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Mayor John Starzynski called the regular meeting of the Stephenson City Council to order at 6:00 PM. Present were Council members Dale Parrett, Ronald Zahorik, Howard Fredrickson, and Martha Haight. Council members David Solander and Brian White were excused. Also present were Leon Felch, City Assessor, Jordan Belec, DPW Supervisor, and Karma Tessmer, City Clerk.
Deputy Aaron Ihander provided the Menominee County Sheriff’s Report. He left Council chambers at 6:05 PM.
City Assessor Felch provided the Assessor Report.
There was no Building Inspector/Code Official report.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to adopt the agenda as presented with moving New Business to directly after agenda adoption. The move was made to maintain a quorum in the event Council member Fredrickson was called away for the Rescue Squad. Council member Fredrickson seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to accept the proposed AT&T Pole Attachment Agreement as presented. Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried. The agreement set forth a rental rate of $14.00 per attachment per year.
Motion made by Council member Haight to approve the minutes of the September 4, 2025 regular meeting. Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried.
A report regarding the Department of Public Works was presented by Supervisor Belec. Routine maintenance continues in parks and on streets. Belec and DPW employee Steve Schmidt attended a two-day CEC conference for water. The underground line on Everard Road is nearing completion. Repairs at the WWTP continue and are also nearing completion.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the bills for payment (General Fund Disbursements totaling $136,522.39 for checks #27158 through #27211 and EFTs 290 (E) – 292 (E), and 1320 (E) – 1327 (E)). Council member Fredrickson seconded. Motion carried.

Bonnie Smith arrived at 6:20 PM for public participation.  She has concerns with the drainage on Gerue Street as her driveway floods when it rains.  Street Administrator Parrett will look into the situation.  She left Council chambers at 6:25 PM.

Updates on the Rural Development projects were provided by Bill Marklein of UPEA via email. UPEA continues to work to refine the scope of the projects in order to appeal to contractors when both projects are re-bid. The Water Softening project is pending with EGLE. No update on the Category B application for Homestead Street.
The 40101D Grant application is pending. A revised NEPA form was submitted per request.
The Menominee County Road Commission has completed the chip sealing project in the City. Parking spaces, to be painted by the City DPW, will be done next year after the plows are off the roads.
The City is waiting for Lenca Surveying to finalize the survey of the Industrial Park. Once finalized, and in agreement with Country Mile Document Destruction, a land split can be done along with zoning reclassification. UPEA has drafted preliminary plans for water and sewer extensions and will provide an engineering proposal soon. The City hopes to meet with all parties involved in order to facilitate to project.
Items for discussion included the Christmas Tree Lighting which will be held at City Hall on December 6th at 6:00 PM. Council member Parrett will be providing the tree. Also discussed were the repairs to the 2016 pickup. Rye Collision has completed the work. Big O’s replaced the tires and two ball joints. The truck is back in service.
Committee reports were given as follows:
Fire: No report given.
Streets: New brooms were purchased for the street sweeper.
Parks: The baseball field will host a softball tournament this weekend. The school teams continue to use the field as well.
Utility: No report given.
Personnel: No report given.
Finance: No report given.
Insurance: Pricing for health insurance for 2026 should be received later this month.
Zoning: No report given.
Technology: Mike Malone of KRM Technologies will be assisting with the Spectrum change over when equipment is received.
Industrial Park: No report given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.

Council member Haight moved for adjournment at 6:52 PM. 

The next regular City council meeting will be held on November 6, 2025.

Respectfully Submitted,

Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

Mayor John Starzynski called the public hearing for Ordinance 151 comments to order at 5:45 PM.  Present were council members Martha Haight, Dale Parrett, David Solander, Howard Fredrickson, Ron Zahorik, and Brian White (arrived at 5:58 PM).  Also present was City Clerk Karma Tessmer.  There was no public participation. 

                Ordinance 151 was reviewed.

                Council member Zahorik moved to close the public hearing.  Council member White seconded.  Motion carried.

                The public hearing ended at 6:00 PM. 

Mayor John Starzynski called the regular meeting of the Stephenson City Council to order at 6:00 PM.  Present were Council members Dale Parrett, David Solander, Ronald Zahorik, Howard Fredrickson, Martha Haight, and Brian White.  Also present were Leon Felch, City Assessor, and Karma Tessmer, City Clerk. 

There was no public participation.

Deputy Aaron Ihander provided the Menominee County Sheriff’s Report.  He left Council chambers at 6:06 PM.

City Assessor Felch provided the Assessor Report. 

There was no Building Inspector/Code Official report.

Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to adopt the agenda as presented.  Council member Zahorik seconded.  Motion carried.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the minutes of the August 7, 2025 regular meeting.  Council member Parrett seconded.  Motion carried. 

