basin in the parking lot behind Binney’s Auto
Repaired a light on the river towers
Assisted with locating ground rods on water lines
Pushing snow at the snow dump area to make room for more
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins; N Third Ave and 200 block
of Pemberton
Parks staff working on park signs
Opened bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
3
Motor Pool –
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Loaders, wing plows, tractors and snow blowers:
 Repaired wiring on a wing plow
 302 loader, replaced front drive shaft bearing
 310 big snow blower, replaced main output shaft, bearings and gears. Also
replaced the 30’ drive chains
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Dump trucks:
 Replaced 2 front tires and a set of mud flaps
 Service call to the snow dump, dump box will not come down. Repaired broken
hydraulic fitting and filled hydraulic tank
 Repaired bent spreader on rear of sander
 Diagnosed and repaired broken wire to wiper washers
 Repaired a broken air line
 Replaced 2 sets of under body blades
 Replaced 5 sets of underbody blades
 Diagnosed a no start, found and repaired faulty wiring to transmission module
 Replaced some hydraulic lines that were leaking
 Replaced 2 sets of wipers
 Replaced a front plow tire
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DART buses:
 Repaired rear view mirror
 Replaced quarter panel brackets on 3 busses
 Changed a flat tire
 Replaced a 3rd brake light
 Repaired a dome light
 Replaced a flat tire
 Performed 2 grease services
 Performed a scheduled service and a state safety inspection
 Fixed some more body panels and braces
 Repaired wiring to rear clearance light and front head lamp
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Staff Cars and Police Cars:
 Installed a mount for a computer on a police car
 Serviced 3 police cars and 2 trucks
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Monthly water reads
Turned water off at 700 Cherry
Assisted with thawing frozen pipes at 113 N Fourth, 807 Maple, 105 N Fourth, 809
Maple, 1031 Marion, 811 Maple, 813 Maple and 815 Maple
Located shutoff at 716 Grant for thaw-out
Changed out meter at 425 Rose
High water consumption at 712 Cypress
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Located stack at 907 Colburn
Checked high consumption at 123 N Fourth
Located water shut off at 309 & 313 N Michigan
Changed out meter at 527 Ridgeview
Located meter at 625 Bjornson
Repaired touchread at 115 Ives
WWTP –
Safety Topic: “ Walking in Ice Conditions” and “Hypothermia & Frostbite”
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New Plant Operator Mike Hoisington has arrived, and we are happy to have him!
Received 275 gallons of polymer to replace empty tote. SDC is running again.
Third RAS pump repaired and back in service. Full RAS pumping capacity
available.
Parts arrived and were installed in failed Ferric Chloride Pump. Now ready to use.
Air scour line for headworks grit chamber is plugged. Ongoing effort to unplug.
Plant alarm calls continue, due to cold weather and resulting freeze-up problems.
Jay Norris (Integrated Controls) continues work on SCADA and blower control
issues.
Nitrification continues, but on the ragged edge. Process biology experiencing some
“upset” due to off-line RAS pump and fluctuating Food/Mass Ratio (plant loading).
Received Kone Cranes inspection and service report, covering all in-plant lifting
hoists. Some maintenance is complete, and some repair and maintenance work
remains.
Kaeser Digester blower #4 has been shut down, due to an oil leak. Operators are
attempting to identify the location of the leak, so repairs can be made.
Good progress continues, with the Antero Work Order program.
Digester settling and decanting problems continue, due to extremely cold weather
and resulting water density, and a continued higher level of filamentous microorganisms.
Work continues on cleaning out plugged air scour lines that feed the grit chamber.
Plant alarm calls continue, due to cold weather and resulting freeze-up problems.
Necessary Vactor cleaning (PCS) is long overdue, but has been delayed due to the
extreme weather. Clarifier center-rings, scum pits, the old grit chamber, and the
new grease-grit inlet channel are all badly in need of a thorough cleaning.
Nitrification continues at a minimal level, and process biology is slowly improving.
Synagro has finally arrived, and is hauling some of our storage sludge to the
Muskegon WWTP. Our abbreviated December 2013 hauling was cut short by the
onset of our long winter “deep-freeze.” A January Thaw and resulting landapplication opportunities did not occur, so the plant storage tanks are full. Synagro
has agreed to continue hauling to Muskegon on a weekly “as-needed” basis, until
local land-application is possible.
5
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John Wright and Bert Carlstrom are away at a 3-day “Activated Sludge Process
Control” class in Charlotte, MI.
The IPP 2013 Annual Stormwater Report and the IPP 2013 Annual Mercury Report
have both been completed and submitted to the DEQ.
The 2013 Annual IPP Report is in progress, and will be submitted when complete.
A review of current and future sampling sites is being discussed, along with a
necessary update of our Non-Domestic User List for 2014.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
6
March 7, 2014
FIRE HYDRANTS
The City has had a number of volunteers to help clear the snow from the City’s fire
hydrants. The City is very appreciative of community groups coming together to help out
with this very important project.
ART WORKS
ArtWorks sponsored a breakfast with Jef Mallett for their kickoff campaign for the roof
renovation. They are looking for around $30,000 to complete a significant portion of the
facility that is leaking. A great crowd attended and pledges were received.
JEANINE WARD ROOF
The University sponsored a meet/greet for Jeanine, the new Dean of Students replacing
Dan Burcham. Jeanine grew up in Pennsylvania and was most recently at the University
of Florida. The drop in was well attended. Jeanine appears to be a wonderful, articulate
addition to the Ferris leadership.
MISSION OF MERCY
The Mission of Mercy (MOM) Dental clinic coming to Big Rapids is in the serious stages of
planning. The City will need to handle the IPP portion of the wastewater issue and is
working with the MOM planners to haul the waste from the site. Dental waste is high with
mercury and could cause great challenges for our small plant.
LIBRARY BONDS
Jon Locke has prepared the final package for bond issuance with Steve Mann.
borrowing will be $531,500. Bids should be out within the next couple weeks.
The
For the City Commission and library board members, an excursion through the library is
planned for Thursday, March 13 beginning at 5:15. The drywall should be complete at this
point so a good ‘feel’ will be available concerning how the library will be ‘opened up’ for a
more ‘friendly’ appearance to the public.
Meetings with Mary Ryan, and also with Ginger Shepler and Diane Scarpelli, were held to
review the continuing opportunities to raise funds for the library renovation and increase
participation in the Library Friends.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
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With winter lingering on, the Fire Division has been busy this week with shoveling
out the hydrants in town.
1
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The Fire Division responded Monday evening to a possible structure fire at the
Gypsy Nickel Restaurant. The small fire started by an employee thawing frozen
pipes was out on our arrival.
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Our Police officers along with members from neighboring departments attended a
legal update class on Wednesday put on by the Michigan State Police. Some of the
topics covered were retail fraud, video interviewing, and firearms laws.
PARKS & RECREATION
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The first session of youth classes continued into this week, due to school
cancelations. Next week session two begins for baseball and gymnastics.
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Girls on the Run registrations are due Monday, March 10, 2014. Shoe Fitting is
scheduled at MC Sports on Sunday, March 16, 2014 from 6-8pm. The program will
begin on March 24.
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Water Aerobics is cancelled next week due to FSU spring break.
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Another session of computer classes are being offered. See information below.
o Introduction Beginning. City Hall; Conference Room.
o 12:45 pm—2:15 pm Topics include terminology, program identification and file
management. (Must bring Laptop to class.)
o Intermediate. City Hall; Conference Room.
o 2:30 pm-4:00pm Topics include WiFi connections, safe search, web surfing,
bookmarks and the social network - Facebook. (Must bring Laptop to class.)
o Word 2010 Introduction. Big Rapids Middle School RM 6.
o 6:30 pm—8:00 pm Topics include creating, saving and finding document files
and folders; clipboard and proofing tools; as well as font group features and
tools.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(2) Parking
(4) Non-Conforming Signs
(2) Garbage & Rubbish
(2) Animals
(2) Poly-cart Placement
(1) Property Maintenance
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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348 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
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260 Children riders – ($1.00 fare), no school 2/24, 2/27 & 2/28
757 Seniors (182) and Disabled (524)passengers of which 111 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
71 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
52 No Shows
3,657 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
40 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
5,185 Total Passengers
461 Out of City
Streets –
Safety: “Identifying Fatigue”
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Hauling snow from parking lots
Plowed snow on streets, parking lots, alleys, sidewalks and at Airport
Sanded and salted several times
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Assisted in attempt to thaw a sewer line
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Repaired wiring on a wing plow
 Plowed snow
 Serviced a pickup plow
 Replaced 4 sets of wipers
 Serviced 4 pickup trucks
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Dump trucks:
 Replaced 2 front tires and a set of mud flaps
 Replaced 6 sets of blades
 Replaced an air relief valve
 Adjusted 2 sets of brakes
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DART buses:
 Repaired rear view mirror
 Service call for 2 dead busses, found block heaters were not working, fixed
problem and charged battery’s
 Serviced 2 busses and did a state safety inspection
 Repaired a fender and replaced a crankcase f\breather
 Service call for wheelchair lift not working, repaired wiring
3
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Read Ferris meters
Miscellaneous reads
Located and turned on water at 101 Maple St and installed meter
Repaired touchread at 840 Clark St
Checked on frozen pipes at 424 N Fourth Ave, 118 W Bridge St, 617 Rose Ave, 604
Hutchinson St, 112 W Bridge St, 917 Olaf and 809 Rose Ave
Replaced frozen meter at 917 Olaf
Replaced frozen meter at 325 N State St
Replaced frozen meter at 115 W Grand Traverse St
Replaced frozen meter at 402 Bjornson St
Replaced frozen meter at 107 N Warren Ave
WWTP –
Safety Topic: “Hypothermia and Frostbite – Part 2”
 Progress continues with the Antero Work Order program.
 Cold weather still causing problems with our plant processes.
 The SDC feed sludge sample line is being revised and extended, for easier
sampling.
 Significant grit and sludge sediment has been discovered in the aeration influent
channel. This sediment needs to be removed, without stirring it up and having it
wash into the aeration basins. Possible methods are being discussed.
 Low flow (Spring Break) and warmer weather should provide an ideal window for
plant process cleaning. PCS will be here Tuesday 11th and Wednesday 12th with
their Vactor truck. Clarifier center-rings, scum pits, the old grit chamber, and the
new grease-grit inlet channel are all badly in need of a thorough cleaning.
 Nitrification continues at a minimal level, and process biology is still not what it
should be. Low flow and a lower food/mass ratio for the week should improve
everything.
 Synagro hauled 48,000 gallons of our storage sludge to the Muskegon WWTP last
week, and another 50-60,000 gallons will be hauled soon. We need enough room
to make it through the next 4-6 weeks of “frost” load limits, when heavy hauling is
prohibited.
 IPP issues are being discussed and resolved in preparation for the “Mission of
Mercy” dental clinic in May.
 Northwest Kent Mechanical repaired the rooftop furnace on the Blower Building.
 Safety Inspection of the Plant performed by Tony Frisbie, Mecosta County Building
Inspector.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
5
March 14, 2014
WATER METER INITIATIVE
The City water meter inventory is aging which is causing the staff to review what might be
the best opportunity for replacement measuring instruments.
‘Radio Read’ meters have always presented an electronic alternative, which is especially
attractive in cold weather climates since meters may continue to be read without the
inhibiting influence of snow. Presentations are being made from several meter companies
on the virtues of their product lines.
S2 GRANT
The City is finalizing their study and design needs for the next phase of plant and
distribution improvements. The Waterloo lift station and influent screening continue to
have the attention of the plant staff for input to create effective treatment opportunities with
ease of maintenance.
DOWNTOWN FLOWERS
After a very successful and popular summer with flower baskets on Maple Street, the
hanging basket decorations are being expanded to Michigan this year as well. Dave
Hamelund is making the brackets for this improvement and the flower baskets have been
ordered.
BIG RAPIDS COMMUNITY LIBRARY
The Library Board, Township, and the fundraising committee conducted a “walk thru” on
Thursday regarding the renovation progress.
MOBILE HOSPITAL AND DENTAL CLINIC
Two medical events will be held this summer. The regional mobile hospital is an area wide
facility that would completely replicate a hospital with all its needs in a tent in the case that
the present hospital was damaged beyond use in a natural catastrophe.
The Michigan Dental Society dental clinic plans continue. Their efforts will provide dental
care for residents in need of the service. The City will be assisting with parking, bus
transportation, and wastewater treatment.
1
LANSING
Next week there are two trips to Lansing…one with Ferris and one for the annual MML
meeting. We will be learning the latest from the State activity and supporting the
community.
OFFICERS
With sadness the City accepted the resignation of newly employed Police Officer Greg
Turner. After completing the training with the department he decided that this work was
not really what he wanted – working on the streets. The hiring process for a replacement
officer is under way.
The Department welcomes both Sgt. Jeff Hauger and Officer Sean Shantz back from
Afghanistan…safely. Shantz has taken the CMET position after several years of excellent
service there by Officer Liz West.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Firefighters Trained this week on fighting wildfires. A DNR instructor from the Evart office
taught a refresher course on fighting fires in both the rural areas and the urban interface.
Spring is just around the corner and the wild land fire danger is expected to be very high
this year.
Detective Brian Miller attended a two day class in Grand Rapids this week on the Amber
Alert system. It included the planning and investigation involved with a missing child.
Officer Erik Little has been involved in the planning of this weekends “Bowl-a-Thon” at the
Gate. The proceeds from the Saturday event help support our local Big Brothers / Big
Sisters organization.
Firefighters were called to the Hospital Thursday afternoon for the report of smoke on all
three floors. A contractor was repairing a roof top HVAC unit and when he fired it up, some
smoke from an oil residue on the new part filtered down through the system and put a
haze in the X-ray department, setting off the alarm system. The air handlers in the building
took care of the area involved and after the investigation firefighters were able to clear the
scene and return to the station.
PARKS & RECREATION
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Working on the Girls on the Run program.
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The Park & Recreation Board meeting has been rescheduled to next Thursday the
20th.
2
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(4) Blight
(2) Parking
(3) Non-Conforming Signs
(2) Furniture
(1) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
(5) Poly-cart Placement
(2) Property Maintenance
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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288 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
584 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
806 Seniors (226) and Disabled (580)passengers of which 128 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
96 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
71 No Shows
3,454 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
28 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
5,327 Total Passengers
526 Out of City
Streets –
Safety: “Winter Slip Prevention”
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Filled potholes; have gone through 12 ton of cold patch
Attended Meter Presentation
Sanded icey patches
Trying to thaw storm lines
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Opening up storm drains on the corners for drainage
Repairing signs
Using ice blades on the gravel alleys
Moving some large ice chunks out of the alleys were they’ve come off roofs
Parks staff are working on new picnic tables
Attended Ice Rink meeting
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
3
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Serviced 2 staff cars
 Serviced 1 truck and replaced all 4 front ball joints
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Dump trucks:
 Replaced 2 front tires and a set of mud flaps
 Replaced 3 sets of blades
 Repaired wiring to transmission
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Tractors and loaders:
 Serviced 1 loader
 Repaired some wires for lights and transmission
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DART buses:
 Repaired rear view mirror
 Performed 2 state safety inspections and 2 services
 Replaced a crank case filter and reset engine module
 Replaced multiple lights
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous reads
Changed out meter at 203 S State
Turned water on and off at 507 Green; frozen pipes inside house
Changed out meter at 206 S Bronson Ave
Changed out meter at 103 Perry Ave
Changed out meter at 1003 Perry Ave
Changed out meter at 1020 Maple St
Attended Meter Presentation
WWTP –
Safety: “Battery Safety”
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2013 Bio-Solids Annual Report completed and submitted to the DEQ.
Quarterly Bio-Solids sample taken and submitted to independent lab for analysis.
The SDC feed sludge sample line modifications are complete.
Vactor cleaning was completed in the following areas of the plant: Clarifier center
rings and scum pits, old grit removal chamber, and portions of the new grease and
grit removal channels.
Due to time and scheduling limits, the deep portion of the new grit removal chamber
was not vactored and cleaned out. This will be a separate, large job which will
require confined-space entry. We will schedule this job for warmer weather.
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Grandtech has removed the old E.Q. valve actuator from the confined space pit,
and installed a new one up on the deck. SCADA and electrical issues need to be
worked out, and the job will be completed in the next few days.
Nitrification continues, but the plant biology is still not right. Poor settling and
digester foaming continue to cause problems. Large temperature and weather
changes continue to complicate our efforts to improve things.
Synagro hauled 56,000 gallons of storage sludge to Muskegon last week. The
mixing and pumping equipment remains set up and ready for more hauling.
IPP issues were discussed, regarding the “Mission of Mercy” dental clinic in May. A
resolution seems to have been achieved that addresses the concerns of all
involved.
Cummins-Bridgeway performed inspections of our plant and lift station generators.
Their maintenance and repair recommendations are being reviewed.
Water –
Safety Topic: Backhoe Safety
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Treated 10.1 Million Gallons of water the week of 3-2-14
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Completed EPA/ERA duplicate Bact-T and duplicate Cl2 studies
Ran QA/QC on RO unit
Calibrated cell constant on Conductivity Meter
Made Fluoride buffer
Lubed Pratt activation valves
Checked fluid levels on all generators
Serviced Cl2 analyzer at head of plant
Prepared MOR for February
Buffed main entrance floors
Bump tested gas sniffers
Swept floors around the Plant, clarifiers, and filters
Cleaned mower deck and sharpened blades as snow is melting fast.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
March 21, 2014
LEGISLATIVE LUNCH
Mark Warba, Andrea Nerbonne and Steve Sobers attended the Ferris Legislative luncheon
in Lansing. In addition to talking to legislative members in support of Ferris, Darwin
Booher renewed his support for finding a way to redevelop the Depot. The City will be
meeting with and trying to find partners to make this project move off ‘start’ with this pledge
of funding support from the legislature.
EDA
Big Rapids EDA representative Jerry Figliulo will be in town next Tuesday to meet with
MDOT Mark Harrison. In addition, Jerry will tour the project site to gain a personal firsthand view of the nature of the improvements.
DIG GRANT
Drawings have been received from the Ferris program for the gazebo project and are
being reviewed for submission to the State SHPO office for approval.
The City staff met with engineers on this project as well to review engineering drawings for
the work to be done on Maple Street. These will be shared with Hometown Pharmacy so
there will be seamless progress on the street and sidewalk work in front of their new store.
BIG RAPIDS TOWNSHIP MEETING
Meter repairs have begun to be a challenge as they have aged. This is especially true as
the City is looking at the possibility of moving to radio reading devices. A meeting has
been scheduled with the Township to bring them ‘on board’ and make them aware of our
discussions.
AIRPORT TREES
30 trees have been identified at the airport for removal so that automated landing may be
permitted. Matt Ruelle has marked these and cutting will occur within the next 30 days.
VETERANS MEMORIAL
The Park Board reviewed the drawings for a Veterans Memorial in Holland Park and
approved them at their last meeting. The plans will come to the City Commission next for
final review.
1
STATE STREET 3 LANE REVIEW
After the last commission meeting when Pat Currie requested that the City review the lane
configuration leaving town to the North of Baldwin Street, the City and MDOT have
exchanged previous plans and lane arrangements. Fleis and VandenBrink is now
reviewing this information in light of the dangers, which seem to be present with the traffic
flow – and how this might be improved now – even before the bridge project.
HOUSING COMMISSION
The Housing Commission has been working with Meadow Park to take over their
management. In the end, the Big Rapids Housing Authority purchased the apartments and
completed the deal this week.
AIRPORT SEWER LINE
The new hangar has been experiencing some backups which is not good at all for
AeroMed. With Velocity Systems now in the hangar as well, the line was dug up and reengineered so that this plumbing issue will not happen again.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Fire Division was again hosts to the Girl Scouts and their cookie drive. Almost a semi
full of cookies were delivered to the fire bays and distributed to all the local troops
throughout the day. Organizers told us this was the biggest year ever for local sales of Girl
Scout cookies.
Our Community Room continues to be busy hosting groups this week from Home Builders
Assoc. the Library, Finger Printing, Honor Flight and a 4-H group.
Officer Kyle Wilson has taken over the East Side officer position. He has big shoes (and
hoofs) to fill but Officer Erik Little and Boomer are helping with the transition.
PARKS & RECREATION
Girls on the Run is beginning next week. Currently, there are over 250 participants
throughout the county this year. June 7, 2014 at Northend Riverside Park the 5K
Run/Walk will take place.
Computer and crochet classes began on Tuesday. People interested can still sign up,
more information on brpr.org.
The Ice Rink walls have been taken down on the southern portion and water is beginning
to release into the field.
Park and Recreation Board met Thursday, March 20.
2
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(2) Blight
(5) Parking
(2) Non-Conforming Signs
(2) Animals
(5) Poly-cart Placement
(2) Furniture
Meetings:
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Historic District Study Committee
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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218 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
445 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
795 Seniors (168) and Disabled (627)passengers of which 136 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
59 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
90 No Shows
0 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – No Shuttle Rides, Spring Break. Free rides to anyone
from Flite Library to Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite
Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
0 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride, Spring Break. Free rides from local
establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
1,607 Total Passengers
503 Out of City
Streets –
Safety: “Complacency”
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Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Sanded and salted roads, alleys and parking lots
Patched potholes
Working on thawing storm lines
Repairing signs
Opening drains
Changed banners downtown
Starting to get the public safety meeting room painted
Rebuilt a manhole on Division Street that fell in
Cleaned trucks
Park staff are building new picnic tables
Removed boards on ice rink to begin draining
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
3
• Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Serviced 2 staff cars
 201 truck, rear brake over heated, replaced brake caliper and replaced 1 front
tire
 203 truck, replaced the rear circuit boards that control the rear lights, replaced a
head lamp
 Replaced an electric motor on a steam machine and got it running
 Wood chipper, serviced unit, and repaired feed roller assembly
 Replaced tubes in the front tires of the backhoe
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DART buses:
 Repaired rear view mirror
 901, diagnosed noise in engine, replaced 2 idler pulleys and the belt tensioner
 Replaced both front wheel seals and 1 brake caliper
 905, did a transmission service
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Met homeowner at 712 Finley Avenue to talk with and check on frozen pipes
Turned water off at 516 Woodward Avenue
Collected weekly Bac-T samples
Checked on frozen pipes complaint at 424 Fuller Avenue
Checked high consumption at 711 N Fourth Avenue
Took meter apart and cleaned at Creek’s Edge Apartments
Replaced frozen meter at 124 Sanborn Avenue
WWTP –
Safety: “Extension Cords”
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Jay Norris (Integrated Controls) is working on two faulty airflow meters, and one
faulty aeration influent meter. He is also determining what is needed, to connect
our U.V. disinfection alarm system to our SCADA call-out alarm system.
Discussions continue with Fleis and VandenBrink and Integrated Controls, as the
Aeration Basin Automatic Air Valve Project goes forward.
JW attended an Activated Sludge/SBR class in Mt. Pleasant.
Bert attended a review class in Mt. Pleasant, to prepare for his “B” license exam in
May.
Grandtech has finished installing the new E.Q. valve actuator and drive linkage.
Everything seems to be working correctly, but some tweaking may still be
necessary.
4
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Discussions with Grandtech have begun, regarding Ferric Building modifications.
The goal is to be able to accept Ferric Chloride deliveries from the Win Kellum
parking lot.
Still struggling with plant biology and nitrification issues. Snow melt and run-off are
now creating food dilution problems for our bugs.
Synagro hauled 120,000 gallons of storage sludge to Muskegon last week. We
should have enough storage tank space for another 4-6 weeks. By then, regular
hauling and local land application should be possible.
The “Mission of Mercy” Dental Clinic IPP discussions continue. John Fribley is
meeting with various parties involved, to make sure all IPP and WWTP issues are
addressed.
New Plant Operator Mike Hoisington is (sadly) leaving, after accepting a higherpaying job with a contractor. We wish him well in his new job.
Plant car 411 is being sold, and another used police car will be replacing it soon.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
March 31, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Officer Danielle Brennan was promoted to Sergeant and started her duties this week. She
will be officially sworn in at the next City Commission Meeting in April. Congratulations
Danielle!!
Four Officers from the Police Division attended a Basic LEIN Training in Traverse City this
week. LEIN is a law enforcement tool that gives officers the ability to get information
quickly and provides for their safety.
Sgt. Eddinger, Sgt. Higgins, and Sgt. Hauger attended a three day supervisory school in
Lansing.
The DPW is working this week giving our Community Room a new coat of paint. This will
give the room a fresh look for those organizations using the room. This week it was used
by Honor Flight, 4-H, Region 6 Emergency Management, TIPS Training, Finger Printing,
Rainbarrel Workshop, and Place Making Development Training for the City.
Fire Division personnel replaced over 100 light bulbs in the apparatus room, giving it a
bright new look in the evening hours. A bucket truck was borrowed from DPW to get up to
the very high ceilings in that room. Thanks Van!!!
PARKS & RECREATION
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The Girls on the Run program began this week. Planning for the 5K event will begin
soon.
The City was awarded Tree City USA for another year. Park board members will
choose a group or person for the Citizen Recognition Award to be presented at the
City Commission Meeting for Arbor Day in late April.
Spring and summer planning for the parks and recreation programs.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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241 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
545 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
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731 Seniors (184) and Disabled (547)passengers of which 129 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
52 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
58 No Shows
3,477 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – No Shuttle Rides, Spring Break. Free rides to
anyone from Flite Library to Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back
to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
33 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride, Spring Break. Free rides from local
establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
5,137 Total Passengers
430 Out of City
Streets –
Safety: “Foot Protection”
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Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Sanded and salted streets, alleys, parking lots
Cut down trees at Airport to clear flight path
Cleaning trucks
Working on thawing storm lines
Repairing signs
Park staff are building and painting picnic tables
Removed more boards on ice rink to allow further draining
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Serviced the bucket truck
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Police Cars:
 402, Stripped all equipment and stickers
 Installed new computer stand in 401
 408, serviced and replaced 3 transmission lines
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DART buses:
 Serviced and performed state safety inspection on 2 busses
 Replaced a front set of wheel bearings and seals
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
New meter at 117 N Third Ave
Moved touchpad at 406 S Michigan Ave
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Moved touchpad at Shell Station
Attended Badger meter presentation
WWTP –
Safety: “Jump Starting an Automotive Battery”
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Acquiring information and quotes on replacement composite samplers for the plant.
In the last month, 2 samplers which are 8-10 years old have failed.
Jay Norris (Integrated Controls) ordered a new Ultrasonic Flume Flow Sensor for
our failed Aeration Influent Flow Meter. It will be installed and working again soon.
Discussions with Bob Wilcox and Jay Norris, regarding lift station control, SCADA
tie-in, remote access, and alarm call-out issues.
Mic Joynt is reading water meters this week.
Discovered a partially-plugged RAS pump discharge line. The debris was
dislodged, but has now moved to a different location in the solids-handling
plumbing.
Safety training meeting at WWTP with Dave Maloney (CGS Safety Training), to plan
2014 training classes. Scott Moore came over from DPW to participate.
Higher flows continue, due to thawing and city run-water orders. The result is
dilution of plant influent, and poor “food” quality for our bio-mass.
An aeration basin sludge sample was analyzed by an outside lab, due to our
ongoing biological difficulties. Results verified the presence of a specific
filamentous growth, which is contributing to our settling problems. This undesirable
growth thrives on fats, oils, and grease that have not been removed from the plant
influent.
New WWTP Operator position has been posted, to replace Mike Hoisington.
“New” old police car has arrived at the plant, to replace the old plant car.
Water –
Weekly Safety Topic: Biohazard Safety
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Treated 9.7 Million Gallons of drinking water the week of 3-16-14
Helped the Treasures Office by reading water meters
Completed the EPA Lab duplicates as part of the DEQ continuing quality control
program
Checked fluid levels on all generators
Oiled heat circulating pumps and ordered replacement parts
Calibrated the chlorine analyzer at the head of the plant
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
3
April 4, 2014
Placemaking
Many folks attended a placemaking session on March 25th. Big Rapids has done well with
pocket park, music, farmer’s market, stage m, voca lyrica, and many other gathering
events. We are weak on housing issues among other areas. A second session is
scheduled later in the spring. Ideas continue to germinate!!!
TOWNSHIP MEETING
Steve Sobers and Mark Gifford attended the Big Rapids Township meeting to discuss their
participation in the lift station upgrade, which comes in from the Township Industrial Park.
Much information was distributed and further meetings and deliberation is anticipated with
the Township Utility Committee.
12 HOUR SHIFTS
The Police Unions are meeting again with the administration to discuss 12 hour shift work
schedules. There are many issues to consider in making such a transition and the ‘team’
is reviewing all items. There are certainly plusses and minuses to this work shift
configuration.
BUDGET
Jon Locke has scheduled meeting all day Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday to review
budget items with department heads.
SIMONDS
Eric Williams has filed the court action to identify the future right-of-way for Baldwin Street.
The first personal visit was to Simonds, since their property is actually within the right of
way. While there discussion of the future possibilities of the Hanchett redevelopment were
discussed and the possible impact of that development on Simonds. It is anticipated that
all properties affected by the Baldwin Street bridge project will be visited.
1
HOUSING
Mark Sochocki has been in several meetings discussing the plans of the Housing
Commission to look at some plat development. They have land on Mechanic Street, and
are looking into property on Rust and Copper Pointe. These locations could become very
positive plats in the City, if handled in proper manner. Discussion continues.
EDA VISIT
EDA visited Big Rapids last week to personally view the site and talk with MDOT on the
EDA grant process. All went very well.
The City has now taken complete control of the Hanchett facility and has its own locks on
gate and doors. Some additional materials will need to be moved, but Hanchett’s will call
for access.
