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Annual Report JAN UARY 2 0 24 - DECEMBER 2 024 933 Terrace Street | Muskegon, Michigan | shorelinecity.com AB O U T City of Muskegon The City of Muskegon is proud to highlight the dedicated leadership of our City Commissioners, each bringing valuable expertise P R O U D TO B E YO U R and insight to the table. Together with the mayor and City Commissioners six City Commissioners, they guide our city’s direction, Ken Johnson making important decisions Mayor Current term expires 12/31/2025 that shape the future of our Email: ken.johnson@shorelinecity.com vibrant community. Rebecca St Clair Vice Mayor, At-Large Commissioner Current term expires 12/31/2025 Email: rebecca.stclair@shorelinecity.com Rachel Gorman At-Large Commissioner Current term expires 12/31/2025 Email: rachel.gorman@shorelinecity.com Jay Kilgo Ward 1 Commissioner Current term expires 12/31/2027 Email: jay.kilgo@shorelinecity.com Willie German, Jr Ward 2 Commissioner Current term expires 12/31/2027 Email: willie.german@shorelinecity.com Managing Muskegon Destinee Keener The Commission works hand- Ward 3 Commissioner in-hand with our City Manager, Current term expires 12/31/2027 who oversees the day-to- Email: destinee.keener@shorelinecity.com day operations of Muskegon, collaborating with four divisions to Katrina Kochin manage a $108 million budget and Ward 4 Commissioner a dedicated team of 240 full-time Current term expires 12/31/2027 and 30 part-time employees. Email: katrina.kochin@shorelinecity.com 2 Division & Department Heads MANAG E R ’ S O F F I CE PU B L I C SAF E TY D IVI S I O N Jonathan Seyferth City Manager Timothy Kozal Director of Public Safety LeighAnn Mikesell Deputy City Manager Andrew Rush Patrol Captain Peter Wills Director of Strategic Operations Jay Paulson Deputy Fire Chief Deborah Santiago-Sweet Community Engagement Manager Kim Spittler Chief Building Official Melissa Clark Human Resources Analyst Scott Zonnebelt Administrative Captain Tim Bahorski Investigations Captain D EVE L O P M E N T S E RVI CES D IVI S I O N Jake Eckholm Director of Development Services PU B L I C W O R KS D IVI S I O N Mike Franzak Planning Director Dan VanderHeide Director of Public Works Sharonda Carson Community & Neighborhood Services Director Todd Myers Deputy Director of Public Works Kyle Karczewski Parks & Recreation Director F I NAN CE & AD M I N I ST RAT I O N D IVI S I O N Joe Buthker Public Works Superintendent Ken Grant Director of Finance & Administration Jacqui Erny Financial & Administrative Services Superintendent Jessica Rabe Assistant Finance Director Josh Parmer Water Plant Superintendent Ann Meisch City Clerk Dwana Thompson EEO & Employee Relations Director Jake Laime Arena Director Jason Boes Information Technology Director Peggy Thorsen Income Tax Administrator Sarah Wilson City Treasurer Campbell Park Pop-Up Party 2024 4th of July Fireworks 2024 Boards & Committees In addition to our leadership team, Muskegon is fortunate to have an incredible network of community members serving on 21 boards and committees. These boards play a critical role in shaping our city’s policies and initiatives, and we are always accepting new applications for those eager to make an impact. We extend our deepest gratitude to the many volunteers who generously dedicated hundreds of hours in 2024 to make Muskegon a better place for all. Your contributions continue to inspire and strengthen our community! Citizen’s Police Review Board Tax Increment Finance Authority Lakeside Business Improvement District Civil Service Commission Election Commission Local Development Finance Authority Community Development Block Grant/ Equal Opportunity Committee Local Officer’s Compensation Commission Citizen’s District Council Farmers Market Advisory Board Parks & Recreation Advisory Board Construction Code Board of Appeals Historic District Commission Planning Commission District Library Board Housing Code Board of Appeals Zoning Board of Appeals Downtown Development Authority Housing Commission Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board Income Tax Board of Review 3 F R O M T H E O F F I CE O F The City Manager Dear Community Members, As we reflect on 2024, I’m excited to share the progress we’ve made toward achieving our long-term goals for the City of Muskegon as set by the City Commission. These goals serve as our guiding principles, steering our collective efforts to create a thriving, welcoming community for all. I’m continually inspired