 A report regarding the Department of Public Works was provided by Supervisor Jordan Belec and presented by Mayor Starzynski.  Bucket truck inspections are done.  John Deere mower repaired.  Routine maintenance continues in parks and on streets.  Sludge samples sent to the State.  A cracked sludge pipe at the WWTP has been repaired.  Fall pick up will begin October 1^st and run through November 1^st.

Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to approve the bills for payment (General Fund Disbursements totaling $110,629.95 for checks #27104 through #27157 and EFTs 287 (E) – 289 (E), and 1312 (E) – 1319 (E)).  Council member Haight seconded.  Motion carried.

One bid was received for the water tower project.  TMI Coatings proposal was in the amount of $933,000.00.  The bid will be rejected on the engineer’s recommendation and the project will be re-bid.  No bids were received for the water/waste water improvements.  They will be re-bid as well.  The Water Softening project is pending with EGLE.  No update on the Category B application for Homestead Street.

 The 40101D Grant application is pending with the Department of Energy.

The Menominee County Road Commission will be finishing the chip sealing project later this month.  Lines are to be painted by the end of September.  The City may wait until next year to paint the parking spaces after the plows are off the roads.

Motion made by Council member Solander to accept Lenca Surveying LLC survey of the Industrial Park as drafted and to offer 20.104 acres (Lot 1) for sale to Brad Younk DBA Country Mile Document Destruction.  Council member Fredrickson seconded.  Motion carried. 

The Department of Public Works continues to work with EGLE in order to remedy issues at the WWTP.  All requested paperwork has been submitted.  The scum trough still needs repair.

Motion made by Council member Haight to adopt Ordinance 151.  Council member Fredrickson seconded.  Motion carried by a roll call vote.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to accept the Zoning Board of Appeals appointments as presented by the Mayor.  Council member Solander seconded.  Motion carried.  A full list of board and committee members can be seen at City Hall.

Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to accept the Compensation Committee appointments as presented by the Mayor.  Council member White seconded.  Motion carried.  A full list of board and committee members can be seen at City Hall.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to accept Phillippo Insurance proposal for Property and Liability insurance in the amount of $28,190.00 (opting out of terrorism coverage) for the term October 2025 through September 2026.  Council member Haight seconded.  Motion carried.

Council consensus was to set City Trick or Treat hours on October 31^st from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to support the 2026 Library in Bloom event.  Council member Parrett seconded.  Motion carried.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to send a letter of support to the Menominee Business Development Corporation and the Rural Readiness Grant request.  Council member Fredrickson seconded.  Motion carried.

Motion made by Council member White to purchase a new AED unit for the line truck.  Council member Fredrickson seconded.  Motion carried.  The current AED is no longer supported.  The cost to replace is $2,700.00.

Committee reports were given as follows:

               Fire:  Two calls were responded to.  The FD will be taking over the City side of the July 4^th celebrations.

               Streets:  No report given.

                Parks:  Pavilion lighting options and ball field maintenance were discussed for next year.

               Utility:  Line truck repair estimates total $5,225.00 for units 16 and 31.  A replacement still for the WWTP will be ordered at a cost of $6,000.00.  The AT&T pole attachment agreement should be complete next month.

              Personnel:  No report given.

              Finance:  No report given.

               Insurance:  No report given.

               Zoning:  Four building permits were issued for the month.  Industrial Park zoning will be reviewed.

               Technology:  Parking lot security cameras have been installed at City Hall/DPW building.  Astrea internet will be changing to Spectrum next month.

               Industrial Park:  No report given.

There was no correspondence.

Comments were received

Council member White moved for adjournment at 7:10 PM. 

The next regular City council meeting will be held on October 2, 2025.

                                                                                                            Respectfully Submitted,  

                                                                                                            Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

Mayor John Starzynski called the regular meeting of the Stephenson City Council to order at 6:00 PM. Present were Council members Dale Parrett, David Solander, Ronald Zahorik, Howard Fredrickson, Martha Haight, and Brian White. Also present were Jordan Belec, DPW Supervisor, Leon Felch, City Assessor, and Karma Tessmer, City Clerk.

Tyler Klitzke was present for public participation. He expressed concerns about parking on his street. He departed Council chambers at 6:09 PM.

Deputy Aaron Ihander provided the Menominee County Sheriff’s Report. He left Council chambers at 6:14 PM. City Assessor Felch provided the Assessor Report. The Board of Review met in July.

There was no Building Inspector/Code Official report.

Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to adopt the agenda as presented.  Council member Haight seconded.

Motion carried.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the minutes of the July 2, 2025 regular meeting. Council member Fredrickson seconded. Motion carried.

A report regarding the Department of Public Works was presented by Supervisor Belec. Routine maintenance continues in the parks. State water samples have been ordered. A quality assurance/quality control meeting was held regarding preventative maintenance of City bridges.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the bills for payment (General Fund Disbursements totaling

$142,643.62 for checks #27027 through #27103 and EFTs 284 (E) – 286 (E), and 1303 (E) – 1311 (E)). Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried.