The agreement between the City and State has been signed in accordance with the
wishes of the EDA.
FLUID ROUTING
Fluid Routing Systems’ employees are on strike. Police are monitoring the location.
TREE CITY
Big Rapids has been notified of its successful application for Tree City USA designation
once again.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Fire Division did their annual Drivers Training Refresher this week. Items covered
were the need for training, driver attributes, safe driving practices, legal aspects, physical
forces, and preventive maintenance. After the classroom training, all firefighters drove the
trucks through a cone course set up on Hanchett Drive.
Sgt. Eddinger and Officer West attended a “Training for Quota-Free Productivity Program”
this week put on by the Northwest Indiana Law Enforcement Academy.
Officers responded to multiple calls regarding the strike at Fluid Routing Systems. Blocking
traffic has been the majority of the responses.
2
PARKS & RECREATION
Big Rapids Community Tennis Association (BRCTA) met to discuss the summer
programming options and how promote additional youth tennis days.
Ferris RSO’s and community corrections are coordinating with staff various ways to assist
with park maintenance. Clean up projects are being scheduled now.
Recreation programs are running smoothly, additional spring sessions will added to meet
requests.
GOTR registration is complete. Database entry will be required and need to be completed
by June. This is a requirement to hold the license.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride Transit –
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277 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
482 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
742 Seniors (184) and Disabled (547)passengers of which 129 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
55 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
46 No Shows
3,106 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – No Shuttle Rides, Spring Break. Free rides to
anyone from Flite Library to Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back
to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
25 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride, Spring Break. Free rides from local
establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
4,679 Total Passengers
533 Out of City
STREETS –
Safety: “Crystalline Silica Awareness”
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Repaired watermain break at Dexter and Ridgeview
Installing locks on the doors at Hanchett building
Cleaning storm drains
Rotating leaves at the leaf pit
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Filled potholes
Fixed lights in parking lot behind theatre, pedestrian light on Warren Ave
Grading gravel alleys
Repairing signs
Picking up limbs out of roadways
3
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Park staff are building and painting picnic tables
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks when needed
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 207 service van, replaced radiator and 2 serpentine belts
 210 bucket truck, serviced and installed new heat shield on exhaust
 312 wood chipper, serviced and replaced drive gear bearings
 211 pickup truck, replaced both rear brake caliper’s
•
Police Cars:
 402 old police car, reinstalled all interior parts, and cleaned . Replaced right rear
door panel.
 New police car, started installing police equipment
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DART buses:
 Serviced and did 3 state safety inspections
 Repaired wheel chair lift controller and repaired ground in pump motor
 Replaced 2 parking brake cables
 Replaced a heater hose
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Checked on 128 N Second Ave for frozen pipes
Located shut off at 315 Fuller Ave
Read Ferris meters
Turned water on at 925 N Fourth Ave
Collected weekly Bac-T samples
Water –
Safety Topic: Construction Site Safety
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Treated 9.9 Million Gallons of drinking water the week of 3-23-14. This should drop
by about 300,000 gallons per day as soon as the frost has left the ground and the
“let your water run” order is stopped.
Continued work on refinishing hand rails in the clarifier room
Made up new lab reagents
Ran more of the normal Bact-T samples from the distribution system
Washed both water plant trucks
Flushed boiler room fire suppression system valve
Conducted QA/QC on a new batch of Tryptic Soy Broth.
4
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
April 11, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Police 12-Hour Shift - The department representatives have expressed interest again in
12 hour shifts. The present contract allows for this contingency, which we will try on a trial
basis. The administrative concerns are fatigue of officers on such a long shift, a somewhat
longer potential time for officers to ‘get back with’ issues and response of officers to fill in
for sick/vacation. Many other departments have this arrangement and do overcome these
issues … so that there is confidence, if the officers are motivated, that this change will
serve the community very well.
Fire Tender -The City has applied to the USDA for grant assistance for repair of the Fire
Tender. Paul Bristol has approved the request and sent it on for State approval.
Police Employment - Twenty-two candidates took the Police employment exam on the 5th
of April. Interviews will begin in the upcoming week. ‘Ride-alongs’ and background
checks will complete the application and hiring process for the two current vacancies.
Activities - It has been a relatively quiet week on the Public Safety front. The Fire Division
responded to 23 calls, 6 of them being fire runs. They did have the first reported grass fire
of the year. The Police Division responded to 67 calls for service. There was nothing
significant in nature to the complaints taken. Officers are continuing to be proactive in
relation to traffic stops and property checks.
DIG GRANT
All approvals for the gazebo have been received and applications for County Building
Permits are in. Matt Ruelle has ‘engineered’ the footer plan and location in the park. Tony
Frisbee is coordinating the City construction team that will be installing the footers
themselves. Soon it will be ready for the Ferris students to install the gazebo
superstructure.
BUDGET
Jon Locke has led the budget interviews with the Department Heads this week. All have
spent time reviewing the requests. A comprehensive document is being assembled and
will be reviewed to obtain a balanced resolution for the City Commission to adopt.
1
NORTH STATE/BALDWIN STREET
Fleis and VandenBrink completed a drawing of the intersection which could be sent to the
State for future configuration. The recommendation includes the incorporation of a bike
lane from the North as far as Waterloo. From there it can turn toward Michigan and Marion
streets, which is where the City Bike Master Plan recommended. Using five feet for bike
lanes then provides a street section of one lane in each direction and one center turn lane.
A second flashing light indicating a stop light is ahead, is also part of the recommendation
to the State. Discussions have been held with Pat Currie, Paul Jefts and others who have
indicated that this might be an acceptable solution.
VETERAN’S MEMORIAL
Jon Locke has met with the representatives of the Veterans Memorial group and worked
out the procedures for City assistance in recordkeeping should they decide to use the City
for tax and accounting purposes. A meeting of the veterans will be held to decide their
approach and this issue will be finalized next week.
PARKS & RECREATION
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Park and Recreation budget was reviewed.
Playground safety checks are in process.
Ice Rink has been taken out of the softball field. DPW and Fire Department have
been working together to prepare for storage.
In process of coordinating summer programs and events.
Park and Recreation Board meeting.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(9) Parking
(12) Non-Conforming Signs
(2) Garbage & Rubbish
(5) Property Maintenance
(1) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(3) Furniture
(12) Poly-cart Placement
(1) Disabled/Inoperable Vehicles
(4) Animals
(1) Uninhabitable Dwelling
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Streets –
Safety: “Awareness on the Job”
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Cracksealed Bronson Ave, Pemberton Avenue and Gilbertson Avenue
Patched potholes
Raised a manhole
Repaired signs
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Checked water patched
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Filled some holes with gravel
Washed trucks
Cleaned drains
Picked up barricades from Dexter Avenue and Ridgeview Drive
Cleaned the downtown flower pots of winter decorations
Put up tennis nets at Hemlock Park
Took down the walls at the Ice Rink, removing items for storage
Picnic tables put out in parks
Repairing some picnic tables
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 102 dump truck, charged battery and got running
 106 dump truck, replaced underbody turn cylinder
 211 pickup truck, serviced and replaced fuel filter
 Serviced 2 pickup trucks and replaced fuel filters
 301 street sweeper, charged battery and got running, spent 6 hours washing
and degreasing engines
•
DART buses:
 901, replaced 2 parking brake cables and adjusted
 908, Did a grease service, diagnosed howling noise in drive line, replaced left
rear brake caliper. Serviced wheelchair lift, replaced stow blocks and adjusted,
adjusted micro switches
 909, Did a grease service, replaced license plate light and 2 window latches
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Turned water on at 705 River Street
Turned water off at 504 Clark Street, possible frozen pipes
Checked high consumption complaint at 731 Sherman Street
Turned water on at 215 Gilbertson Avenue and changed out meter
Checked leak at 110 E Pine Street
Checked water service at 716 Grant Street
Replaced meters and added meter horns at 213 Finley Avenue
Shut offs for non-payment
Changed out meters at 724 Woodward Avenue and 310 Second Avenue
3
WWTP
Safety: “Electrical Shock”
 Acquiring information and quotes on replacement composite samplers for the plant.
 Jay Norris (Integrated Controls) continues work on failed Aeration Influent flow
meter.
 Repair work continues on the failed air flow meters for Aeration Basins 3 and 4.
 Discussions continue, regarding Waterloo lift station upgrades. Topics include
SCADA tie-in, remote access, and alarm call issues.
 Working with Synagro to schedule sludge hauling and land application in the next
week or two. Due to road weight limits, a hauling permit may be needed from the
County.
 A new south gate has been installed to replace the one damaged last Fall. The
damaged fence between Win Kellum Field and the plant has also been repaired.
 Second safety meeting at WWTP with Dave Maloney (CGS Safety Training) to
schedule training classes for the 2014 calendar year. Scott Moore came over to
participate.
 Higher flows continue, due to thawing and city run-water orders. The result is
dilution of plant influent, and poor “food” quality for our bio-mass.
 PCS returned to finish cleaning out the grease-grit channels. A huge mat of grease
that was frozen during their last visit, has finally thawed out and can be removed.
 Dr. Franklund brought four groups of Microbiology students over for plant tours.
 Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic issues remain un-resolved. Discussions continue
with event organizers, DEQ, and City Personnel, in an effort to allow this event to
take place.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
April 17, 2014
FERRIS MEETING
Staff met with County Officials, Jerry Scoby, and his office to review plans and calendars
for the summer season. The City is planning to pave its portion of Ferris Drive this
summer and the University expressed a desire to coordinate paving and contracting to do
their section at the same time. To achieve that result, the City Commission will be asked
to authorize an early bidding schedule for the 2014 Paving Program.
TRAIL EROSION
A section of the trail at the north end of Swede Hill Park has been eroding year by year as
high water events occurred in the Muskegon. Over the weekend, fully eight feet of
embankment washed downstream leaving the trail dangling unsupported above the water!
The City is moving the trail further inland on high ground to avoid further trail erosion
issues. The Swede Hill Fund has sufficient funds to assist in this move.
BUDGET
Jon Locke has been working diligently on the budget for 2014-15. With consultations with
staff on balancing issues, it is coming together despite very significant increases in health
care costs and retirement funding. The budget should be ready for review by the
Commission by the end of the week.
PLACE MAKING
The second of the placemaking training sessions is Thursday.
meeting is expected.
Another informative
WWTP
Jon Moxey of Fleis and VandenBrink visited the WWTP for a planning session with staff for
the next round of plant improvements. New screens and improvements to the Waterloo
life station are being drawn. Technical issues were discussed relative to the high flows
from the 5.5 inches of rain over the last weekend. Ways to minimize this impact were
reviewed. Fleis has also been asked to review the IPP Program of the City and make
suggestions to strengthen the program.
EASTER AT ROBEN HOOD
Remember if you have kids that an Easter Egg Hunt is planned at the airport this Saturday.
Crowds are expected!!!
1
DIG GRANT
Either Monday or Tuesday the City will begin construction of the footers for the Mitchell
Creek gazebo project with Ferris. The location of the structure will be raised about a foot
over present elevations to that the future impact of any flooding in the area will be
minimized.
TROY MCDONALD
Troy has been employed as a wastewater operator taking the place of the position vacated
by the promotion of Dave Cushway. Troy is a local Big Rapids HS graduate with strong
background in mechanics, which will be a good complement to the present plant staff.
POLICE INTERVIEWS
Police interviews were conducted this week and the field reduced to five strong
candidates. Each will be given a chance to ‘ride along’ with present officers to gain
additional feel for the community and to help both sides decide if their skills and personality
are a ‘fit’ for Big Rapids. Final decisions on two vacancies will be forthcoming within the
next few weeks.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Both Police and Fire Divisions had an extremely busy weekend responding to multiple
calls both in the city and the surrounding townships. Power outages, downed power lines,
trees in the roadway, structure fires, traffic lights not working, and even a mobile home
tipped over in the middle of the road were handled by department personnel. Both
divisions have been keeping their eyes on the rivers in the area for flooding issues and
washed out roads.
The fire division followed up with a fully involved barn fire Sunday night on 20 Mile Road in
Green Township and a dangerous electrical problem in a house on 23 Mile Road Monday
morning.
The first round of interviews were completed this week for two new police officers. The
field was narrowed down to five candidates with additional interviews to follow.
Police officers from Big Rapids Department of Public Safety and surrounding departments
attended MICR (Michigan Incident Crime Report) training on Thursday. The five hour
training was held at our department in the Community Room.
PARKS & RECREATION
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Planning for the Car Show Cruise that will be located in Downtown Big Rapids this
summer.
IFC students will be at Hemlock Park on 4/26 to spruce up Playscape and assist
with Earth Day.
Attended Riverdays meeting.
2
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Brutus Dog Park Clean up scheduled on April 19 from 9am-12pm. The park will be
open afterwards.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(6)
(3)
(7)
(2)
Blight
Parking
Uninhabitable Dwelling
Garbage & Rubbish
(2) Property Maintenance
(4) Poly-cart Placement
(2) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Training:
•
Customer Service Training
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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237 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
155 Children riders – ($1.00 fare) No school due to Spring Break this week.
652 Seniors (181) and Disabled (580)passengers of which 114 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
48 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
16 No Shows
2,526 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – No Shuttle Rides, Spring Break. Free rides to
anyone from Flite Library to Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back
to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
35 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride, Spring Break. Free rides from local
establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
3,669Total Passengers
441 Out of City
Streets –
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Storm damage clean-up
Cleaned catch basins
Chipping brush from storm damage
Painted and delivered board signs for Playscape
Sanded and salted streets
Patched potholes
Repaired signs
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Cleaned drains
3
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Picnic tables put out in parks
Repairing some picnic tables
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool
Safety Topic: Chainsaw Safety tips
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Pickup trucks
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Busses
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Serviced 3, replaced wipers. Removed two tires and reseated beads
Serviced the tommy lift on one of the trucks
Police carsServiced 1, replaced a serpentine belt, and repaired 3 flat tires
Did a grease service
Diagnosed a brake problem and ordered parts
Replaced the A/C belt
Service both engines on the street sweeper, installed 2 gutter brooms and the belly
broom
Serviced the Kubota and the Gator
306 Tractor, replaced the steering hose, and greased tractor and York Rake
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Repaired touch pad @ 432 S Warren Avenue
Moved touch pad @ 614 Cherry Avenue
Replaced meter; domestic and sprinkler; @ 618 Willow Avenue
Dug up and replaced pit meter @ 504 Clark Street – froze
Replaced meter @ 327 S Third Avenue – froze
Turned water on @ 702 Magnolia
Assisted with turning Hydrant 429 towards road
Assisted with cleaning catch basins after storm
Assisted with storm cleanup
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Arc Flash Explosions”
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Working with Bob Wilcox (F&V) on bid specification for plant composite samplers.
Two aeration air flow meters still non-functional. One has been sent back to the
manufacturer for repair, and the other one needs to be sent.
Repair work continues on the failed air flow meters for Aeration Basins 3 and 4.
4
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Project Update Meeting with Bob Wilcox and Plant Staff, regarding Waterloo lift
station upgrades and Headworks Screening upgrades.
Synagro hauled 90,000 gallons from our storage tanks and then stopped. They
plan to return on Monday April 28, to continue hauling.
Grantech returned to make some adjustments to the new E.Q. Basin automatic
valve actuator. The valve was not fully closing, even though the actuator and
SCADA showed that it was closed.
Chemco Products performed preliminary “jar testing” of our current polymer, as well
as some of their samples. The nitrification process and related sludge
characteristics require a change in polymer. Blair (F&V) recommended Chemco as
a possible solution.
Overhead Door working on failed “explosion-proof” door opener in grease/grit
building.
The weekend storm caused minor damage (shingles, soffit, fascia), and brought
almost 5.5 inches of rain. Numerous alarms, a power outage, and extremely high
influent flows created sleepless nights for plant staff. Plant flows exceeded the
design-maximum hydraulic capacity of the plant, resulting in final effluent solids
outside our permit limits. All flow went through all treatment processes, and no
overflows occurred at any time.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
April 25, 2014
INDUSTRIAL MEETING
Mayor Mark Warba sponsored a meeting of the Big Rapids Industrial plant managers at
the Public Safety building, which was very well attended and continues to bring
camaraderie and communication to the employers. The meeting concluded with lunch and
a continuation of mutual issues of concern to the industrial world.
STORM DAMAGE
The City has prices from Brandle Roofers of Midland who were the original contractors for
the water plant roof. Their proposal was acceptable to the insurance company, so they
have been authorized to begin the repairs.
The fence has been repaired and the debris has been removed from the streets and the
water plant roof.
In addition, the City is working with Simonds discussing options on the repair of their roof
and structures as well.
UNION NEGOTIATION
The City and AFSCME began negotiations Wednesday on the contract, which expires in
June. Each side exchanged their ‘wish’ list and planned for additional meetings to work
through the needed changes.
EARTH DAY
Earth Day pickup begins this Saturday April 26 at 9:00 a.m. at City Hall.
calendars!!
Mark your
DEPOT
Discussions continue with potential users of the Depot to find a way to use this historical
resource.
DIG GRANT
Footers are being installed in Mitchell Creek Park for the gazebo superstructure being
made by the Ferris welding class.
1
ENGINEERING
There are lots of engineering projects being designed at this moment. A full discussion of
each project and its present status is planned for Wednesday this upcoming week.
Updates include the wastewater plant; DIG planning, Hanchett’s demolition, Baldwin
Bridge, IPP audit, and water plant wind damage.
AIRPORT
Fuel use continues to rise as more planes use the airport. Dan Kirwin has completed his
property evaluation, which will allow the City to file for the removal of about 160 acres from
the airport which presently is home to the water well field. The City looks to use some of
this ground for a potential future recreational opportunity.
PERSONNEL
Officer Danielle Brennan was administered the Oath of Office as Police Sergeant at the
City Commission meeting April 24, 2014.
Sergeant Brennan, Officer David Flore, Officer Erik Little and Boomer, and Officer Liz West
all received Public Safety Awards for outstanding service. Kudos to all the exceptional
employees that the City employs.
Police ‘ride along’ interviews are currently being held as the officers evaluate the 5 finalists
for present vacancies in the department.
Troy McDonald began his service with the City this week at the wastewater plant.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Officers Miller and Smith attended an Interviewing and Interrogation school. This was a
five day program held in Mt. Pleasant.
Firefighters responded to a structure fire at Village Green Apartments Thursday evening.
The attic space was fully involved in the 24 unit building. All apartments sustained major
damage and tenants were temporarily placed in local hotels by the American Red Cross.
Along with our department we received mutual aid from Big Rapids Twp., Mecosta, Austin,
and Reed City Fire Departments.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(4) Blight
(3) Parking
(1) Uninhabitable Dwelling
(3) Garbage & Rubbish
(14) Non-Conforming Signs
(2) Property Maintenance
(12) Poly-cart Placement
(10) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(1) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
2
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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206 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
415 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
768 Seniors (192) and Disabled (576)passengers of which 141 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
51 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
59 No Shows
1,980 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to
Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to
8:00 pm
0 Safe Ride Trips – No Safe Ride Easter weekend. Free rides from local
establishments to anyone in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday
nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
3,479 Total Passengers
443 Out of City
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Ten Rules to Preserve Ten Fingers”
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Storm damage clean-up continuing
Chipping brush from storm damage
Picking up stumps from city right-of-way
Filling potholes
Reading meters
Hauled gravel for the replacement trail on Riverwalk at Northend Riverside Park
Sweeping streets
Put out signs for children’s parade
Attended Water Meter presentation
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Cleaned drains
Repairing some picnic tables
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Prepped ball fields
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
•
Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 207 service van, replaced radiator and 2 serpentine belts
 312 chipper, replaced chipper knives
 554 Wing mower, serviced and replaced spinal bushings and front deck belt,
washed and degreased engine
 301 street sweeper, replaced suction tube and repaired hydraulic leak
3
 561 gator, serviced
 Chain saws, sharpened all the chains and replaced one
•
Police Cars:
 Serviced 2 police cars
 Started installing police equipment on the new police car, programed the light
bar
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DART buses:
 903 bus, replaced 2 hydraulic hoses
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Attended Water Meter presentation
Shut off water at 704 Magnolia
Monthly reads
Started backflow device testing
Changed meter out at 720 Finley – frozen
Changed meter out at Dog Park and turned water on
Changed out meter at Crossroads Charter football field and turned water on
Turned water on at 514 Bailey, 207 N Third and 114 Mill St
Installed new meter at 713 Division St
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Throwing Electrical Disconnects”
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New Plant Operator Troy McDonald started Monday April 21st.
Working with Bob Wilcox (F&V) on bid specification for plant composite samplers.
Two aeration air flow meters still non-functional. One has been sent back to the
manufacturer for repair, and the other one needs to be sent.
Grit trolley drive motor failure. Removed and replaced faulty motor.
Synagro progress continues. They hauled another 316,000 gallons from our
storage tanks and then stopped. The west tank is empty and the east tank is about
half-empty.
E.Q Basin valve now opening and closing correctly.
Spencer Blower #3 motor is being removed, for bearing replacement.
Mic Joynt attended a 3-Day Sequence-Batch-Reactor class in Mt. Pleasant.
Anne Spain’s Ferris Micro-Biology Class toured the Wastewater Plant.
Completed a draft review and update of the Bio-Solids Bid Proposal Package.
John Fribley has successfully resolved the Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic Issues.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
May 2, 2014
ARC FLASH
The City received the report on the Arc Flash review for the utilities to make sure that the
electrical systems are wired safely and are noticed properly. Training is also part of the
ongoing Arc Flash program that has been instituted. The City will begin to implement the
findings and postings associated with this requirement.
DEPOT PROJECT
The ‘Hometown Architecture’ program at Ferris has been looking for a ‘home’ to set up
their operations. At the recent Ferris Legislative Luncheon, there was a discussion of the
Depot as a potential building out of which to operate. This has been communicated with
Senator Darwin Booher, who has had this project on his priority list for many, many years.
The City for this time has also been interested in restoring this structure, and in applying
for grants to support its use. This week the City met with Mike Hughes and Fritz Erickson
to question if Ferris would be willing to draft a letter of support for the potential location of
this program at the Depot. The answer was “yes”, with the understanding that at this time
this is a City project and that there is not financial commitment from Ferris. We look
forward to discussions with the granting agencies DNR and MDOT to determine with this
new alignment, if restoration funds may be obtained. At the same time, the Senator’s
office is supportive of state involvement in the outcome. Perhaps the ‘stars are beginning
to align’ on this important community landmark.
BROWNFIELD DEVELOPMENT
Several meetings have been held this week to discuss the potential development of the
Hanchett site as a brownfield development. Each program has details that need to be
understood in order to bring development to a property, which would advantage both the
City and the developer. The City is aggressively getting up to speed with discussions with
its consultant in order to position its Hanchett land in the best possible place for positive
development.
STATE LAND
In conjunction with the Depot project, the City has tried to have the State transfer
miscellaneous parcels of ground which are surplus to the State into the hands of the City
for potential future use. The DNR has been part of these discussions for over 15 years.
Recent discussions on the Depot have revived this interest – and perhaps with serious
potentials for development have once again opened this discussion.
1
“PUTTIN” AROUND DOWNTOWN
The City is part of the Downtown Business Association “Puttin” around downtown this
weekend. The City hole is set up in the Commission Chambers room and will be
challenging for participants. Bring your clubs for a try!!
BIG RAPIDS SCHOOL DISTRICT ELECTION
The School election takes place on Tuesday, May 6, 2014. Hours to vote are from 7:00
a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Remember to VOTE!!
EARTH DAY
Several bags of garbage were removed from City streets on Saturday with help from over
50 individuals. The team of Lynn Anderson, Mark Sweppenheiser and Steve Sobers were
one of the ‘winning’ groups collecting 11 bags of trash. This group selected the
Community Library to receive its winning donation of $50.00.
SCOREBOARD
Michigan Liquor Control Board has transferred the liquor license from the old Scoreboard
at 806 Maple Street to Maple Street Pub, LLC. A new restaurant/bar will be opening there
in the near future.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Police Officers had a busy weekend during the Ferris Fest activities. Patrols and multiple
stops resulted in 12 open intoxicant tickets and 1 MIP being issued.
Officer Jeff Miller attended the 24th Annual Great Lakes Violent Crime Seminar in Troy
Michigan this week. The four day training event was put on by the FBI National Academy.
Firefighters spent the week cleaning up from the Village Green Apartment fire and
investigating the cause and origin. An electrical short in the wall near the boiler room
started the fire, which moved to the attic area and spread throughout the building.
Captain Bell did the annual ladder testing this week. All of the departments ladders were
load tested and inspected, safety stickers were replaced and the ladders were cleaned and
returned to their place on the apparatus.
PARK & RECREATION
•
Gymnastics took a break for a week. The spring session begin next Tuesday at the
Big Rapids High School.
•
Tai Chi is being held outside when the weather permits. (over 50 degrees and
hopefully sunny).
2
•
The walking program has ended at the BRMS, however, people are encouraged to
walk with the Mayor on Wednesday thru the SPW program.
•
Daytime computer classes have been cancelled.
•
Summer flyer is being completed and will be distributed within the next few weeks.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(10) Blight
(7) Parking
(1) Recreational Vehicles
(2) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
•
(4)
(2)
(6)
(5)
Property Maintenance
Poly-cart Placement
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Non-Conforming Signs
Special thanks to Kaycee Knoop this week for her help on a project for the
Proposed Historic District 
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
On Thursday April 24th, Dial-A-Ride assisted the Department of Public Safety with a couple
of buses to transport the displaced residents from the Village Green Apartment fire. They
were transported to the Big Rapids Middle School temporarily, and then taken to the
Quality Inn.
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244 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
476 Children riders – ($1.00 fare) No school on Good Friday.
769 Seniors (145) and Disabled (624)passengers of which 179 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
68 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
58 No Shows
2,743 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to
Westside Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to
8:00 pm
69 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
4,427 Total Passengers
453 Out of City
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Fan Safety”
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Sweeping streets
Dug footings for dome at Mitchell Creek Park and hauled sand there also
Chipping brush and hauling wood
3
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Blackdirted where stumps were picked up
Hauled steel from Ferris to Mitchell Creek Park for dome
Dug a water line for the Wastewater Plant
Cleaned up snow dump area
Moved items for the Downtown Putt Putt Golf event
Hauling mulch for the Community Garden
Filling potholes
Sweeping Ferris streets
Hauling crusher dust for the ball diamonds
Repaired leaking relief valve on the water heater at the concession stand near Win
Kellum field
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Cleaned drains
Painting picnic tables
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
•
Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Serviced 4 pickup trucks
 Replaced rear brake pads and rotors on a pickup
 Replaced a radiator on a flatbed truck
 Serviced the 2nd wing mower and the John deer front mower
 2 Technicians attended a training/seminar in Monroe Wisconsin
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Police Cars:
 Serviced 2 police cars
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DART buses:
 Performed a transmission service on 1 bus
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Finished monthly meter reads
Turned water on at 317 S Third Ave
Turned water off at 423 Fuller Ave
Fixed touchpad at Tractor Supply
Fixed touchpad at 701 Novak Lane
Changed meter at 716 Maple St
Changed meter at 730 Tioga
Changed meter at 157 Cardinal Court
Changed meter at 207 S Third – frozen
Tested some more backflow preventers
4
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “A Clean Worksite is a Safe Worksite”
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Switched to another Poly-Blend machine, due to ongoing SDC problems.
Discussions continue, regarding possible polymer changes, to improve SDC
operation.
Chlorination discussion with Blair and Operators, regarding filamentous growth
issue.
Jay Norris to return ASAP with rebuilt aeration basin airflow meter, when he
receives it.
100 HP aeration blower #3 motor delivered to Fix-All (G.R.) for bearing
replacement.
Arc-Flash Study review meeting with Terry Miner of Kibbe and Associates.
Repaired leaking water supply line to hydrant taps and Headworks. DPW provided
a backhoe and operator for the job. Thanks Van!
Placing Aeration Basin #4 back into service, after being taken out of service during
the recent storm event.
High flows during the storm event revealed that the supply pipe feeding Basin #4
will not carry the total flow exiting Basin #3. The capacity of this pipe is something
less than the plant design maximum hydraulic flow-rate of 6.0 MGD. Investigation
continues.
Discussions continue, regarding Summer operation and the ongoing nitrification
study. Lower flows will require a different plan, after Ferris and the Public Schools
are out.
Ed Hawks (F&V) visited the Waterloo Lift Station, as part of the ongoing upgrade
project.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
May 16, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Police officers participated in this year’s Police Memorial, hosted by Ferris State University.
It was well attended by officers, students, and the community despite the poor weather and
was held indoors at the Flight Library.
The Police Division started working 12 hour shifts this week. The new schedule still works
officers an 80 hour pay period, but allows for a three and four day “weekend” every two
weeks.
Fire Division responded to a fire in an old gravel pit in Green Township this week. Upon
arrival they found two 5th wheel camping trailers on fire. The fires were extinguished rather
quickly and are still under investigation.
PARK & RECREATION
Volleyball playoffs are this weekend.
Dog park bricks were picked up in Grand Rapids, they will be put in place within the next
few weeks. Also, stucco is being placed on the dog houses and soon painting will be on
them at the dog park.
Staff visited the City of Cadillac to discuss their operations and staff management. The
visit was resourceful and we hope to have some new ideas to implement into our daily
processes.
Summer flyers were delivered to the schools, see attached.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(4) Blight
(1) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
(2) Furniture
(1) Garbage & Rubbish
(5) Grass & Weeds
(12) Poly-cart Placement
(2) Property Maintenance
1
(5)
(2)
(4)
(4)
Non-Conforming Signs
Parking
Uninhabitable Dwelling
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
DIAL-A-RIDE
Safe Ride is over so there are no counts for this week, but here are the totals for the year. I
have broken them up into semesters so for the Fall semester we transported 689 and 563
for the winter semester, for a total of 1,252 passengers safely home from the local bars.
