EDITOR’S NOTE: Some of the figures published in the original story were inaccurate. The following account attempts to correct the report.
The Wayland City Council Monday night adopted a $6.32 million budget unanimously for the 2018-19 fiscal year and officially said good-bye to Councilwoman Tracy Bivins, who has resigned after five and a half years of service.
Bivins remarked, “It was an emotional decision for me (to resign). I really enjoyed serving. But I’ve got a lot going on my life.”
Council members, in round-table comments at the conclusion of the session, praised her performance.
“You’ve served this community with integrity,” colleague Rick Mathis told her.
Lisa Banas said, “It’s hard to speak your convictions, but you’ve never been afraid to do so.”
Jennifer Antel, noting her disagreements with Bivins on a number of issues, said, “She helped me see issues from a different angle, and even though we don’t agree, I respect you tremendously.”
The two most visibly disagreed over plans for a recreational bicycling and walking trail, but when Bivins contemplated not seeking a second term, it was Antel who encouraged her to stay on board.
Police Chief Steve Harper, City Engineer Mickey Bittner and the remaining council members all added their praises and well wishes.
The council will have interviews for appointing Bivins’ successor at the July 2 meeting. Her expired two-year term will be up for election on Nov. 6.
The budget was a little more cut and dried. City Manager Joshua Eggleston noted the projected figure of $6,326,544. There also was a Truth in Taxation hearing to enable the city to continue to levy 16.3607 mills, the same level as a year ago. The city manager said the anticipated budget is up just 1.74% over the past year.
“We should continue to add to the fund balance,” Eggleston said. “We’re in good (financial) shape.”
The budget will go into effect July 1.
In other business Monday evening, the City Council:
• Approved requests from the Hotel. McDuff’s and Open Road Brewery to sell alcohol at designed outdoor areas during the Summer Celebration July 20 and 21. Jayda Gale’s request was approved pending review by the police chief.
• Was told by Main Street Director Ingrid Miller that the city has received a $4,500 grant from the Michigan Association of Realtor’s to go with a $5,500 contribution from ITC to help fund a rain garden.