Josh Harju of UPEA provided updates, via email, on the Rural Development and Water Softening projects and the Category B application for Homestead Street. The Rural Development projects are out for bids. The Water Softening project is pending with EGLE. No update on the Category B application for Homestead Street.

The 40101D Grant application is pending with the Department of Energy.

The Menominee County Road Commission will be finishing the chip sealing project next week. Lines will be painted after completion but no date for that has been determined.

Lenca Surveying LLC will be surveying the Industrial Park property the week of August 18th. Mayor Starzynski will contact Brad Younk to obtain the electrical load requirements for recycling equipment.

The Department of Public Works continues to work with EGLE in order to remedy issues at the WWTP. EGLE performed a site visit on August 7th. They approved of the work done to date. UPEA has also been on site.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to introduce Ordinance 151 to adopt an updated City code. Council member Haight seconded. Motion carried. A public hearing will be held at 5:45 PM prior to the next regular council meeting on September 4th.

Motion made by Council member White to support the National See Tracks? Think Train Week Proclamation.

Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried.

Motion made by Council member Zahorik to accept Rye Collision LLC quote for City truck repair in the amount of

$3,591.69. Council member White seconded. Motion carried. Spaudes Auto Body provided a quote in the amount of

$7,134.38.

Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to approve Highline permit notices for directional boring for CCI Systems installation. Council member Haight seconded. Motion carried.

There were no items for discussion. Committee reports were given as follows: Fire: No report given.

Streets: Street Administrator Parrett would like to have a committee meeting in order to review City streets. Parks: No Fall Festival will be held this year.

Utility: WWTP was addressed under old business. Electric service for the new Rescue Squad building will be energized August 8th.

Personnel: No report given.

Finance: Audit material for the 2024/2025 audit has been submitted. Insurance: The Property and Liability renewal is being worked on. Zoning: One carport permit was issued in July.

Technology: Astrea replaced the server room modem. The exhaust fan has been wired up in the server room. Industrial Park: No report given.

Correspondence was read. Comments were received.

Council member Haight moved for adjournment at 7:04 PM.

The next regular City council meeting will be held on September 4, 2025.

A public hearing will be held at 5:45 PM prior to the regular meeting to receive comments on Ordinance 151.