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226 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
445 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
722 Seniors (174) and Disabled (548)passengers of which 169 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
57 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
28 No Shows
1,790 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
0 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
3,268 Total Passengers
442 Out of City
STREETS
SAFETY TOPIC: “Be Cool”
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Sweeping streets
Patching potholes
Picking up brush and logs from storm damage
Repairing leaking valve in alley behind J C Penney’s
Cleaned drains
Blackdirted 200 block of N Fourth Avenue and 900 block of Woodward Avenue
Put downtown umbrellas up
Put out barricades and signs for Farmer’s Market
Moved soccer goals
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Repaired hand dryer at Public Safety
Checked the electric at the Bandshell
Dug up watermain on 131/State St and found leak
Located sewers for our contractor
Met with Cadillac Parks personnel
2
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Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 105 dump truck, replaced exhaust pipe
 301 street sweeper, replaced some leaky water valves, replaced gutter brooms
as needed
 302 loader, repaired sticky throttle
 306 tractor, replaced seat springs and shock
Staff cars and trucks:
 215 replaced starter, and serviced transmission
 412 replaced front brake rotors and pads, replaced wipers
•
Police and Fire Vehicles:
 401 serviced and replaced wipers
 402 new ford, still wiring and outfitting with police equipment
 407 serviced
 416 serviced, replaced front tires, replaced front brake rotors and pads
 1-1 serviced
 1-4 diagnosed noise
•
Air Port equipment:
 tractor, serviced
 Kubota, serviced
 John Deere mower, services, removed engine and replaced center motor block
basket, replaced mower belt and pulley bushings
•
DART buses:
 903 diagnosed heater problem, replaced and programed blend door actuator
 904 repaired and adjusted entry door switch and replaced a flat tire
 906 did a grease service, serviced transmission, replaced hydraulic hoses on
wheelchair lift, repaired quarter panel bracket
 Replaced entry door bulb and installed nonskid tape to the steps, repaired
passenger railing
 908 put shims under wheelchair lift and replaced all the fasteners bolts, replaced
2 brake light assemblies
 909 services and performed a safety inspection, serviced transmission
MAIN MAINTENANCE
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Investigated meter for high consumption at 125 E Pine
3
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Investigated meter for high consumption at 506 N Michigan
Shut offs for non-payment
Painted Hydrant #448 on E. Maple
Checked out low pressure at 315 S State
Performed Backflow Prevention testing
Turned water off at 504 Clark
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Chemical Safety”
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SDC operation continues, without any further problems.
Filamentous growth has declined and overall biology continues to improve.
Aeration Basin # 4 is back in service. Nitrification has returned.
Final attempt to mechanically un-clog old grit chamber air piping. If this fails, the
piping will have to be lifted out of the chamber for disassembly.
 100 HP aeration blower #3 has been re-installed and is ready for test operation. If
all goes well, it will be placed back into regular service.
 Kibbe and Associates Arc-Flash training at the Wastewater Plant has been
scheduled for Wednesday May 28. Class is 10:00 am to Noon and lunch will be
provided.
 Arrangements are being made to visit Schreiber grease and grit removal
installations at other wastewater treatment plants. The goal is to learn why and how
other Schreiber equipment works (or doesn’t work) at other locations.
 One of the two faulty aeration basin airflow meters was rebuilt by the manufacturer,
and Jay Norris visited the plant to re-install it.
 The plan to take aeration basin # 1 out of service for inspection and cleaning has
been delayed until mid-June. PCS will be needed for removal of grit and debris in
the bottom.
 IPP Program training plans are moving forward, following productive discussions at
the plant and the recent IBB meeting.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
May 23, 2014
FERRIS
A HUGE thank you to Ferris for their donation of library shelving to the renovated
Community Library. In addition to the space provided by the University at FLITE, the
university has some shelving that has become surplus as the book space at FLITE is
repurposed to other university needs. This donation is valued at around $25,000 if
shelving were purchased new.
The City has also received a letter of support from Ferris on the potential development of
the DEPOT. The administration is now working with Ferris as well as the State of
Michigan who owns the depot. It continues to be the hope that developmental funds can
be found to renovate the structure into a workable business operation. This support letter
breathes life again into that possibility.
DIG GRANT/GAZEBO
Huntington Bank has joined the support cast of Lake Osceola State Bank, Isabella Bank,
and Chemical Bank in being a ‘pillar’ for the gazebo in the park DIG Grant project. We
now have $30,000 toward the DIG project in donations.
SIMONDS
The City had an exploratory meeting with Simonds concerning possible expansion of their
industry in Big Rapids. The move could involve consolidation of facilities and potential
construction of additional work space. Much is involved with this activity
SUMMER FLOWERS
Zinnia coupons are available beginning today. Be sure and plant some of Big Rapids City
flowers this year.
Downtown flower brackets are going up and the flowers will be delivered in the next two
weeks. It should be a very beautiful downtown this year. We will have 22 hanging baskets
and the planters will also be in full bloom at the fist of June.
PERSONNEL
Background checks are nearing completion on the officer interviews.
The Job Description for the Deputy Director position replacing the retiring Warren Hanson
is being finalized. Advertising will begin after the Holidays.
1
Swimming pool positions are being finalized for the summer season.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Public Safety officers from both divisions assisted this week with the Mobile Hospital set up
at Ferris State University. Fire Division set up a water system from the fire hydrant next to
the water tower and the Police Division assisted with extra patrols of the area. It was a
very impressive setup and a great asset to our region.
Police Division members assisted with the Wheatlake Cancer and Wellness Walk and 5K
last weekend, making a safe crossing for participants using Riverwalk at the Baldwin
Street crossing.
PARK & RECREATION
Volleyball playoff winners, are as follows:
Division One
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Division Three
Yoplait
B-Dubs
Kayla Wheeler
Twice is Nice
The Gate
The Sharks
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Tamara Wade
Bud Light
Setting Ducks
Cruise Planners
The Punishers
DP Tire
Pioneer Group
Jefts FBI
See attached information regarding the Girls on the Run event and summer programs.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(5)
(3)
(41)
(1)
Blight
Garbage & Rubbish
Grass & Weeds
Poly-cart Placement
(6)
(1)
(12)
(5)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Parking
Non-Conforming Signs
Property Maintenance
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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152 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
454 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
2
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757 Seniors (169) and Disabled (588)passengers of which 161 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
43 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
34 No Shows
0 FERRIS SHUTTLE BUS – Free rides to anyone from Flite Library to Westside
Café and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Flite Library. 10:45 am to 8:00 pm
0 Safe Ride Trips – Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the
community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
1,440 Total Passengers
472 Out of City
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Power Mower Safety”
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Sweeping streets
Moving shelving for Library
Sawing section of South 131 for water repair
Sawing section of North 131 by Szot’s for repair of catch basin
Picked up pillars from Old Jail
Repaired leaking valve in alley behind Mohnke Funeral Home
Patching potholes
Sawed patches on Dexter and Ives
Cleaned drains
Backfilled and compacted for pillars at Mitchell Creek Park
Took flower pot brackets off at City Hall
Removed flag brackets from light poles downtown
Swept sidewalks on 131, M-20, S Third, Colburn and N DeKrafft
Hauled banner poles to be repaired
Cleaned water truck
Repaired water stack at 621 Ives
Put out barricades and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watering trees
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Cleaned shop and all drains
 Serviced 4 leaf blowers
 301 street sweeper, repaired top suction tube and repaired rear strobe lights
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Police and Fire Vehicles:
 403 police car, removed ICOP unit
 402 new police car, continued wiring and installing equipment
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DART buses:
 908 bus, serviced and did a safety inspection, installed antiskid tape on entry
steps, repaired coolant leak, diagnosed air conditioning problem and ordered
parts
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Repaired touch pad at 609 Bjornson
Installed meter on hydrant for Community Gardens
Replaced frozen sprinkler at 625 Woodward Avenue
Changed out meter and put in new sprinkler meter at 410 Winter Avenue
Turned water on and changed out meter at 82 Cherry
Replaced meters at 111 N Knollview, 708 Campus Drive & 607 S Michigan
Started monthly meter reading
Installed new meter at 703 Jefferson
Installed new sprinkler meter at 803 Cypress
Changed out meters at 914 Dexter & 111 Knollview
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Chemical Labels Part 1”
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Synagro has arrived and is setting up to haul more storage sludge.
The bid process for storage sludge hauling and land application is in motion. Bid
proposals will be opened and reviewed very soon at City Hall.
Filamentous growth has declined and overall biology looks really good. The
nitrification process is working well once again.
Plant flows have dropped with the end of Spring Semester at Ferris, and will drop
further when the Public Schools dismiss for the Summer.
Old Grit chamber repair work continues.
100 HP aeration blower # 3 has been tested and is ready for service.
Space is available in the Arc-Flash Training Class Wednesday May 28 at the
WWTP. Attendance is free. Let Dave Cushway know if you would like to
participate.
The air flow meter for aeration basin # 4 has been rebuilt and re-installed. The
failed meter from basin # 3 has been removed and is currently being rebuilt.
Mic, Bert, and JW attended an Activated Sludge Process Control class in Grand
Rapids.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
May 30, 2014
BIG RAPIDS BUILDING AUTHORITY
The Big Rapids Building Authority met for a final time on May 22, 2014 to dissolve. This is
the group that held title to the urban renewal developed parking lots in the downtown
business district and continued to be the “holders” of the parking lots. They had previously
met to convey the title to the City. This action has been successfully completed and so the
group is no longer needed.
AIRPORT
The quarterly meeting of the Airport Advisory Committee met and heard the progress and
advances at Roben Hood Airport. Fuel sales continue to be strong and activity is focusing
on the runway study project. Also, the land release paperwork has been completed and is
expected to be filed in the next week. This action will remove excess land from airport
activities, which include the area presently used as the City water well field.
LIBRARY
A meeting was held with the representatives of the township partners to walk through the
renovated library and discuss the future funding of the facility. Jon Locke presented
information on the City’s 2015 budget and the need for support from the townships. The
average Big Rapids family supports the library at a level of $100 to $125 in tax dollars and
that level is needed from the townships if the library is to be financially successful.
FISH
The Mecosta County Community Foundation called to advise that funds have again been
donated to provide a fish stocking of the Muskegon once the paperwork is complete.
Plans will move forward for that program.
CREEK’S EDGE
This complex is in the township and served by private wells. The City and owners are
exploring the costs of extending public water to the complex.
ZINNIA’S
At this writing, 220 Zinnia’s flats have been distributed – and it looks again like this year
the entire allotment will be planted across the community.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Memorial weekend ended with the Memorial Day Parade, escorted by the Police Division
through downtown Big Rapids, stopping at Mitchell Creek and continuing on to Highland
View Cemetery.
Officers from the Police Division also assisted with morning security at the Big Rapids High
School this morning (5-30-14) in preparation for their graduation Swing Out.
Fire personnel were busy this week with medical calls, including the fatal PI on Newcosta
Avenue. Maintenance of equipment, inventory of supplies, and cleaning the station are
always part of their work week.
PARK & RECREATION
Tree planting has been completed, watering for the season has begun. The trees planted
in the fall will be evaluated as they have a one year warranty.
Playground safety checks are complete for the City Parks. Wood fiber will be ordered and
distributed this summer along with painting and beatification to Playscape.
Playground safety checks at Mecosta County parks are underway.
Girls on the Run program is ending next week for the spring session. The 5K run/walk will
be next Saturday, June 7th at Northend Riverside Park.
Correction to Volleyball Division 3 season winners. AFSCME, First Place. Tamara Wade,
Second Place.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(2) Garbage & Rubbish
(59) Grass & Weeds
(4) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(2) Disabled/inoperable Vehicles
(31) Non-Conforming Signs
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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200 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
454 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
735 Seniors (147) and Disabled (588) passengers of which 184 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
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77 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
41 No Shows
130 Passengers took the bus from the hospital to the Mobile hospital on Ferris
campus for emergency training of their Staff.
1,637 Total Passengers
504 Out of City
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Electrical Hand Tool Safety”
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Sweeping streets
Took recycle bins to Northend Park for annual Wet Project event
Painted flag holders and flower basket holders for downtown
Graded gravel roads
Took banner pole to Cook’s for repairs
Repaired water stack at 621 Ives Avenue
Moved shelving to the Library
Cleaned up the back yard at the Garage
Put up flower basket holders at City Hall and downtown
Painted banner pole
Working on Riverwalk rerouted path in Northend Riverside Park
Removed and planted a tree at City Hall building
Checked all tree grates and put bolts back in for stability when walking on them
Put up flags and poles downtown
Put out barricades and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watering trees
Fertilized the parks, ball diamonds and soccer fields
Spreading wood chips throughout City
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Repaired swing set at Playscape
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup trucks and Miscellaneous:
 Serviced the water van and replaced rear tires
 Serviced a staff car and replaced the driver’s seat lumbar mechanism
 Repaired metal frame work at one of the airports hanger
 Repaired a trailer ramp hinge
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Police and Fire Vehicles:
 replaced head lamp assembly
 serviced 2 cars
 new car started putting some of the interior panels back together and installed
partitions,
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Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Finishing up monthly meter reads
Installed new meter at 226 Baldwin
Turned fire protection water valve for new building (Northern Flats)
Started reading Ferris monthly meter reads
Changed out meters at 101, 107, 113, 119, 131, 125, 137 and 144 Cardinal Court
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Chemical Labels, Part 2”
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Synagro hauled another 152,000 gallons of storage sludge, which finally emptied
our storage tanks. Their contract ends on June 30, 2014.
The bid opening process resulted in 3 bidders for the new 3-year storage sludge
hauling and land application contract: Synagro, Biotech, and Grow America.
Plant biology continues to look really good, and the nitrification process continues.
The Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic is scheduled for May 30-31 at Ferris. IPP
details have been finalized and everything should run smoothly.
The old grit chamber air supply plumbing is being disassembled.
One of the Aerzen grease-grit blowers has been shut down, due to an unusual
noise.
Terry Miner conducted the Arc-Flash training class here at the plant. Valuable
material was presented, with a high level of operator interest and participation.
Aeration Basin #3 still operating without an airflow meter. Repair is in progress.
Planning is in progress, to re-roof the Headworks and Ferric buildings. These
buildings were constructed in the 1994 plant upgrade and still have their original
shingles.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
JUNE 6, 2014
LIBRARY
The finishing touches are being put on the library. Many of the bookshelves are installed
and books and literature is returning to the Community library. During the upcoming week
FLITE will be evacuated giving the City two weeks to install all services for an opening on
the 23 of June.
On that day, the Summer reading program starts as well. We look forward to additional
computer, new children’s activities and organized services. It will be outstanding. Miriam
Andrus and Eric Haluska deserve very high accolades and praise for their professional
work in following this renovation through its construction and in bringing this project to
completion.
GPS
The flight for digital pictometry has been completed. We are advised that the finished
aerial photos will be delivered in the next 45 days.
EVIP
Jon Locke has filed the last round of EVIP requirements in order for the City to receive its
local government funding for the 2014 year.
URBAN HEAT ISLAND PROJECT
Jennifer Johnson, professor at Ferris State University has been awarded a study to
determine impact of heat islands in a community. This project places equipment that
records temperatures at many locations around the community. We will receive the
analysis and impacts at the end of the study. We have been working with Jennifer to
locate instruments of reading through the community.
TREES
The City reluctantly cut over 1,000 trees last year as a result of the Emerald Ash Borer
infestation. Many of those were in North End Riverside Park. As planting new trees is not
a financial possibility, and planting just a few seemed to have no value, we are electing to
let nature reclaim the ‘forest’ in a natural manner. It will be interesting to see this area
transformed into shrubs, then early forest and finally mature trees. In town, we planted
over $20,000 of various species in order to preserve the urban ‘forest’ of trees. Additional,
sums are being applied for to continue to fund the tree needs of the community.
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BURRO PROGRAM
Toward the middle of summer the City will be participating in a burro program. Jayna
Wekenman of Big Rapids has been in Arizona and has qualified to participate in the
Federal Government wild burro reclamation project. The animals have been captured and
trained to work in urban environments and provide transportation for work details. Jayna
will be working with the parks program as a part-time employee.
BROWNFIELD ASSESSMENT
The City continues to work with Simonds on potential additional economic development
projects. As part of that effort the City approached the County Brownfield Committee for a
phase 1 and 2 environmental assessment for the potential land of expansion in order to
determine its eligibility in a brownfield expansion incentive. The report should be
competed in the next 45 days.
POLICE CAR
After several weeks of conversion one of the two new cruisers is finally ready for the road.
Look for the SUV as you drive around town. The second will start its outfitting process
beginning next week. As these are the first SUVs the City has had, considerable work has
gone into this changeover. Thanks to Cal, Kevin and Scott for their persistent work.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Sargent’s attended a Supervisor Training put on by Macnlow & Associates at the
Ingham County Sheriff’s Office. This was the second in a series of MGT training they have
all attended.
Detective Miller and Officer Flore attended a Color Guard training this week in Alpena.
Fire Department trained in Pump Operations and Water Supply this week in their regular
monthly training.
Fire Division personnel are keeping busy with their annual hose testing. Every length of
hose in the department must be tested every year to NFPA standards.
PARK & RECREATION
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Girls on the Run 5 K run/walk is Saturday, June 7 at Northend Riverside
Park. Registration is at 8-9am and the event begins at 9:30am. Registration is $5,
Free for GOTR participants and coaches.
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The Charles E. Fairman Community Pool opens on Monday, June 9. Pool
registrations for swimming lessons and passes will be available Monday – Friday
1:00 pm-7:45 pm. (See Attached)
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Next Friday, June 13 from 6 pm-8 pm in Downtown Big Rapids, the Downtown
“Cruise In” will kick off! Free for all participants and spectators.
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Bandshell concert series is complete. (See Attached)
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(8) Poly-cart Placement
(37) Grass & Weeds
(15) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(1) Uninhabitable Dwelling
(31) Non-Conforming Signs
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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182 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
298 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
564 Seniors (163) and Disabled (401)passengers of which 113 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
42 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
38 No Shows
1,124 Total Passengers
393 Out of City
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: 2 Instructor based classes:
1. “Forklift Certification/Safety Training”
2. “Aerial Work Platform (bucket truck) Certification/Safety
Training”
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Sweeping streets
Worked on watermain repair all week on S 131
Graded & brined gravel streets
Brined Industrial ballfield parking lot
Picked up brush
Moved book shelves to Library
Worked on water service for Lerner’s
Put up banners on pergola
Put out barricades for cruise night
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Put up hanging flower baskets downtown
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Planted flowers throughout town
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
 Replaced windshield washer pump
 Replaced heater blower motor
 New car, finished up all the up-fit equipment and wiring, washed inside and out
and put it into service
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Buses:
 Did a lot of small repairs, repaired some coolant leaks
 Replaced a wiper assembly
 Replaced 2 flat tires
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Changed meters out at 620 Rose
Repaired touch pad at Tractor Supply
Turned water on at 1021 Fuller
Installed new sprinkler meter at 1313 Maple
Installed new meter at 703 N Third
Installed new meters at 1204 Speer, 127 Gilbertson & 802 Division
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Forklift Operational Rules”
 The final Synagro storage sludge haul was 240,000 gallons.
 The bid opening process resulted in 3 bidders for the new 3-year storage sludge
hauling and land application contract: Synagro, Biotech, and Grow America.
 Plant biology continues to look really good, and the nitrification process continues.
 The Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic was a success, and all of the rinse water was
collected by Anterior Quest. Samples were taken and sent out for mercury analysis.
 Rich Pierson from the Gull Lake Wastewater Authority visited us to compare notes
regarding the Antero Maintenance Software program.
 Arc-Flash Training certificates of completion were received for John, Denny, Mic,
Troy, and Dave. Bert and JW will need to acquire this training at a later date.
 Headworks Screening Project plans have been received from Fleis and
VandenBrink, and are currently being reviewed by plant staff.
 Arrangements are being made to have the east clarifier and gravity thickener
drained for cleaning and vactor work.
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Water – Week of May 26, 2014
Weekly Safety Topic: Workplace Violence, Dealing With Dangerous Customers
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The yearly up gradient well testing results yielded no surprises. What is up gradient
well testing? The water taken from our production wells flows underground from the
West. We have two observation wells up gradient, or up stream of our production
wells. We test the water from these observation wells each year for 82 different
parameters. The locations of these two wells puts them at about the 5 year time of
travel to our production wells. In other words, something found this year in the
observation wells would give us about a 5 year window before it would be found in
our production wells. That’s 5 years advanced notice. Very nice! Which is why we
do this every year. This data is also compared to the data taken each year since
2003. And again, this year, no surprises.
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Much time and effort has been spent this week on cleaning up the insulation from
the Simons building that landed in the dense swampy area between the Water Plant
and the river. A miserable job at best. We hauled 8 large pickup truck-loads out of
that area. The fiberglass would never break down, so it would have been there to
look at for many years. It was a difficult job, but we were glad to help. The River
Walk is one of the jewels in the many attractions that Big Rapids has to offer, and
has to be maintained as such.
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Water Plant Roofing Update: Weather permitting, Brandle Roofing will start on
the roofing repairs next Monday. Weather permitting, it should take them about two
weeks to finish. No matter what the weather, we are going to be mighty happy to
see them!
Water – Week of June 2, 2014
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Roof Repair Update to the Update: Brandle Roofing started repairs to the Water
Plant roof on Monday morning. As of Friday they have about 2/3s of the work
completed. Three large areas of decking had to be cut out and replaced. One
section had a large crease in the metal which made the area structurally
unsound. The six man crew from Brandle has been very consciences and a
pleasure to work with.
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Jones Construction has repaired the brickwork out in front of filter #3. Three areas
of concrete decking had to be cleaned up and patches poured.
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If the weather continues to cooperate, Brandle is on track to finish the repairs by this
time next week. Then we will start the process of cleaning up and repairing the
interior.
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Repairs to the gates and fences are 99% completed.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
JUNE 13, 2014
PROJECTS PROGRESSING BY INCHES…
DIG Grant has been approved by SHPO and MEDC. We need only approval from
MDOT, which is expected. Advertising for the bid will begin next week, and the bid award
should reach the City Commission at the second meeting in July.
Bridge demolition is in at EDA. A quick review is expected by EDA for bidding about
the same time as DIG grant. The bridge drawings are expected to be completed by the end
of the month.
The WWTP screens design will be complete by the end of June for a review beginning
in July.
The County Brownfield Authority approved the Environmental Phase 1 and 2 review
of the DNR lands being purchased by the City. SME Engineers expects to have the report
complete in 45 days. This report will then allow the City to move forward on the purchase.
DENTAL CLINIC – MOM
The free dental clinic held at Ferris saw a total of 1,329 patients and completed dental work
valued at $847,064.55. Procedures included:
Xrays
Restor
Lab
1,273
1,143
88
hygiene
1,034
endo
55
oral surgery 1,185
This is phenomenal work and a credit to the persons involved on every level. The event was
certainly considered a success.
HISTORIC STATE CONFERENCE
The State historic conference will be held this year in Big Rapids from September 26-28
bringing 200-400 persons to the community. This will be a very important time and a very
positive time to showcase the community. Big Rapids will be a sponsor for this event through
the local Historical groups.
ART WORKS
Art Works is having a fundraiser on Saturday, June 14, 2014 with folks pumping gas and
washing windows at Curries BP. Stop by, fill ‘er up and help out Art Works from 9 to 3!!
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COMMUNITY
Sam Daugherty is retiring from Spectrum Health beginning July 1, 2014. His leadership will
be a major loss to the community and the health organizations. Fritz Erickson is also leaving
Ferris July 1, 2014, as well, and will be beginning his term as president of Northern Michigan.
His position as provost at Ferris, has been one of much success and collaboration with the
City, including a term as a member of the City’s Assessment Board of Review.
Thanks to both gentlemen.
CREEKS EDGE
The City is working with the owners of Creeks Edge to see if funds can be obtained to extend
the City water line south of town to reach their apartment complex. This could be a CDBG
eligible project, so all funding is being reviewed.
RECREATION
The City continues to explore the possibility of a recreational complex. Recent discussions
include conversations with the School and University on possible collaboration.
DAV
The Veteran’s Memorial in Holland Park will be celebrated this Saturday at 11:00. The
kickoff for fundraising this important memorial has already begun. It is hoped the community
will be very supportive of this project.
AFSCME NEGOTIATIONS
Only 9 issues remain for resolution in the AFSCME negotiations currently underway. Both
sides have moved very progressively through the process. It is hoped that the completed
contract may be finished this Monday, but will likely be completed at least in July.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police Division assisted with two special events last weekend. A 5K walk your dog for
the Riley MacKenzie Fund and a 5K “Girls on the Run” event. Both were held on different
parts of Riverwalk and the Rails to Trails systems.
Police and Fire personnel both responded to a call for a missing 6 year old on Thursday.
Multiple agencies coordinated a search of the area and she was found approximately two
hours later playing at a friend’s house. We were assisted by Mecosta County Sheriff,
Michigan State Police, Central Dispatch, Mecosta County Emergency Management,
Mecosta County EMS, the County Hovercraft team, Spectrum Health Big Rapids and the
Big Rapids Public Schools.
Firefighters taught an extinguisher class to senior citizens at the Fairman building this week.
Residents were taught about fire safety, what to do if a fire breaks out in their complex and
how to put out a small fire with a portable extinguisher.
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PARK & RECREATION
Girls on the Run ended the 2014 season with about 1,000 people at Northend Riverside
Park this past Saturday June 7th. The partnership with the District Health Department #10
proves to be successful in promoting healthy lifestyles with our young girls in Mecosta
County. Many thanks to our wonderful volunteer coaches and sponsors!!
FOTA donated another wonderful sculpture and it has been placed at Riverwalk near the
Maple Street Bridge. Photo attached.
Summer program registrations are open. BRCTA is offering tennis at Hemlock three weeks
this summer for only $10 per week or $15 per week with a t-shirt. Gymnastics is only $25
per session for 4 weeks.
Park and Recreation Board met.
The first summer Car Show Cruise In is this Friday in Downtown Big Rapids, Michigan Ave.
from 6pm-8pm. The event is FREE and will be a great time!!!
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(5) Blight
(5) Poly-cart Placement
(34) Grass & Weeds
(1) Garbage & Rubbish
(8)
(1)
(7)
(3)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Furniture
Non-Conforming Signs
Parking
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
On Saturday June 7, Dial-A-Ride donated their time to help transport 555 passengers for
the Girls on the Run program held at Northend Riverside Park on Fourth Ave. There were
more than 1,000 people in attendance, a second bus may be needed next year.
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268 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
361 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
806 Seniors (161) and Disabled (645)passengers of which 176 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
71 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
51 No Shows
555 Girls on the Run event
2,112 Total Passengers
524 Out of City
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Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Tunnel Vision”
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Moved books to Library
Worked on watermain on South 131
Repaired leaking curb stop on N Michigan
Sweeping downtown
Relocated flower pot by Maple Street Bridge
Hauled wood chips to Bergelin House
Filled potholes
Dug out storm sewer at Public Safety
Hauled and put up the “Fish” sculpture by Maple Street Bridge
Put Water Fountain up downtown
Put up signs
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Putting woodchips in around landscaping at all Buildings
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Spraying right of ways for weeds
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
 Replaced windshield washer pump
 Second new police car #403 stripped interior to get ready for the equipment
installation
 Old Police car #403, that’s being taken out of service, stripped all equipment and
electronics
 Removed hood and bumper form old car #403 and installed them on #405 that
was recently damaged.
 Started installing the aftermarket electronics in the new car
 Repaired a/c system in #404
 Serviced 2 cars
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Wing Mowers:
 Replaced front deck wheel bushings on both mowers
 Diagnosed lack of power problem, rebuilt 2 hydraulic solenoid valves
 Replaced a tube in a deck wheel
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Buses:
 Did a lot of small repairs, repaired some coolant leaks
 908 diagnosed lack of power problem, after many tests found the injector pump
needs replaced, ordered parts
 906 diagnosed wheel chair lift inoperable, replaced 2 micro switches
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Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Checked high consumption at 310 Second
Checked out leaking stack at 414 Rust
Turned water on at 223 Gilbertson
Shut water off at 618 Willow
Assisted with new water service at 125 E Pine
Changed out squealy meter at 520 Mecosta and raised stack
Shut offs for non-payment
Assisted with repair service at 125 E Pine
Assisted with water service at St. Andrews Church
WWTP
SAFETY TOPIC: “Chemical Label Colors and Numbers”
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PCS crew and plant operators cleaned out the east clarifier tank, both clarifier
center rings and both scum pits. The gravity thickener was also drained and
vactored out.
PCS vactored out lift station wet wells at North State, Waterloo, and Tioga Park.
We have tentatively chosen Biotech for the new 3-year storage sludge hauling and
land application contract. An agreement is being drafted for approval.
Plant biology looks really good, and the nitrification process continues.
The collected wastewater from the Mission of Mercy Dental Clinic was hauled away,
treated and disposed of in Allendale, MI. Testing showed extremely high levels of
mercury, over 4-times our annual limit for the entire plant! Thanks go to John
Fribley and all those involved in the collection and hauling of wastewater from this
event.
Additional Antero Maintenance Software training is being arranged for next month.
Work moving forward with Fleis and VandenBrink on the IPP Audit and Headworks
Screening projects.
Dave Hamelund of Hamtech Industries inspected screw pump parts removed from
the failed pump last year. Discussions regarding possible local fabrication of
replacement parts are ongoing with WWTP plant staff, Hamtech, and Fleis and
VandenBrink.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
JUNE 20, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Fire Division personnel and equipment responded to a garage fire last weekend on north
Catherine Street. Because of heavy winds, the fully involved garage fire spread to the attic
of the adjacent house, causing smoke and water damage throughout the structure. They
were assisted by Big Rapids Township Fire for water and manpower and City Police for
traffic control.