by the dedication of our city team. Every day, they work hard to provide exceptional service to residents, businesses, and visitors, ensuring Muskegon continues to grow as a vibrant destination. This year, we’ve advanced our vision for Muskegon as a community known for its remarkable quality of life. We’ve invested in parks, recreational programs, and public spaces that enhance daily life for residents while drawing in visitors who contribute to our local economy (read more on page 6). We’ve also focused on expanding economic opportunities and housing access. By supporting diverse business growth, increasing attainable housing options, and fostering pathways to homeownership, we’re building a stronger foundation for all Muskegon residents (read more on pages 8-9). Strengthening the connection between local government and the community is at the heart of what we do. Through clearer, more accessible communication and active engagement opportunities, we’ve made it easier for everyone to share their voice and stay informed. This transparency helps foster trust and collaboration, ensuring we grow together (read more on pages 10-11). Finally, we’ve taken steps to secure Muskegon’s long- term financial sustainability by looking several fiscal years into the future to model how past obligations and future needs balance out. This project will be ongoing as legacy costs and non-general fund expenditures impact general fund expenses. It is a manageable challenge. By Sincerely, supporting economic development investment, investing in housing, and supporting innovative projects, staff and elected officials ensure that a wide range of revenue streams support government operations (for more on revenues, see page 12). Together, we’re building a brighter future for Muskegon—one marked by progress, resilience, and pride in our shared community. On behalf of the entire City of Muskegon team, thank you for your continued trust, Jonathan Seyferth, icma-cm City Manager engagement, and support. 4 2024 Service Awards Ceremony Service Awards 202 4 S H O U TO U TS A special thank you to all city staff for their dedication and hard work in serving the Muskegon community. Your efforts truly make a difference. We also extend our heartfelt congratulations to the 2024 service award honorees for their many years of service. 5 Mason Adkins (POL) Joshua Eaton (POL) Ambur Lenartowicz (FIN) Samuel Schmitt (FIR) Steven Chartier (FIR) Jacob Eckholm (PLN) Cory McCleary (WSM) Adam Tiefenbach (FIR) Teairra Clark (PKS) Jordan Grabinski (FIR) Hayden Nickell (FIN) Alex Vanderwall (POL) Devon DeVries (FIR) Jennie Griswold (INC TX) Donald Nunez (HWY) Ryan VanNett (PKS) Jason Dionne (FIR) Jason Hruskach (FIR) Samantha Pastoor (FIR) Kyle Visser (FIR) Daniel Duffy (FIR) Jeffery Klochack (HWY) James Petrie (FIL) Peter Wills (MGR) Jacob Dyer (FIR) Todd Laisure (PKS) Justin Prowant (PKS) 10 15 Logan Anderson (POL) James Farrar (WSM) Phillip Dill (POL) Joseph Buthker (DPW) Peggy Straley (INC TX) Scott Liskey (POL) Troy Edmondson (FIR) 25 Edward Peabody (FIL) Charles Tazelaar (PKS) Michael Vandermolen (IT) Terees Williams (PSB) 5 Destination Community & Q UAL I TY O F L I F E Aligned with Muskegon’s 2027 Goal to enhance quality of life and create a destination community, 2024 brought key investments in parks, public safety, and community partnerships. Highlights include master planning for major parks, the launch of the Park Ranger Program, Police Department re-accreditation, and new initiatives to reduce homelessness and support student career readiness. These efforts reflect Muskegon’s commitment to improving amenities, strengthening safety, and fostering community well-being. Campbell Field Master Park Planning 2024 Parks & Recreation Impact C 2024 saw the completion of master planning for Kruse Park, Richards Park, McGraft Park, Campbell Field, and Hartshorn Marina. Future enhancements are already underway with secured funding for a new Smith- Ryerson Playground, the expansion of Wi-Fi access, and bathroom upgrades. McGraft Park Concert Series 2024 The recreation team supported beloved events such as Taste of Muskegon, Lakeshore Art Festival, Tree Lighting Ceremony, and the McGraft Park Summer Concert Series while introducing exciting new programs: Senior Programming, Youth Sports Camps, and Neighborhood Game Nights. “We had no idea that grocery New playground installed at St. Joesph Park. bingo would be such a hit!” — Kyle Karczewski, Parks & Recreation Director Exciting new playgrounds at five locations, including Margaret Drake Elliott Park and McCrea Playfield, with a total investment of $840,691. Key upgrades include Launched in 2024, the Park Ranger Program helped beach steps at Kruse Park, a new baseball field at improve park safety and cleanliness. Hiring is underway McCrea, and a fully renovated Downtown Splash Pad. for the 2025 ranger positions. 