Respectfully Submitted,

Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

Mayor John Starzynski called the regular meeting of the Stephenson City Council to order at 6:00 PM. Present were Council members Dale Parrett, David Solander, Ronald Zahorik, Howard Fredrickson, and Brian White (excused 6:19 PM to 6:30 PM to attend Fire Department meeting). Council member Martha Haight was excused. Also present were Jordan Belec, DPW Supervisor, Leon Felch, City Assessor, and Karma Tessmer, City Clerk.
There was no public participation.
Deputy Aaron Ihander provided the Menominee County Sheriff’s Report. Jen Bastien was also present on behalf of the Sheriff’s Department. Both left Council chambers at 6:04 PM.
City Assessor Felch provided the Assessor Report. Summer tax bills have been sent. He reviewed the State Tax Commission Audit which the City is in compliance with. Corrected L-4029 forms will be submitted per County Equalization.
There was no Building Inspector/Code Official report.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to adopt the agenda as presented. Council member White seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to approve the minutes of the June 5, 2025 regular meeting. Council member White seconded. Motion carried.
A report regarding the Department of Public Works was presented by Supervisor Belec. Routine maintenance continues in the parks. Two underground electrical services were installed. EGLE was at the WWTP for a follow up which will be discussed separately under new business.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the bills for payment (General Fund Disbursements totaling $105,737.40 for checks #26967 through #27026 and EFTs 280 (E) – 283 (E), and 1295 (E) – 1302 (E)). Council member Fredrickson seconded. Motion carried.
ADAM FILIBECK
50.00
MENOMINEE COUNTY JOURNAL
248.00
ADVANCE AUTO PARTS
162.74
MENOMINEE INDUSTRIAL
121.92
ASTREA
99.95
MICH PUBLIC POWER AGENCY
211.08
BRYAN STRAHL
50.00
MISCAUNO TAX ASSESSING LLC
638.75
CARLSON ASPHALT
8,985.00
MML WORKERS COMP FUND
641.00
CELLCOM UP MI PCS
160.71
NICOLET NATIONAL BANK
96.33
CHARLIE SCOGGINS
300.00
NORTH CENTRAL LABORATORIES
687.81
CLOVERLAND DISTRIBUTING LLC
106.87
NU-WAY CLEANERS
35.55
DAVE EBSCH
150.00
PAIDL’S DO IT BEST HARDWARE
456.67
DELTA DISPOSAL
180.00
POLLY’S PLANTS & FLORAL
70.00
DON MACHALK JR LANDSCAPE SUP
2,500.00
POSTMASTER
252.00
DTE ENERGY
286.66
SAULT STE. MARIE BRIDGE CO.
450.00
ELLY RIVARD
50.00
STATE OF MICHIGAN
5,789.71
HANNULA AGENCY
1,033.38
STEPHENSON MARKETING CO-OP
718.02
JEFFREY STRONG
2,500.00
STEVE SCHMIDT
40.00
JEN BASTIEN
36.05
THE PRINT SHOP
53.00
JOHN WILLS
150.00
UPPER MI ENERGY RESOURCES CORP.
966.97
JORDAN BELEC
340.00
USA BLUE BOOK
137.43
KARMA TESSMER
30.10
WAUSAU CHEMICALS
1,810.22
KRIST OIL COMPANY
358.71
WISCONSIN PUBLIC SERVICE
46,243.75
MACQUEEN EQUIPMENT
3,283.96
WM CORPORATE SERVICES, INC.
236.70
MELISSA REVALL
50.00
PAYROLL AND TAXES
24,968.36
ADVANCE AUTO PARTS
504.00
MENZA & ZAK HEATING COOLING
900.00
AIRGAS USA, LLC
38.40
MICH PUBLIC POWER AGENCY
106.29
ANDY’S ACE HARDWARE
251.98
MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE
835.00
ANDY’S ACTION BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
49.99
MISCAUNO TAX ASSESSING LLC
680.17
ANIXTER INC
9,571.66
NORTH CENTRAL LABORATORIES
229.92
ASTREA
99.95
NU-WAY CLEANERS
35.55
ATT: MIRECS
65.51
PAIDL’S DO IT BEST HARDWARE
1,901.18
CELLCOM UP MI PCS
160.71
PAYROLL/TAXES
32,893.80
CLOVERLAND DISTRIBUTING LLC
150.65
PETTY CASH/JODY MONETTE
127.42
DELTA DISPOSAL
90.00
PLUTCHAK FAB, L.L.C.
823.14
DTE ENERGY
656.93
POSTMASTER
471.00
GINA SAROW
138.25
POWER SYSTEM ENGINEERING
2,356.00
GRAINGER
28.92
PRECISION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES LLC
3,948.77
GRAND TRUNK WESTERN
1,391.00
ROXANNE LEIPHART
65.29
GRAYBAR ELECTRIC CO.
460.81
SARA JOHNSON
50.00
HALRON LUBRICANTS
227.82
STEPHENSON MARKETING CO-OP
304.91
JEN BASTIEN
36.05
STEVE SCHMIDT
40.00
JOHNSON & RENNIE, LLC
42.00
SUPERIOR CHEMICAL LLC
155.48
JORDAN BELEC
259.81
TONY’S GREEN THUMB
365.35
KLEIMAN PUMP & WELL DRILLING
28,648.65
UPPER MI ENERGY RESOURCES CORP.
966.97
KRIST OIL COMPANY
78.84
VETERANS MEMORIAL DAY FUND
350.00
MENOMINEE COUNTY
572.00
VILLAGE OF DAGGETT
312.00
MENOMINEE COUNTY JOURNAL
973.00
WAUSAU CHEMICALS
550.22
MENOMINEE COUNTY ROAD COMM.
2,087.37
WISCONSIN PUBLIC SERVICE
44,773.04
MENOMINEE INDUSTRIAL
207.89
WM CORPORATE SERVICES, INC.
237.11
Josh Harju of UPEA provided updates, via email, on the Rural Development and Water Softening projects and the Category B application for Homestead Street. All projects remain pending.
Council member Parrett updated Council on the Fourth of July Celebration. Plans are in place. He stated that he will not be organizing the celebration in 2027.
The 40101D grant application remains pending.
The application for the Congressionally Directed Spending Request was unsuccessful.
The Menominee County Road Commission will be performing chip sealing in the City. The project is scheduled to start mid to late July.
Council was approached by the Stephenson Non-Profit Housing Corporation regarding cost-sharing a repair to a driveway by their building. The repair would extend into the street a few feet. Council consensus was not to share in the costs. Council member White was not present for this discussion and would have removed himself from any decision as he is employed by the Housing.
A Committee of the Whole meeting was held on June 13, 2025 regarding Brad Younk’s interest in purchasing Industrial Park property for a recycling center. He submitted a letter of intent. No purchase agreement has been initiated. The per acre price will be $1,500.00. The acreage amount has not been determined. Utility installation needs to be determined and the property needs to be surveyed. Motion made by Council member Solander to accept Lenca Surveying LLC quote in the amount of $2,500.00 for surveying the Industrial Park. Council member Zahorik seconded. Motion carried.
The City received a violation notice from EGLE regarding the WWTP. Several concerns were expressed. Previous inspections had not indicated issues but now some things are non-compliant. Supervisor Belec has been working with EGLE in order to meet their recommendations. Some new equipment has been installed, repairs have been made, and other items are being addressed. UPEA will be making a trip down mid-month to review and assist in developing a plan and estimated costs moving forward. Some of the issues stem from the age of the plant as well as the age of the equipment. Their recommendations may affect the current project regarding the water softening system and chemical discharge.
There were no items for discussion.
Committee reports were given as follows:
Fire: Assistant Chief Brian White reported that four calls were responded to. Trucks have been inspected and serviced.
Streets: Street Administrator Parrett would like to start filling potholes after the July 4th holiday.
Parks: Portable bathrooms have been placed at Erickson Park for the summer due to increased use of the park.
Utility: A Memorandum of Understanding has been received from the Michigan Community Action Agency Association for administration of PA 295 (Energy Waste Reduction program). Customers are currently not financially responsible for the cost of this program. Determination has been made by the State on the LIEAF (Low Income Energy Assistance Fund) program. Beginning in September, each customer will be charged a surcharge of $1.25 per month if they
have City electric services. Funds will be sent to the State for low-income assistance. Neither of these programs are optional.
Personnel: No report given.
Finance: No report given.
Insurance: No report given.
Zoning: One fence permit was issued in June.
Technology: No report given.
Industrial Park: No report given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.
Council member White moved for adjournment at 6:55 PM.
The next regular City council meeting will be held on August 7, 2025.