Big Rapids Public Safety welcomes Ryan Myers as a new Police Officer for the City. Ryan
graduated from Bluefield College in Virginia and has spent the last seven years as an officer
in Vienna Virginia. After completing our FTO training program, he will assume his duties in
our City.
Officer Miguel Galley attended a PPCT Instructor course this week in Novi Michigan. The
Defensive Tactics course will certify him to teach not only new officers, but re-certify our own
officers at a large savings to the City.
PARK & RECREATION
Car Show Cruise In was successful on June 13 with 38 cars in attendance. The next Car
Cruise In is scheduled from 6pm-8pm on Friday, July 11.
The Bandshell Concerts will begin on Wednesday, June 25 at 7pm. Come and hear the
Ferris Community Band for FREE.
Senior Enrichment Day is Wednesday, June 25, 2014 at the Big Rapids High School. The
City Recreation Dept. will have a vendor booth to provide information to those interested.
400 Rainbow Trout, sizes 8 – 10 inches were stocked in the Muskegon River. Thanks too
many donors contributing to this effort through the Community Foundation.
Katie Godell, has completed her paintings on the dog park, dog houses. Everyone is
encouraged to come and visit her great addition to our park system.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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244 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
297 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
732 Seniors (149) and Disabled (583)passengers of which 152 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
1
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75 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
46 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,376 Total Passengers
550 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Your Back IQ Test (Part 1)”
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Cleaned drains
Removed tree limbs from blocking Stop signs
Removed downed tree limbs from roadways
Cleaning up downed trees from storms; Oak and Stewart, the Bandshell, Rust,
Second, Marion and W Bellevue
Rotated leaf mulch at compost site
Repaired a water leak at 113 S Michigan
Moving soccer goals and picnic tables
Reading meters
Painted the donation boxes for various areas around town
Painted a banner pole
Putting Riverwalk signs up
Removed the donated basketball hoop from 604 Marion and took to garage for
repairs
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
 Continued installing police equipment and electronics in new police car
 Serviced 1 car
 Replaced power steering pump and steering rack
 Replaced windshield washer pump
Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 301 street sweeper replaced belly bloom
•
 John Deere front mower, replaced steer tires
 Serviced 3 leaf blowers
 Replaced a tube on the gator
 Repaired a power switch on a water pump
 Repaired a stress crack on a banner pole
 Replaced a plow frame on a truck front plow
Buses:
 Replaced all 4 rear tires
2
 Repaired front mirror mount
 Serviced 1 bus
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Shut offs for non-payment
Assisted with locating service at 414 Rust along with turning water on and off
Assisted with repair service at 414 Rust
Assisted with repair of stack and turning water on and off at 700 Winter
Investigated high consumption at 624 Lilac
Monthly meter reads
Turned water on at 320 N Third
Water • Roof repairs are complete with the exception of a couple punch list items and the
replacement of a roof hatch and skylight. We added 4 inches of insulation to any
area that required a complete tear off of the roof membrane. That amounted to
approximately ½ of the roof. We should see some definite savings to our energy bills
next winter.
•
And just when we thought it was safe to go back into the water, we found a roof drain
that was plugged with debris. It backed up the water from a recent downpour and ran
a large portion of it into the control room. We have the roof drain unplugged now,
and the floor vacuumed up … and another item added to the punch list.
•
Now begins the repairs inside the water plant. Damages there include ceilings, ceiling
tiles, walls, and many lose floor tiles. This process is going to take a while. We’ll
keep you posted on the progress.
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Ironic isn’t it: Water damage to the Water Plant.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
3
JUNE 27, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Fire Division participated in the Honor Flight by staging their Ladder Truck on the Perry
Street overpass at 5:00 am to honor the vets traveling to Grand Rapids. Along with Morton
Townships Ladder, both ladders were raised over Perry Street with the American flag with
all lights flashing. Fire Departments were along the route to Grand Rapids staged on the
overpasses of US 131 to show their support as the buses drove by.
The Department’s HazMat trailer was used as a Command Center for last weekend’s
Bulldog Bike Tour and officers from the Police Division assisted with traffic control. Routes
of 10, 23, 45, 65, or 100 miles ran thru the City of Big Rapids and Mecosta County. The
event was sponsored by the Ferris State University Alumni Association to support student
scholarships.
PARK & RECREATION
Planning for National Night Out began for this year’s event, which is scheduled for Tuesday,
August 5 from 6pm – 9pm.
Gymnastics summer session one began on Tuesday and will run until July 15.
Attended the Mecosta County Senior Expo at the Big Rapids Middle School.
The Charles E. Fairman Community Pool was visited by the American Red Cross.
Playground surfacing was distributed by Big Rapids and Ferris State Hockey team players
and coaches.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(7)
(1)
(71)
(1)
Blight
Furniture
Grass & Weeds
Property Maintenance
(36) Non-Conforming Signs
(3) Parking
(4) Uninhabitable Dwelling
(8) Yard Waste/Landscape Debris
Meetings:
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Good Neighbors
Historic District Study Committee
1
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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182 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
144 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
700 Seniors (149) and Disabled (583)passengers of which 152 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
80 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
22 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,128 Total Passengers
423 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Pressure Washer Safety”
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Cleaned drains
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Repaired water stack at 115 S Michigan
Blacktop patch in alley behind 113 – 115 S Michigan
Insulated storm sewer alley off Elm St
Repaired light at Hemlock Park
Installing Festival of the Arts signs
Installed Riverwalk signs
Cleaned up backyard at Garage
Installed a shade at the small dog park
Graded alleys
Installed new toilet in public restroom at City Hall
Swept downtown and streets
Repairing water service at 323 S State St
Assisted Wastewater Plant with backhoe
Installed root foam at 808 Cherry and 304 Elm
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool •
Police & Fire Vehicles:
 404 service call, replaced battery
 405 replaced driver’s seat switch
 New car, installed the partitions , finished the wiring, washed inside and out,
installed all the stickers and delivered
2
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Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 208 pickup truck, replaced driver’s door latch, and wiper module
 2 techs went to a 3 day transit seminar and training classes
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Buses:
 replaced rear tires on a bus
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Monthly meter reads
Checked low pressure at 323 S State
Installed new meter and touch pad at 111 N Second Ave
Checked 704 Cherry for sand in water report
Repaired touchpad at 311 Morrison
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “The Zen of Safety”
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Biotech 3-year contract paperwork being finalized.
Annual DMRQA Lab Analysis Series being run in the Lab.
Electrical repairs to County Garage lift station
Plant biology looks really good, and the nitrification process continues.
WWTP meeting with Fleis & VandenBrink and plant staff scheduled for next week, to
discuss multiple plans and projects that are in progress.
Old grit chamber auger, air scour, and air lift assembly were removed from pit. Both
air supply hoses were found to be plugged with grit.
Received 4,000 gallons of Ferric Chloride.
Staff members visited 5 wastewater plants in Ohio that have Schreiber grease and
grit removal equipment. Lots of information and photos were gathered, and the hope
is to apply what we have learned and develop plan for our system here at the plant.
Water • Trouble shot generator problem at State St. Booster Station. Turned out to be a loose
attachment point on the switching gear. It moved but it didn’t work.
• Cut the grass at the Water Plant
• Checked the pressure relief valves – all OK
• Received Chlorine tablets
• Trouble shot a problem with the weekend vacation schedule. Will try a more flexible
work schedule to help accommodate the busier times of the year.
• Trouble shot a lighting problem in the chemical feed room. We had power leaving
the switch, but no power at the lights. That is when Jake noticed the roofing screws
that had been driven into and through the conduits. The insulation on the roof is
fastened down with long metal screws. Occasionally the roofers had the good luck
to send one of these screws through a wiring conduit that is fastened to the underside
of the metal roof. No sparks or fire, but no power either. That will be something to
be fixed as soon as possible.
3
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We have started the process of fixing the interior damages caused by the leaks in our
roof. They include damage to the ceilings, repairs to the walls in the control room
and bathroom areas, and replacement of floor tiles that are no longer sticking
down. Working on the walls has been like going on an archeological dig. Did you
know that the original Water Plant was done in shades of lite yellow?
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
JULY 3, 2014
FAIR WEEK
Remember this upcoming week is Fair time – be sure to enjoy the Rotary Chicken BBQ!!
LIBRARY
Opening of the library has gone very well. Comments continue to be very positive with the
transformation. The final walkthrough on the construction will take place next week.
Fundraiser. The library Chicken BBQ at the Sawmill itself raised over $1,500.00. In addition,
Mary Ryan worked with a number of persons to match the money raised up to $5,000 with
BP – Pat Currie. In the end, Mary’s efforts produced a total of over $14,000 in direct
donations and funds as a result of matching money donated. Most of this money was ‘new’
donations to the library renovation project. Congratulations and ‘thank you’ is due to Mary,
Pat Currie and Linda Procter. The Sawmill over the years has contributed over $22,000 to
library programs with their annual fundraising efforts. This was an exceptional event.
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY
The Friends of the Library have donated over 80% of the pledge to the renovation project
and will complete the donation by the end of the year. Their $80,000 commitment was a
very aggressive goal, and they are most proud of the success that this renovation has
brought, and their efforts on behalf of the changes.
DEPOT PROJECT
John Schmidt has called the first meeting of a committee to try to renovate the Depot for this
upcoming Monday afternoon. This is a very important project and it will be good to
participate in the dream of making the depot a usable, productive building again.
WARREN HANSEN RETIREMENT
There will be a retirement reception for Warren on Friday, July 11, 2014 at 2:00 at the Public
Safety Building. Warren has been a dedicated servant to the public for 30 years and will be
missed. Please plan to attend and wish him well.
Applications for a new Deputy Director will be received through Monday the 7th after which
interviews and selection will be made.
1
BALDWIN STREET BRIDGE
Wolverine World Wide has notified the City that they have completed their review of the
Baldwin Street improvements and are ready to sign the right-of-way agreements. Their
signature will complete the paperwork needed to file the court action on the right-of-way,
which will complete the work necessary to begin the bidding of the Hanchett’s demolition.
Thanks to Eric Williams for all his significant efforts to collect all the signatures and finish the
paperwork needed by the EDA.
DIG GRANT – MAPLE STREET
Bids for this project are due July 10, 2014. It is anticipated that recommendations on the
bidders will be ready for the July 21, 2014 City Commission Meeting.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Josh Theisen started his duties as a new Police Officer this week. Josh worked for the Gratiot
County Sheriff Department for the last 6 months, and is living in the Remus area at the
present time.
The Public Safety Department hosted a Red Cross blood drive last Friday. They had a good
turnout and are planning a large event this fall for September 11th.
PARK & RECREATION
Big Rapids Community Tennis Association (BRCTA) will host the first session of tennis
lessons on Monday, July 11. Children ages 4 and older can learn how to play tennis at
Hemlock Park for only $10 or $15 if they would like a t-shirt.
The second Classic Car Cruise In is scheduled for next Friday, July 11 from 6pm-8pm in
Downtown Big Rapids.
Playscape and Northend Park playgrounds have additional playground surfacing. Many
thanks to the Ferris State hockey team and Big Rapids hockey team for moving the wood
chips into Playscape. (See Attached photo)
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(2)
(1)
(75)
(2)
Blight
Furniture
Grass & Weeds
Property Maintenance
(11) Non-Conforming Signs
(1) Parking
(2) Disabled/Inoperable Vehicles
(5) Yard Waste/Landscape Debris
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Streets –
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Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
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Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Patched potholes
Installed new water service at 323 S State
Repaired 3 catch basins and blacktopped the patches
Sealed bricks downtown
Removed tree from Riverwalk near Swede Hill Park
Graded alleys
Sprayed for bees at Playscape
Planted more flowers in Pocket Park
Sweeping streets
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Turned water on at 604 Fuller
Assisted with water service at 315 Fuller and installed meters and touchpads
Repaired touchpad at 500 N Bronson
Ferris and Township meter reads
Cleaned stack out at Woodward and Sanborn on S State Street
Assisted with water service at 323 S State
Repaired touch read at 1017 Loudon
Repaired touch read and installed new meter at 104 N Michigan
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Tunnel Vision”
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Annual DMRQA Lab Analysis Series has been completed.
Report documenting 5 plant visits in Ohio (Schreiber grease/grit) has been
completed.
Getting material quotes for stripping and shingling the headworks and ferric
buildings.
Plant biology and nitrification continues to look good.
WWTP meeting with Fleis & VandenBrink and plant staff was held. Multiple
projects were discussed: Ohio Report, Headworks Screening Project, Asset
Management Plan, Ammonia Study, IPP Audit, Plant Gate Project, New pump
storage building, etc.
Old grit chamber has been repaired and is back in service.
Progress continues on maintenance and work order program
Mic Joynt is beginning the first 2-month IPP training period. Other operators will
follow.
3
Water Safety Topic: Stretching Before You Work
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Treated 10 million gallons of drinking water this first week in July
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Painted changes in elevation (toe stubbers) at the Water Plant with safety yellow
Ran guest samples
Let contractors in at various towers. New cell antenna going on Bjornson Tower
Ran QA/QC on Tryptic Soy Broth
Ran QA/QC on Reverse Osmosis lab unit
Supplied the WWTP with some laboratory grade water
Started removing water damaged paint and other wall coverings in preparation for
repairing the walls. Because parts of the building date back to 1937, we thought it
wise to test for lead paint. The first two layers tested positive for lead. Now these
test kits are nothing fancy, so we have brought in a gentleman that took samples
that will give us an idea of how much lead is found on those older walls. Looking
forward to knowing those results next week. Nothings ever simple!
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
JULY 11, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
In the annual 4th of July parade, Detective Brian Miller and Officer David Flore represented
the department as Honor Guards along with representatives from the Mecosta County
Sheriff’s Department and Ferris State University Department of Public Safety.
On Wednesday, July 9th, members of the police division received continuing training in
hazardous materials and received a legal update.
Overall, a quiet week with neither division responding to any significant calls of service.
A retirement reception was held for Deputy Director Warren Hansen on Friday, July 11,
2014. He retired after serving the City of Big Rapids and its residents for 30 years.
PARK & RECREATION
The Riverwalk areas near River Street Park were improved and rip rap that washed away
from previous storms have been replaced.
Jayna Wekenman, who will pursue a pilot program with burros within the City of Big Rapids,
will work independently offering her volunteer services to the City when needed. We are
excited to be assisting her with her programs and hope that it is successful.
BRCTA offered the first summer camp this week at Hemlock Park. It was a success and all
children involved have learned a ton from the great instructors. The next camp is scheduled
for the week of July 21.
The second Classic Car Cruise In is scheduled to take place this Friday, July 11 from 6pm8pm in Downtown Big Rapids. Come join the music and classic cars during this free
event!! Once again, thank you to our sponsor Gary Trimarco.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(2) Blight
(1) Animal
(15) Grass & Weeds
(4) Property Maintenance
(7) Non-Conforming Signs
(3) Parking
(1) Disabled/Inoperable Vehicles
(4) Poly-cart Placement
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
1
Dial-A-Ride –
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116 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
130 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
733 Seniors (164) and Disabled (569)passengers of which 133 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
65 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
18 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,062 Total Passengers
443 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Fuel Depot Safety Rules”
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Repaired water main at W Madison and Finley on 7-6
Jetted sewer at 314 Monroe on 7-6
Repaired leak at 103 N Warren
Sweeping streets
Cut cloth for trail
Repaired alley at 300 block of Fuller, 300 block of Locust and 100 block of Oak
Cleaned drains
Painted shelter at Dog Park
Working in the alley of Elm; grading and raising a sanitary manhole
Removing curb on Ives Ave for road projects
Repaired a water stack at Maple and N Warren
Put up new flags at Dog Park
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
 401, replaced front and rear brake rotors and pads
 404, replaced both head lamp assemblies and battery
 405, serviced, replaced driver’s seat switch and right inner fender
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Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 208, replaced driver’s door latch and wiper module
 213, replaced power steering shaft seal and pinion bearings in the rear
differential
 222, replaced rear brake rotors and pads
 226, replaced brake light switch
2
 106 dump truck, repaired hoist on the dump box
 301 street sweeper, replaced both rear caution lights, diagnosed and repaired
rear directional lights
 311 air compressor, serviced
 Wing mowers, replaced 4 tires, repaired front caster wheel and bushings
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Buses:
 901, grease service, serviced front wheel bearings and replaced seals, replaced
a u-joint and repaired an exhaust leak
 905, grease service, diagnosed and replaced micro switch on the wheel chair lift
 904, safety inspection and serviced, replaced front axle seals, replaced 4 rear
tires, repaired a coolant leak, sealed rear door
 906, replaced the front tires, replaced the front mirror brackets, diagnosed and
replaced micro switch on the wheel chair lift
 909, grease service, repaired rear quarter panel
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Repaired stack at 304 S Third
Repaired stack at 121 Evergreen Apts
Affixed touchpad at 14465 S State
Assisted with repair of watermain break on Finley Avenue
Assisted with repair of service at 107 N Warren
Shut offs and turn on’s for non-payment
Checked on low pressure complaint at 629 Novak Lane
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Impairment and You”
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Rotary Chicken Dinner procurement given a top-priority for the week.
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The completed DMRQA-34 Lab Analysis Series has been submitted to ERA for
approval.
Received a copy of Merit Lab’s submitted metals testing results for DMRQA-34.
Schreiber grit classifier has stopped working. Teardown and investigation in
progress.
Plant biology and nitrification continue to look good.
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Gathering additional IPP Audit information requested by Fleis & VandenBrink.
Schreiber grease removal has improved, but not yet up to our expectations.
Progress continues on maintenance and work order program
ISCO Composite Sampler Bid approved by City Commission. Three new samplers
will now be purchased and placed in service.
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Next phase of polymer jar testing conducted on-site by Chemco of Howell, MI. If
Chemco can provide the correct polymer at a competitive price, we can purchase
3
from a “local” supplier. Our current supplier is in California and ships polymer from
Indiana.
Water Safety Topic: Carbon Monoxide Safety
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Treated 9.2 Million Gallons of drinking water this last week
The suspected lead paint was confirmed at 11%. Talking to Steve Jones
Construction about our options.
Painted guard rails near generator building
Unplugged problem in High Service pump packing reservoir
Performed QA/QC on Agar bact-T media
Answered after hours call in alarms
Replaced broken sprinkler heads at water plant
Repaired control valves at Perry and BJ towers. Going to try a modification to the
hard plumbing on those valves. If it works, there will be no more flared fittings, nor
hard plumbing. A big Thank You to the knowledgeable folks at State Street
Hardware!
Performed building maintenance at Perry Tower. The floor in our new building
really looks sharp now.
Cut, trimmed, sprayed, and edged the Water Plant lawn
Unplugged a roof drain again. We believe a lot of debris found its way into the roof
drains over the last couple months.
Trouble shot problems with the Plant high service pumps. Traced it back to a
uninterruptable power supply that had died. So much for being uninterruptable.
Checked out OCV valve failure at State St. Pump Station
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
JULY 18, 2014
ROTARY CHICKEN BBQ
The Rotary Chicken BBQ had another banner year, fixing 2,200 meals at the Mecosta
County Free Fair. These funds will help projects already committed to by the Club for the
Wheatlake Cancer Center and the single room project at the Big Rapids Hospital. In addition
to these marquee improvements, the funds will benefit many other community efforts.
Thanks to all who purchased tickets, enjoyed the food and helped the community – all at the
same time!!
DART
Dawn Fuller has received communication from the State that they are increasing the support
for bus service from 37.4% of expenses to 39.5%. This will result in an additional $13,967
coming to the City for DART transportation.
DEPOT
A meeting is being arranged for the DEPOT project. DNR has indicated that they would like
to visit Big Rapids on August 15, 2014.
ENVIRONMENTAL PHASE 2
The City is in the process of completing the Environmental Phase 2 on the lands being
purchased from the DNR. Permission to enter the property to augur samples has been sent
to the DNR. The results of this effort should be forthcoming in the next 30 days. This will
allow continuing discussions with Simonds Industries on their potential expansion efforts.
CREEK’S EDGE WATER
A discussion has begun with this apartment project concerning the extension of water to the
complex. This discussion has included the Township and could include a significant addition
to the housing opportunities in Big Rapids.
VILLAGE GREEN APARTMENTS
The Conditional Use permit has been recommended and will be coming to the City
Commission after other permit issues have been worked out. This initiative if approved, will
allow the reconstruction of the of the structures lost in the recent fire, which decimated one
of the building units.
1
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police Division continues to investigate the reported assault and attempted CSC on the
Rails to Trails near the Riverwalk last Friday evening. Investigators continue to look for and
follow leads that are being developed.
The Fire Division responded to 14 calls. These included 2 downed power lines, 10 medical
calls, 1 fire alarm and an assist at the fairgrounds.
Current and former City employees, family and friends celebrated the retirement of Deputy
Director Warren Hansen last Friday. He will be missed.
PARK & RECREATION
The Car Cruise In on July 11 was a success. There were 55 cars and owners that
participated. On August 8 we will host the last one for the summer season.
BRCTA youth tennis at Hemlock Park finished the first camp with 19 children
participating. The second session will begin the week of July 21.
The Riverwalk portion between Northend Park and Swede Hill, which was moved due to
erosion issues, has been paved. Portions of the Riverwalk north of Northend Park will be
replaced with concrete for maintenance purposes. Finally, the portion within Hemlock Park
connecting to River Street Park are currently being maintained.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(4) Blight
(2) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
(1) Furniture
(36) Grass & Weeds
(3) Property Maintenance
(1) Swimming Pools
(9) Uninhabitable Dwelling
(5) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(21) Non- Conforming Signs
(2) Parking
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) contacted us and we will be getting
a 2.1% increase in funding from a redistribution for FY2013 which is an extra $14,000. We
also were contacted by the Federal Transportation Administration (FTA) and they will be
giving us an extra 2% of our operational cost for FY 2015 and 2016.
Dawn Fuller also applied for the Federal Grant "Ladders of Opportunity" for $240,000 to
help us rehabilitate the Dial-A-Ride building. This would require a 20% match and if the
State cannot meet the match, then the City would have to meet it. The project would
consist of a 50x30 addition for bus storage/washing bay, garage doors for new and
existing building, drive and parking lot paving and expansion of the current staff/training
room. The cost for this project is estimated at $285,000.
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179 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
256 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
853 Seniors (133) and Disabled (720)passengers of which 173 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
83 Free Rides – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
23 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,394 Total Passengers
566 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Lightning Safety – Myths and Facts”
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Repaired a spot on N 131 and Williams St with black dirt, stripped some sod due to
lawnmower scraping ground and seeded the area
Digging curbs on Ives
Digging out alley approaches on the 300 block of S Michigan between Locust and
Linden
Blackdirt 3 areas; S Stewart, 711 Division and the Pool
Swept downtown
Hauled sand for the curb work on Ives Ave
Rebuilt catchbasins on Marion Ave and W Bridge St, Ives Ave and Locust St, Ives
Ave and Linden St
Started the south Riverwalk trail
Brined some alleys
Painted an office at Public Safety
Removed animals caught in live traps
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Painted and repaired picnic tables
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
• Police & Fire Vehicles:
 402, serviced
 408, serviced and replaced all the tires
 409, serviced
• Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 323 Hurco, serviced and repaired exhaust and fender
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Wing mowers and lawn tractors:
 Replaced a deck PTO switch
 Service call to replace tires
 Service call to replace fan belt
 Service call to the airport, replaced deck spinal and blades
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Buses:
 1 safety inspection
 1 serviced
 Replaced a u-joint
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Shut offs for non-payment
Repaired stack at 314 Monroe
Raised stack at 507 Winter
Raised stack at 620 Birch
Removed meter from Evergreen Apartments
Monthly meter reads on west side
Wired touch pads at 14465 S State St
Repaired stack at Evergreen Apartments
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Impairment and You”
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Received Chemco test results from last week’s on-site polymer jar testing in our lab.
A successful polymer was chosen and will now be tested in our SDC thickening
process.
West Clarifier taken out of service due to low plant flows and the need for cleaning.
Aeration Basin #1 has been removed from service for cleaning and inspection. Grit,
sludge and other debris will be removed by PCS.
Nitrification biology died with removal of Aeration Basin #1. The transition from 4
basins to 3 resulted in a Food/Mass Ratio not acceptable to sustain this biology.
PCS is scheduled to do vactor work here at the plant Tuesday 22nd and Wednesday
23rd.
Schreiber grit classifier motor removed. Teardown and investigation continues.
2013 and 2014 Monthly Operating Data sent to Fleis & VandenBrink.
Aeration Basin air supply line leak being repaired.
Progress continues on maintenance and work order program.
ISCO plant composite sampler bid and order process continues.
Water Weekly Safety Topic: Crane & Derek Safety
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Treated 9.9 Million Gallons of drinking water this past week
Completed QA/QC on Readycult presence/absence media
Completed QA/QC on M.coli Blue coliform detection media
Switched and Calibrated Turbidimeter
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Continued maintenance program at Perry Tower. More specifically, we polished the
tile floor which Steve and Kevin had been bringing back to life for the last week. All
the work that had been done on the building had taken its toll on the tile floor. It’s
in “Wipe Your Feet Before You Enter” condition now.
Maintained the grounds at the well field and Hills of Michele Creek Pump Station
Answered several afterhours’ call-in alarms. We believe the antenna at the
Bjornson water tower was moved and no longer correctly aimed. Through a long
distance collaborative effort, we were able to refocus the antenna and boost the
signal strength back up to acceptable levels.
Autoclaved lab bacterial waste
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Swept and cleaned the water tower buildings
Helped Treasures Office with water meter reading
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
JULY 25, 2014
COPPER POINTE
Mark Sochocki reports that the Big Rapids Housing Authority as purchased Copper Pointe.
Staff will be working with Mark in the development of this plat in the future.
PROJECTS FOR 2014
1. Hanchett’s / Bridge
The Right-of-Way data has been submitted to the EDA in Chicago and is
waiting for approval in order to bid the demolition. This week Hanchett’s is
removing the paint booth from the Baldwin Street site. This is the last item to
be claimed from the original agreements for moving from the site.
2. Hanchett’s Redevelopment
Staff met with a developer interested in condo’s along the River with full view
of the Muskegon. Estimates of cost were discussed and will be reviewed by
City consultants for Brownfield program support.
3. DNR site purchase
While the City has approved the purchase of the trail properties on 4th Avenue,
the actual transaction is waiting on an Environmental Phase I and II so that if
the property is found to be a ‘Brownfield’ the City and developer will be able to
take full advantage of the program. Purchase before that date nullifies
elements of that program. Core samples of the affected property will be taken
next week to be tested. The environmental review is expected to be completed
within the next 30 days.
4. Carmike
The City sent a letter of support to Carmike as a reminder of the importance of
this project to the Community. In addition, the letter outlined the economic
activity in the area this year and the track record of community support for good
projects. Carmike has advised that they will review Big Rapids initiatives after
the larger projects have been decided.
5. Depot
A meeting with all the sponsors is scheduled for August 15.
6. Creek’s Edge
The apartment complex is interested in expanding onto the acreage that they
own north of their Gilbert Road facility. This project has serious potential for
water sales for the City – but will take an investment of an estimated $550,000
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to reach the complex. Staff is reviewing the costs and returns for presentation
to the City Commission for decision.
7. Airport Runway
Interviews with various pilots and executives that control jets needing a 5,000
foot runway are underway. 500 take-offs and landings are needed to meet
FAA regulations. At present, the support for this improvement among the flying
fraternity is very strong.
8. Recreation Development
Interest in developing a regional recreational center continues. Staff has had
conversation with the school and university concerning their interest in being
‘at the table’ for these talks. These organizations are exploring ways and
means to support greater availability of recreational opportunity within the City
and County.
9. Bus Service
DART will continue to serve the University with a ‘fixed route’ service in the
fall. By winter term, however, the student center will be complete and the
100% support from the university will be lifted. All sides see merit in the service
which carried over 70,000 students during the last year. Discussions are
underway to see if funding may be forthcoming from other sources after
January of 2015.
10. Maple Street Grant (DIG)
This project was seriously over budget in the bidding process. Staff met and
reduced the scope of the project to fit the funding levels originally accumulated.
The State will be reporting on their decision on the reduced project scope next
week. The City is also waiting on the decision of the low bidding contractor to
continue with the reduced project.
11. Library Futures
Five townships met with the City and Library Board representatives to discuss
funding for the library into the future. All expressed the sincere desire to have
a ‘solid base of support’ and the need to share those costs and responsibilities.
All members present also expressed appreciation for the present renovation
project and acknowledged increased use for library services as a result. A
district approach was once again reviewed – and the group unanimously
agreed to explore the potential of this arrangement as a positive method of
putting the library on more positive footings.
12. User Charge Audit
There has been not been any direct activity in this project since the
employment of the auditor in April. This is an initiative of the User Charge
report, which is not due until later in the year.
13. Economic Development
Staff is working with a local business to find a suitable location for their
expanded office facility. Several sites and locations are under review. Also,
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staff is meeting with downtown representatives to explore the possibility of a
downtown grocery.
14. ISO Rating
The City has not had a review of the Insurance Service Organization since
2000. The service will be in town July 30 to inspect the Fire, Water and
Building departments and determine if the Class 4 rating that we have enjoyed
for many years is still valid.
15. Hire Development Consultants
Staff has been relying on Eric Helzer to guide our industrial projects through
the MEDC, DEQ and other organizations. We need to develop a relationship
with a consultant for this specified service. Staff is working on qualification
criteria to choose such a consultant, the City will be bidding these services
very soon and hopes to have formal contracts in place in August.
