City of Muskegon

A.Brownfield Plan Amendment — American Fabricated Products, INC. 331 W. Laketon Ave.Economic Development

American Fabricated Products, INC (American Fab) is seeking approval of a brownfield plan amendment located at 331 W. Laketon Ave.

The Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA) approved the original Brownfield Plan June 9, 2026.

The proposed amendment will facilitate the redevelopment of the former Intra City Dispatch facility site located at 331 W. Laketon Ave. through the use of Tax Increment Financing (TIF) to reimburse the developer for eligible environmental and site redevelopment activities. The project will support the relocation of an Ottawa County business and create 20-30 new jobs.

The former Intra City Dispatch facility will be rehabilitated and occupied by American Fab, a West Michigan-based manufacturer specializing in advanced metal fabrication, precision machining, laser cutting, CNC machining, welding, robotic welding, metal forming, assembly, and prototype-to-production manufacturing services. The company serves a diverse customer base across the defense, automotive, furniture, industrial, logistics and warehousing, agricultural, medical, and food service industries. American Fab supports both original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and their suppliers and is a supplier to prime and subcontract defense contractors, manufacturing components for military defense vehicles.

The Brownfield Plan Amendment includes $75,202 in developer-eligible activities, consisting of $63,702 in pre-approved activities and $11,500 for Brownfield Plan Amendment preparation. In addition, the plan includes $10,673 in Brownfield Redevelopment Authority administrative costs and $75,202 for the Local Brownfield Revolving Fund (LBRF). The total project investment is estimated at $650,000.

The reimbursement period is anticipated to remain in effect through 2039, with the collection of tax increment revenues beginning in 2036.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to close the public hearing and approve the resolution and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign.

The Public Hearing opened to hear and consider any comments from the public. No public comments were made.

Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner Kochin, to close the public hearing and approve the resolution and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign.

MOTION PASSES

A.Daniel Boothe, MCC, Operating Millage Restoration UpdateCity Clerk

Beth Dick, Chief Financial Officer for Muskegon Community College, explained the August 4, 2026, ballot proposal.

A.Approval of MinutesCity Clerk

To approve minutes of the May 29th and 30th Special Commission Meetings, the June 8th Worksession Meeting, and the June 9th Commission Meeting.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approval of the minutes.

B.City WebsiteCommunity Engagement

To meet upcoming accessibility requirements and modernize the city's website, staff recommends GovStack as the best-value solution for the city's website redesign and content management system replacement.

The city's current website design was launched in 2021 and has served residents and staff well. Since that time, resident expectations, accessibility requirements, and the city's digital service needs have continued to evolve. Our website had over half a million-page views from January to May 2026. Staff believes now is the appropriate time to modernize the website to improve usability, ensure compliance with upcoming accessibility standards, and better integrate the tools and services residents rely on every day.

A primary driver for this project is compliance with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) Version 2.1, Level AA accessibility standards. Local governments serving populations under 50,000 must meet these requirements by the extended April 26, 2028 (previously April 26, 2027). A review of the city's website identified accessibility deficiencies that will require significant improvements to achieve compliance. Some examples that we are lacking and need to update include color contrast, keyboard navigation, alternative text, clear label, descriptive links, consistent navigation, headlines and page structure, search suggestions and autocomplete, ability to zoom, responsive design, and voice control compatibility.

In addition to accessibility, staff identified the need for a modern, mobile-friendly website that provides improved navigation, online forms and payments, calendars, news and meeting information, enhanced search capabilities, video and media integration, and seamless connections to existing city systems such as CivicPlus, CivicRec, SeeClickFix, BSA Online, GIS, Zencity, Municode, and other tools.

The Community Engagement and Information Technology teams met with departments across the organization to identify operational needs and evaluate potential website solutions. Although the total project cost exceeds $25,000, staff determined that this procurement did not require a formal competitive bidding process because it involves a specialized professional service and software platform evaluation. Consistent with the intent of the City's Purchasing Policy, staff obtained and evaluated multiple proposals to ensure competition and best value. The attached evaluation matrix compares four options: Envigor (current vendor), CivicPlus, GovStack (staff recommendation), and an in-house solution.

While cost was an important consideration, staff evaluated proposals based on overall value, functionality, accessibility tools, integrations, implementation support, and long-term sustainability. The lowest-cost proposal did not fully meet several of the city's identified requirements. Staff determined that selecting a solution based solely on price could result in additional costs, staff time, or future system limitations.

Based on the evaluation process, staff believes GovStack provides the best overall value and is the solution most capable of meeting the city's current and future needs. Reference checks with peer communities, including the City of Grand Rapids, Medicine Hat and Medicine Hat Parks & Recreation, City of College Station, and other municipalities currently using the platform, were overwhelmingly positive. Staff recommends GovStack as the preferred vendor for the city's website redesign. The first-year payment is higher than future years at $56,006, which is budgeted in the following line items:

• ADA Fund 101-901-801-09116: $50,000
• Public Relations 101-103-801: $4,706
• Farmers Market 252-808-801 : $1,300

The following years, the cost is $21,446 plus annual increases as outlined in the contract.