Respectfully Submitted,

Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

---

Mayor John Starzynski called the regular meeting of the Stephenson City Council to order at 6:00 PM. Present were Council members Dale Parrett, David Solander, Martha Haight (arrived 6:05 PM), Ronald Zahorik, Howard Fredrickson, and Brian White. Also present were Jordan Belec, DPW Supervisor, Leon Felch, City Assessor, and Karma Tessmer, City Clerk.
Connie Westrich was present for public participation. As she represents the City under District 6 on the County Board, she would like to see the City support an Economic Development Committee. The City will consider this in an effort to encourage and support business growth within the City.
Deputy Aaron Ihander provided the Menominee County Sheriff’s Report. He left Council chambers at 6:04 PM.
City Assessor Felch provided the Assessor Report. He will have summer tax files ready soon for processing.
There was no Building Inspector/Code Official report.
Motion made by Council member Haight to adopt the agenda as presented. Council member White seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Solander to approve the minutes of the May 1, 2025 regular meeting. Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried.
A report regarding the Department of Public Works was presented by Supervisor Belec. Well number 2 repairs, valve turning, and line flushing are complete. The parks are all open. Some street patching has been done. EGLE inspected the WWTP. Letters will be forthcoming with recommendations on any issues.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the bills for payment (General Fund Disbursements totaling $140,270.80 for checks #26891 through #26966 and EFTs 278 (E) – 279 (E), and 1283 (E) – 1294 (E)). Council member Fredrickson seconded. Motion carried.