16. Hiring of Deputy Director of Public Safety
18 applications have been received for the Deputy Director position now that
Warren Hanson has retired. The review is underway.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
In the past week the Police Division has continued to investigate the report of the female
assaulted on the Rails to Trails on the evening of July 11th.
The Police Division has also investigated a data breach at a local business where a number
of customers have had their credit and debit cards compromised.
In the past week, the Fire Division responded to 20 calls to service to include:
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1 Structure Fire resulting in saving over $200,000 in property and possessions.
1 False alarm to Riverview Elementary
1 Vehicle Fire
17 Priority Medical responses
On Wednesday the department hosted Camp 911 for local senior citizens. Sessions were
held in relation to identity theft, grease fires in the kitchen, and stroke. The Mecosta County
K9 deputy and his dog also did a presentation. Great feedback was received from those
that attended.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(5) Blight
(1) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
(1) Sidewalks
(18) Grass & Weeds
(2) Property Maintenance
(1) Parking
(2) Animals
(1) Poly-cart Placement
(37) Non- Conforming Signs
(1) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
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PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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149 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
179 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
825 Seniors (131) and Disabled (694)passengers of which 203 used the
wheelchair lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
75 Free Riders – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and
under with an adult
14 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,242 Total Passengers
481 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
• Installing crusher dust on the new trail south of Hemlock Park 700 ft. of trail
• Haul beams for River Walk and installed them on the trail
• Digging out curb on Ives and south Warren
• Trim brush in the alley between west Bridge and west Grand Traverse
• Filled pot holes
• Hauled chips and mulch to the gardens
• Jetted sewer at 611 Willow
• Fixed 3 catch basin manholes on south Third and Maple Street
• Watered trees
• Put out cones for blood bank
• Picnic table for the Dog Park
• Blacktop patch on the 200 block of Locust
Motor Pool –
 Police & Fire Vehicles:
• Serviced 2 police cars and one staff car
• 1-5 fire truck, repaired a coolant and a exhaust leak
 Pickup trucks and Misc.:
• Serviced 5 pickup trucks and repaired 1 leaky tire
 Buses:
• Replaced 2 A/C compressors and a evaporator core,
• -Replaced a serpentine belt and tensioner
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Serviced the sewer jet and replaced the fan belt
Serviced the loader
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Monthly meter reads
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Raised Hydrant 543 up 1 foot
Installed a sprinkler meter at 717 Cherry Ave
Repaired touch read at 319 Spruce St
Changed out meter at 623 Rose
Installed touch pad at 717 Cherry Ave
WWTP –
• Operational testing of Chemco polymer scheduled for the week of August 4, 2014.
• West Clarifier cleaned and vactored out. Skimmer maintenance performed.
Aeration Basin #1 cleaned and vactored out. Diffuser membranes will now be
inspected and replaced if necessary.
• Equalization Basin cleaned and vactored out.
• Gravity Thickener surface and center ring vactored out.
• Clarifier scum pits and west center ring vactored out.
• Schreiber grit classifier auger screw has been removed. A replacement is being
sought.
• 2012 – 2014 Biosolids disposal and hauling data sent to Fleis & VandenBrink.
• John and Mic working on IPP quarterly phosphorus sampling.
• RCL Construction visited the plant and inspected the headworks. They are
preparing a bid proposal for the headworks screening upgrade project.
• Trojan UVT sensor rebuilt and re-installed. Power modulation should now work
correctly when operating in Auto Mode.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
AUGUST 1, 2014
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
( ARE IN BOLD)
1. Creek’s Edge
The apartment complex is interested in expanding onto the acreage that they
own north of their Gilbert Road facility. This project has serious potential for
water sales for the City – but will take an investment of an estimated $330,000
to reach the complex. Staff is reviewing the costs and returns for presentation
to the City Commission for decision.
Businesses in the area have been contacted to see if additional interest
in having water is prevalent. All are interested!! A presentation and
request to extend the water system to Gilbert will be on the August
agenda.
2. Airport Runway
Interviews with various pilots and executives that control jets needing a 5,000
foot runway are underway. 500 take-offs and landings are needed to meet
FAA regulations. At present, the support for this improvement among the flying
fraternity is very strong.
The evaluation is going very well. It is reported that the numbers are
getting very close to needed activities to qualify for the extension.
Thanks to Frank Wheatlake for his support and conversation with other
industries to gather the needed paperwork.
3. Maple Street Grant (DIG)
This project was seriously over budget in the bidding process. Staff met and
reduced the scope of the project to fit the funding levels originally accumulated.
The State will be reporting on their decision on the reduced project scope next
week. The City is also waiting on the decision of the low bidding contractor to
continue with the reduced project.
Conversations with the State have resulted in substantial cuts in the
program. There will still be a likely additional cost. We do have the
State’s minimum threshold requirements to meet the grant funding
parameters. We are now contacting the low bidder to see if they remain
interested in constructing the reduced project. We hope to have this
negotiated by the second meeting in August for City Commission review.
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4. User Charge Audit
There has been not been any direct activity in this project since the
employment of the auditor in April. This is an initiative of the User Charge
report, which is not due until later in the year.
Contact has been made with Mark Beauchamp for this wastewater rate
review. He has been working with on-line elements available and wants
to get with the City as soon as Jon Locke is available for financial
consultation.
5. ISO Rating
The City has not had a review of the Insurance Service Organization since
2000. The service will be in town July 30 to inspect the Fire, Water and
Building departments and determine if the Class 4 rating that we have enjoyed
for many years is still valid.
The City Commission and entire community would have been so proud
of the report that was generated for this review process. Firefighters
Kyle Luce, Tim Mortensen and Randy Bell met with ISO evaluator John
Shipman and went over three loose-leaf notebooks of data arranged
professionally behind many tabs. An email complementing the data has
already been received from Mr. Shipman. Thanks also to Carman
Johnson who put together the water data needed, and Mark
Sweppenheiser for the building construction data. This was an
impressive display of teamwork and excellence.
6. Hiring of Deputy Director of Public Safety
16 applications have been received for the Deputy Director position now that
Warren Hansen has retired. The review is underway.
Narrowing the applicants to a small group to be interviewed is underway.
This process will be complete by next week. Interviews will then be
scheduled.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police Division continued to investigate the data breach at Wendy's. Investigators have
been in touch with local financial institutions to determine an amount of people affected and
monetary loss as a result of the breach.
The Police and Fire Division responded to an unresponsive male in the Muskegon River,
near Osceola Park early Thursday morning. The 59 year old male was resuscitated,
however, later was pronounced dead after being transferred to Spectrum Health in Grand
Rapids. Cause of death was determined to be trauma to his abdomen as a result of his fall
down the embankment near the park. Subject was reported to be intoxicated at the time of
the fall and had a history of the same. Investigation into the matter found nothing suspicious.
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The Fire Division had no other significant calls of service this past week outside of the usual
medical runs.
The department will be hosting the National Night Out Tuesday, August 5th from 6:00-9:00
pm. Bring out the family for a nice time with other community members.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
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160 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
272 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
750 Seniors (131) and Disabled (694)passengers of which 203 used the
wheelchair lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
70 Free Riders – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and
under with an adult
23 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,275 Total Passengers
446 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
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Graveled alley north of Cypress, south of Magnolia
Put in memorial signs
Cleaned 4 catch basins with sweeper
Dug out alley approach in 200 block of Linden St, south side
Black dirtied and graveled alley between Elm and Linden and east of Ives Ave
Repaired a water leak on 200 block of N Michigan Ave and blacktopped the patch
Sawing some patches on N Stewart, E Spruce and 400 block of Marion
Dug holes for the Farmer’s Market banner poles and cemented them
Swept streets
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Monthly Meter Reads
Moved touchpad at 315 Division St
Turned water on at 715 Marion Ave, then back off due to leaking pipes
Ferris and Township monthly meter reads
Investigate and sample water at 500 Bjornson
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Investigated faulty water meter at 625 N Third
Remounted touchpad at 510 Finley Ave
Replaced water meter at Community Garden
Checked for high consumption at 304 Elm
Installed sprinkler meter and touchpad at Panera Bread
Repaired radio at 407 South St
Lowered stack at 529 S Michigan Ave
Water –
Safety Topic: Eye Safety
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Treated 10.4 Million Gallons of drinking water this last week
Cleared a river access for the Fire Department
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Answered call-in alarms
Back washed filter in gravity mode per MDEQ suggestions
Ran Bact-Ts on guest samples
Traced electrical problem with Cl2 analyzer pump and corrected it
Mowed lawns at the Well House and Mitchell Creek pump station
Unplugged pressure sensor tube at Mitchell Creek pump station
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
AUGUST 15, 2014
CITY PICNIC
The City picnic is next Wednesday – August 20. Please put this on the calendar…
AFSCME
Negotiations continue very well. Another meeting is scheduled for Monday, August 18. We
are down to the final issues, and are very close on wage and retirement issues.
WWTP
DEQ inspector Tom Burdinski visited the plant this week and was very complementary on
the status and maintenance of the plant. He reviewed the upcoming screen update and
the future plans for continuous improvement.
AIRPORT
The quarterly meeting of the advisory group was held on Thursday. The group received
updates on the runway extension study, the change in personnel and other activities.
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
(ARE IN BOLD)
1. Hanchett’s Redevelopment
Staff met with a developer interested in condo’s along the River with full view
of the Muskegon. Estimates of cost were discussed and will be reviewed by
City consultants for brownfield program support. A meeting has been
established with City Staff and consultants to seriously categorize the
expenses for brownfield redevelopment support. This project is moving
forward. As there is a commercial element to this project there is also a
desire to find a business which might need 6000-12000 square feet of
office space to complement this project.
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2. Depot
A meeting with all the sponsors is scheduled for August 15. This meeting
was conducted with representatives on site for help with the renovation.
There are stabilization funds which may be available from DNR to fix the
roof and foundation. The steering committee for the Depot will be
looking into these opportunities.
3. Creek’s Edge
The apartment complex is interested in expanding onto the acreage that they
own north of their Gilbert Road facility. This project has serious potential for
water sales for the City – but will take an investment of an estimated $330,000
to reach the complex. Staff is reviewing the costs and returns for presentation
to the Commission for decision. Businesses in the area have been contacted
to see if additional interest in having water is prevalent. All are interested!!
The City Commission approved the extension of the water service to this
potential project. The developer was contacted and a meeting is planned once
he receives engineering documents for his own property so that the City and
Developer might coordinate the best route for this line together. In addition
contact was made with Mark Baker, owner of the plaza, to gain his support for
the possibility of the line crossing his lands and assisting with the storm
draining issues presently on plaza property. Bill Stanek was contacted and
expressed interest in attending this planning/strategy meeting. Fleis and
VandenBrink have submitted cost estimates to design the project which
are on the agenda for adoption at the next commission meeting.
4. Maple Street Grant (DIG)
This project seriously over budget in the bidding process. Staff met and
reduced the scope of the project to fit the funding levels originally accumulated.
In the middle of this challenging cuts the State called and offered and
additional $200,000 if the City would pick up $50,000. Paperwork has
been received from the state and commitments signed. All is ready from
the grant side. The preconstruction conference will be held in the next
week.
5.
Hire Dep. Director Public Safety
Sixteen applications have been received for the Deputy Director position now
that Warren Hanson has retired. The review is underway. Narrowing the
applicants to a small group to be interviewed is underway. This process will
be complete by next week. Interviews will then be scheduled. Interviews
were conducted this week with four candidates. The field is being
narrowed while background/references are being gathered. A ride along
is being arranged to help determine the ‘fit’ for both sides.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The police division is investigating a fraud complaint at a local business where a group of
individuals were purchasing products using checking accounts with insufficient funds and
then returning items for cash refunds before the owner was able to catch on. As a result of
this activity the business is looking at a loss of roughly $15,000. The investigation is
continuing and charges will be sought next week.
Some members of the police division had consortium training on Wednesday. They were
trained in explosives by a member of the Michigan State Police Bomb Squad, RAID Entry
Training, and autism awareness for law enforcement officers and legal update presented by
the prosecutors of Mecosta and Osceola Counties.
Officer Dave Flore attended a drug interdiction training this past week in Grand Rapids.
The fire division had 14 runs over the past week. 12 of those of were a medical nature and
2 fire calls.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(1)
(4)
(8)
(1)
(2)
Garbage & Rubbish
Blight
Non-Conforming Signs
Sidewalks
Furniture
(10)
(41)
(3)
(7)
(1)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Grass & Weeds
Property Maintenance
Poly-cart Placement
Disabled/Inoperable Vehicles
Dial-A-Ride –
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199 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
285 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
816 Seniors (110) and Disabled (816)passengers of which 172 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
106 Free Riders – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and
under with an adult
11 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
1,417 Total Passengers
530 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Wearing Earplugs Properly”
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Installed 2 new water valves, 1 on Maple and Warren and 1 on Maple and Stewart
Cleaned drains
Dug curb on 400 block of Marion
Digging footings at Wastewater Treatment Plant
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Putting in replacement sidewalk on private property on Marion Avenue from tree
removal damage last fall
Blacktop patches
Trimming trees in Hemlock Park
Sweeping streets
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered trees and flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
 Serviced 1 police car
 Old police car, removed all police equipment, removed all the seats and cleaned
interior, put the interior back together. Installed new hood and bumper parts.
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Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 209 pickup, replaced all 4 ball joints
 Replaced a tire on a wing mower
 Cleaned shop
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Buses:
 901, repaired and adjusted rear door
 905, safety inspection and a service, serviced wheelchair lift, repaired some
damaged wires to the rear A/C unit
 906, grease service, replaced rear tires and brakes
 909, diagnosed rear A/C found compressor clutch not working, ordered part.
Serviced wheelchair lift
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Checked high consumption at 114 Rust
Checked high consumption at Pizza King
Flow testing hydrants
Repaired hydrant #511 – broken coupler
Replaced frozen meter at 302 S Stewart
Helped repair valves on Stewart and Warren
Helped find lead at Aldi’s
Shut offs for non-payment
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Safety in the Absence of Unreasonable Risk”
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 Plant testing of Chemco P-560 polymer vs. current Aries Tek polymer revealed the
Chemco product to be inferior. Chemco Rep. working on other possible options.
 West clarifier back in service, after cleaning and skimmer frame rebuild.
East clarifier out of service until school starts. Skimmer repair in progress.
 4 Aeration basins in service. Nitrification process continues.
 Weekend failure of ferric feed (again). Day tank suction tube had moved out of
place.
 John and Mic working on Annual Effluent Toxicity Testing, Influent/Effluent Mercury
quarterly sampling and Mercury Minimization Plan, per NPDES permit
requirements.
 UV system cleaning and maintenance in progress.
 Tom Berdinski (DEQ) here on Thursday for annual audit of our IPP Program.
 Received Fleis and VandenBrink recommendation letter, regarding the bids for our
Headworks Screening Project.
 Building Permit and site preparations for a new Pump Storage Building are in
progress.
Water –
Safety Topic: Snake Bite Safety
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Treated 10.2 million gallons of drinking water this last week
Assisted Hurst Mechanical where ever possible as they install our new geothermal
heating and cooling unit. This is to replace the conventional cooling unit that was
mounted on the roof.
Trouble shot a flow problem with the Zurn valve in the bathroom
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Mowed lawn at the Hills of Mitchell Creek pump station
Completed the ERA chlorine duplicates
Completed the ERA Bact-T duplicates
Replaced ceiling tiles that were damaged during this spring’s roof problems
Checked several roof drains to try and figure out where one of our leaks is coming
from
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
AUGUST 22, 2014
EVENTS
Library Book sale starts August 29 from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.… stop by for good reading
options!!
Students are returning to campus. The school year will begin with the annual Founder’s
Day/Ice Cream social with faculty and community starting at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, August
28th.
Big Rapids Riverdays events begin Thursday, August 28th and run through Monday,
September 1st.
AFSCME
Mark Gifford led the discussion for this negotiation with team members Roberta Cline, Jon
Locke and Steve Sobers. AFSCME members participating were: Jerome Buchanan, Bert
Carlstrom, John Wright, Bob Halstead, and Jake Renne. All issues were tentatively agreed
last week and are headed to the various ratification groups. Thanks to all who participated
in this effort.
BADGER METERS
The present meters that are used for water/wastewater billing have become a delivery
problem taking 14+ weeks for orders to be processed. With this issue, the City looked into
various other meter companies and new technologies for better service. DPW has elected
the Badger system and will be purchasing meters that accommodate remote reading
capability over the internet. Costs per meter are slightly higher, but the technology rewards
are significant as meters are replaced. We will start with a 10 meter ‘trial’ program. While it
would be good to replace all meters at one time…there is insufficient funds to accomplish
that significant task. We will continue to purchase meters as needed with upgraded
technology.
HOLLAND PARK’S VETERANS & HOMEFRONT MEMORIAL CONSTRUCTION
Preliminary construction – moving dirt and initial concrete sidewalk and back wall will begin
shortly after Labor Day. Fundraising continues for the memorial portions of the project.
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
The MML Liability and Property Pool insures the City and other governments on a
‘participation basis’. As a result of continuing good years, the City received a check in the
amount of $23,321 as a reward for good pool experience.
1
INTERVIEWS
The Students are back!!! Interviews are being conducted for work study help in various
departments of the City for the upcoming year.
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
(ARE IN BOLD)
1. Hanchett’s Redevelopment
Staff met with a developer interested in condo’s along the River with full view
of the Muskegon. Estimates of cost were discussed and will be reviewed by
City consultants for brownfield program support. A meeting has been
established with City Staff and consultants to seriously categorize the
expenses for brownfield redevelopment support. This project is moving
forward. As there is a commercial element to this project there is also a desire
to find a business which might need 6000-12000 square feet of office space to
complement this project. Staff met with a developer interested in condo’s
along the River with full view of the Muskegon. Estimates of cost were
discussed and will be reviewed by City consultants for Brownfield
program support. A meeting has been established with City Staff and
consultants to seriously categorize the expenses for Brownfield
Redevelopment support. This project is moving forward. As there is a
commercial element to this project, there is also a desire to find a
business which might need 6000-12000 square feet of office space to
complement this project.
2. DNR site purchase
While the City has approved the purchase of the White Pine Trail properties
on 4th Avenue, the actual transaction is waiting on an Environmental Phase I
and II so that if the property is found to be a ‘Brownfield’ the City and developer
will be able to take full advantage of the program. Purchase before that date
nullifies elements of that program. Core samples of the affected property will
be taken next week to be tested. The environmental review is expected to be
completed within the next 30 days. The completed Phase I report has been
received indicating that additional work is needed. The Phase II report
has been underway and preliminary data suggests that this land will
indeed be Brownfield eligible. This report should also be available in the
next couple weeks so that the purchase of these lands may be
completed.
3. Maple Street Grant (DIG)
This project seriously over budget is in the bidding process. Staff met and
reduced the scope of the project to fit the funding levels originally accumulated.
In the middle of this challenging cuts the State called and offered and
additional $200,000 if the City would pick up $50,000. Paperwork has been
received from the state and commitments signed. All is ready from the grant
side. The preconstruction conference will be held in the next week.
2
Construction is slated to begin September 2, with substantial completion
by October 31. The Ferris welding class will be working on the gazebo
project as part of the DIG process and will complete the structure after
this point. Thanks to the State for their additional funding support for
this important downtown improvement.
4.
Hire Dep. Director Public Safety
Sixteen applications have been received for the Deputy Director position now
that Warren Hanson has retired. The review is underway. Narrowing the
applicants to a small group to be interviewed is underway. This process will
be complete by next week. Interviews will then be scheduled. Interviews were
conducted this week with four candidates. The field is being narrowed with
ride-a-longs being arranged to help determine the ‘fit’ for both sides.
Background checks will begin next week with an offer of employment to
follow.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police and Fire Divisions responded and assisted in the drowning of a 16 year old
Canton male on Saturday. The young male was rescued from the river, and transported to
a Grand Rapids hospital, where on Tuesday he passed away.
Both divisions responded to 8 dumpster fires on Thursday morning. The fires began at
approximately 4:00am and continued for the next hour. It's believed the suspect(s) started
the fires in the 300 block of Morrison and continued north, with the last one being reported
in the alley behind The Blue Cow in the 100 block of N. Michigan. Currently there are no
suspects.
The fire division had 24 medical runs, the river rescue, 1 car fire, a downed power line, the
8 dumpster fires and 6 general fire alarms this past week.
The police division had no other significant calls for service.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(2)
(4)
(6)
(3)
Garbage & Rubbish
Parking
Non-Conforming Signs
Uninhabitable Dwelling
(3) Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(28) Grass & Weeds
(3) Furniture
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Hits Can Hurt – Avoid Them”
 Dug out patches on Locust and Linden streets and black topped them and north
Warren
 Rotomilled 100 South Stewart street and a large patch on 100 block of North
Warren
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Sawed the drive at TNT Gym for repair, getting ready for blacktop
Took two hanging limbs down, one on Ives street and South Michigan
Graveled an alley behind the 800 block of Willow
Put up No Parking signs on South Stewart for blacktopping
Checked sewers
Put out Farmers Market signs and cones for the farmers market
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
Serviced 2 police cars
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Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 Serviced 3 pickup trucks
 Serviced 221 and replaced a power steering line and two rear U-joints
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Four Seconds to Safety”
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East clarifier out of service until school starts. Skimmer repair in progress.
Four Aeration basins in service. Nitrification process continues.
Received 4,000 gallons of Ferric Chloride.
John and Mic completed Annual Effluent Toxicity sampling and delivered samples
to the contract lab for analysis.
We successfully passed our annual IPP Program Inspection with Tom Berdinski
(DEQ).
Headworks Screening Upgrade Project awarded to Gerace Construction of Midland,
MI.
Asset Management Program Project awarded to Fleis & VandenBrink Engineering.
Shingles and materials ordered for re-roofing of the Headworks and Ferric
Buildings.
Dumpster delivery and start of shingle removal scheduled for Monday September
8th.
Excavation completed for new pump storage garage. Form setting and concrete
work to be scheduled soon.
Received 3 new ISCO Composite Samplers, which will be placed into service next
week.
Installed new Plant Refrigerator and disposed of the old one.
Water –
Safety Topic: MSDS Safety
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Treated 10.5 million gallons of drinking water this last week
Refilled BJ Tower and put it back into service after a 1 year warranty inspection
Set up and calibrated new Conductivity Meter
Bump tested the gas detectors
Created new slope for new Fluoride probe
Opened BJ tower for cell antenna installer
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Checked fluid levels on all generators
Turned Cathodic protection on at BJ
Tested plant pressure relief valves
Made lab reagents
Replaced leaking pressure relief valve on hot water heater
Ran guest samples
Hurst Mechanical finished installing our new geothermal heating and cooling
system. It should definitely help save money on our gas bills! And it just makes
sense that a Water Plant should heat and cool with water!
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
AUGUST 29, 2014
RIVERDAYS
Big Rapids Riverdays events have begun and run through Monday, September 1st. Please
come and enjoy all that Big Rapids downtown and surrounding areas have to offer. For
more information regarding the Riverdays Festival go to www.bigrapids.org.
DOWNTOWN FLOWERS AND BASKETS
Kudos to Todd Eichler for doing such a wonderful job taking care of the downtown flowers
and baskets during the week and to Mike Griffes, Alan Hatchew, Glenn Thompson, and Tim
Vogel for making sure that they stay beautiful throughout the weekend. They are a beautiful
addition to the downtown area.
DOG PARK
The parking lot for the Brutus Dog Park has been paved. This resolves both the parking
issues and the handicapped accessibility of the park from the lot to the secure dog play
areas.
SIMONDS SIDEWALK
Simonds sidewalk toward the bridge was removed for utility reconstruction associated with
the Baldwin Street Bridge program. The pedestrian area has been blacktopped as a
temporary fix pending the bridge building in 2015.
Simonds water service line was disconnected by City crews this week in preparation for the
bridge construction.
AFSCME
The AFSCME Unit ratified the Union negotiation provisions which will now be sent to the
City Commission for approval. Mark Gifford led the discussion for this negotiation with team
members Roberta Cline, Jon Locke and Steve Sobers. AFSCME members participating
were: Jerome Buchanan, Bert Carlstrom, John Wright, Bob Halstead, and Jake Renne. All
issues were tentatively agreed upon last week and are headed to the various ratification
groups. Thanks to all who participated in this effort.
1
HOLLAND PARK’S VETERANS & HOMEFRONT MEMORIAL CONSTRUCTION
Preliminary construction – moving dirt and initial concrete sidewalk and back wall will begin
shortly after Labor Day. Fundraising continues for the memorial portions of the project.
FERRIS FOUNDER’S DAY ICE CREAM SOCIAL
Andie Nerbonne, Mark Warba and Steve Sobers helped with the community Ice Cream
Social at Ferris. Well over 2,500 persons were served – and an enjoyable time was had by
everyone.
JIM SANDY
Jim fell while preparing his Lansing home for sale and will be in the hospital for a period of
time and away from this MCDC position. On a temporary basis Phil Keating, Vice Chair for
the MCDC will be working to keep the office ‘going’.
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
(ARE IN BOLD)
1. Hanchett’s Redevelopment
Staff met with a developer interested in condo’s along the River with full view
of the Muskegon. Estimates of cost were discussed and will be reviewed by
City consultants for brownfield program support. A meeting has been
established with City Staff and consultants to seriously categorize the
expenses for brownfield redevelopment support. This project is moving
forward. As there is a commercial element to this project there is also a desire
to find a business which might need 6000-12000 square feet of office space to
complement this project. Staff met with a developer interested in condo’s along
the River with full view of the Muskegon. Estimates of cost were discussed
and will be reviewed by City consultants for Brownfield program support.
A meeting has been established with City Staff and consultants to seriously
categorize the expenses for Brownfield Redevelopment support. This project
is moving forward. As there is a commercial element to this project, there is
also a desire to find a business which might need 6000-12000 square feet of
office space to complement this project.
Meetings continue with the potential developer as more realistic
construction plans are formulated. The next step is a meeting with the
builder to determine the extent of Brownfield support which may be
available. Very productive meetings are anticipated in the next several
weeks.
2. DNR site purchase
While the City has approved the purchase of the White Pine Trail properties
on 4th Avenue, the actual transaction is waiting on an Environmental Phase I
2
and II so that if the property is found to be a ‘Brownfield’ the City and developer
will be able to take full advantage of the program. Purchase before that date
nullifies elements of that program. Core samples of the affected property will
be taken next week to be tested. The environmental review is expected to be
completed within the next 30 days.
The completed Phase I report has been received indicating that additional
work is needed. The Phase II report has been underway and preliminary data
suggests that this land will indeed be Brownfield eligible. This report should
also be available in the next couple weeks so that the purchase of these lands
may be completed.
With the completion of the Phase 2 Environmental report the purchase
agreement has been completed and money sent to the DNR to complete
this transaction. This action also triggers a final report from the
environmental consultants which will be completed within 45 days of the
sale.
3. Recreation Development
Interest in developing a regional recreational center continues. Staff has had
conversation with the school and university concerning their interest in being
‘at the table’ for these talks. These organizations are exploring ways and
means to support greater availability of recreational opportunity within the
City and County.
A legal opinion from the School attorney has been received and is being
analyzed to see if there are cooperative discussion that may be held to
assist all parties in making Big Rapids quality of life more productive by
working together.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Over the course of the weekend of August 21st-24th, with the FSU students returning, the
police division cited 35 minors for MIP, 6 subjects for open intoxicants, had 4 subjects cited
for urinating in public, had 1 misdemeanor traffic violation and arrested 1 subject on an
outstanding warrant. Officers also assisted the Mecosta County Sheriff Office with a couple
of large parties at apartment complexes on both Friday and Saturday evening.
Officers were steady with complaints. But, overall the weekend was a good one, with a lot
of proactive contacts by officers.
There were no other significant calls for service by the police division over the course of the
past week.
The fire division responded to 15 medical runs and 10 fire calls, including a structure fire at
the Big Rapids Online Auction building at 327 S Third on Wednesday. It was determined
the fire was due to an electrical issue. The department was assisted by Colfax Township,
Big Rapids Township Fire and Mecosta County EMS. Flames were contained in the
wall. There were no injuries as a result of the fire.
3
PARK AND RECREATION
Women’s volleyball league begins September 7, 2014 with two weeks of scrimmages.
Fall classes are ready to begin in a few weeks. The attached flyer will be in the water bills
as well as in the schools.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(2) Garbage & Rubbish
(28) Parking
(17) Non-Conforming Signs
(1) Uninhabitable Dwelling
(1) Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
(5) Property Maintenance
(1) Sidewalks
(2)
(18)
(9)
(7)
(24)
(1)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Grass & Weeds
Furniture
Blight
Poly-cart Placement
Recreational Vehicles
Dial-A-Ride –
All Staff just completed unit 4 on Bloodbourne Pathogens (reporting procedures) this was a
5 to 10 minute unit with a short quiz at the end. This will train them on the proper care of
any incidents that involve Bloodbourne Pathogens.