6 Addressing Unhoused Population & Supporting Education Homelessness Outreach & Strategy In 2024, we initiated focused efforts to support Muskegon’s unhoused residents. Inspired by outreach to the Homeless Assistance and Resources Team in Vancouver, WA, we established an internal team to improve housing options and reduce homelessness. The first step involves gathering data and engaging with local service agencies. In 2025, we plan to form a regional core team of service providers to strengthen collaboration and create long-term solutions. Strengthening Career Readiness in Education We are collaborating with Muskegon Public Schools and community partners to develop an educational model that prioritizes career readiness. The goal is to ensure all students graduate with practical skills and real pathways for future success. Charles Hackley Middle School Lead Service Line Replacement Program Progress Pop-Up Party in McLaughlin 2024 In 2024, we made great progress replacing lead service lines to ensure safe drinking water for our community. Re-Accredited in 2024 This work aligns with the new Lead and Copper Rule Improvements (LCRI), effective October 8, 2024, which The Muskegon Police Department was re- sets stricter water system standards nationwide. The accredited by the Michigan Association of Chiefs of rule requires replacing all lead pipes by 2037 and Police, reaffirming its commitment to the highest introduces tougher testing. In addition to replacing professional standards. 1,708 lines, we achieved: Interactive Map WHY ACCR E D I TAT I O N MAT T E RS Launched an online map to track progress and check your home. Strengthens Public Trust Annual Notices Sent residents their second letter about lead service lines. Reduces Liability Door Hangers Ensures Policy Compliance Distributed easy-to-understand door hangers for homes with lead service line work. Standing Out in Michigan Water Filtration Video Out of 588 law enforcement agencies in Michigan, Educated the public on our water only 87 are accredited—including Muskegon and filtration process. Norton Shores in Muskegon County. Re-accreditation occurs every three years, reinforcing our dedication to Service Line Fees New water fees, plus state and federal community-focused, accountable policing. grants, are funding this program. 7 Economic Zoning Reform Approved Development After five years of planning, new zoning reforms were passed to expand housing options and affordability. H O U S I N G & BU S I N ES S K EY CHAN G ES I N CLU D E : Allowing smaller lots for new single-family homes by amending zoning districts to match current area and In 2024, Muskegon made significant strides in bulk requirements; advancing economic development, increasing Permitting multi-unit homes of up to three units in housing diversity, and enhancing business residential neighborhoods; opportunities. Key initiatives focused on zoning Simplifying design standards to make it easier to add reform, housing development, and commercial units to existing homes; and investment, all aimed at fostering a vibrant, Reducing parking requirements from two spaces to inclusive community where residents and one per new unit. These changes aim to increase housing availability and affordability, reflecting resident businesses can thrive. feedback and best practices in urban planning. Infill Housing Program Continues In 2024, 15 new infill homes were completed by the city, contributing to neighborhood revitalization and affordable homeownership. Since 2019, the program has delivered a total of 212 new homes, providing high-quality, attainable housing options and helping stabilize neighborhoods. This data underscores the program’s effectiveness in not only delivering city-built homes but also in attracting significant private development, amplifying its impact on Muskegon’s housing landscape. Completed Infill Housing Projects O N C I T Y OWN E D LOT S (2019–202 4) 2 31 New infill homes on Leonard Avenue, completed in 2024 through the Brownfield Infill Housing Program 8 In Progress Housing Developments In 2024, the Muskegon community saw notable progress in expanding housing options, from market-rate