ADVANCE AUTO PARTS 504.00

MENZA & ZAK HEATING COOLING 900.00
AIRGAS USA, LLC 38.40

MICH PUBLIC POWER AGENCY 106.29
ANDY’S ACE HARDWARE 251.98

MICHIGAN MUNICIPAL LEAGUE 835.00
ANDY’S ACTION BUSINESS SOLUTIONS 49.99

MISCAUNO TAX ASSESSING LLC 680.17
ANIXTER INC 9,571.66

NORTH CENTRAL LABORATORIES 229.92
ASTREA 99.95

NU-WAY CLEANERS 35.55
ATT: MIRECS 65.51

PAIDL’S DO IT BEST HARDWARE 1,901.18
CELLCOM UP MI PCS 160.71

PAYROLL/TAXES 32,893.80
CLOVERLAND DISTRIBUTING LLC 150.65

PETTY CASH/JODY MONETTE 127.42
DELTA DISPOSAL 90.00

PLUTCHAK FAB, L.L.C. 823.14
DTE ENERGY 656.93

POSTMASTER 471.00
GINA SAROW 138.25

POWER SYSTEM ENGINEERING 2,356.00
GRAINGER 28.92

PRECISION TECHNOLOGY SERVICES LLC 3,948.77
GRAND TRUNK WESTERN 1,391.00

ROXANNE LEIPHART 65.29
GRAYBAR ELECTRIC CO. 460.81

SARA JOHNSON 50.00
HALRON LUBRICANTS 227.82

STEPHENSON MARKETING CO-OP 304.91
JEN BASTIEN 36.05

STEVE SCHMIDT 40.00
JOHNSON & RENNIE, LLC 42.00

SUPERIOR CHEMICAL LLC 155.48
JORDAN BELEC 259.81

TONY’S GREEN THUMB 365.35
KLEIMAN PUMP & WELL DRILLING 28,648.65

UPPER MI ENERGY RESOURCES CORP. 966.97
KRIST OIL COMPANY 78.84

VETERANS MEMORIAL DAY FUND 350.00
MENOMINEE COUNTY 572.00

VILLAGE OF DAGGETT 312.00
MENOMINEE COUNTY JOURNAL 973.00

WAUSAU CHEMICALS 550.22
MENOMINEE COUNTY ROAD COMM. 2,087.37

WISCONSIN PUBLIC SERVICE 44,773.04
MENOMINEE INDUSTRIAL 207.89

WM CORPORATE SERVICES, INC. 237.11

Josh Harju of UPEA provided updates, via email, on the Rural Development and Water Softening projects and the Category B application for Homestead Street. No update on the Rural Development or Water Softening projects at this time. The Category B application to MDOT TEDF has been submitted.

Council member Parrett updated Council on the Fourth of July Celebration. Plans are nearly complete. Flyers are being distributed.
The 40101D grant application remains pending.
The application for the Congressionally Directed Spending Request remains pending.
The Menominee County Road Commission will be performing chip sealing in the City. The project is scheduled to start mid-July. The State funded portion of $50,000.00 has been received by the City.
Motion made by Council member Fredrickson to opt in to the PA229 EWR program with State administration through CLEAResults. Council member Haight seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to accept the Mid County Rescue Squad agreement for 2025/2026 in the mount of $6,942.00. Council member Haight seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the Fiscal Year 2023/2024 Audit. Council member Fredrickson seconded. Motion carried. No budget amendments were needed for the 2024/2025 Fiscal Year budget.
Brad Younk of Country Mile Document Destruction was present for discussion on the prospect of operating a recycling facility in the City Industrial Park. The State will be requiring two drop off sites in the County over the next few years. He presented his plan and requirements such as water, sewer, and electric were discussed. He would like to obtain at least half of the 26 acres in the park. He has purchased the equipment and is working with an engineer on plans and specs. He will supply a letter of intent to the City for review before the City moves forward with any decisions on surveying, etc.
Committee reports were given as follows:
Fire: Chief Rick Bastien reported that six calls were responded to in May. The Department will be offering fire extinguisher training at the Fire Hall on June 14th. Details will be posted on the Department Facebook page. In support of their fundraising, Council consensus agreed to forgo charging the Department for pool filling water. The Department will be running the beer booth on July 4th as a fundraiser. He left Council chambers at 7:06 PM.
Streets: The Stephenson Non-Profit Housing Corporation would like the City to cost share on blacktop repair to the end of their parking lot where it meets the City street. The City will consider the request after reviewing the area.
Parks: Motion made by Council member Zahorik to replace Erickson Park playground mulch with the lowest bidder after attaining pricing. Council member Haight seconded. Motion carried. The estimated cost is approximately $2,500.00. Mosquito spraying will be done this week by Travis Anderson.
Utility: Motion made by Council member Parrett to increase the bulk water price to $5.00 per thousand gallons from $3.50 per thousand gallons effective July 1, 2025. Council member Solander seconded. Motion carried. The increase is due to increased maintenance and administrative costs.
Personnel: No report given.
Finance: No report given.
Insurance: No report given.
Zoning: Three fence permits were issued in May.
Technology: The new City website is online at stephenson-mi.org. A grant from the Hannahville Indian Community was awarded in the amount of $1,500.00 for the security upgrades at City Hall.
Industrial Park: Havelka Construction will be contacted to see if they are still in need of gravel.
Correspondence including a Thank You from the family of James Gardiner and drawings and letters from the second-grade class of Ms. Rebecca Taylor were noted.
Comments were received.

Council member White moved for adjournment at 7:22 PM. 

            The next regular City council meeting will be held on July 2, 2025.  Note this is a Wednesday meeting due to the July 4^th holiday. 

                                                                                      Respectfully Submitted,  

                                                                                                                                                 

                                                                                      Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

Mayor John Starzynski called the Budget Hearing for fiscal year 2025/2026 to order at 5:45 PM. Present were council members Martha Haight, Dale Parrett, David Solander, Brian White, and Ron Zahorik. Council member Howard Fredrickson was excused. Also present were DPW Supervisor Jordan Belec and City Clerk Karma Tessmer. There was no public participation.
The budget for fiscal year 2025/2026 was reviewed.
Council member White moved to close the budget hearing. Council member Solander seconded. Motion carried.
The budget hearing ended at 6:00 PM.