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205 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
105 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
718 Seniors (130) and Disabled (588)passengers of which 114 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
73 Free Riders – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
18 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and are not there for pickup
37 Ferris Shuttle Bus (Started on August 21)
1,156 Total Passengers
457 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “A Shocking True Story”
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Reading meters
Patched on N Michigan Ave, Escott St, Sanborn Ave and Marion Ave and black
topped them
Took 3 tree hangers down
Painted cross walks on Michigan Ave, Bellevue St and N Warren Ave
Cleaned a catch basin at N Warren Ave and Bellevue St with the street sweeper
Repaired water valve on E Pere Marquette St and disconnected the water line going
into the old Hanchett building
Black topped the new trail at Hemlock Park
Black topped 100 block of S Stewart Ave and 100 block of N Fourth Ave
Moving books for the book sale
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Fixing lights at City Hall and the Library
Grading gravel alleys
Putting out barricades for the Labor Day events
Filled pot holes on S Michigan Ave
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Police & Fire Vehicles:
 402, serviced, then delivered to Babb ford for warranty work
 403, Diagnosed computer problem, replaced docking station
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Pickup trucks and Misc.:
 202, replaced rear drive shaft U-Joints, replaced rear brake rotors, pads and
calipers
 209, replaced all 4 ball joints, diagnosed stalling problem, replaced oil pressure
switch and relay
 221, replaced rear drive shaft U-Joints, and a power steering line
 415, serviced
 Backhoe, repaired the foot control the hydraulic hammer
 Hurco valve turner, replaced the battery and all the connectors, replaced the
trailer connector
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Buses:
 903, did a grease service, replaced the outer barrier return shocks
 905, did a service and a safety inspection, evacuated A/C system and replaced
the A/C compressor clutch and recharged system
Main Maintenance –
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Miss Digs
Miscellaneous meter reads
Cleaned out road boxes on Madison St, Pine St and Rose Ave
Read Ferris and Township meters
Shut water off for valve removal on Pere Marquette St
Turned off water at 314 Waterloo St
Changed out meter at 325 S Michigan Ave
Investigated meter at 817 N State St
Assisted with removal of hydrant on Warren Ave
Turned water on at 318 Pere Marquette St
Turned water off at 1111 Speer Ave
Turned water off at 229 E Grand Traverse St
5
Water –
Safety Topic: Trench Safety
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Treated 10.4 Million Gallons of drinking water this past week
Read meters
Made lab reagents
Ran customer samples
Checked fluid in all generators
Completed the ERA duplicate samples (proficiency testing)
Started filter pressing sludge from the clarifiers
Lubed General clarifier drive chain
Lubed and cleaned the peristaltic fluoride pump
Mowed lawns and edged at the Water Plant, Wells, and Hills of Mitchel Creek pump
station
 Addressed some erosion problems
 Struggled with the new phone system. Snail mail is looking pretty attractive right
now.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
6
SEPTEMBER 5, 2014
NORTH END PARK
The City rented a ‘Bobcat’ attachment designed to clear brush. DPW has been working on
clearing the overgrowth and tree stumps in North End Riverside Park. The goal is to see
more of the Muskegon while enjoying walking or riding along the trail.
CONSUMERS ENERGY
Consumer’s presented a plan for construction of the truck port on their property in the
industrial park.
BALDWIN STREET BRIDGE
Staff met with Adam Trites (Sawmill Tubing) and Robert Carlton (Gypsy Nickle) to review
the anticipated challenges during next year’s Bridge construction. A positive relationship
has been established and communication channels shared which will help this project. All
parties will be invited to the bid opening so that direct communication may also begin with
the contractor.
AUDITORS
Over the next several weeks City Auditors will be continuing to examine books in preparation
of the 2013-14 audit.
TREES
In the roadway improvements at Baldwin Street and State Street, there have been several
trees which have blocked the clear view of the flashing stoplight ahead sign. Part of the
recommended improvement there was to remove the offending trees. These trees along
with some dead ones were removed by DPW this week.
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
(ARE IN BOLD)
1. DNR site purchase
While the City has approved the purchase of the White Pine Trail properties
on 4th Avenue, the actual transaction is waiting on an Environmental Phase I
and II so that if the property is found to be a ‘Brownfield’ the City and developer
will be able to take full advantage of the program. Purchase before that date
nullifies elements of that program. Core samples of the affected property will
1
be taken next week to be tested. The environmental review is expected to be
completed within the next 30 days.
The completed Phase I report has been received indicating that additional
work is needed. The Phase II report has been underway and preliminary data
suggests that this land will indeed be Brownfield eligible. This report should
also be available in the next couple weeks so that the purchase of these lands
may be completed.
With the completion of the Phase 2 Environmental report the purchase
agreement has been completed and money sent to the DNR to complete this
transaction. This action also triggers a final report from the environmental
consultants which will be completed within 45 days of the sale.
DNR contacted the City and advised that the paperwork process on their
end should complete the sale at the monthly Board meeting in October.
2. Maple Street Grant (DIG)
Construction began September 2nd, with substantial completion by
October 31st. Much of the work this week was mobilization. The staging
for the project will be on the property across from City Hall. Next week
‘demolition’ of sidewalk and visible changes will become evident.
The Ferris welding class is working on the gazebo project as part of the
DIG process and will complete the structure after this point. They have
had a ‘trial’ assembly of the dome structure. The pillars are being sand
blasted and powder coated and will be back for installation within the
next week.
Marlies Manning is putting the final touches on her design for the dome;
a four season review of local events, important features, and buildings
in Big Rapids.
3. Hire Development Consultants
Staff has been relying on Eric Helzer to guide our industrial projects through
the MEDC, DEQ and other organizations. We need to develop a relationship
with a consultant for this specified service. Staff completed Qualification
Criteria to choose such a consultant, advertised for these services.
The first of the interviews for this consultation has been completed. The
lasts interview will be held at the first of the next week.
A
recommendation to the City commission will be forthcoming September
15th.
4. Depot
A meeting with all the sponsors is scheduled for August 15. This meeting was
conducted with representatives on site for help with the renovation. There are
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stabilization funds which may be available from DNR to fix the roof and
foundation. The steering committee for the Depot will be looking into these
opportunities.
The steering committee met to continue the discussion on the depot
preservation.
Mark Gifford will be contacting the State on the
stabilization grant. Fleis and Vandenbrink are preparing a structural
study to help guide the extent of the construction that will need to be
done. With this data, the committee with begin to make decisions and
recommendations on the building.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
There were no significant calls for service from the police division. With FSU students being
back our accidents have risen slightly. Officers are doing a nice job of policing parties before
they are getting out of hand. For the time being things have been relatively calm on the
home front.
On Thursday, September 11th @ 1 pm there will be a short memorial presentation in front
the Department in honor of Patriot Day.
The fire division responded to 5 fire runs, with the humidity being the cause of several false
alarms. They had 12 medical runs, with 4 of those being the result of motorcycle
accidents. There were injuries as a result of these, none resulting in death.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
DIAL-A-RIDE –
All Staff just completed unit 5 on Bloodbourne Pathogens (reporting procedures) this was a
5 to 10 minute unit with a short quiz at the end. This will train them on the proper care of
any incidents that involve Bloodbourne Pathogens. This is the last of this unit, all drivers
responded well to these units.
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216 Adult riders – ($2.00 fare)
74 Children riders – ($1.00 fare)
723 Seniors (144) and Disabled (579)passengers of which 128 used the wheelchair
lift to board – ($1.00 fare)
89 Free Riders – Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
34 No Shows – A person who calls in for a ride and when we go to pick up and they
are not there for ride
2,090 Ferris Shuttle Bus (Started on August 21)
1,136 Total Demand Response Passengers
435 Out of City riders – anyone we pick up outside the City limits
3,226 Total Passengers
3
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Caution --- Gasoline!”
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Cleared brush area along river in Northend Riverside Park
Blacktopped approaches on Warren Avenue and at the Dog Park
Building shelves in Main Maintenance building
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Removed trapped animal from residence
Swept streets and downtown parking lots
Moved flower pots from construction area on Maple St
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered flowers and trees
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks and Misc.:
 Serviced 3 pickup trucks and 1 fire rescue truck
 Replaced the top strobe light on a truck
 Repaired 3 flat tires
 Replaced a battery on a tractor
 301 street sweeper, replaced the top suction hose turret
 Replaced a throttle cable on the john deer mower
 City Hall’s generator – replaced coolant pump heater and coolant
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
• Miss Digs
• Miscellaneous meter reads
• Changed frozen meter out at 819 N State St
• Changed out sprinkler and domestic meter at 514 Chestnut St
• Repaired touch read at 213 Finley
• Changed out meter at 408 W Bellevue
• Turned water on at 715 Marion Ave
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Awareness on the Job”
 East clarifier skimmer rebuilt. Both clarifiers back in service for increased Fall flows.
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 4 Aeration basins in service. Nitrification process continues, and has resulted in
occasional pH problems with the process and
 Acquired Building Permit for construction of a new emergency pump storage
building.
 John and Mic have sampled two collection system points near the Wastewater
Plant, beginning a long-term study of BOD sources and plant loading fluctuations.
 Bert is now beginning a two-month IPP training period with John. Collection system
sampling and other IPP work will continue as planned.
 Roofing materials have been delivered by Cash and Carry, for the Ferric Building.
 Un-clogged grease removal auger and piping, using bags of shredded tree bark.
 Screw Pump stub shaft and upper bearing parts delivered to Hamtech for
duplication.
 Screw Pump lower bearing ready for shipment to Lakeside, for
rebuild/remanufacture.
 Dumpster delivery and start of shingle removal scheduled for Monday September
8th.
 Excavation completed for new pump storage garage. Form setting and concrete
work to be scheduled soon.
 3 new ISCO Composite Samplers set in place. Wiring assistance needed from
Hesco, to connect to flowmeters for flow-pacing signal.
Water –
Safety Topic: Miss Dig Safety
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Treated 11.4 Million Gallons of drinking water this last week
Removed sludge from clarifiers
Created a Standard Operating Procedure for the new conductivity meter
Extended the heating duct more towards the center of the bathroom
Checked all pits at the towers and booster pump stations
Replaced faulty outside light bulb at State Street Tower
Mowed lawn at the Water Plant
Prepared State report and filed with DEQ
Practiced some erosion control on a corner of our parking lot drain.
Received and set up new incubator. The old one (20 plus years) began suffering
circuit board palpitations and was declared dead on Tuesday.
 Mowed the lawn between our fence and the river bank
 Successfully transferred several calls to another extension. Progress!
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
SEPTEMBER 12, 2014
ZONING PERMIT REQUESTS
Several commercial construction projects have been in for Zoning permits:
• Independent Bank is looking to modify its building to reduce the size of their
bank space and create a commercial office within the present building. A new
drive through and parking arrangement are part of the plan.
• Consumers Energy is constructing a new 8500 square foot loading dock
• Subway has submitted plans for additional parking at their State Steer
business location.
SIDEWALK
Big Rapids Township is receiving a report from their engineers on the extension of sidewalk
to Meijer. The City expects to be supportive to some extent with the work to be done.
BROWNFIELD GRANT
The Federal government notified the City concerning an area-wide brownfield planning
grant. With the potential of Hanchett’s, Simonds, and the City Water Plant an area-wide
look is considered a valuable tool. The City will be submitting a grant for this effort.
PAVING
Alley paving is presently scheduled for next week and street paving the following – on the
26-28 of September. This will finish the street paving for this year…pending good weather!
NORTH END PARKING
DPW is working to complete the base for expanded parking at North End Park.
FRS
Fluid Routing systems reports that they have once again been designated a C-3 – Clean
Corporate Citizen. FRS has demonstrated its environmental ethic by continuing to meet the
criteria for C3 designation: the development and implementation of an environmental
management system, the practice of pollution prevention and a strong environmental
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compliance record. This is demonstrated by: reduction of 286,912 kWh through energy
efficiency and conservation measures saving an estimated $27,000; recycling of 169 tons
of solid waste and reduced water usage by 214,765 gallons annually.
INCOME TAX
Paul Cole and Amy
continue to pursue delinquent tax payers through purchase and
review of the State Tax tapes. To date these efforts have resulted in a gross income of
2009 – $169,968
2010 – $ 39,210
2011 - $ 17,702
2012 - $ 15,916
Total $242,796
Expenses directly related to this effort are slightly over $20,000.
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
(ARE IN BOLD)
1. Hanchett’s /Bridge
The Right-of-Way data has been submitted to the EDA in Chicago and is waiting for
approval in order to bid the demolition. This week Hanchett’s is removing the paint
booth from the Baldwin Street site. This is the last item to be claimed from the original
agreements for moving from the site.
The pre-bid walkthrough for Hanchett demolition has been completed. Six or
seven Contractors took part in the mandatory review. Bids are to be received
on September 25th.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police Division had no significant calls for service. They have continued to police a
number of alcohol violations, with a number of citations and arrests occurring over the past
week as a result.
The Fire Division also had no significant calls for service. They responded to 7 fire calls, 6
general alarms and 1 grass fire. They had 12 medical calls, 11 in the city and 1 in Green
Township.
On September 11th, members of the department honored those who lost their lives on
September 11th, 2001 for Patriot Day. A memorial took place in front of the department with
Mayor Warba and Cathy Heavner both speaking to the group.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(4)
Blight
2
(3)
(1)
(2)
(27)
(8)
(2)
(34)
(10)
(1)
Disabled / Inoperable Vehicles
Furniture
Garbage & Rubbish
Grass & Weeds
Poly-cart Placement
Property Maintenance
on-Conforming Signs
Parking
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Eye Safety”
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Filled potholes
Grading alleys
Brining gravel roads and alleys
Cleaned drains
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Found an old vault in the alley behind Fifth Third Bank and put a cover on it so it
would stop sinking
Staked for trees being removed planted on DeKrafft Avenue that were removed from
Maple Street due to the construction
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Black dirt behind the blacktop edge on Ferris Drive
Delivered portable lights to the Fire Hall for the Hanchett walk threw
Picked up pillars for the Mitchell Creek Park dome
Final meter reads
Turned water on at 815 Maple Street
Watered flowers and trees
Stump grinding and brush clearing on Riverwalk
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks and Misc.:
 Repaired the passenger side window track
 Replaced a top light
 Replaced a fuel pump
 300, backhoe- Replaced 2 hydraulic hoses
 319, Tool cat- replaced 1 hydraulic hose and repaired CV boot
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 566, trash pump- disasembled pump to dislodge a piece of metal in the propeller,
repaired the suction hose and installed a new screen
 Helped grind stumps and brush on the river walk
 Cleaned shop and pressure washed the floor
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Buses:
 Performed 3 full services
 Performed 2 safety inspections
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Serviced and adjusted 3 wheelchair lifts
Replaced a set of stow blocks
Performed a grease service
Replaced front hub seals
Repaired a mirror bracket
Performed 2 transmission services
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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Flushing fire hydrants
WWTP –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Blocking”
 UV channel 1 taken out of service for bulb cleaning. Channel 2 placed in service.
 Discussed Nitrification and pH issues with Blair Selover (Fleis & VandenBrink).
Waiting for possible suggestions from Tom Berdinski (DEQ).
 Emergency pump storage building project on hold, waiting for concrete (2 weeks?).
 John and Bert continue with collection system IPP sampling plans.
 Dumpster is on-site for Ferric Building roofing project. Rain Delay this week.
 Northwest Kent Mechanical provided a quote to replace the Headworks Building
furnace. Waiting for quote from Hurst Mechanical. C-Ray Heating quote already in.
 Sam Conley of CF Contracting visited, and is preparing a quote for the electric gate
project. A walk-through gate is also needed for ferric delivery, and will be included.
 Screw Pump lower bearing ready for shipment to Iowa, for rebuild/remanufacture.
Waiting for bill of lading and pick-up here at the plant by Conway Freight.
 3 new ISCO Composite Samplers set in place. Waiting for wiring assistance from
Hesco, to connect to flowmeters for flow-pacing signal.
 JW applied for the Wastewater “C” License Exam in November.
 DEQ Mobile Lab parked on-site, for area sampling un-related to the Wastewater
Plant.
PARK & RECREATION •
A tree grant in the amount of $2000 was awarded to the City for the 2014 fall planting
from Consumer Energy and Michigan Forestry & Park Association.
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Big Rapids Community Tennis Association BRCTA) teamed up with Ferris State Club
Tennis and is offering a free after school tennis program to middle school students in
Hemlock Park. The outcome was great, they had to even put some on a waiting list.
Computer Classes began this week.
Gymnastics will begin next Tuesday.
Attended Match Day meeting for this fall. Girls on the Run, BRCTA and the Holland
Park Committee will be participating.
Park and Recreation Board met.
WATER
Safety Topic: Tank Climbing Safety
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Treated 10.2 million gallons of drinking water this last week
Removed and dewatered sludge from the clarifiers
Calibrated our new incubator temperature settings, a new piece of equipment with all
sorts of new things to learn. Our old incubator had had been around for over 20 years
when it started having trouble maintaining a set temperature. The night it coughed up
a fur ball and deviated over one half a degree from its set point meant we had to
invalidate all the samples that were in it. Its age combined with the cost of shipping
it back to the manufacture for repair made it an instant candidate for replacement.
Recalibrated spectrophotometer after being returned from the manufacture
Stored backup incubator and spectrophotometer
Ran guest samples
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Replaced the backup battery on the fluoride feeder scales. Thank goodness
camcorder batteries are still available on Amazon.com
Answered several call-in alarms. Some triggered by the midnight flushing of
hydrants, some not.
Volunteered two operators to helped distribution flush mains
Replaced burned out pump on our influent chlorine analyzer
Manicured the lawns at the well house and at the Hills of Mitchel Creek pump station
A drywall contractor from Lakeview has been working on the control room, lunch
room, and bathroom areas. Our lead paint problem is being sealed behind a layer of
drywall. The government issued word for this activity is lead abatement. It’s very
difficult to make the lead paint go away, but you can seal it up so that it is no longer
a problem. We also get the walls repaired in the process. It’s a win win situation.
The three roof mounted vent fans that were destroyed during the straight line wind
episode this spring have now been replaced. Mall City Mechanical and Shoreline
Electrical finished the installation this week. The laboratory fume hood fan has to be
the one that we are most happy to have back again. It makes working in the lab a lot
nicer experience.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
SEPTEMBER 26, 2014
PAVING
Alley and street paving is currently being done and should be completed by Monday!
CLERK’S OFFICE
Tammy Gillis has earned the designation of Master Municipal Clerk from the International
Institute of Municipal Clerks. The Association was founded in 1947 and has 10,300 members
and offers prestigious quality education. Congratulations to Tammy.
LIBRARY
The inside of the library continues to get rave reviews. Outside, landscaping is needed.
Marlies has designed some foundation plants and also a phase II for the Anna Howard Shaw
monument. Volunteers will be planting them next week.
GARY NOBLE
Longtime friend of the Muskegon River, Gary Noble is retiring from the Muskegon Watershed
leadership October 16, 2014. A reception is to be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Holiday
Inn.
FIRE SMOKE DETECTORS
Continuing thanks to the Fire Division for the door to door visits to make sure that all homes
have smoke detectors. To date over 800 homes visits have been made. 72 smoke detectors
have been distributed! Thanks for this life saving activity.
UPDATES ON PROJECTS FOR 2014
(ARE IN BOLD)
1. Hanchett’s / Bridge (updated 9 26 14)
The pre-bid walkthrough for Hanchett demolition has been completed. 6-7
contractors took part in the mandatory review. Bids are to be received on
September 25, 2014.
Four contractors bid on the demolition. Bids were higher than expected.
The expected cost was $250,000. The low bid was $296,000. The EDA
budget was $200,000. We will need to cover the cost for now, but may
be able to transfer EDA funds at the end of the project, or collect
additional funds from the brownfield redevelopment of the land.
1
2. Maple Street Grant (DIG) (updated 9 26 14
Construction began September 2, with substantial completion by Oct 31, 2014.
North side demolition is well underway with some on the South as well.
Some concrete is expected to be poured beginning on Tuesday. At the
request of Steve McMaster the tree by the radio station is being
preserved. Part of the park Gazebo has been powder coated. The project
is going very well in this second week.
3. Library Futures (Updated 9 26 14)
5 townships met with the City and Library Board representatives to discuss
funding for the library into the future. All expressed the sincere desire to have
a ‘solid base of support’ and the need to share those costs and responsibilities.
Approach to the schools on a district library funding possibility suggests
that this option is not popular there. Another meeting with the townships
has been scheduled for Oct 15, 2014 to continue the discussion.
4. Hire Dep. Director Public Safety (Updated 9 26 14)
The City is pleased to announce that Steve Schroeder has been offered
the position of Deputy Public Safety Director. Steve is the son of County
Emergency Preparedness director Scott Schroeder. Steve has an
extensive background in the Fire Service and Emergency Response and
will be a great asset to the City.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Firefighter Sean Wethington and Detective Brian Miller played with a group of other public
safety personnel from the area in the Robert Kozminski Memorial Softball Tournament in
Grand Rapids on Saturday, September 20th. Officer Kozminski was a GRPD Officer, who
was killed in the line of duty on July 7th, 2007, while on a domestic assault complaint. The
team finished second to Wayne/Oakland County Law Enforcement. This is the 6th year we
have had a team represent the area. We have now finished second, three of those years,
winning it in 2010.
Half of the Police Division had training this past Wednesday on firearms in the morning and
defensive tactics in the afternoon. The rest of the department will have this refresher training
next Wednesday.
On Thursday, the Mecosta County Honor Guard presented the flags at the Austin Blair
Dinner, a fundraiser for the local Republican Party, held at the Holiday Inn.
The Police Division continued to have no real significant calls for service. Officers continue
to be diligent in the proactive approach they are taking in their patrol duties.
The Fire Division responded to 16 calls over the past week. 16 of those were of a medical
nature and 1 vehicle fire on the 131 expressway.
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PARK AND RECREATION
Jaycee’s will be hold a warm clothes drive and a box will be at City Hall from October 13
until November 14, 2014.
Volleyball is off to a competitive start and the season is expected to be a great one.
Computer, gymnastics, line dancing and water aerobics are running smoothly for the
beginning fall session. Many new participants have joined our evening line dance class.
Many Ferris RSO’s are beginning to schedule their fall clean-up efforts in the park system.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(7)
(2)
(18)
(5)
Blight
Garbage & Rubbish
Grass & Weeds
Poly-cart Placement
(2)
(9)
(10)
(3)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Parking
Non-Conforming Signs
Furniture
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
DIAL-A-RIDE –
All Staff just completed unit 1 on Distracted Driving this was a 5 to 10 minute unit with
a short quiz at the end.
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202- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
372- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare) - School Started 9/2/14
701- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (126) and Disabled (575) passengers of which 148
used the wheelchair lift to board
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73- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under
with an adult
31- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they
are not there for ride
1,550- Ferris Shuttle Bus
110- Safe Ride Bus - Started 9/4/14- Free rides from local establishments to anyone
in the community on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30
am.
433- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
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3,039- Total passengers
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Workers Responsibilities in Confined Space”
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Painted the lines in the parking lot next to the Dog Park
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Blacktop patches on Harding Drive, end of Lilac Street and 700 block of Chestnut
Street.
Placed black dirt at Harding Drive
Worked on the alley at 300 block of S Michigan Avenue and blacktop the alley
Contractor is cleaning and televising our sewers
Working on a propane box for City Hall for the tanks
Put out No Parking signs for the paving project this week, 8 blocks total
Repaired water leak at the end of Dexter Avenue
Repaired leak in the alley at 200 block of S Michigan Avenue
Digging curb and sidewalk to be repaired on 200 block of Chestnut Street, also on
Dexter Avenue, Rust Avenue and N Warren Avenue
Moved bike racks to Northend Riverside Park for Angel Ride event
Cleaning trucks
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered and pruned flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Preparing pavilion areas for public use
Spraying for bees and weeds
Trimming and clearing brush
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 Serviced 2 pickup trucks
 101 Dump truck, replaced turbo charger
 106 Dump Truck, removed box hoist to repair pin
 110 Garbage truck, serviced
 300 Backhoe, serviced
 303 Loader, broke down rear tire and replaced leaky O-ring
 306 tractor, serviced and repaired ground wires
 Replaced the battery in the motor pools generator
 Fabricated a propane safety cage for City Hall
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 Serviced 2 police cars and replaced 1 tire
 1-4 fire truck, replaced rear brakes
Main Maintenance –
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MISS Digs
Miscellaneous Reads
Monthly meter reads
Cleaned out 2 road boxes
Started reading Ferris and Township meters
Collected monthly Pac-T samples
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WWTP SAFETY TOPIC: “Confined Space Training discussion and scheduling”
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Sadie DeJonghe started an internship here at the plant. Welcome, Sadie!
Ron & Tim Oudbier calibrated our plant influent, aeration, and effluent flow meters.
Don Popma (Biotech) took storage sludge samples for the quarterly biosolids
sampling requirements. The sample was split with us (IPP) for metals, toxicity and
nutrients.
Concrete forming and pouring in-progress for the Emergency Pump Storage
Building.
John and Bert continue with collection system IPP sampling plans.
Ferric Building roof stripping and re-shingling mostly complete, after finally getting a
full week of nice weather.
Hurst Mechanical submitted their quote for the Headworks Building furnace and
make-up air unit. We now have 3 quotes and can choose a contractor for the job.
Dave Sperry from MML performed a safety inspection of the plant and
complimented us for having a safe work environment. Two very minor items were
noted: 1. Missing label on a spray bottle in the UV building; 2. A reach-guard is
needed at the discharge of the old grit removal auger in the Headworks Building.
Screw Pump lower bearing shipped to Johnson Machine Works in Iowa for rebuild.
Operators are manually pumping down the North State Lift Station, following failure
of the automatic control system. Windemuller Electric has been on-site twice.
Biotech scheduled to begin hauling storage sludge in the next couple of weeks.
WATER –
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Mowed lawn at the Water Plant.
Contractor’s replaced, sanded and painted new walls in the plant.
Did weekly samples
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
OCTOBER 3, 2014
AIRPORT
The runway study continues… Meade and Hunt have documented nearly 450 operations,
where 500 are needed. There are many folks yet to be contacted to see if they have jets
that need the 5,000 runway. This is a great effort to put together.
INCOME TAX
Paul Cole received an ‘information security inspection’ from the State Treasury this week.
His overview was quite complementary. “The inspections of the Income Tax Office and the
file vault at City Hall have shown that you recognize your responsibilities and comply with
the contractual agreement between the Michigan Department of Treasury and the City of
Big Rapids.” “Treasury data was stored securely”. “Treasury data is retained following and
established retention schedule”. “Access to Treasury data was appropriately restricted to
authorized recipients within the Income Tax Office.” Recommendations included formal
training records for all employees of the office on security measures on an annual basis, and
personal observation of old records that are sent to a shredding company. Great work Jon,
Paul and Amy. This great report should be very positively received by the public: Big Rapids
has a very professional Income tax office!!
VOTING
The November election is not far away!!! It is noteworthy that absent voter applications are
picking up, indicating that there is considerable interest in this election.
ROAD FUNDS
Jon Locke reported that the City has received over $58,000 additional road funds. Some of
this may be used for potential additional costs on the DIG project, with the remaining for
additional needs over the winter and next year.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Sean Shantz resigned this week to pursue his dream of becoming a nurse. Sean has served
in both Iraq and Afghanistan and became acutely aware of the need for effective medical
care and will be turning his career in a new direction. We wish him very well and applaud
his pursuits in this direction.
The City will be advertising and testing for a replacement officer in the immediate future.
The department welcomed Steve Schroeder as its new Deputy Director. Steve grew up in
Mecosta County, attending Chippewa Hills High School. He has worked with Delhi
Township Fire Department and most recently Morton Township Fire, where he served as
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the Assistant Chief and Mecosta County EMS, where he served as a paramedic. Steve is
married and has three young children. The department is pleased to have Steve as a part
of our family.
Things continued to remain relatively quiet on both sides of the Police and Fire
Divisions. The Police Division responded to 77 calls, while the Fire Division responded to
23 calls, 19 of those being of a medical nature and 4 of a fire nature.
PARK AND RECREATION
Gymnastics has a new coordinator, Niccole Benedict has returned to assist the program for
the next year.
700 Rainbow Trout were added into the Muskegon River. This was done in addition to the
spring fish stock due to an additional amount of funds awarded from the Mecosta County
Community Foundation.
Tree trimming and removal begins next week.
Jaycee’s are applying for additional grant funds to support River Safety in the park system.
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
All Staff just completed unit 2 on Distracted Driving this was a 5 to 10 minute unit with
a short quiz at the end.
230- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
360- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare) - School Started 9/2/14
720- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (120) and Disabled (600) passengers of which 167 used the
wheelchair lift to board
64- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under with
an adult
31- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they are
not there for ride
1,434- Ferris Shuttle Bus
38- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
451- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
2,877- Total passengers
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Installed water service at 922 Bjornson
Moved fish to city hall
Put down parking bars for parking spaces
Cleaned drains
Cut patches on Dexter and Chestnut and Bjornson
Blacktopped the patches on Dexter and Chestnut
Rotate leaves at the pit
Organize water truck inside
Fix two water stacks in the two hundred block of Maple for the side walk project
Pick up all the barricades from the street paving projects 8 blocks
Swept the 8 blocks for paving project on Saturday 8 blocks
Swept downtown
Fix couple of water holes on the gravel streets and one in an alley
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Watered and pruned flowers
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Preparing pavilion areas for public use
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
•
Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 Serviced 2 pickup trucks
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 Serviced 2 police cars and replaced 1 tire
 1-4 fire truck, replaced rear brakes
Main Maintenance –
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MISS Digs
Miscellaneous Reads
Assisted in repair of water main break on Dexter Ave
Assisted n repair of water main break in alley off Stewart Ave
Turned water on at 607 Michigan Ave
Installed new meter at 14321 Northland Dr
Checked high water consumption at 520 S Warren Ave
Changed meter out at 1031 Rose Ave
Changed meter out at 520 S Warren Ave
WWTP •
Biotech Agronomics is on-site to empty our storage tanks. The biosolids are being
land-applied locally, at a farm on Hoover Rd.
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Operators continue to manually pump down the North State Lift Station 4-5 times
per 24-hour day. Overtime expense builds, as we wait for parts from Robinson
Electric.
