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LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING
WEDNESDAY, August 28, 2024
5:30 P.M.
Conference Room 204
MUSKEGON CITY HALL
933 TERRACE STREET
MUSKEGON, MI 49440
AGENDA
I. Call to Order
II. Approval of Minutes for May 22, 2024
III. Old Business
IV. New Business
1) Legislative Updates – Pete Wills
2) Special Event Policy Updates – Mayor Johnson
3) Multi-modal public access to water in PUDs/developments – Mayor Johnson
4) Traffic Study 101 – Dan VanderHeide/LeighAnn Mikesell
5) Parking Fees – Jonathan Seyferth
6) Joint Norton Shores/Muskegon City Commission Meeting – Jonathan Seyferth
7) Decide on meeting date for 4th quarter Legislative Policy Committee Meeting.
The 4th Wednesday of the 2nd month of the 4th quarter is 11/27/2024 – City
Hall is closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday.
V. Public Comment
Adjourn
CITY OF MUSKEGON
LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE
Minutes
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
5:30 pm
Present: Commissioners St. Clair, Johnson, Gorman, Kilgo, St. Clair, and Kochin.
Absent: Commissioner German.
Approval of Minutes
Commissioner St. Clair moved, Commissioner Kilgo seconded, to approve the minutes of
February 28, 2024.
MOTION CARRIED.
Legislative Update – Pete Wills
Pete Wills reviewed several State proposed bills with City Commissioners.
Mr. Wills reviewed the ARPA community grants. Twenty-five grants were approved for $1.6
million. Five projects are completed, thirteen have been paid 50% of their installment, five have
been paid the second installment, and two projects are pending. Tiki Boiz did go out of business
and their food truck does not qualify for the ARPA Grant.
The City has completed an organization-wide Greenhouse Gas Inventory.
City Climate Action Workgroup is meeting and currently generating a Climate Action Plan,
using data from the inventory.
The City of Muskegon reached Gold certification in the Michigan Green Communities
Challenge. MGC is a statewide network of local government staff and officials who collaborate
with one another, through peer learning and information sharing, to promote innovative
sustainability, climate change, and environmental justice solutions. MGC is open to all counties,
cities, villages, and townships at no cost.
Lakefront Development Discussion – City Manager
A presentation was given by Sand Products representatives to the Commission on port/shipping
opportunities on the Great Lakes. The presentation was a high-level view of how Muskegon
could contribute to the future of shipping on the Great Lakes and discuss possible sites along
Muskegon Lake that lend themselves to port operations.
Commissioners engaged on a discussion regarding port development and how port development
could move forward. The discussion also included the topic of public access to water and how
port operations can work together in harmony with public access.
Time Sensitive Land Acquisition Request – Mayor Johnson
This was a discussion of consideration of the City pursuing a DNR Trust Fund grant to acquire
property adjoining Hartshorn Park & Marina for recreational purposes.
Hartshorn Village is more than three acres currently listed for sale and the City does have the
opportunity to purchase it. It is currently part of the PUB which was first approved by the City
Commission on February 26, 2019. Since then, the PUD has been amended, the property has
changed ownership, and two houses on site have been constructed. The initial PUD envisioned
the construction of 55 houses. The property is now being marketed for sale altogether to
prospective developers and investors as well as for sale by parcel to individuals.
While the regular cycle deadline to apply for a DNR Trust Fund grand to acquire land has passed
already this year, the City may pursue a Time-Sensitive Land Acquisition Request through the
DNR. If desired, the City would petition the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund Board to
invite the City to submit a formal request for a time-sensitive land acquisition request.
It is expected that at least 25% of the approved land value will need to be matched by the City.
This matching value could be satisfied by a portion of the property being donated or the sale
price being discounted from the appraised value. Alternatively, the matching value could be paid
by the City directly or via third-party monetary donations.
Commissioners discussed the prospects of applying for the grant.
Rebranding – Community Engagement Manager
Deborah Sweet shared the process of the City’s plans for a new logo and how it was chosen. She
then shared the logo with City Commissioners and explained the plan to implement the logo
throughout the City.
Adjourn at 8:14 pm.
______________________________
Ann Marie Meisch, MMC
City Clerk
State / Federal Report, August 2024
Bill # Detail Status Position
HB 4002 Increases the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) from 6% to 30%. Senate Committee NA
HB 4003 Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act; include sexual orientation & gender identity or expression as a protected Senate Committee NA
category.
HB 4274- Creates Revenue Sharing Trust Fund; SB 182-183; the bills would dedicate 8% of the 4% sales tax and place Senate Committee, MML
4275 it in a trust fund specifically for statutory revenue sharing. 11/2/23 support
HB 4605 Provide for distribution of sales tax revenue into public safety and violence prevention fund; 1.5% of the 4% Senate 6/12/24 MML
of sales tax revenue collected. support
HB 4606 Create public safety and violence prevention fund Senate 6/12/24 MML
support
HB 4688 Makes minimum staffing levels for all local units a mandatory topic of collective bargaining. House floor, MML
11/2/23 opposed
HB 4878 Would create the Michigan Fair Chance Access to Housing Act to generally prohibit a landlord from using an House Local Gov NA
individual’s criminal record when evaluating the individual’s rental application at any stage in the 10/5/23
application process, except as provided by the act or under federal or state law.