developments to projects supporting affordable housing through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC). These projects aim to meet diverse community needs while contributing to Muskegon’s growth. At the end of 2024, the city is halfway through its 2023-2027 housing study period and has achieved 51% of its housing gap goal—adding 1,518 of the 2,924 units needed. These efforts reflect Muskegon’s commitment to ensuring accessible and diverse housing options for all residents. In Progress Market-Rate These site-approved projects will add a mix of rental, owner-occupied, and commercial spaces—supporting Muskegon’s economic vitality and Developments housing diversity. S I T E P L AN AP P R OVE D H O U S I N G D EVE L O P M E N TS ADELAIDE POINTE MIDTOWN CENTER LAKEVIEW LOFTS II CEN T RAL PAR K T H E S HAW T H E D O CKS APART M EN TS SAP P I S I T E EST COMP LETION EST COMP LETION EST COMP LETION EST COMPLETION EST COMPLETION EST COMP LETION EST COMPLETION June 2025 2026 Fall 2026 January 2027 2028 2030+ 2030+ # OF UNITS # OF UNITS # OF UNITS # OF UNITS # OF UNITS # OF UNITS # OF UNITS 55 65 64 144 600 240 2,317 RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS RENTALS 0 65 64 144 432 0 TBD OWNED OWNED OWNED OWNED OWNED OWNED OWNED 55 0 0 0 168 240 TBD COMMERCIAL SQFT COMMERCIAL SQFT COMMERCIAL SQFT COMMERCIAL SQFT COMMERCIAL SQFT COMMERCIAL SQFT COMMERCIAL SQFT 350,000 11,000 3,000 0 25,000 4,000 >197,000 Expanding Access to Commercial & Industrial Developments Affordable Housing In 2024, Muskegon advanced several key commercial and industrial Four new Low-Income Housing Tax Credit projects, strengthening local job creation and enhancing economic vitality. (LIHTC) developments will bring 193 These developments represent significant capital investment and new high-quality, affordable housing units to opportunities for residents and businesses alike. Muskegon by 2026. Amity Commons, Allen Crossing, Lofts of Muskegon, and Nelson Apartments (former school) all received LIHTC awards in 2024. LIHTC is a competitive federal program New & Ongoing Commercial/Industrial Projects administered by the state, where tax credits # of Jobs Capital Est are awarded to developers. These credits Development Name Created/Retained investment Completion are then sold to investors to help finance the construction of affordable housing, Forming Technologies Facility 100 $25M 2026 reducing overall development costs. Hackley Castle Hotel 40 $15M 2026 These projects reflect the city’s ongoing Core Plaza 150 $9M 2025 commitment to expanding housing Trilogy Senior Living 125 $25M 2024 options and enhancing the quality of life Element by Marriott Hotel 50 $31M 2026 for residents. 9 Community CO N N ECT I O N In 2024, the City of Muskegon continued to build stronger connections with residents, workers, business owners, and visitors through a variety of initiatives that foster communication, increase opportunities for input, and strengthen relationships. The community’s voice has remained central in shaping the city’s efforts. New City Branding In 2024 Muskegon approved a new city brand developed with significant community involvement. Over 70 hours of engagement reached 1,206 participants, gathering valuable feedback from residents, city staff, and students. This process resulted in a vibrant visual identity that represents Muskegon’s unique community. The brand symbolizes the city as a collective of diverse people, ideas, and lifestyles, creating something extraordinary together. The new brand can be seen on city equipment, vehicles, Entrance doors to City Hall signage, and at public events where branded swag is distributed. Read the brand story on the back cover. 10 CO N N ECT M U S K EG O N 2 024 Newsletter NEWS L E T TER STATS The monthly Connect Muskegon email newsletter P R INT provides residents with important updates, services, events, and features from across the city. 48,000 Addressed & Mailed This communication tool continues to be a key resource for keeping residents informed. EMAIL In addition to the email newsletter, the print 19,958 newsletter is mailed out to all city residents twice E-Newsletters Sent a year. This printed edition has recently received a face lift to better align with our city’s more engaging 49.6% 18% and dynamic branding. Avg Open Rate Avg Click Thru Manager’s Monthly Memo Jonathan, the City Manager, engaged with the community through a monthly video and email update. These provide highlights from senior staff and updates on important