Working with Dave Hamelund to get a new screw pump upper stub shaft built. Also
getting parts and assembly information from Lakeside, to expedite the project.
Waiting for update from Wally McBride of Lakeside, regarding the status of our
screw pump lower bearing, which is being rebuilt at their shop in Iowa.
Waiting on concrete forming and pouring for the Emergency Pump Storage
Building.
Waiting on entry gate quote from CF Contracting, for fence work and gate
installation.
The Ferric Building roofing project is complete, and the new shingles look great!
Thanks Troy, JW, Van, Al, Justin and Jake.
The Allied Waste dumpster has been moved down to the Headworks Building. As
soon as another period of nice weather arrives, stripping and re-shingling can begin.
Confined Space Entry safety training has been tentatively scheduled for
Wednesday October 22. CGS Safety will be conducting the 4-hour class, from 8:00
am to 12:00 pm. Continuing Education Credits (.4 CEC’s) are available for
everyone who participates.
Waiting on Jay Norris of Integrated Controls, to connect our UV alarm signals to the
plant SCADA alarm and call-out system.
Sadie is helping with our daily lab operation, as well as becoming familiar with the
plant.
Water –
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The painting on the repaired areas has been completed.
Electricians are putting up lights.
The linoleum floor was damaged during the drywalling and painting process. Steve
Jones has offered to replace those areas at no cost to the City.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
OCTOBER 10, 2014
LIBRARY
Phase I of the landscaping plan has been installed at the library. The design assistance was
from Marlies Manning and planting by City DPW and the Pi Lambda Phi Fraternity from
Ferris. Thanks to all for this finishing touch on the renovation project.
The City has a meeting upcoming on Tuesday, October 14, 2014 to discuss the future
collaboration with townships concerning the funding of the library.
HEALTH CARE
Gallagher brought health insurance City renewal rates to the first meeting of the Employee
Health Care Committee. The increase expected for the identical policy would be 21%. As
the City is at the State Hard Cap limit this cost would be borne by employees. The
Committee will be reviewing options with Gallagher on Monday October 13, 2014.
RECREATION
The City and Schools have been informally meeting to discuss recreational needs for the
future. These discussions will be especially important if the City losses some of its facilities
to economic development. There is State enabling legislation, which allows joint cooperation
for recreational services. These options are being explored.
ART WORKS
The Smithsonian travelling display on ‘the way we work’ will open at Art Works next week.
The ability to continue with these features will depend, in part, with the attendance that this
exhibit enjoys here. Please plan on attending and supporting Art Works.
FARMER’S MARKET
Only two more regular Friday Farmer’s Market sale days are left this year!!! Please come
out for these final days. A special Christmas addition, however, is planned for November
22, 2014 from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. This market will have decorations, greenery etc. for
the holidays.
PARKING
44 Notices have been sent out for violators this month, with collections of $1,200.
1
AIRPORT
Airport operations continue to be studied. Documented potential needs of Jet operations
now are estimated at 642. More are expected… The runway extension would seem to have
the support of the aviation industry. We look forward to the final report and the review by
the FAA.
CREEK’S EDGE
Met with Creek’s Edge owners and Township Supervisor Bill Stanek for discussions on the
future plans for this complex. We are now forwarding the Master Plan for these apartments
to Fleis and VandenBrink for review and recommendation on the best approach to service
these units with water and wastewater.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
In the past week no significant news is good news. From the Police Division officers
continued to police a lot of drunk/disorderly calls. None were of a severe nature. Overall,
officers took 95 complaint numbers over the past week.
From a training standpoint. A group of officers were trained, along with other law
enforcement and CPS workers on child forensic interviewing.
A multi-jurisdictional task force on interviewing children has been established with local law
enforcement and CPS in relation to interviewing children of sexual and other
abuse. Protocol has been established and the group will be meeting once a month at the
Big Rapids Department of Public Safety. Members of the group from our department are
Brian Miller, Scott Paquette and Simone Smith.
The Honor Guard took part in the FSU Homecoming Parade and will be doing so again next
Friday, for the Big Rapids High School Homecoming Parade.
The Fire Division responded to 19 calls over the past week. Eighteen of these were of a
medical nature, while one was a fire run for a car having its fan motor burning up.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(6)
(10)
(3)
Blight
Signs
Poly-cart Placement
(4)
(5)
(2)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
Parking
Furniture
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
253- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
399- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare)
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825- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (155) and Disabled (670) passengers of which 156 used the
wheelchair lift to board
82- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under with
an adult
50- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they are
not there for ride
1,546- Ferris Shuttle Bus
62- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
518- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
3,217- Total passengers
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Electrical Safety”
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Planted trees at the Library
Installed a crosswalk at Maple St and S Warren Ave
Dug out alley approach on the 100 block of Oak St
Put out barricades for Ferris Homecoming Parade
Swept downtown
Put out barricades for the Stiletto Race downtown
Started black dirt at the Dog Park
Started the Northend Riverside parking lot expansion
Blacktopped the alley approach on the 100 block of Oak St
Painted the sign for the Veteran’s Memorial Park
Repaired the hydrant at Bridge St and Marion Ave
Putting out barricades for Relay for Life luminary event
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Prepped ball fields
Preparing pavilion areas for public use
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
Motor Pool –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 101 changed all the fluids and filters, greased and adjusted application chain,
replaced rear brake shoes, drums and adjusters.
 106 changed all the fluids and filters, replaced radiator hoses, thermostat, oil
pan and turbo drain tube.
 Repaired an oil leak on back side of air compressor, replaced batteries and
cleaned terminals.
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 107 changed all the fluids and filters, replaced batteries and cleaned terminals.
 311 air compressor, replaced air compressor pump and flushed all the fluid from
the air system. Replaced radiator hoses and flushed cooling system
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 402, 403 delivered both cars to Babb Ford for recalls
 401, replaced battery
 1-7 fire truck, replaced alternator, and rewired charging system
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Busses:
 903, serviced and a safety inspection, adjusted and replaced 2 micro switches
on the wheel chair lift
 905, grease service, repaired entry door
 906, serviced and a safety inspection, adjusted and serviced wheel chair lift,
replaced front brake pads and axel seals
 909, grease service, and repaired exhaust leak
Main Maintenance –
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MISS Digs
Miscellaneous Reads
Attended Cross Connection class in Clare
Replaced meter at 625 S Third Ave
Checked high consumption at 717 Novak Lane
Assisted with stack and curb stop replacement at 217 & 221 Maple St
Set up water meter and backflow preventer for Ferris sewer cleaning
Replaced meter at 319 E Spruce St
Shut offs for non-payment
WWTP SAFETY TOPIC: “Be Sharp wit Sharps”
 Biotech Agronomics finished emptying our sludge storage tanks for the Fall season.
 Operators continue to manually pump down the North State Lift Station 4-5 times
per 24-hour day. Parts expected tomorrow, with repairs completed in the next day
or two.
Work continues on screw pump stub shaft. Lakeside assembly drawing, parts bill of
material and price quote are all in-hand. Specific parts will be ordered soon.
 Received 4,000 gallons of Ferric Chloride from Kemira.
 Concrete forming and pouring for the Emergency Pump Building is in progress.
 Received initial quote from CF Contracting, for fence work and gate installation.
Fleis and VandenBrink is working on a bid spec. so the bid process can move
forward.
 Met with General Services Staff at Ferris, regarding their sanitary and storm sewer
jetting. The goal is to minimize the impact on our plant as their project continues.
 Waiting for another stretch of nice weather, so the Headworks Building re-shingling
project can be completed.
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 Confined Space Entry safety training has been scheduled for Wednesday October
22. CGS Safety will be conducting the 4-hour class here at the plant. Participants
from Water, Wastewater, DPW and DPS are planning to attend.
 Leadership Mecosta group toured the Wastewater Plant this week.
 Parts quoted and ordered from Schreiber, for repair of the grit classifier.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
OCTOBER 17, 2014
ASSESSING
Kaycee Knoop has been working with the City in various capacities and expressed interest
in the Assessing Division. She attended and passed the Michigan Certification for Assessing
Technician license. Congratulations to Kaycee for both her scholarship and her initiative!!
VOTING
Tis the season for voting…. The Clerk’s office has already distributed 293 absent voter’s
ballots. Turnout should be good in this election, if interest in AV ballots is a measure. The
General Election is November 4, 2014.
ETHICS POLICY
The Ethics ordinance has been distributed to employees, officials, staff and members of
boards and commissions. Signed receipt are already coming in.
LIBRARY FINANCE
A second meeting with the townships on the library future financing was held. The Group
agreed to return to their respective boards for a serious discussion about going to the voters
for approval for library funding. All agreed to try to have a recommendation by the beginning
of November.
GREASE – GRIT
From the outset the Grease – Grit removal system at the wastewater plant has
underperformed. It would be inaccurate to say that has never removed these contaminants,
but its performance has been disappointing. Over the past several years, the City has
worked on improving the performance, and visited plants with similar systems. The effort
continues with discussion on various options suggested by plant operators and Fleis &
VandenBrink. The grit removal issue has been largely resolved in both the original grit
system in combination with the new construction. Various suggestions have been made on
the grease side and continued progress is expected.
DART
Several meeting have been held with the University on the DART route at Ferris after the
first of the year. Ferris has asked for a proposal by Tuesday so that they might begin to
review formal recommendation of the City.
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
In the past week, some members of the Police Division received continuing training in
firearms, CPR and first aid.
A multidisciplinary task force is being formed in the interviewing of children in regards to
child and sexual abuse and for serious investigations. The group is made up of members
of local law enforcement agencies and CPS. Members of the group from this department
are Simone Smith, Scott Paquette and Brian Miller.
The Police Division responded to 81 calls for service over the past week. There is nothing
significant to report.
The Fire Division responded to 24 calls for service over the past week.
Firefighter Sean Wethington has been visiting local schools educating the young children on
fire safety.
PARKS & RECREATION –
The Dog Park will be sprayed for fleas to create a happier environment and a community
clean-up is planned to take place on Saturday, November 1, 2014.
The Ferris IFC students had participated in the Fall Park clean up. They started to cut down
overgrown areas along the Riverwalk in Hemlock Park. This Saturday, the Ferris Motor Club
will continue on this project.
Line Dance during the daytime will be moved to the Artworks Dance Studio beginning on
November 4, 2014. We look forward to the partnership.
Discussions regarding the ice rink set up have begun. We are looking forward to another
successful season.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3)
Blight
(5)
Signs
(3)
Disabled Vehicles
(1) Grass & Weeds
(7) Uninhabitable Dwellings
(4)
Yard Waste / Landscape Debris
(3)
Parking
(2)
Furniture
(1) Property Maintenance
(1) Yard Waste/Landscape Debris
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
Dial-A-Ride –
203- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
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413- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare)
823- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (174) and Disabled (649) passengers of which 195 used the
wheelchair lift to board
68- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under with
an adult
30- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they are
not there for ride
1,446- Ferris Shuttle Bus
86- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
501- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
3,069- Total passengers
Streets –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Carbon Monoxide – The Hidden Killer”
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Repaired watermain break on 600 block of Maple Street
Cleaned drains
Moved boxes at City Hall
Disconnected water service at Chestnut St
Replaced fire hydrant at Marion Ave and W Bridge St
Changed 2 manhole covers on Monroe St
Blackdirt on Chestnut St, Dexter Ave and Rust Ave
Changed out light bulbs throughout City Hall
Set up a sign in front of JCPenney’s
Patched potholes
Graded alleys
Contractor televised and cleaned sewers
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Pulled zinnias throughout City
Pulled downtown flowers
Blew out irrigation at Ballfields, watertowers and Public Safety
Cleaned floor at City Hall public restrooms for painting
Removed “T” posts and wires on 2 yr old planted trees
York raked ballfields
Repaired broken slide at Playscape
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Preparing pavilion areas for public use
Cleaned up brush at Hemlock from clear cutting along river
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
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Motor Pool –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 202, serviced
 203, replaced brake booster
 208, repaired flat tire
 207, replaced all 4 tires
 226, replaced battery and starter
 105, serviced
 101, repaired the rear salt spreader and installed
 307 tractor, serviced
 Serviced the Airport Kubota
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 401, serviced and replaced battery
 402, serviced
Main Maintenance –
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MISS Digs
Miscellaneous Reads
Checked high consumption at 822 Mechanic St
Checked high consumption at 317 Finley Ave
Tested hydrant pressure for flow and pressure
Drained water out of hydrant to keep from freezing
Checked high consumption at 312 N Third Ave
Turned water off and on at 426 Pine St for repair
Turned water on at 502 Clark
WWTP  Ongoing jetting in the city and at Ferris has upset our biology… a repeat of last
Fall. In daily contact with the jetting contractor, to manage the impact on our plant.
 Process changes have been made, in an effort to get rid of the filamentous growth
that has “infected” our plant. A sample of this growth was sent to Doug Hill
Environmental for laboratory analysis. Doug has confirmed our diagnosis of the
growth.
 Nitrification will likely be lost, due to these necessary process changes. The
nitrification biology will have to be re-started after the filamentous growth has been
eliminated.
 Operators continue to manually pump down the North State Lift Station 4-5 times
per 24-hour day. The replacement electronic control module is different than the old
one, and wiring issues are being worked out.
Hamtech has started the fabrication of two new screw pump stub shaft assemblies.
One will be installed as soon as it is available, and the other will be kept as a spare.
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Bearings, seals and other small parts have been ordered from Lakeside, and are
expected soon.
Lakeside has quoted a rebuild of the lower stub shaft and bearing assembly that we
sent to them. The price of $3830 plus freight is less than half the cost of a new
assembly. Approval has been given, and the rebuild is in progress.
The Schreiber grease and grit channels were taken out of service for cleaning and
inspection. PCS vactored out both channels and the out-of-service grit classifier.
A new classifier auger assembly and inner liner have been ordered from Schreiber.
Waiting for another stretch of nice weather, so the Headworks Building re-shingling
project can be completed.
Confined Space Entry safety training is on-track for Wednesday October 22. CGS
Safety will be conducting the 4-hour class here at the plant, from 8:00 am to 12:00
Noon. So far, 12 people are planning to attend, and anyone is welcome to
participate.
Over a 3-day period, 8 groups of biology and micro-biology students have toured
the plant. A great opportunity to spread the word about keeping cooking fats, oils
and grease, as well as pharmaceuticals out of our sewer system and treatment
plant.
Quote from Allmax has been received, to acquire additional training with our Antero
Maintenance software, as well as help with Operator 10 and Synexus IPP software.
Quotes and discussion regarding purchase of a small, portable vactor unit that
would fit in the back of our plant pickup.
Purchased and received a new drying oven to replace the failed 1994 unit in the
Lab.
Water –
Safety Topic: Ladder Safety
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Treated 9 million gallons of drinking water this past week
Completed QA/QC on Turbidimeter, Mcoli blue coliform agar, R2A agar, and
Readycult coliform media
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Repaired leaking drain pipe fitting in pipe galley
Exercised sludge recycle pumps
Removed sludge from clarifier, cleaned and inspected filter press cloths
Replaced outlet to Cl2 analyzer
Lubricated the Pratt valve actuators
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
OCTOBER 24, 2014
DEPOT
Paul Long’s architectural class has taken on the Depot project for design review, renovation
and occupancy. The goal will be to provide a model of the building and some projected
design ‘looks’ to help us apply for grants and to make presentations to local groups for
support funding. We look forward to their work.
HANCHETT’S
The City received notice on Thursday evening that the Hanchett demolition paperwork has
been approved by the EDA. Signatures on contracts, preconstruction conferences, receipt
of insurance, worker comp and other papers will complete the background so that demolition
might begin. By mid-November things should be underway!
FARMER’S MARKET
The Farmer’s Market ends today for the season. Very sad!! There will be one more event
in November for the Christmas season and then the market will return in the spring.
HEALTH CARE
Flu shots were administered this week. Fifty-four employees and their dependents took part
in this preventative action in this year’s program.
The Employee Committee is still reviewing alternatives to the present health care system
and will be making a recommendation soon.
FALL FESTIVAL
This weekend is the fall festival. Many events are taking place including chili sampling in
the parking lot, costume parade, celebrity pumpkin roll and shopping sales. Please plan to
take part in as much as possible.
FOTA
The Festival of the Arts planning is coming into the final planning stages. This year’s events
are turning out to be outstanding as always. Again the Grand Rapids Symphony is a
highlighted performer.
TREES
Wonsey Tree Service is in town cutting trees which have died over the past year. The Ash
borer continues to be a challenge to our street trees!!
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CHRISTMAS
Planning continues for this season’s Christmas season. The downtown tree is being
selected and lights will be expanded this year. All the pots are being removed this year to
make snow removal easier. It has been felt that once the snow begins the ‘winter
arrangement’ of the pots is less desirable – and the City may be better served by better
snow removal.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Miguel Galley will be filling a vacancy on the CMET team. This is a very important
appointment for the City. Deputy Director Steve Schroeder has appointed firefighter Sean
Wethington as part of the Eastside team for the Housing Commission. This connection with
Mark Sochocki and the public housing units has been a very good investment for both
groups – and this addition should add another good element to the safety team.
The Fire Division responded to 23 calls for service over the past week. Included in these
were 2 fire alarms, a vehicle fire, a mobile meth lab and 3 personal injury accidents.
The Police Division responded to 83 calls for service over the past week. The majority of
these continued to be drunk/disorderly and personal damage accidents complaints.
Although, there have continued to be no real significant calls for service with either division,
both continue to be proactive and are working cooperatively with other agencies in the area
to keep this a safe community.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(2) Blight
(7) Parking
(1) Property Maintenance
(9)
(1)
(4)
Signs
Disabled Vehicles
Poly-cart Placement
PUBLIC WORKS ACTIVITIES
DIAL-A-RIDE –
All Staff completed unit 3 on Distracted Driving this was a 5 to 10 minute unit with a short
quiz at the end.
192- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
408- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare)
767- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (157) and Disabled (610) passengers of which 139 used the
wheelchair lift to board
47- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under with
an adult
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37- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they are
not there for ride
1,558- Ferris Shuttle Bus
52- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
506- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
3,091- Total passengers
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Chlorine Bleach – Cleaner or Killer?”
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Picking up leaves
Interior finish work on new pole building behind City Garage, i.e. building shelves,
installing gas line, computer wiring, etc…
Repaired items at Airport
Changed lights at City Hall building
Repaired patches on South US131
Screening black dirt
Swept downtown
Filled potholes
Removed animals in live traps
Hauled Mitchell Creek pavilion beams to get powder coated
Repaired water service on 200 block of Maple and 800 block of Maple
Hauled brick pillars back to Old Jail
Picked up trash along US131 and M20
New shirt and sweatshirt uniforms received
Put out cones and signs for Farmer’s Market
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 101, serviced, replaced air compressor and hydraulic pump, cleaned stainless
steel box, repaired doors on the rear spreader and installed new flingers.
 102, repaired rear spreader doors
 202, serviced, replaced tie rod, sway bar links and 1 u-joint. Replaced front tires
 203, replaced spark plugs, wires, cap and rotor.
 217, serviced and replaced wipers.
 226, replaced starter and battery
 Serviced the air ports Kubota
 New shirt and sweatshirt uniforms received
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Police and Fire vehicles:
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 401, service call for dead battery, replaced battery and repaired flat tire.
 412, replaced hazard switch for inoperable turn signals.
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DART buses:
 906, Installed a steel plate under the wheelchair lift
 908, serviced and did a safety inspection, replaced parking brake cables and
transmission lines
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs – high number
Miscellaneous Reads
Monthly meter reads on West side
Changed meter out at 1002 Loudon St
Changed meter out at 845 Osburn Circle
Shut water off at 317 S Michigan Ave
Assisted with main break on Maple St
Replaced meter at 412 Second Ave
Changed meter out at 602 Escott
Turned water on at 517 N Michigan Ave
New shirt and sweatshirt uniforms received
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Process changes have been made, in an effort to get rid of the filamentous growth
that has “infected” our plant. This growth has diminished, but not yet to an
acceptable level.
Biosolids Annual Report has been completed and submitted to the DEQ.
Final control modifications are in progress at the North State lift station. Fully
automatic control will be restored by the end of the week.
Lakeside upper bearing parts were received, checked, and then delivered to
Hamtech.
Schreiber auger and liner parts received. Repair of the grit classifier unit is in
progress.
Submersible grit pump failed, due to a broken impeller. A replacement impeller has
been ordered, and is expected any day. Also received a quote for the purchase of a
back-up replacement pump.
Headworks Building re-shingling is in progress, and will be completed ThursdayFriday.
Confined Space Entry safety training was re-scheduled from October 22 to
November 5 due to schedule conflicts. The class has been moved to the Public
Safety training room and will be from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon. There is still room for
additional participants.
Troy McDonald attended a 3-day Laboratory Training class in Charlotte, MI.
Quote received for purchase of a small, portable vactor unit that would fit in the
back of our plant pickup.
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Curt Ray has finished installation of the new direct-fired furnace and forced
ventilation unit for the Headworks Building.
New shirt and sweatshirt uniforms received for everyone here at the plant.
Water –
Safety Topic: Sneeze and Cough Safety
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Treated 8.2 million gallons of drinking water this past week
Replaced a corroded elbow on filter #3 turbidity effluent line
Made lab reagents for fluoride buffer solution
Created theoretical slope for fluoride buffer solution
Helped Treasures Office by reading water meters this week
Calibrated turbidity meter in filter #3
Replaced filter screen, check valve, and valve actuator on high service pump
#2. We are contemplating a full rebuild of this workhorse. Rated at 2,500 gallons
per minute, this pump pushes water from the reservoirs outward, into the
distribution system. It is one of four pumps that regularly spend many hours a day
providing water to the people of Big Rapids. The number of hours that these
machines will run, with proper maintenance, is really quite amazing.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
NOVEMBER 7, 2014
LANE CHANGE
NOTICE!!! NOTICE!!! The intersection of Maple and State now has two left turning lanes.
Several months ago the State agreed with us that just as two lanes turn at Perry and State
and Maple and Fourth Avenue, the traffic will be aided by two turning lanes at Maple and
State. BE CAREFUL until folks get used to this change.
HUMVEE
For November 11, the Army is providing a Humvee to help celebrate Armistice Day. It will
be parked in the lot of Hometown Pharmacy with two soldiers. Please stop by and thank
them for what they do to keep us safe and to tour the vehicle.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
One of the requirements of the NPDES permit at Wastewater is completion of an Asset
Management Plan. That document has been written and is in final stages to narrative. This
will be very helpful in assessing the financial needs of the plant, charting the CIP program
in future years, and in determining the depreciation allocations for the User Charge Study.
The document looks not only at the plant needs but the lift stations and distribution lines as
well.
MITCHELL PARK PAVILION
Ferris Students have erected the pillars and today added the dome structure for the art
pavilion in Mitchell Creek Park. Once the superstructure in complete, the filigree portion
may be fabricated since exact dimensions can be taken for each element. ‘Tis fun to stand
in the gazebo and visualize the facility to come.
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
The County approved the IT contract at their meeting on Thursday. This level of cooperation
is truly a blessing as we work together and gain the very best technology to assist in our
operations. Thanks to Tim Moslener for his patience, diligence and expertise to make this
cooperation happen. WE look forward to having Janet join our team of Eric Haluska and
Craig Brockette!!
HANCHETT’S
The preconstruction conference is set for Wednesday, November 12, 2014 – next week.
Demolition should follow rapidly after this meeting…
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DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The Police Division responded to 94 calls for service this past week. Halloween night was
a busy evening with the officers taking 20 calls. Most of these were self-generated by the
officers.
The Fire Division responded to 20 medical calls over the past week. They also had ‘confined
space training’ and during the course of having their monthly training walked through local
factories.
PARK AND RECREATION
The Friends of Brutus Dog Park coordinated an effort to clean the area and make it leaf
free. We are always so appreciative of our volunteer efforts in our park system.
Close to 40 trees have been planted in the past 2 weeks. ½ are by resident request and the
remainder are those covered by 2 grants that were received.
Computer Class session III began this week. Our daytime classes are very well attended.
Line Dance is now held at the Artworks Dance Studio, which was well received by the
participants.
The water aerobics and Tai Chi classes have had new participants from Hope Network in
the past few weeks. The interest from them to have participation in the daytime Line Dance
class has created a separate class specifically for this group of participants, which will take
place in the Artworks Dance studio after the advertised Line Dance from 9-10:30 am.
Match Day is next Tuesday and Girls on the Run as well as the Holland Park Veterans
Memorial Park will be there promoting their efforts.
DIAL-A-RIDE –
231- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
393- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare)
775- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (161) and Disabled (614) passengers of which 149 used the
wheelchair lift to board
53- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under with
an adult
53- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they are
not there for ride
1,627- Ferris Shuttle Bus
82- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
510- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
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3,214- Total passengers
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Your right to Know”
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Picking up leaves
Picking up tree debris from tree trimming and removal
Repairing signs
Moving salt into salt shed storage facility
Fixing lights at City Hall
Cut patches and blacktop them on W Grand Traverse, alley behind Muffler Man,
alley behind the Backroom building
Removed full recycle bins from City Hall for disposal
Assisted with voting machine set-ups
Hauled steel back from paint shop for Mitchell Creek Park
Moving winter sand
Repairing sewer south of Grand Traverse St
Cleaned drains
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Opened public bathrooms at City Hall and the parks each day
Mowing grass & weed whipping throughout the City
Winterizing public restrooms in Parks
Put up and decorated Christmas tree in front of Chemical Bank
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 Undercoated frames on both sander dump trucks with armor seal
 211 pickup truck, serviced, replaced all 4 ball joints, 2 tie rod ends and 2 u-joints
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 408 police car, serviced and did a transmission service, replaced 3 motor
mounts
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs – high number
Miscellaneous reads
Read Ferris and Township meters
Turned water off at 115 S Stewart Ave
Installed new meter at 806 Maple St
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
3
NOVEMBER 14, 2014
PRE-DEMOLITION OF HANCHETT’S BUILDING
The pre-demolition meeting of the Hanchett’s building was held at Hanchett’s with Pitsch on
Thursday. Paperwork is being signed and submitted to appropriate agencies. Work is
presently expected to begin the second week of December. As the building comes down
there will be a short period that the street will be closed/limited access to avoid the potential
of falling brick. Final crushing of debris will be in the spring.
DEPOT
Fleis & VandenBrink completed a structural review of the Depot to assist Paul Long in the
Ferris Architecture analysis of the building. Students are making a model of the structure
and suggesting methods and uses of the building as part of the class project. Their report
will be given to the City the second week of December.
DIG GRANT
Maple Street continues to progress well. The State has granted the City an extension into
2015, since the cold weather precludes an ability to paint light poles and perform some of
the functions required in the renovation. The gazebo project has also become more of a
complex project than originally scoped to be. The superstructure is in place, but the artistic
element in the dome will be completed next semester by the Ferris Welding classes.
STATE/MAPLE INTERSECTION
Most folks are calling about the change to allow two lanes of traffic to turn left at this
intersection. This creates nervousness among drivers who used to drift into the right lane
and now must stay within their appropriate lane heading south. Calls have been made to
MDOT to look at signage to help in this traffic issue until drivers get used to this difference.
ASSET MANAGEMENT
Asset management report delivered by Fleis & VandenBrink as required by the City MDES
permit. This document should be useful in the User Charge analysis. I suggest the need
for future purchases and a timetable to collect these dollars, following the State standard
methods for asset depreciation and replacement.
INDUSTRIAL PRETREATMENT PROGRAM (IPP)
Fleis & VandenBrink submitted a report on the Industrial Pretreatment Program that is
outstanding. It suggests specific actions needed to improve the City program and charts a
plat to reach these goals. Included are suggestions for legislation to collect appropriate
1
funds and implement appropriate restraints on effluent from businesses to help the quality
of water being treated at the plant.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
This past week both divisions honored those who served with a few details for Veterans
Day. Included in this were the members of this department who serve on our area Honor
Guard. They took part in a couple different details, including one at the Elks Monday evening
and to help kick off the Match Day event at the Holiday Inn on Tuesday.
This past week the Fire Division responded to 18 calls. 17 were of a medical nature,
including 3 personal injury accidents. They had 1 false fire alarm.
The Police Division responded to 76 calls for service. None were of a significant nature. The
Police Division has continued to investigate the aggravated assault of a 20 year old FSU
student which occurred in the early morning hours of October 31st at Star Shooters. A
possible suspect has been identified. Investigators will be pursuing charges with the
Mecosta County Prosecutor’s Office.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3)
(1)
(4)
(1)
Blight
Garbage & Rubbish
Parking
Property Maintenance
(2) Yard Waste/Landscape Debris
(10) Signs
(2) Recreational Vehicles
PARK AND RECREATION
There were a few programs that participated in Match Day on Tuesday, November 11.
 Big Rapids Tennis Association was able to fundraise, $473.00.
 Girls on the Run for Mecosta County was able to fundraise, $3,410.00.
 Holland Park Veterans & Homefront Heroes Memorial was able to fundraise,
$2,400.00
Thank you to all those individuals that contributed to these programs. A huge thank you to
Big Rapids Products for their donation of $2,500 to support the purchasing of medals to
present to each girl after completing the Girls on the Run program.
Thursday, November 13, 2014 during the Ferris Hockey game, the Holland Park Veterans
& Homefront Heroes Memorial fundraiser was supported during a Veterans Appreciation
Night. Another huge thank you to Ferris Athletics for their support of this project.
The City will receive another tree grant in the amount of $1,200 from the DNR to support
municipal tree planting.
Women’s volleyball regular season will end in a few weeks and playoffs will occur in
December. Coed volleyball registration will be open in the next week.
Winter 2015 programs are in the process of being planned and finalized.