HB 4919 Would create the Bill of Rights for the Homeless Act, which would provide that homeless individuals must House Local Gov NA
be granted the same rights and privileges as any other citizen in MI and would prohibit the denial of an 7/19/23
individual’s rights, privileges, or access to public services solely because the individual is, or is perceived to
be, homeless.
HB 4965 Video Services Act; exempts providers of streaming services from paying rent for use of the public ROW, Senate MML
otherwise shouldered by the taxpayer, and its obligation to support public/educational/government access. Committee opposed
The net effect of this will be a loss of some, most or perhaps all of the over $350,000 currently received by 10/24/23
the Muskegon in cable/video franchise fees which go to the General Fund, plus PEG support for local
programming which includes cable/video access to government meetings, without which we lose a critical
component of local government transparency.
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HB 5088- Create water rate affordability program; shutoff protection act, etc. Bill package would establish a low- House Natural NA
93 income water residential affordability program; funds would be used to aid low-income residents for Resources, Env,
expenses related to water and sewer service; would establish standards and criteria for when a water Tourism
service provider can shut off water supply; would regulate rental agreements to allow a tenant in a metered 10/4/23
or sub-metered rental property to request that a copy of the water and sewer bill be sent to both landlord
and tenant.
HB 5437- Short Term Rental package; HB 5438 is the main bill (statewide registry, health/safety measures; 6% excise House Local Gov MML
5446 tax goes back to community hosting the STR. 2/14/24 support
HB 5463 Creates a Center for Microenterprise Development, operated by the Michigan Strategic Fund, to support House Econ NA
microenterprise development organizations (MDOs) and microenterprise businesses. MDOs would mean a Development
community-based, nonprofit organization that has a plan and the demonstrated or potential capacity to 2/22/24
provide business development training, technical assistance, or business loans to microenterprise
businesses. Microenterprise business would mean a new or existing business headquartered in MI that has
ten or fewer employees, including startups, home-based businesses, and self-employed individuals.
HB 5557 Requires Master Plans to forecast and consider housing needs. The Master Plan would have to promote or Senate Local Gov MML
adequately provide for a range of housing types, costs, affordability, attainability, ages, and other 6/25/24 support
characteristics (such as single- and multiple-family dwellings) to serve the housing demands of a diverse
population.
SB 205- The bills would prohibit a landlord or a person engaging in real estate transactions from discriminating Passed House, NA
207 against a person based on that person’s source of income. Source of income would include specified 6/27/24
benefits and subsidies, such as public assistance and social security. In addition, modifications proposed to
the landlord-tenant Act would allow a person to seek relief or damages in court because of a landlord’s
source of income discrimination.
SB 293 Housing and Community Development Fund – expands the program to including housing projects for House floor, MML
middle-income households and no longer require the program to restricted to downtown areas. 6/26/24 support
SB 480 Land Division Act - It's an amendment to the Land Division Act that would increase the allowable number of House Local Gov NA
parcels that the first 10 acres of a parent parcel or tract could be divided into. Currently that number is 11/8/23
four. The amendment would increase it from four to 20.
SB 660 The bill would allow a local unit to create a stormwater management utility by adopting a stormwater Senate Local Gov
management plan and a stormwater management utility fee ordinance. The intent is to build up 11/9/23
stormwater services in preparation for flood events.
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LOCAL
ARPA Community Grants, as of 8/22/24
- 25 - total approved grants ($1.6M)
- 7 - projects completed (Samaritas, Unity Beauty Salon, Tiki Boiz, Rake Beer Projects, Forrest Tax, Jackson
Hill NA, McLaughlin NA)
- 12 - have been paid the first installment payment, ie. 50% of the total award
- 4 – have been paid the second installment payment, ie. 40% of the remaining balance
- 2 – projects pending
Addressing Climate Action
- City reached Gold certification in the Michigan Green Communities Challenge. MGC is a statewide
network of local government staff and officials who collaborate with one another, through peer learning
and information sharing, to promote innovative sustainability, climate change, and environmental justice
solutions. MGC is open to all counties, cities, villages, and townships at no cost.
- Organization-wide Greenhouse Gas Inventory completed.
- U.S. Dept of Energy, Energy Efficiency Community Block Grant (EECBG) – City received access to $76,000
block grant and has received approval to acquire two EV side-by-side vehicles for use by the Parks Dept
throughout the year. The acquisition is expected to be presented to the Commission in September.
- EGLE-Community Energy Management Grant – City has received pre-approval to receive $75,000 to
offset the Development of a Climate Action Plan; City has received pre-approval from EGLE to hire a
consultant and draft the Plan.
Grants Management Services
- 8/3/24 - RFQ issued to seek qualified vendors to render grant management services including, but not
limited to, identifying eligible grant opportunities, drafting proposals, and managing the application
process. The City is committed to utilizing grants to expand current operational activities including, but
not limited to, program development, advocacy, capacity building, research, public awareness, and
project implementation.