city initiatives. Commission Highlights A bi-monthly email digest summarizes the most recent city Presidential Election Turnout commission meetings, making it easy for residents to stay informed about key decisions via email or on social media. In the 2024 presidential election 15,380 ballots were cast, resulting in a voter turnout of 53.22% for the City of Muskegon. Community Engagement Hub City of Muskegon Voter Turnout Percentages We continued to launch project-specific pages on P R E S I D E N T I A L E L ECT I O N (20 12 – 20 2 4) Connect Muskegon to boost awareness and transparency around important city projects, further engaging the community in city planning and development. 56.35% 53.53% 53.22% 50.65% In-Person Community Engagement The city hosted 28 in-person community engagement events in 2024, ranging from park planning sessions to zoning reform meetings, to utility and road construction open houses. These events brought residents together to share feedback and stay informed on major city projects. 2012 2016 2020 2024 National Night Out in Marsh Field 2024 National Night Out In August, the city hosted its first city-wide National Night Out at Marsh Field, with over 600 residents who enjoyed activities, music, food, and access to community resources. The event, featuring a home run derby with police and firefighters, was a hit, and residents are excited to continue the tradition next year. 11 Financial I N F RAST R U CT U R E In 2024, the City of Muskegon made key progress in strengthening its financial infrastructure, focusing on revenue growth, improved financial practices, and sustainable investments. Efforts like enhancing income tax collections and addressing infrastructure needs have set a strong foundation for future growth and fiscal sustainability. Annual Income & Property Tax Collections F Y AU D I T E N D I N G J U N E 30, 202 4 (2018–202 4) Income Tax Collections BS&A Cloud Transition Over the past four years, income tax collections have We began transitioning our financial systems to the shown a strong upward trend, reflecting improvements in BS&A Cloud, moving from the previous desktop version. the tax filing process and efforts to assist taxpayers. See This upgrade was made with the goal of improving user the trend on the chart above. experience and streamlining processes for the team members who rely on the system daily. The cloud- From 2021 to 2024, income tax collections grew by 31%, based platform is designed to enhance accessibility, increasing by nearly $3 million due to staff’s renewed efficiency, and functionality within the city’s financial efforts targeting delinquent payers and helping taxpayers operations, supporting a more modern and responsive file accurately and on time. approach moving forward. 12 Public Safety Police Department Trends Part 1 vs. Part 2 Crime Trends (2019–2024) I M PACT Over the past five years, the overall crime trend in Muskegon shows a 9% decrease in serious crimes (Part 1). However, non-serious crimes (Part 2) have increased by 16%. This suggests progress in reducing Fire Department Trends more severe criminal activity while seeing a rise in less severe offenses. Fire Department Calls in 2024 The total number of fire department calls increased in Part 1 vs. Part 2 Crime 2024, reaching 2,324 calls, up from 1,930 in 2023. This T R E N D S (2019–202 4) represents a 20% increase in fire-related incidents, marking a notable uptick in the department’s response to fire emergencies. Non-Medical Fire Calls BY T YP E (2019–202 4) 2,324 1,930 Part 1 crimes are serious felonies. Part 2 crimes are non-serious felonies and misdemeanors. 1,657 1,518 1,536 Examples of Part 2 crimes: Damage to Property, Non-Aggravated Assault, Retail Fraud, 1,349 Obstruction of Justice, Operating While Intoxicated (OWI), Trespassing. Serious Felonies BY T YP E (2019–202 4) 1,669 Live Fire: Structure, cooking, appliance, vehicle, and brush fires. Hazards: Power line down, gas leaks, hazardous material spills, and vehicle accidents. 1,422 1,295 1,321 Service: Assistance calls including lift assists, locked-out situations, stuck elevators, and illegal burns. 1,210 False Alarm: Smoke and fire false alarms. Other: Cancellations while en route and miscellaneous calls. 