2
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Safety Attitudes”
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Picking up leaves
Removed flower pots
Picked up wood from tree removals
Blackdirt stump holes
Put up banners
Put out barricades for Veteran’s Day events
Grading gravel streets and alleys
Patched potholes
Repaired drive entrance at 505 Clark St
Assisted Hometown Pharmacy with sewer repair
Repaired storm sewer on 200 block of Spring St
Cleaned drains
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 103- serviced, replaced underbody blade, repaired air line
 104- serviced, replaced oil pan and air compressor gasket, undercoated frame
with armor seal
 218 pickup truck - serviced
 110 leaf truck - wielded hydraulic cylinder back on the top of truck and replaced
the 60’ cable
 replaced the brooms on the leaf pusher
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 408 police car, serviced and did a transmission service, replaced 3 motor
 403, serviced, replaced aux power outlets
 405, serviced and delivered to dealer for a recall
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Buses:
 906 bus - installed new steel under wheel chair lift, replaced the air valve and
suspension bladder on rear axel
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs – high number
Miscellaneous reads
Checked high consumption at 519 N Michigan Ave
Checked high consumption at 312 Finley Ave
Turned off sprinkler valves at Crossroads Charter School
Changed out meter at 312 Finley Ave
Replaced meter at 1310 Catherine St – Village Green Apts.
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Delivered meters to “The Brook”
Shut offs for non-payment
Repaired stack at 418 Green St
Checked water at 600 DeKrafft Ave for discoloration
WWTP –
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North State Lift Station control system successfully revised and repaired. A newer
Gorman-Rupp control module was retrofitted into the existing control panel. The
wet well transducer system was replaced with an air “bubbler” signal system.
Pump Storage Building materials delivered by Cash and Carry. Preliminary
construction work is in progress.
Confined Space Awareness training “review” class took place at DPS.
Re-scheduling of “hands-on” Confined Space Entry training in progress.
John Wright took his Wastewater “C” License Exam in Grand Rapids.
East clarifier taken out of service temporarily, in an effort to improve the process.
Schreiber grit classifier unit repair on hold. Waiting for information from Schreiber.
Various contractors have called and/or visited the plant, in response to the entry
gate project bid invitation.
Northwest Kent Mechanical on notice to begin screw pump repair, as soon we
receive the upper stub shafts from Hamtech, and the rebuilt lower bearing unit from
Lakeside.
Asset Management meeting and presentation by Fleis and VandenBrink.
Received finalized IPP Program audit report from Fleis and VandenBrink.
Purchase of a used portable, skid-mounted vactor unit in progress.
PCS scheduled to be on site Monday, to perform routine vactor work in the plant.
WATER –
Weekly Safety Topic: Safety Tailboard
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Treated 8 million gallons of drinking water this last week
Serviced tractor for snow plowing
Changed hydraulic oil in truck plow
Cleaned scuppers and roof drains on plant roof
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Opened the gates multiple times at Bjornson and Perry water towers so that Verizon
and AT&T crews could work on their cell tower systems
Cut an access port into the ceiling so that a roof drain line could be insulated
Began burnishing the new floor tiles. The Carpet Gallery has finished replacing
floor tiles that were damaged by the leaking roof. It looks really sharp!
Added weight to the plow truck anticipating an inevitable arrival of the white stuff
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
4
NOVEMBER 21, 2014
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
Property damage accidents as a result of the snow this week were a large amount of the
calls taken by both divisions this past week. The fire division responded to 16 calls, 12 of a
rescue nature and 4 fire calls. Included in this were 3 roll overs and 1 car fire. The police
division responded to 103 calls, including 13 accidents on Tuesday, the 13th.
Things continue to be going well with both divisions.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(1)
(4)
(2)
(2)
Disabled Vehicles
Parking
Property Maintenance
Recreational Vehicles
(5) Signs
(2) Uninhabitable Dwellings
(2) Sidewalks / Streets
PARK AND RECREATION
•
The Veterans and Homefront Heroes Holland Park committee will be presented a
check from Yoplait at Ferris on Friday. They supported the efforts of the Veterans
Appreciation Night. The check amount will be for $10,642.03.
•
Pending the weather, we anticipate to have the Ice Rink up to use for another
winter. More details will come as we prepare the site.
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Attended the Park and Recreation Board meeting.
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Multiple recreation programs were cancelled due to inclement weather. Make ups
will be available for the gymnastic program.
DIAL-A-RIDE
Report includes past 2 weeks.
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500- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
848- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare)
1,794- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (367) and Disabled (1,103) passengers of which 324
used the wheelchair lift to board
174- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and
under with an adult
1
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115- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they
are not there for ride
3,759- Ferris Shuttle Bus Free rides to anyone from Ferris library to Westside Cafe
and then to Ferris Book Store then back to Ferris Library. 10:45am -8:00pm
177- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community
on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
1,036- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
7,367- Total passengers
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Stop Overexertion”
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Took a broken banner down
Sanding and salting streets and parking lots
Plowing streets and highways, parking lots, alleys and sidewalks
Plowing Airport and taxiway and in front of the hangers
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 102 - replaced rear brake slack adjusters
 103 - repaired rear blinker lights
 104 - repaired hydraulic leak and top off fluid, repaired wiper motor and
reinstalled 2-way antenna
 105 - replaced a head lamp
 107 - replaced cargo tarp relay
 Replaced 5 sets of underbody blades
 303 loader - replaced transmission temp sensor
 319 Toolcat - serviced and replaced antenna
 Assisted with snow plowing
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 402 police car - installed winter tires, delivered to dealership for warranty work
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Buses:
 901 - serviced and did a safety inspection, serviced transmission and replaced
wiper blades
 903 - did a grease service, repaired the park switch and repaired a coolant
restriction to the rear heater core
 904 - replaced the air compressor 2 idler pulley’s and belt tensioner
 905 - serviced and did a safety inspection, replaced front and rear brakes and
repaired a coolant leak
 906 - did a grease service, and replaced all 6 tires
 909 - serviced and did a safety inspection, replaced 4 rear tires
2
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs – high number
Miscellaneous reads
Located sewer line at 101 Maple St
Located watermain at DPW Garage
High consumption investigation at 717 Tioga
Started moving parts from Water Plant to new building at DPW
Assisted with snow plowing
Monthly meter reads
WWTP –
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Gorman Rupp control unit ordered as a spare. These control units are used in the
North State and Novak lift stations. They are obsolete and we purchased the last
one in stock.
Surprise early winter weather has halted progress on the pump storage building.
Purchased a new Ariens snowblower to replace the 15-year old broken one.
Re-scheduling of “hands-on” Confined Space Entry training in progress.
West clarifier taken out of service and the East clarifier placed back into service.
Both clarifier center rings and scum pits flushed and vactored out by PCS.
Schreiber grit classifier and portions of aeration basin surfaces vactored by PCS.
Fleis and VandenBrink writing a recommendation letter for the plant gate project.
Hamberg Fence Company was the lowest bidder of the 4 bids received.
Fleis and VandenBrink writing a Bid Specification for the SDC moyno pump
relocation.
IPP meeting to review and discuss the Fleis and VandenBrink IPP Audit Report and
recommendations.
Changed from summer to winter wheels and tires on our plant plow truck.
Visited Hamtech to check on their progress in fabricating new screw pump stub
shafts.
Ordered 4000 gallons of Ferric Chloride from Kemira.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
3
December 5, 2014
COPPER POINTE
Mark Sochocki has employed Pat Birtles to find house plans compatible with the Housing
Authority’s view of the development of Copper Pointe. These plans will be taken to the
Planning Commission for review of design as required by the conditions of the development
of the plat. On preliminary review, staff agrees with Pat’s selections with little modifications.
This will be the first development plat in the City in over 10 years and will be a very welcome
addition to the community.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Mark Sweppenheiser has started the process for the 2015-16 budget cycle with distribution
of the CIP forms for next year’s capital program.
CAR CHARGING STATION
The electric car charging station, which was part of the DIG Grant from the state is now fully
operational in the parking lot across from Chemical Bank. All local media have been notified,
with the expectation that there will be additional publicity coming out of the installation.
MAP MEETING
The Airport planning meeting was held Tuesday. We reviewed the projects anticipated over
the next several years, as well as, the construction recently completed. The runway
extension was a major topic of discussion. It has become a much more technical review
now that we have justification for more than the 500 operations needed to qualify for 5,000
feet. The types of planes, the geometrics of the landing surface, the safety considerations
are now all new issues to discuss and resolve as we try to move forward. There are
considerable costs differences to the answers which might come out of these discussions.
GRANT FOR THE ARTS
The City supports community arts activity in Pocket Park and Bandshell concerts, the
Festival of the Arts, and the community education and banner advertising of Tuba Bach.
There is an opportunity to gain significant grant funds from the National Endowment of the
Arts to support these events in the range of $50,000-$75,000. The entire match for these
grants would come from the private fundraising for the events as would the reporting
requirements for the grant. No additional dollars beyond the present support is needed –
just letters of support and some recordkeeping are involved. The results of the application
will be known in the first quarter of 2015.
1
WEBINAR ON DOWNTOWN BUSINESS RECRUITING
The City sponsored an ICMA educational opportunity concerning business recruitment. The
DBA, Chamber, MCDC and others were invited and several joined the session. Several
ideas will be developed coming out of the discussion including data gathering from
purchasing tendencies, committee support, and site inventories.
FOTA
The Festival booklets are being printed! The artists are finalizing their contracts… the
Festival is right around the corner!!!
STUDENT GOVERNMENT
Mark Warba and Steve Sobers attended the Ferris Student Government meeting on
Tuesday. Approximately 50 persons were in attendance to discuss the activities of the
University. The Students committed on sending representatives to future City Commission
meetings and the City correspondingly agreed to have representatives at Student
Government meetings. These meetings are seen as a significant communication
opportunity to reach students with community issues.
STATE PROPERTY
The engineering description for the state lands in the Big Rapids Industrial Park has been
sent to the DNR for the preparation of a deed to convey these lands to the City. The DNR
has approved the sale of these lands, which the City has been trying to acquire for over 15
years. We look forward to completing this transaction by the first of the New Year.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
The past two weeks have been busy from a complaint/call and community service
perspective for both divisions. Both divisions took part in the Salvation Army Red Kettle
campaign on December 2nd, with the fire division coming out on top over the police division
and Mecosta County Sheriff Office. The Honor Guard took part in the annual Christmas
parade on Saturday, November 22nd.
The police division responded to 123 calls over the past two weeks with a significant
complaint being 14-3888. Sergeant Danielle Brennan and Officers David Flore and Ryan
Myers worked with members of the MCSO in the investigation and subsequent arrest of a
22 year old male for multiple breaking and entering complaints in the city and county. This
occurred in the early morning hours of Sunday, November 30th. Great teamwork and
communication between the two departments led to the recovery of personal belongings of
victims from the thefts.
Officer Josh Theisen also graduated from his FTO process and began working on his own.
The fire division responded to 40 calls for service over the past 2 weeks and had training at
the department this past week.
2
DIAL-A-RIDE
Report includes past 2 weeks.
528- Adult Riders - ($2.00 Fare)
728- Children Riders - ($1.00 Fare)
1,202- ($1.00 Fare) – Seniors (367) and Disabled (1,103) passengers of which 324 used
the wheelchair lift to board
129- Free Riders - Aides that ride with disabled passengers and children 4 and under with
an adult
77- No Shows - A person who calls for a ride and when we go to pick up and they are
not there for ride
3,455- Ferris Shuttle Bus Free rides to anyone from Ferris library to Westside Cafe and
then to Ferris Book Store then back to Ferris Library. 10:45am -8:00pm
101- Safe Riders - Free rides from local establishments to anyone in the community on
Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights from 12:00 am to 2:30 am.
802- Out of City Riders - Anyone we pick up outside the Big Rapids City Limits.
6,220- Total passengers
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Safety Doesn’t Stop at the Exit”
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Repaired watermain break on Chestnut St
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Repaired restroom items at City Hall and Public Safety buildings
Repaired lights at the Library
Picked up leaves
Repaired watermain at 807 Winter Ave
Repaired signs
Picked up bagged leaves at Jennings Mobile Home Park
Sanded and salted streets, parking lots and alleys
Repaired Christmas lights on Maple St
Picked up wood from contracted tree trimming
Put banners up
Filled potholes
Filling stump holes
Repaired light on tower on west side of river, across from Hanchett building
Repaired timer on Michigan Avenue for Christmas lights
Plowed Airport, streets, parking lots
Hauling scrap to Recycle yard
Installing Ice Rink liner
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
3
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Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 Replaced 6 sets of underbody blades and curb guards
 102 - replaced tarp arm assembly and repaired hydraulic leak
 105 - replaced oil pan and gasket
 106 - replaced dashboard cluster and 25 bulbs
 204 - serviced
 205 - replaced wipers
 220 - serviced
•
Police and Fire vehicles:
 402 - serviced and installed winter tires, replaced spot light bulb
 408 - replaced wiper transmission and heater blower motor
 411 - repaired ground wire to body control module for a no start condition
 412 - serviced
•
Buses:
 903, replaced rear heater blower motors and wielded a seat bracket
 904, serviced and did a safety inspection
 908, grease service and replaced rear tires
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs – high number
Miscellaneous reads
Checked high consumption at Marvel Auto on State Street
Assisted with plowing snow
Monthly meter reads
Assisted with main repair at 807 Winter
Reading Ferris meters
Took Bac-T samples @ Brook Retirement Home
Inventoried watermain repair clamps
Thawed out Hydrant 333 and pumped down
Shut water off at 418 S State and 627 Grand Traverse
WWTP –
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Gorman Rupp control unit and related parts received from DuBois-Cooper. We now
have a replacement set of “obsolete” parts for the North State and Novak lift
stations.
Work continues on the pump storage building, with structural framing in progress.
John Wright and Troy McDonald attended a Wastewater Disinfection class in Clare,
MI.
Investigating chlorination options to combat filamentous growth. Cold weather and
lower influent temperatures should eventually solve the problem for us.
4
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Four aeration basins and two clarifiers remain in service. One clarifier will be taken
out of service during the Christmas and New Year Holiday break.
Changed compressor oil and air filters in all four Kaeser Digester blowers. The
Kaeser equalization blower is next.
Entrance Gate project awarded to Hamberg Fence Company. Four electrician firms
are in the process of quoting the necessary electrical work.
Received two portable composite samplers from Hesco/Isco for the IPP program.
Used portable vactor unit received from Routley Septic Service. Valve and hose
modifications are in progress, make the unit suitable for use in the plant.
All 36 bulbs changed in U.V. Channel #2. Quartz sleeves cleaned and all routine
maintenance performed. No problems found, related to “Auto” mode operation.
Received 4000 gallons of Ferric Chloride from Kemira.
Plow truck heater/defroster problem repaired. Thanks, Scott.
WATER –
Weekly Safety Topic: Hand Tool Safety
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Treated 7.7 Million gallons of drinking water this last week
Changed oil in the clarifier drive units
Worked on refinishing the floors. The new tiles are down and have a coat (or three)
of wax on them. And they really look nice. Refinishing the rest is our next priority.
Eco Mechanical Insulation is here today insulating the roof drains that were
replaced as part of the roof repairs. Without insulation, the roof drains, and their
associated plumbing, would drip condensation onto our newly repaired ceilings.
Also here today is Shoreline Electric. An electric starter along with wire for a higher
voltage adaptation will make the fume hood motor run better.
One of our control computers curled up its little toes and died on us this week. It
had been hinting that there were problems and it finally gave up the ghost. Still
under warranty, Dell is overnighting a new hard drive to us. To insure quality water
everything connected with water supply has a redundant backup. So this was a
minor inconvenience. Had the system not been running under two computers, it
would have been something more than inconvenient. Redundancy is everywhere in
the water system. It’s required. And it’s a very good idea.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
5
December 12, 2014
SEDIMENT STUDY
When the City completed the Dam removal project in the early 2000s, the final report
recommended that a follow-up study on the river be completed at a future date. With the
recent flooding, the Corp is back proposing an aerial review to help with the diagnostics of
river evolution. The County, City and Mecosta Township have agreed to share the expenses
for this study. Big Rapids’ share is approximately $1,200. The results will be useful to
analyze the flooding potentials of the river.
CARMIKE
Finally, the work that has been ongoing since mid-summer can be talked about!! Carmike
Theaters is interested in rebuilding a downtown theater in Big Rapids. They envision an 8
screen, stadium seating facility with additional parking for moviegoers, costing around
$5,000,000. Many downtown, brownfield, environmental and other grant/loan opportunities
accompany a downtown initiative. The City will be working with Carmike to develop the right
incentive package that will work for all concerned. At this time, the MCDC has been the lead
in acquiring the options on the needed properties to accommodate the expanded theater.
HEALTH CARE
Signup for the new iSelect Priority Health Insurance plans is ongoing for all employees.
They have 9 selections available in this year’s cafeteria of plans. Monday at 5 is the deadline
for signup. The activity is going well.
GAZEBO MITCHELL CREEK
Marlies Manning has designed a donation wall for the park. It will be located in front of the
restrooms and feature a display of the donors to the new gazebo. Room may also be
available at different points on the display for other donations… It is really nice and will
complement the overall changes in the Park.
HOSPITAL
Steve Sobers and Mark Gifford had a ‘planning’ meeting with Mary Kay VanDreil at the
Hospital to discuss development and community issues. There are many things possible
with the new alliance with Spectrum and the City, which will need to be reviewed in the
future.
1
MITCHELL CREEK
Much of the undergrowth on the hillside at Mitchell Creek Park has been removed. The view
into the park has been much improved and is awaiting much planting and aesthetic
development in the spring.
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY
In the past week, the Police Division remained steady taking 77 complaints. The call volume
will decrease as college students leave Big Rapids for Christmas Break. Several officers
attended a 2 day training course on investigating non-stranger sexual assault. The training
focused on interviewing techniques, safety considerations and personal awareness at the
scene, and building partnerships within the community to address sexual assault
victimization.
The Fire Division responded to 7 Medical calls and 2 fire calls. Fire Division continues
supporting students crossing Michigan Avenue at the Middle School.
CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(4) Disabled Vehicles
(5) Parking
(4) Signs
(1) Sidewalks
(3) Recreational Vehicles
PARK & RECREATION
The Ice rink had some water added. We hope next week to have a base frozen to allow for
the final layer to be added. Pending the weather, this final amount will be put on by the Fire
Department.
The final computer class will be held next Tuesday. Mail Merge will be offered in the evening
at the Big Rapids Middle School.
This weekend is the final games of the Women’s volleyball season. All players have done
great so far and we look forward to the Co-ed season beginning after the New Year.
Next week is the last week to walk in the halls at the Big Rapids Middle School for the 2014
calendar year. Walking will resume on Jan. 5, 2015.
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “The Abandoned Seat Belt”
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Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Picked up leaves
Cleaned drains
Assisted Wastewater Treatment Plant staff with building
Took scrap to scrap yard
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Repaired signs to reflect the correct no parking timeframe
Plowed, sanded and salted Airport, streets, sidewalks and parking lots
Started cutting down and removing trees from Mitchell Creek Park embankment
Filled potholes
Opened public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
MOTOR POOL –
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 221 pickup - removed dash board to replace the blend door in the heater
 213 pickup - installed the topper for winter
 226 pickup - replaced the wipers
 101 dump truck - replaced the air tanks and undercoated the tanks
 106 dump truck- repaired the plow light wiring and replaced the wipers and
driver’s seat assembly
 300 Backhoe - repaired the wiring to the heater blower motor
•
Police and Fire vehicles:
 401 - replaced the spot light bulb
 404 - started stripping all the police equipment needed for the new car
 New police car - started installing the wiring and police equipment
 415 - rotated tires, inspected brakes and serviced the engine
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs
Miscellaneous reads
Assisted with watermain break repair on Chestnut St
Removed brass fittings from Water Plant
Changed out meter at 1219 Colburn Ave
WWTP –
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John Wright received his “C” Wastewater License, after taking the test in November.
Great progress on the Pump Storage Building, with walls and trusses in place.
Changed compressor oil and air filters in all four Kaeser Digester blowers. The
Kaeser equalization blower is next.
Received 4 air filter cartridges for the Spencer Aeration Blowers, and 3 air filter
cartridges for the Kaeser E.Q. Basin Blower.
Ordered internal foam air filter elements and compressor oil for the 4 Kaeser
Digester blowers and the 1 Kaeser E.Q. Basin Blower.
Four aeration basins and one clarifier are currently in service. The east clarifier has
been taken out of service, for the duration of the Holiday Break and resulting low
flows.
U.V. Channel #2 is back in service, after cleaning and maintenance. Channel #1 is
also currently in service, but will be taken out next week.
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Hamberg Fence Company and Armato Electric Company began gate and
equipment installation on Friday. Everything should be complete by Friday
December 19.
WWTP CIP Meeting with F & V scheduled for Tuesday December 16 at 10:00 am.
NPDES Ammonia Study Report in progress with F & V (Bob and Blair).
Isco Plant Sampler on-site training scheduled for Thursday December 18 at 10:00
am.
Bob Wilcox (F & V) visited the plant to review options for SDC moyno pump
relocation.
Invited Biotech to haul existing storage sludge if they wish, based on favorable
weather.
WATER –
Weekly Safety Topic: Night Work Safety
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Treated 8 Million Gallons of drinking water this past week. That number will take a
bit of a dip in the coming weeks as Ferris goes on break.
Finished waxing and began buffing the main floor
Checked fluid levels in all generators
Received word that the recertification of our laboratory passed with flying colors
Pulled an additional wire for a temperature sensor on the Chlorine analyzer at the
State St. Pump Station. This will allow us to monitor the critical water temperature
going through the unit, especially during winter time generator runs.
Ran QA/QC on the Reverse Osmosis unit in the lab
Calibrated the conductivity meter and the lab balance
Ran assorted guest samples for Bact-T analysis
Supplied water for the Mateco Drilling Company. They are the company doing the
horizontal directional drilling in the area. It sounds like they will be working in the
area for several more weeks.
Stephen Sobers
City Manager
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December 19, 2014
BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS DINNER
The bi-annual ‘thank you dinner’ for citizens who have serviced on City Boards and
Commissions has been set for March 5, 2015, at the Holiday Inn. Please mark calendars
for this highlight event.
HANCHETT’S
The demolition of the Hanchett building has begun. On Monday, the required signs were
installed on the property near the gate entrance on the East side near the river. It takes
several days to work internally in the structure to remove windows, and environmental
hazards in the debris. It is expected that equipment will be on site by the end of the week
to start the actual building removal, which should be visually taking place next week.
AIRPORT LAND RELEASE
A preliminary acceptance of the land release from the airport had been received. The FAA
is requesting a review of the extreme western edge of the property, which overlaps the
avigation easement. It should be easy to modify the release request, resubmit, and gain
approval at this point.
RECREATION
Talks/plans continue with Big Rapids Public School on opportunities to work together on a
joint recreation initiative. Big Rapids would like to see more active, wellness and regional
activity and sees cooperation with other agencies as a way to achieve this improvement to
quality of life.
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
The City is meeting with the location committee of the Chamber to review the present
location to evaluate its value into the future. Ideas and opinions on this issue should be
directed to Steve Sobers, or Committee chair Jerry Scoby.
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CODE ENFORCEMENT ACTIVITIES
Violations:
(3) Blight
(1) Disabled Vehicles
(2) Parking
(8) Signs
(1) Sidewalks
(3) Poly-cart Placement
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PARK & RECREATION
Women’s Volleyball playoffs have been completed. The Division One 1st place team was
B-Dubs and 2nd place was Yoplait. The Division Three 1st place winner was Bumpin Babes
and 2nd place was CR Construction. Congrats to those ladies and all teams for a great
season!
The Ice Rink is still closed due to the recent warming trend. We encourage people to not
approach the Ice Rink to “test” if the ice is solid. Once the rink is open, closed signs on the
fence will be removed and it will be posted online.
Recreation classes have ended for the 2014 year.
Girls on the Run is preparing to get coaches signed up and training scheduled for January
2015. If you are interested in assisting with this program, please contact Heather Bowman
at 231-592-4038.
STREETS –
SAFETY TOPIC: “Know Your Job”
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Sanded and salted streets
Repaired tower at Hanchett Park
Cut and removed trees on Mitchell Creek Park embankment
Filled potholes
Repaired 2 drives and patch on sidewalk with crushed concrete on Maple St
Repaired signs
Repaired fire extinguisher brackets at City Hall
Cutting ash trees on Riverwalk at Northend Riverside Park
Reading meters
Assisting Wastewater Plant with new building
Assisted in installation of new computer in Engineering Conference Room at City
Hall
Built a burn pit at the Garage for the Clerk’s Office; burning bonds
Hauled scrap to recycle yard
Repaired walk bridge on trail by Wastewater Plant
Checked and jetted sewers per normal daily and call ins
Cleaned drains
Plowed, sanded and salted Airport, streets, sidewalks and parking lots
Opened and cleaned public bathroom at City Hall each day
Picked up trash downtown and in parks
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Pickup Trucks, Dump Trucks and Misc.:
 101 Dump truck - replaced rusted out air tanks and undercoated them
 102 Dump truck - replaced cargo tarp arm
 106 Dump truck - replaced driver’s seat assembly and repaired plow light wiring
 Dump Trucks - Replaced underbody blades as needed
 312 brush chipper, replaced battery
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 307 tractor, replaced front plow cylinder and battery
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Police and Fire vehicles:
 1-5 fire truck, diagnosed antilock brake system, had to order parts
 Continued installing equipment in the new police car
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Busses:
 903 repaired wiring to antilock brake module
 904 replaced front and rear tires, did a transmission service
 908 replaced rear heater blower motors
MAIN MAINTENANCE –
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MISS Digs
Miscellaneous reads
Meeting with Badger meter on installation of new meters and radio reads
Cleaning out Water Plant Main Maintenance rooms and moving to new building at
Garage
Checked high consumption complaint at 1019 Fuller Ave
Shut offs for nonpayment
WWTP –
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Hamtech has finished 2 upper stub shaft assemblies for our Lakeside screw pumps.
We will now replace the failing shaft still in service, and have a spare unit for future
use.
Called Northwest Kent Mechanical to notify them that we are now ready to change
out the upper stub shaft and motor on the east screw pump.
Pump storage building progress continues to be excellent. Steel siding is complete
and the roof will be shingled next week. Unusually mild weather has been a
blessing.
Changed compressor oil and air filters in the 2 Aerzen grease and grit blowers.
Checked oil in the 3 Spencer Aeration Blowers.
Responded to black influent “alarm.” Investigation revealed some jetting on
campus, as part of the Ferris sanitary sewer inspection and camera work.
Hesco conducted on-site start-up training for our 3 new Isco plant composite
samplers.
U.V. Channel #2 has been working well. Channel #1 will now be taken out of
service.
Plant entrance gate project largely complete. Waiting for Knox Box, Keypad and
remote control units. Fence gate for ferric chloride delivery still not complete, but in
process.
CIP Meeting with WWTP plant / City Hall staff, as well as Fleis & VandenBrink
personnel.
John Fribley conducted our annual plant stormwater training, as required by our
permit.
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Jay Norris visited the plant to address blower control and UV alarm issues. We also
discussed current SCADA Wonderware software updates and future wireless plans.
Bob Wilcox (F & V) reviewing additional concerns, regarding the SDC moyno pump
relocation project.
WATER –
Weekly Safety Topic: Shift Safety
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Reading water meters for the Treasures Office
Removed shower stall from bathroom. Making room the installation of a urinal
Continued furnishing water for the horizontal drillers. They have been stopping for
water sometimes up to three times a day.
Checked fluid levels in all the generators
Fixed the Heating/Stir Plate in the lab. Old age and many hours of service had
produced a bad wire connection. Lubricated the motor will the cover was off.
Replaced an Exit sign at the loading dock. Upgraded it to a LED version.
Lubricated the Fluoride feeder with its special silicon grease
Worked with Hurst Mechanical to install a modulating valve on the geothermal
system. The valve that had come with the system shut the water off too quickly
which caused some water hammer problems within the water plant. The folks at
Hurst were good enough to come back and replace the fast closing valve with a
slow opening and slow closing valve.
Worked with Perceptive Controls to replace the components and the racks that held
them on one of the PLCs down in the pipe galley. (A PLC is a computer system
that runs that portion of the water plant) Water from the roof leaks had found its
way into the electrical conduit and then drained downward into the PLC
cabinet. Corrosion problems could already be seen on the contact points. This is
more work that was covered by the insurance carrier.
AT&T is getting ready to bring a new antenna array on line over at the Bjornson
Water Tower. Our part of the job has been to open the gate for them numerous
times this week. We want to stay on top of this work as any problems that it could
create for our radio system will want to be quickly reported to the contractors. We
don’t anticipate any problems, but the possibility is there.
Exercised some of the seldom used control valves.
*Personal Note From Carmen: As the final repair items are checked off from the windstorm
damage in April, I have to pass on a sincere “Thank You!” to the operators here at the Water
Plant. The damage to our roof made working conditions inside the Water Plant both
dangerous and miserable. Dangerous because the floors were always slippery, and
because water and electricity do not play well together. They had to constantly keep in mind
that anything they touched could be electrically charged. The experience was compared to
working in a swamp for over two months. Even though the rain stopped, the fiberglass
insulation that landed on our roof, continued to drain for days afterward. And just as soon
as it slowed down, it would rain again. This has been a very difficult time to work here. These
four operators have displayed a degree of dedication and professionalism that needs to be
acknowledged publically. Through it all, the safe drinking water that this community has
come to rely on continued to flow without interruption. For that, Martin Kroon, Kevin
Cushway, Steve Cook, and Jake Renne all deserve an official “Atta-Boy!”
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Stephen Sobers
City Manager
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