MEDC RAP 1.0 grant ($6M)
- ($1M) Arena / Thayer – City has received the reimbursement of $410,000. Funds are being used to
support continued reconstruction efforts at the THA.
- ($5M) LakeView Lofts Phase II – City has received approval of the reimbursement request of $2.5M for
LakeView Lofts Phase II (Great Lakes Development Inc.). Funds are expected to be processed by the MEDC
on behalf of Great Lakes Development Inc in the next 1-2 weeks.
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STATE
The legislature is expected to return for three weeks of session in September and recess until after the
November General Election.
Shaw-Walker – The $18M state enhancement grant secured in the FY24 state budget remains in place and is
expected to be awarded to support the redevelopment of the former Shaw-Walker building.
Shaw-Walker – The $3M state enhancement grant included in the FY25 budget, but vetoed, is expected to be
reconsidered by the legislature later this fall. The funds would continue to support the redevelopment of the
former Shaw-Walker building.
Disaster Declaration for Muskegon County – It is expected the Governor’s Office and legislature will
reconsider Muskegon County’s Declaration of Emergency Request which occurred June 25th. The City incurred
over $375,000 in expenses for cleanup efforts of our Public Works and Public Safety staff.
State Budget – Earlier this summer the Governor signed the FY25 state budget which included $549.7 million in
statutory revenue sharing for cities, villages, townships plus the new $75 million for the public safety and violence
prevention fund. The budget authorized the expenditure of the funds for the creation of this new public safety
trust fund. However, legislation (HB 4605/4606) which sets forth the policy expectations of this fund needs to be
approved and signed into law before the fiscal year begins on October 1st. The City is expected to receive
approximately $467,000 to support operational expenses within the Public Safety Division. Additionally, similar
efforts to codify needed language establishing the new revenue sharing trust fund are ongoing as well. (HB 4274
and 4275)
Short Term Rental legislation
There is a possibility this topic will be revisited in the September legislative session. The bills have not yet passed
one chamber of the legislature. If this has not yet occurred by the end of the legislative term, it is unlikely the bills
will be considered.
- HB 5438 – Would create the Short-Term Rental Regulation Act. A 6% state tax would be levied on
occupancy charges for houses, apartments and condos that are rented for more than 14 days a year. The
estimated $35 million to $70 million in annual revenue would go to local governments where the
properties are located, except up to $1 million for administrative costs. Owners would be required to have
at least $1 million in liability insurance and functioning carbon monoxide detectors, smoke detectors and
fire extinguishers. They would have to file a certificate each year to go into a new state-run database of
dwellings and provide information such as an emergency contact who lives within 30 miles.
- HB 5441 – Clarifies an application of an excise tax to STR and makes other changes pertaining to the
Comm Convention or Tourism Marketing Act
- HB 5442 – Clarifies an application of an excise tax to STR and other changes to State Conv Facility Dev Act
- HB 5443 – Clarifies an app of an excise tax to STR and other mods pertaining to the excise tax on
businesses.
- HB 5444 – Clarifies an app of an excise tax to STR and other changes pertaining to the Reg Event Center
Financing Act
- HB 5445 – Clarifies an app of an excise tax to STR and makes other changes pertaining to Conv Tourism
Market Act
- HB 5446 – Clarifies an app of an excise tax to STR and makes other changes pertaining to Conv Tourism
Promo Act
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Agenda Item Review Form
Muskegon City Commission – Legislative Policy Committee
Commission Meeting Date: August 28, 2024 Title: Special Event Policy updates
Submitted By: Mayor Ken Johnson Department: City Commission
Brief Summary: Discussion on potential changes to the City’s Special Event Policy.
Detailed Summary & Background:
The City Commission last updated the Special Event Policy on December 12, 2023. As City staff
contemplate further policy changes to recommend to the City Commission, I would like the Legislative
Policy Committee (LPC) to discuss a few changes and determine if there is adequate support for
incorporating them in a forthcoming staff-proposed update to our Special Event Policy.
1) For events at Pere Marquette Park (PMP) with an anticipated attendance exceeding a certain
threshold (to be determined), the organizers would be required to arrange shuttle service from
off-site locations as part of the event permitting process. The Burning Foot Beer Festival is a
great example of an event that has been providing shuttle service already to its attendees. A
question for the LPC to consider is whether to require this as a matter of policy for any event at
PMP that is expecting a large turnout. This could help mitigate traffic congestion in the PMP area,
while providing eventgoers with another transportation option.
2) Restricting the number of overlapping events, particularly if large events, at one time at PMP.
Perhaps establishing an aggregate attendance limit for any number of events on the same day.
a. There was a situation recently with a soccer tournament and volleyball tournament
occurring at the same time at PMP, which resulted in heavy traffic congestion in the area
and very limited parking for non-eventgoers wanting to visit PMP and nearby attractions.
Furthermore, with the many and growing events that happen at PMP, there is concern
about the ability of residents and visitors to park at and enjoy PMP.
