Wayland City Manager Josh Eggleston said he has received four applications thus far for the vacant seat on the City Council.
The seat became vacant will with the death late last month of Gary Smith. The person appointed will serve at least until December 2021 and would be eligible to seek election to a full two-year term in the November general election.
The city manager said it is hoped the position can be filled by Monday, Feb. 1, and the deadline for applying is Wednesday, Jan. 27.
The council Monday gave its blessing to the city manager sending each applicant the expected five to seven questions ahead of time so as not to give anyone an advantage.
In other business at Monday night’s meeting, the council:
- Had the first reading of a proposed text amendment for square footage requirements for Garden-style apartments. The amendment would allow minimum requirements for two-bedroom apartments to be reduced from 900 to 760 square feet, “to help promote affordable housing in the city,” Eggleston said.
- Was told by City Clerk Lee Ann Clauson that there will be a second precinct for voters in the city in the city election this November. The location has been yet to be determined.
- Learned from City Engineer Mickey Bittner that an application has been filed with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) for a $332,000 grant for service investigation of the city’s water, inspection for lead and copper.
Bittner added that such investigations will be necessary over the next four years.
• Was told by Eggleston that bids for repaving Elm, Church, Park and Mill Streets probably will be let in late 2021 or early 2022. A grant for up to $250,000 from the Michigan Department of Transportation will be sought.
• Heard from Councilman Rick Mathis that despite the terrible challenges from the Coronavirus pandemic, more businesses are coming into the downtown than leaving. He urged citizens to shop local and patronize local restaurants.