871 Medical Calls in 2024 Although fire calls saw a significant increase, medical calls remained relatively stable, with 3,720 calls in 2024, slightly down from 3,898 in 2023. While the total number of medical calls has fluctuated over the years, it continues to Traffic Stops vs. Citations Issued outnumber fire calls by a substantial margin. (201 4–202 4) Historic Fire Department Calls M E D I CA L VS . N O N - M E D I CA L (2019–202 4) Traffic stops in 2024 fell by 27.5% compared to 2023, an effect of the June roll out of a new operating system. As officers adapted to the upgraded technology, self-initiated activity slowed. Traffic citations also dropped by 34.4%, reflecting this transition period. 13 Fun Facts City-wide CI TY-WI D E Neighborhood Association Meetings 16 staff members rotated through visiting each of the 15 neighborhood association meetings, strengthening relationships between city staff and community leaders! Firefighters handing out candy in Glenside to Trick or Treaters Halloween 2024 The Portal by Lee S. Brown, Downtown Muskegon The Portal A 45-foot circle of Corten steel designed by local artist Lee S. Brown, was installed along Shoreline Drive in September 2024. Sharonda Carson winning the SHADES of Emily Morgenstern accepting Excellence Professional of Color Award for 2024 Future 15 Award for 2024 Green Muskegon Muskegon achieved Gold FOIA Requests Certification in the Michigan Green (2020–202 4) Communities Challenge in 2024, recognizing the city’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. Dave Bailey standing with planted Maple 14 Development Public Safety Services 197 Sponsored nine Police Recruits to Through the adopt-a-lot attend the Grand Valley State University program, 197 vacant lots were and Grand Rapids Community College adopted in 2024. Police Academies. 170+ 410 More than 170 homes were 410 Fire or Carbon Monoxide helped with home repairs by the Alarms Installed CNS Department. 71 187 1,500+ Fire Detective There are 1,500+ new housing Investigations Bureau Cases units in development—building a Complete Closed stronger Muskegon for all. The historic Nelson House was 9,992 Nelson House saved by the city- moving from the Building & Inspections Permits Processed moving down Third Street 2024 demolition site to Muskegon Ave. $108m in new construction projects processed Public Works through Building & Inspections Parks & Recreation Revitalizing Recreation: Major upgrades at four key park locations. 15,092hrs of training for Fire & Police Park Ranger Program = Safer, Cleaner Parks for All Departments 58,028 Police Service Calls 23,433 Police Reports City Road & Infrastructure 3,495 500 1,100+ Arrests by Police Lane Miles of road maintained— Trees planted, making our city greener enough to reach Nashville, TN! and cooler, one tree at a time! g 68ac Finance & e Acres of road covered with a fresh 3.7bil Administration Billion Gallons of water treated, layer of asphalt—that’s enough to keeping Muskegon hydrated and cover Hertiage Landing twice! healthy! 10 Years of the Downtown Muskegon Farmers Market 17,000t 609 In 2024, we celebrated the market’s 10th anniversary with a community event Tons of asphalt used to maintain Lead Service Lines Replaced—a and a ceremony honoring the original roads—helping pave the way to big step toward safe, clean water visionaries. Here’s to many more years better roads! for all. of fresh produce and local goods! 15 Brand Story T H E S H O R E L I N E CI TY We Are Muskegon Throughout our neighborhoods, along the waterfront, and into downtown, you can feel an undercurrent of energy - and a vibe that’s unapologetically Muskegon. Things are different now. If your view of Muskegon is decades, years, or even months old, we’re sure it’s outdated- because we aren’t the same place today as we were yesterday. We have new and flourishing business districts and a growing population of people who call this place home. Some things have stayed the same, like our sense of community pride and natural resources that invite new adventures every day. There’s a vibrancy you can feel when you walk through our neighborhoods. We’ve made sacrifices, overcome challenges, revitalized our city, and turned the old into something new - We are resilient. Whether you work here, live here, or explore here, you’ll see something that runs deeper. You’ll discover that in Muskegon, hard work is rewarded… That our people are diverse, inclusive, and as real as they come. That relationships are valued, and a smile and a wave are contagious… We won’t always agree, but that’s okay - We believe that diverse life experiences create balance. Our story has come a long way, and the city is committed to making the next chapter our best one yet.
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