• Sidenote - the Commission’s current five-year goals include a desire to establish a
seasonal, fixed-route public transportation service – you may have heard me refer to it as a
“Shoreline Shuttle” or “Shoreline Circulator.” I envision this service hugging the Muskegon
Lake shoreline, going from Jackson Hill to Downtown/Nelson to Nims to Lakeside to PMP,
and looping back and forth. In addition to helping residents and guests to access and enjoy
the City’s various commercial and recreational areas along our waterfront, this service
could help alleviate growing traffic congestion.
Goal/Focus Area/Action Item Addressed: Destination Community & Quality of Life focus areas
Amount Requested: None. Budgeted Item: Not applicable.
Fund(s) or Account(s): Not applicable. Budget Amendment Needed: No.
Recommended Motion: Discussion only.
Approvals: Not applicable. Guest(s) Invited / Presenting: None.
CITY OF MUSKEGON
SPECIAL EVENT POLICY
The City of Muskegon has many parks and facilities available for use. A
Special Event Application is required for any public event held on City
property or requiring City services. While there are several City departments
involved in the special event process, this policy centralizes the
administration of special events with the Department of Public Works. Email
specialevents@shorelinecity.com or call (231) 724-6907 for any questions.
For events where alcohol is served, applicants must also obtain
approval from the State of Michigan Liquor Control Commission and the Muskegon Police
Department (231-724-6750), in addition to completing the Special Event Application. Liquor
license approval is a separate process from the Special Event Application, with its own fees and
regulations. The final authority for signing special liquor licenses is with the Public Safety Director. For
State of Michigan liquor license regulations and information, please visit the State of Michigan’s website
at www.michigan.gov/lara.
SPECIAL EVENT APPLICATION PROCEDURE
I. Special Event Application (“Application”) Submission & Fee Schedule
All Applications shall be filed with the Department of Public Works at least forty-five (45)days prior to
the event. The non-refundable Application fee must be paid at the time the Application is submitted.
$100 fee for applications submitted 60 days or more
prior to the event date
$250 fee for applications submitted 46-59 days prior
to the event date
Applications submitted less than 45 days prior to
the event date will not be accepted; first time
events at Pere Marquette must apply 75 days prior
to the event date
Application and parade event fees may be waived for Veteran’s groups. In addition, the City’s
recognized Neighborhood Associations are entitled to two Application fee waivers, event fee waivers
and picnic table deliveriesper year in addition to National Night Out festivities, provided that the
Application is submitted to the Department of Public Works at least 45 days in advance of the event date.
Up to two application fees may be waived for a non-profit organization in its lifetime. The non-profit must
serve City of Muskegon residents to qualify.
The Application shall be submitted on the appropriate form. The Application fee must be paid at the
time of Application submission or the Application will not be considered. The City of Muskegon
Request for Special Event Application form can be found on the City’s website at www.muskegon-
mi.gov, or you may email specialevents@shorelinecity.com or call (231) 724-6907 to have one mailed,
or visit the Department of Public works at 1350 E Keating Ave, Monday – Friday from 8:00 am. Until
4:300 p.m. excluding holidays.
Block Parties. The City has a separate Block Party Policy and Application. Contact the Department of
Public Works at specialevents@shorelinecity.com or 231-724-6907 for further information about block
parties.
4th of July weekend. Margaret Drake Elliott Park is not available for special events on the 4th of July,
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including the entire weekend if July 4 falls on a Friday, Saturday, or Sunday. The park is reserved for
picnicking during this holiday.
Reserving event dates for multiple years. As long as prior year event fees are paid in full, established
events may reserve their event date(s) and location for future years. A completed special event
application must be received by February 1 of each year in order to hold the date(s) and location.
II. Event Requirements
All Special Event permittees must adhere to the following rules and regulations. Failure to do
so may result in the applicant having any conditional approvals revoked, being held responsible for
any damages and/or denial of future event Applications.
(a) Public Safety Personnel. While the presence of public safety personnel
(police/fire/medical) may not be required at all special events, it shall be the discretion of the Public
Safety Director if city police and/or fire officials may be required. The applicant/organization will be
responsible for payment of public safety personnel services. See Fee Schedule (Section IV) for fee
estimates. If an event is cancelled with less than 72 hours’ notice, the applicant/organization will be
responsible for paying two hours’ pay per officer, per union contract requirements. Applicants are not
allowed to provide their own public safety staff (police/fire/medical) without prior approval of the City of
Muskegon’s Public Safety Director.
(b) Liability Insurance. The applicant must provide proof of liability insurance in the amount
of $1,000,000 naming the City of Muskegon as an additional insured. You may use an insurance agent
of your choice. An acceptable certificate of insurance must be submitted no later than 10 days before
the event date. Please inform your insurance agent that the wording on the certificate must read:
“The City of Muskegon, all elected and appointed officials, all employees and volunteers, all boards,
commissions and/or authorities and board members, including employees and volunteers thereof; it
is understood and agreed that by naming the City of Muskegon as additional insured, coverage
afforded is considered to be primary and any other insurance the City of Muskegon may have in
effect shall be considered secondary and/or excess.”