Mayor John Starzynski called the regular meeting of the Stephenson City Council to order at 6:00 PM. Present were Council members Dale Parrett, David Solander, Martha Haight, Ronald Zahorik, and Brian White. Council member Howard Fredrickson was excused. Also present were Jordan Belec, DPW Supervisor, Leon Felch, City Assessor, and Karma Tessmer, City Clerk.
Lindsay Kozikowski was present on behalf of the American Legion. She updated Council on July 4th plans. She will work with the City on advertising the day and is also working on flyers. Scott Sundberg was present on behalf the Sharks Football program. They are planning a car wash fundraiser and asked if it could be held at City Hall/DPW. Council agreed to let them use the parking lot. The event will be May 31st from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Lexi Hagan, Executive Director of the Menominee Business Development Corporation, was also present. She wanted to introduce herself and let the City know she is available as an economic opportunity resource if needed.
Deputy Evan Lamb provided the Menominee County Sheriff’s Report.
City Assessor Felch provided the Assessor Report. He updated Council on assessed and taxable increases for the City for 2025.
There was no Building Inspector/Code Official report.
Motion made by Council member Haight to adopt the agenda as presented. Council member White seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to approve the minutes of the April 3, 2025 regular meeting. Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried.
A report regarding the Department of Public Works was presented by Supervisor Belec. The crew continues to work on brush removal, valve turning, and park openings. Well number 2 repairs are pending due to equipment delivery status.
Motion made by Council member Haight to approve the bills for payment (General Fund Disbursements totaling $111,807.33 for checks #26834 through #26890 and EFTs 273 (E) – 277 (E), and 1275 (E) – 1282 (E)). Council member White seconded. Motion carried.

AIRGAS USA, LLC 1,574.61

MML UNEMPLOYMENT FUND 24.36
AL MACCO 222.66 MUNICIPAL

EMPLOYEES RETIREMENT SYSTEM 7,951.00
ASTREA 99.95

NICOLET NATIONAL BANK 688.43
BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF MICHIGAN 4,187.43