(c) Restroom Facilities. All outdoor events shall provide adequate restroom facilities (i.e.
portable toilets) including handicapped-accessible facilities per ADA requirements. Restroom
placement shall not impede sidewalk traffic.
(d) Digging & Staking. Digging or staking at into paved areas, including roadways, sidewalks,
and public parking areas, is not permitted. Digging or staking into non-paved ground shall be cleared
through Miss Dig in order to avoid damage to underground utilities. The Applicant Organization is
responsible for contacting Miss Dig (1-800-482-7171, or dial 811) a minimum of 5 working days prior to
event set-up. The applicant will also be responsible for paying an electrician to locate underground utility
lines and a City employee to location irrigation/water lines, if required. A penalty of $100 will be charged
for an unapproved staking and the Applicant Organization will be responsible for the cost of any
damages to underground utilities, including irrigation lines, caused by digging or staking.
(e) Electrical and Water Hook-up The applicant must adapt to electrical power available on-
site, or provide their own generator. When using City electrical panels, the applicant shall read the meter
before and after the event, and report those numbers to the City’s special event coordinator upon
request. City fire hydrants may be used as a water source for a fee (see Fee Schedule - Section IV) for
cost. It is the responsibility of the applicant to provide acceptable hoses for potable water usage, which
meet Health Department requirements.
(f) Inspections. The event location is subject to all building, plumbing, mechanical, electrical,
and fire codes. It is the permittee’s responsibility to schedule an inspection by any and all required
inspectors and pay the required inspection fee(s). The City’s building inspection department
(SAFEbuilt), requires an inspection of assembly tents that are 400 sq ft or greater. See Fee Schedule
(Section IV) for costs. For events having multiple tents, contact the City’s Building Official for inspection
fees.
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(g) Food Vendors.
• Food trucks/trailers. All food trucks or trailers must be inspected and approved by the Fire
Marshal at least 2 weeks prior to participation in a special event. A current, completed and
approved Muskegon County, Grand Rapids FD, Holland FD, Grand Haven DPS or Kalamazoo
County inspection will be accepted. Contact the Fire Marshal for an inspection at (231) 724-
6793.
• Food vendor tents. All vendors cooking in a tent must have tar paper on the ground in their
whole footprint. Food tent vendors are required to have at a minimum: a 3A-40BC ABC-type
fire extinguisher and a Class-K type fire extinguisher for any deep-frying equipment or when
oil and/or grease is used/produced during food preparation. These extinguishers must have
a current inspection tag from a third-party vendor. Additional extinguishers and
requirements may be required and enforced by the inspecting Fire Official. Food vendors
using a tent are subject to site inspection that shall be performed after the tent and all
equipment are in place and operational.
(h) Camping/Campgrounds. Approval must be given by the City Commission to have camping
at your event at least 60 days before the event. The Department of Public Works will submit the request
to the City Commission. Events that include overnight camping or a campground area also require a
permit from the Muskegon County Health Department and Department of Environment, Great Lakes
and Energy. To obtain information about this permit, call (231) 724-6208. A copy of an approved permit
must be provided to the City.
(i) Event Set-up and Tear-down. For events utilizing any public roadway, no tents, booths,
vendors, or equipment shall be set up in the roadway prior to 6:00 p.m. the day before the event. All
signs, tents, booths, vendors, and equipment must be removed from the roadway prior to 6:00 a.m. the
day after the event.
(j) Site Clean-up and Trash Disposal. The Applicant shall be responsible for clean-up of City
facilities after the event. This includes the removal of trash from the site (do not leave full trash cans on
site). Applicants shall provide their own Dumpster. The City shall have the right to enforce cleanup
measures, including but not limited to entry and cleaning of property by City personnel with costs
charged to the owner, occupant, or applicant. City staff may require a walk-through after the event to
ensure satisfactory clean-up.
(k) Merchandise Sales. Sales of all merchandise for Special Events must be out of the public
right-of-way, unless prior authorization is received.
(l) Events Using Water. Events utilizing a body of water such as Muskegon Lake and/or Lake
Michigan require Coast Guard (414-747-7100) and/or Department of Natural Resources (269-685-
6851) special event approval.
(m) Pyrotechnics. Events utilizing any kind of pyrotechnics must contact the Fire Marshal (231-
724-6793) and must also obtain the appropriate permits from the City Clerk’s Office (231-724-6705).
(n) Compliance with all regulations. Special Event applicants/organizations are responsible
to ensure that all applicable laws and ordinances are followed. Failure to comply with all city ordinances,
rules and regulations may result in the denial of future special event requests.
III. Special Event Application Processing
(a) Application Intake. Department of Public Works Office staff shall be responsible for intake
of Special Event Applications and dissemination to appropriate City staff for review and approval. The
Application fee must be submitted with the Application. Liquor license Applications shall be filed with
the Public Safety Director.
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(b) Event Approval. The City will issue a conditional approval or denial no later than 30 days
after the Application date whenever possible. Preliminary approval may be given to allow the applicant
to advertise the event, with final details to be worked out with staff. An approval letter will be issued,
listing conditions of approval. First time events at Pere Marquette must be approved by the City
Commission; the entire approval process could take up to 60 days.
(c) Application Denial. If City staff reviews an Application and denies same, it shall be stated
in writing the reasons for the denial. An appeal of that decision may be made to the City Commission,
whose decision shall be final.
(d) Unpaid Invoices Due the City. Any past due fees/invoices owed to the City will result in
denial of the event Application and/or future Special Event requests until paid in full.
(e) Meetings with Staff. City staff will meet with applicants to discuss event details if needed.
Contact the City’s special event coordinator in the Department of Public Works to request a meeting.
There may also be instances when City staff may require a meeting with the applicant. Failure to attend
a requested meeting may result in denial of the Application.
(f) Street Closures/Barricading. Requests for City road closings/barricading require approval
of the Public Safety Director and the DPW Superintendent. DPW Office staff will forward requests to the
appropriate personnel once the Application and fee are submitted. The applicant is responsible for all
associated costs, which may include barricades, public safety services, etc. There is an additional $50
fee for each block closed beyond 2 blocks. City Commission approval may be required in some cases.
If a street closure is approved for an event, the Applicant must provide written notification to all
businesses and residences located along the affected street(s) and one block surrounding event
footprint at least 10 days prior to the event date. Changes to street closures requested within 30 days
of the event date will incur a $50 fee. No route and/or road closure changes will be allowed within 14
days of an event.
(f)(1) Time Restrictions Streets shall not be closed prior to 6:00 p.m. the day before the event
and must be open by 6:00 a.m. the day following the conclusion of the event.
(f)(2) Parking along event routes. The applicant shall be responsible for posting “No Parking”
signs along the closed streets of an event route at least 48 hours in advance of the event date.
The City’s Department of Public Works may have No Parking signs available for use. However,
the applicant/organization must attach 5 ½” by 8 ½” addendums to the signs noting the name of
the event and date and time the parking restrictions will be in effect.
(g) Runs/Walks. For races, runs, walks, or parades, the applicant must submit a map with the
Application, showing the proposed route. In addition, if any streets will be closed or partially closed, the
applicant must provide written notification to all residents and businesses along the route as stated
above in paragraphs (f) and (f)(1). The City’s special event coordinator can provide the names and
addresses of affected homes and businesses to be notified. The applicant is responsible for any public
safety and/or DPW costs for street closures (barricades, police presence at intersections if needed,
etc). Western Ave from Shoreline Dr to 8th St will not be closed for a walk or run.
(g)(1) Use of Lakeshore Trail bike path. For events utilizing the Lakeshore Trail bike path,
there is a trail use fee that will be billed upon completion of the event (see Fee Schedule) to
help cover trail maintenance expenses. In addition, any events using the path must post
signage at trail entry points on the day of the event, notifying users that there is an event
occurring on the trail. Signs may be generic, such as “EVENT ON BIKE PATH TODAY”
(organizations using the path for events may share signs to reduce costs). The City’s Parks
Supervisor can assist you in locating sign placement locations.
(h) Site Plan. The City may require submittal of a site plan showing the event grounds and
the location of tents, vendors, portable toilets, and other structures.
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IV. Special Event Fee Schedule (Use of City Equipment, Labor Charges, Liquor Licenses,
Inspections, Park use fees)
ITEM / SERVICE RENTAL FEE (plus labor if necessary)
55-gallon metal trash can or Cardboard Bins $10.00 each
(cardboard delivered for free)
Plastic trash bags (1 case) $40.00 per case or actual cost
Standard Traffic Cone $1.00 each
Tall “Grab” Cone $3.00 each
Fire hydrant use (installation & removal of
$100.00 flat rate per hydrant
hydrant tree, water testing, and water usage)
DPW/Parks personnel labor costs $60.00/hour ($120/hour for Sundays and holidays)
(Transportation of Barricades/Cones/tables, etc) Truck/ trailer rental may also be charged
PUBLIC SAFETY SERVICES / FEES
NOTE: Liquor License fees are lowest when applied for at least 45 days in advance of the event date.
Liquor licenses will not be issued within 15 days of an event.