NORTH CENTRAL LABORATORIES 591.62
BS & A SOFTWARE 1,489.00

NU-WAY CLEANERS 35.55
CELLCOM UP MI PCS 160.68

PAIDL’S DO IT BEST HARDWARE 86.94
CIVICPLUS LLC 2,237.50

POSTMASTER 326.00
CLOVERLAND DISTRIBUTING LLC 150.65

SCHAFF, JASMINE 141.18
DELTA DISPOSAL 90.00

SHAWN’S GARGE DOORS & OPENERS 1,775.00
DTE ENERGY 1,168.81

STATE OF MICHIGAN 5,346.35
GREEN IGNITE 720.00

STEPHENSON MARKETING CO-OP 384.98
JEN BASTIEN 36.05

STEVE SCHMIDT 40.00
JORDAN BELEC 40.00

THE STANDARD INSURANCE COMPANY 9.44
KONICA MINOLTA BUSINESS SOLUTIONS 162.78

UP INTERNATIONAL TRUCKS, INC. 11,856.73
KRIST OIL COMPANY 682.66

UPPER MI ENERGY RESOURCES CORP. 966.97
LUFT’S ADVERTISER 507.82

VSP 89.28
MENOMINEE COUNTY JOURNAL 284.20

WISCONSIN PUBLIC SERVICE 44,710.05
MICH PUBLIC POWER AGENCY 188.19

WM CORPORATE SERVICES, INC. 238.77
MISCAUNO TAX ASSESSING LLC 638.75

PAYROLL AND TAXES 21,902.94

Josh Harju of UPEA provided updates, via email, on the Rural Development and Water Softening projects. He received the Pilot Study quote from Naser and is working on formalizing details that need to be submitted to EGLE for the water softening project. Technical specifications have been received from Dixon Engineering for the RD water tower project. State engineering approvals have been granted for both projects. Projects now move to loan approval before advertising for bids.
Council member Parrett continues plans for the Fourth of July Celebration. As the fireworks will be held on July 5th, it was decided to move the celebration from the 4th to the 5th. The Legion agrees with the change. Council member Parrett will contact the band. The City will handle advertising in the Menominee County Journal.
The 40101D grant application has been submitted and is pending.
The application for the Congressionally Directed Spending Request has been submitted and is pending.
The Menominee County Road Commission will be performing chip sealing in the City. The project is scheduled to start mid-July. Railroad Street from Samuel to River Road and River Road east to City limits, will be sealed. As they are classified as All Season Roads 80% of the cost will be covered by State funds.
Public Act 229 Energy Waste Reduction was reviewed. The City has until July 1st to opt in to the State’s administration program. Annual program and administration costs are estimated at $29,247.00 for the first year. The recommendation of the Michigan Municipal Electric Association is to opt in to the State’s administration program. The City does not have the resources nor expertise to administer the program on their own. Overall participation in PA229 is not optional.
Motion made by Council member Haight to adopt the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 proposed budget. Council member Zahorik seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member White to approve the Fiscal Year 2025/2026 Millage Tax Rate. Council member Solander seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Zahorik to adopt Resolution 2025-03 City of Stephenson 2025/2026 General Appropriations Act. Council member Parrett seconded. Motion carried.
Motion made by Council member Parrett to adopt Resolution 2025-04 MDOT Category B Road Funding Request. Council member White seconded. Motion carried. Funds would be used for the rehabilitation of Homestead Street.
Motion made by Council member White to contribute $350.00 to the Veterans Memorial Day Fund. Council member Zahorik seconded. Motion carried.
There were no items for discussion.
Committee reports were given as follows:
Fire: Assistant Chief Brian White reported that their department meeting is next week. Goggles will be purchased with the remainder of the FEMA grant proceeds.
Streets: Street patching is pending on asphalt plant opening and Carlson Asphalt scheduling.
Parks: Mulch cost for playground area came in at $2,500.00 from Machalk’s. Council member Parrett will look at possibly using sand.
Utility: Motion made by Council member Parrett to relocate Everard Road power lines underground. Council member White seconded. Motion carried. The cost for tree removal/trimming came in at $8,000.00. Running lines underground will cost approximately $10,000.00. Underground lines will eliminate future trimming and repairs due to damage caused by trees.
Personnel: No report given.
Finance: Work to begin on budget amendments for the current fiscal year. Amendments must be approved before July 1st.
Insurance: The Worker’s Compensation renewal is being worked on.
Zoning: One fence permit has been issued.
Technology: Motion made by Council member Zahorik to accept Menza & Zak quote in the amount of $900.00 for exhaust fan installation in the server room. Council member Haight seconded. Motion carried.
Industrial Park: Mark Kleiman of Kleiman Forest Products has offered to do the wood chipping for the City at no charge.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.

Council member White moved for adjournment at 6:54 PM.

The next regular City council meeting will be held on June 5, 2025.

Respectfully Submitted,

Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

Council Minutes Summary
The regular council meeting convened at 6:00 PM.
A report was given by the Menominee County Sheriff’s Department.
A report was given by the City Assessor.
A report was given by the Department of Public Works.
Bills totaling $124,455.58 were approved.
Motion carried to accept Ayres Associates bid for 2025 bridge inspections in the amount of $2,750.00.
Motion carried to approve the Treasurer’s Report.
Motion carried to accept Carlson Asphalt quote in the amount of $8,985.00 for street patching. Highline Internet will be invoiced $2,045.00 of that amount for street damage from installation work last year.
Motion carried to purchase a lawn vacuum in the amount of $1,699.99 from Paidl’s Hardware.
Committee reports were given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.
The next regular City Council meeting will be held May 1, 2025. The Budget Hearing will be held prior at 5:45 PM.

Copies of City Council proceedings are available at City Hall during regular business hours.

Respectfully Submitted
Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

The regular council meeting convened at 6:00 PM.
A report was given by the Menominee County Sheriff’s Department.
A report was given by the City Assessor.
A report was given by the Department of Public Works.
Bills totaling $116,184.20 were approved.
Motion carried to accept a three-year contract with Menominee County and the Sheriff’s Office for law enforcement services at the cost of $20,000.00 per year.
Motion carried to support the Easter Egg Hunt with a $200.00 contribution.
Committee reports were given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.
The next regular City Council meeting will be held April 3, 2025.

Copies of City Council proceedings are available at City Hall during regular business hours.

Respectfully Submitted
Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

The regular council meeting convened at 6:00 PM.
A report was given by the Menominee County Sheriff’s Department.
A report was given by the City Assessor.
A report was given by the Department of Public Works.
Bills totaling $106,093.27 were approved.
Motion carried to accept Precision Technology Services LLC quote for City Hall security upgrades in the amount of $6,749.28.
Motion carried to apply for a 40101D grant for electrical system upgrades.
Motion carried to support UPSET with a $100.00 contribution.
Motion carried to opt in to PA95.
Committee reports were given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.
The next regular City Council meeting will be held March 6, 2025.

Copies of City Council proceedings are available at City Hall during regular business hours.

Respectfully Submitted
Karma Tessmer, City Clerk

A report was given by the Menominee County Sheriff’s Department.
A report was given by the Department of Public Works.
Bills totaling $89,049.79 were approved.
Motion carried to accept an alternate member for the Board of Review as presented by the Mayor.
Motion carried to adopt the Meeting Rules and Procedures.
Motion carried to adopt Resolution Number 2025-01 Golf Cart Use on City Streets.
Motion carried to opt out of the Publicly Funded Health Insurance Contribution Act.
Committee reports were given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.
The next regular City Council meeting will be held February 6, 2025.
Committee reports were given.
There was no correspondence.
Comments were received.
The next regular City Council meeting will be held January 2, 2025.

Copies of City Council proceedings are available at City Hall during regular business hours.

Respectfully Submitted
Karma Tessmer, City Clerk