Special liquor license (non-profit)/New event $150.00 (if applied for at least 45 days in advance of event)
Special liquor license (non-profit)/Return event
$125.00 (if applied for at least 45 days in advance of event)
Organization located outside City of Muskegon
Special liquor license/Return event, in-City rate $ 75.00 (if applied for at least 45 days in advance of event)
Special liquor license (all) within 15-44 days of
$250.00
event
Liquor license/Temporary authorization –
$40.00 ($60 if within 15-44 days of event)
existing business/club
Public safety labor charges (police/fire/medical) $60.00 per hour (time and ½)
Public safety labor charges (police/fire/medical) $120.00 per hour (triple time/holidays)
INSPECTIONS
Inspection of assembly tent $50.00 (if multiple tents, contact building official for fees)
Contact the building inspection department to see if
Electrical or plumbing inspections
these are required
Fire Department inspection of food trucks Included with application fee
PARK USE FEES
Hackley Park exclusive use fee with Liquor License $500/day
Hackley Park use fee per quadrant $50/day per quadrant
Harbour Towne Beach user fee $1500.00 per event
Pere Marquette Park user fees Costs are per day
Zone 1 $400 weekdays; $600 Sat, Sun, and Holidays
Zone 2 $300 weekdays; $450 Sat, Sun, and Holidays
Zone 3 $200 weekdays; $300 Sat, Sun, and Holidays
Zone 4 $100 weekdays; $150 Sat, Sun, and Holidays
Events with a Liquor License $1,500 per day
Parking spaces for event use $15 per parking space reserved per day (max 15 spaces)
and each vehicle must have Beach Parking pass
Exclusive use fee of Ovals parking lot area $1,000 per day and each vehicle must have Beach Parking
pass
Exclusive use fee of smaller parking lots near Pere $400 per day and each vehicle must have a Beach Parking
Marquette (Margaret Drake Elliott Lot, smaller lot Pass
near ovals, and lot near the roundabout.)
Camping at Pere Marquette Park $20 per night per camper or tent*
*The City Commission may opt to collect a percentage of
camping revenue for larger events in lieu of the $20 per unit
-5-
Agenda Item Review Form
Muskegon City Commission
LPC Meeting Date: Aug. 28, 2024 Title: Traffic Studies
Submitted By: Jonathan Seyferth, City Department: City Manager’s Office
Manager
Brief Summary:
Deputy City Manager LeighAnn Mikesell and Public Works Director Dan VanderHeide will provide
an overview of what is generally learned from a traffic study and how its results can inform city
planning and development.
Detailed Summary & Background:
As the city has had a greater number of developments proposed, both the public and the City
Commission have requested traffic studies as part of those developments.
City staff will lead a discussion on what is generally learned from a traffic study and how the scope
of the study significantly impacts the study’s results. This includes the study area, time of day and
year, impact of irregular events, etc…
Staff will also discuss the various grading systems for roads within traffic study terminology (e.g.,
roads are generally designed to perform at a C Level, and roads that perform at an A Level are
more often than not overbuilt and encourage speeding).
This is only for discussion and education. We hope to help the commission gain some insights into
the particulars of a traffic study.
Goal/Focus Area/Action Item Addressed: Quality of Life, Destination Community
Amount Requested: N/A Budgeted Item:
Yes No N/A
Fund(s) or Account(s): N/A Budget Amendment Needed:
Yes No N/A
Recommended Motion: none – for discussion only
Agenda Item Review Form
Muskegon City Commission
LPC Meeting Date: Aug. 28, 2024 Title: Beach Parking Fees
Submitted By: Jonathan Seyferth, City Department: City Manager’s Office
Manager
Brief Summary:
The staff has begun to discuss Beach Parking rates and tools available to us now that Verizon has
installed cellular equipment covering Pere Marquette Beach.
Detailed Summary & Background:
The city has been charging for parking at our beach parking lots for several years. Annual passes
cost $20 per pass; day passes cost $10 Friday – Sunday and $7 Monday—Thursday. (City
residents receive two free passes per household.) This generates about $800,000 annually in
revenues, about half of which goes into parks. The other half goes into parking operations.
Throughout this summer, the community has seen significant levels of traffic at the beach on
several days (mostly on the weekend). This would indicate from an economic standpoint that the
city has not priced itself out of the market related to parking fees at the public beaches along Lake
Michigan. With this in mind, the staff would like to have a conversation with the commission
regarding its appetite to increase parking fees.
This is also being spurred by work that Verizon Wireless completed earlier this year, installing
cellular equipment on the city’s communication tower at the Water Treatment Plant. This has
resulted in additional options for our beach parking plan at Pere Marquette, especially regarding
kiosk use and varying rate structures.
On Tuesday, Aug. 27, staff will have a Zoom meeting with our parking vendor, Flowbird, to discuss
the costs and logistics of changing our parking plans. In addition to rates, staff will also discuss
using Flowbird’s App for parking payments, using license plate readers to determine if a vehicle
has a valid parking pass, etc…
Staff will have a follow-up report for the commission at the LPC meeting.
Goal/Focus Area/Action Item Addressed: Quality of Life, Destination Community
Amount Requested: N/A Budgeted Item:
Yes No N/A
Fund(s) or Account(s): N/A Budget Amendment Needed:
Yes No N/A
Recommended Motion: none – for discussion only
Approvals: Guest(s) Invited / Presenting:
Immediate Division Head
Information Technology Yes
Other Division Heads No X
Communication
Legal Review
CITY OF MUSKEGON
PAID PARKING 2023
PARKS AND PARKING
Paid parking began June 5th 2020. This report will show comparisons from 2022 and 2023.
Currently the City has placed 27 kiosks (2 were added in 2023 from 2020) at the cities beaches from
Kruse Park to Muskegon Lake and boat launches.
There are up and over 1,245 parking spots just within the beach area. (Study done in 2015).
2
Residential season passes
3
Sales prior to May 15th
Including Winter Ice Fishing at the Launch Ramps
Jan $ 903.00
Feb $ 115.00
Mar $ 1,682.00
April $ 7,100.00
May $ 6,910.00
TOTAL SALES $ 16,710.00
4
SEASON/DAILY PASSES SOLD AT KIOSK
# $ Location SEASON PASSES SOLD AT
1129
1393
790
$67,856.00
$92,539.00
$58,179.00
THE DECK
PM Channel
PM Lot Entrance
CITY HALL
1289 $73,833.00 Pier
958 $59,978.00 Pm Lot Bath house
1245 $70,005.00 Beach House SOLD BY DEPARTMENT
583 $31,878.00 Kruse Park
TOTALS
667 $31,851.00 Kite Shack Police $ 57,600.00 2003
118 $28,680.00 Fisherman Landing
DPW $ $280.00 14
136 $23,540.00 Grand Trunk
418 $25,816.00 Tree House Treasury $ 12,980.00 649
513 $16,858.00 Harbor Towne
$ 70,860.00 3,543
143 $17,228.00 Indiana/Beach
330 $17,145.00 Beach/Woodlawn
297 $15,042.00 Lewis House
243 $9,897.00 MDP Channel #2
187 $10,723.00 MDP Channel
401 $13,086.00 MDP Channel #1
119 $6,532.00 Kruse Pavillion
328 $11,222.00 Thin Beach #18
325 $10,783.00 Thin Beach #22
455 $16,831.00 Thin Beach #23
Shows the kiosk they were purchased at and area
109 $13,581.00 Coast Guard that was visited the most.
37 $8,700.00 Cottage Grove
5 $1,490.00 Hartshorne Marina
809 $69,885.00 2nd one by Deck
5
343 $47,075.00 Sm lot across from Deck
BEACH KIOSKS COMPARISSON 2022-2023
2022
$52,319.00
September
$59,533.00 2023
$146,243.00
August
$171,754.00
$274,388.00
July
$287,011.00
$226,440.00
June
$216,390.00
$91,084.00
May
$115,653.00
$- $20,000.00 $40,000.00 $60,000.00 $80,000.00 $100,000.00$120,000.00$140,000.00$160,000.00$180,000.00$200,000.00$220,000.00$240,000.00$260,000.00$280,000.00$300,000.00$320,000.00
PASS KIOSK SALES 2022 - 2023
2022
$2,596.00
DECK 2023
$514,898.00
DAILY
$272,860.00
SEASONAL
$- $100,000.00 $200,000.00 $300,000.00 $400,000.00 $500,000.00 $600,000.00
7
COMPARISSION BY DAY OF THE WEEK 2022-2023
2022
$71,717.00
SUNDAY
$169,740.00
2023
$155,210.00
SATURDAY
$237,170.00
$202,610.00
FRIDAY
$139,990.00
$134,690.00
THURSDAY
$71,498.00
$81,724.00
WEDNESDAY
$64,919.00
$67,961.00
TUESDAY
$78,006.00
$76,442.00
MONDAY
$89,018.00
$- $50,000.00 $100,000.00 $150,000.00 $200,000.00 $250,000.00
8
MEMORIAL DAY
2022
Monday 2023
Sunday
Saturday
Friday
$- $5,000.00 $10,000.00 $15,000.00 $20,000.00 $25,000.00
9
FOURTH OF JULY
2022
Monday
2023
Sunday
Saturday
Friday
$- $2,000.00 $4,000.00 $6,000.00 $8,000.00 $10,000.00 $12,000.00 $14,000.00 $16,000.00 $18,000.00 $20,000.00
10
LABOR DAY
Monday 2022 2023
Sunday
Saturday
Friday
$- $2,000.00 $4,000.00 $6,000.00 $8,000.00 $10,000.00 $12,000.00
11
LAUNCH RAMPS SALES From
January to September 2023
$105,838.00
Beach Compliance Patrols 9a-9p
Warnings began May 15 and continued until May 31
Parking Compliance Patrols began May 28th
Total tickets written 2991
Tickets voided/given pass 934
$ with fines/penalties $119,850.00
TICKET ENFORCEMENT
Dismissed/voided/given pass $ 1,790.00 2022
2023
Paid $68,450.00
Still Due $51,400.00 TOTAL
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500 3000 3500
13
14
Agenda Item Review Form
Muskegon City Commission
LPC Meeting Date: Aug. 28, 2024 Title: Joint Cities of Muskegon/Norton Shores
Commission/Counsel meeting
Submitted By: Jonathan Seyferth, City Department: City Manager’s Office
Manager
Brief Summary:
Discuss the potential of a joint Muskegon and Norton Shores Board meeting.
Detailed Summary & Background:
Several elected officials from Norton Shores and Muskegon have requested that the cities hold a
joint board meeting. The objective is to build on the good relations and communication between
the two boards.
We will discuss whether we are open to holding a joint meeting and potential dates/timelines for
such a meeting.
Goal/Focus Area/Action Item Addressed:
Amount Requested: N/A Budgeted Item:
Yes No N/A
Fund(s) or Account(s): N/A Budget Amendment Needed:
Yes No N/A
Recommended Motion: none – for discussion only
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