Project Timeline:

Target Launch: January 1, 2028

Final Deadline for ADA Compliance: April 26, 2028

• August–October 2026: Project kickoff, stakeholder meetings, website mapping, content audit, and project planning.
• November 2026–June 2027: Website development, content migration, CivicPlus records migration complete, QR code and short-link updates, and integration testing.
• July–August 2027: Department and senior staff review, content revisions, ADA compliance review, and staff training.
• September–December 2027: Internal soft launch and testing by staff and City Commission to identify issues, refine content, and validate functionality. Communications staff prepare public launch materials.
• November–December 2027: Extended review period recognizing holiday schedules and reduced staff availability.
• January 1, 2028: Planned public website launch.
• January–March 2028: Contingency period for post-launch refinements, ADA remediation, and unforeseen issues prior to the April 26, 2028 deadline.

Staff GovStack Highlights: New website navigation and menu mapping based on current website page views, three-click promise to get to pages, bringing all city sites (city, Farmers Market, Kitchen242, Western Market, Trinity Health Arena, and Hartshorn Marina) all under one tool, chatbot and site search, internal approval processes, and 24/7 support.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To approve contract with GHD digital and authorize staff to enter into an agreement for services.

C.Development and Reimbursement Agreement — American Fabricated Products, INC.- 331 W. Laketon Ave.Economic Development

AFP Real Estate, LLC is seeking approval of the development and reimbursement agreement for American Fabricated Products, INC, 331 W. Laketon Ave.

The development and reimbursement agreement between the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (BRA), the City of Muskegon, and the developer extends through 2039, or until all eligible activities have been reimbursed though tax increment financing (TIF) capture, whichever occurs first.

The Brownfield Plan Amendment and the development and reimbursement agreement were approved by the BRA on June 9, 2026.

The development and reimbursement agreement complements the Brownfield Plan Amendment by defining the specific terms, conditions, and timeline for reimbursement.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve the development and reimbursement agreement as presented and to authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign.

D.Concession Application - Hartshorn Marina Vending MachineDPW-Parks

Staff requests authorization to enter into a concessionaire agreement with Threes Company at Hartshorn Marina for $250 per year plus 5% of gross receipts.

The Parks Department has received a concession application from Threes Company to install and operate a vending machine at Hartshorn Marina. The proposed vending machine will provide water, soft drinks, and other non-alcoholic beverages for marina patrons and park visitors. The request was initiated by the Harbor Master and has been supported by marina users as a convenient amenity that is currently unavailable on-site.

Threes Company is a locally owned Muskegon business and is currently operating under a concession agreement at Smith-Ryerson Park's Sim-Ray Center in good standing with the City. Staff has reviewed the application and determined that the proposed operation is consistent with the City's Park Concession Policy, which seeks to provide services and amenities that enhance visitor experiences while creating opportunities for local businesses.

In accordance with the Park Concession Policy, concessions operating at non-beach park locations are required to pay an annual concession fee of $250 plus 5% of gross receipts. Any revenue generated through the agreement will be returned to the Marina Operating fund to support operations and maintenance. Staff believes the proposed vending machine will improve customer service at the marina by providing convenient access to beverages without requiring additional City staffing or operational costs.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Move to authorize staff to enter into a concessionaire agreement with Threes Company at Hartshorn Marina for $250 per year plus 5% of gross receipts.

E.Contract for Services — Mediation & Restorative ServicesPlanning

To authorize staff to enter into the contract for services with Mediation & Restorative Services.

The City has contracted with Mediation & Restorative Services for the past few years to provide outreach, education, prevention, and intervention services for substance and youth safety. They are asking for an increase in funding this year ($45,000 last year) because they will be increasing this funded position from 20 to 30 hours per week because of increased demand for services.

The City received $541,155.80 in excise tax money this year and has usually dedicated 25% of that towards the Muskegon Social Equity Program (MSEP).

The Legislative Policy Committee met in May and recommended funding the MSEP in 2026 as follows:

• Mediation & Restorative Services - $55,000
• Expungement Clinics with G.U.N.S. - $37,000
• Future Emergency Housing Program - $43,288.95

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve the $55,000 in funding for Mediation & Restorative Services and to direct staff to sign the contract.

F.Contract for Services — Expungement Clinics with G.U.N.S.Planning

To authorize staff to enter into the contract for services with G.U.N.S.

The City has contracted with G.U.N.S. (Gaining Unity through Non-Violent Solutions) for the past few years to provide free expungement clinics for residents. This proposal includes two expungement clinics over the next year at $15,000 each and an additional $7,000 to purchase a live scan device that will help expedite the process.

The City received $541,155.80 in excise tax money this year and has usually dedicated 25% of that towards the Muskegon Social Equity Program (MSEP).

The Legislative Policy Committee met in May and recommended funding the MSEP in 2026 as follows:

• Mediation & Restorative Services - $55,000
• Expungement Clinics with G.U.N.S. - $37,000
• Future Emergency Housing Program - $43,288.95

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to approve the $37,000 in funding for G.U.N.S and to direct staff to sign the contract.

G.Purchase of Dura Patch MachinePublic Works

Staff requests approval to purchase a new Dura Patch machine from Alta Equipment for $100,604.50.

The DPW staff uses a Dura Patch machine for repairing roads. Of the various pieces of equipment used by crews for road repair, this machine is the most used due to its ability to work in colder temperatures compared to other forms of road repair like crack sealing and hot asphalt patching. The City's current Dura Patch machine has been used heavily for 13 years. As the machine has aged, it has needed costly repairs and has become unreliable. When this machine fails, it can disable work crews for several days and throw a wrench into scheduling for our highway department. A new machine will allow us to schedule confidently and work more efficiently. Alta Equipment Company in Grand Rapids is a certified MiDeal vendor. MiDeal is a statewide competitive bid program that meets the City's purchasing policy and allows municipalities to use state-awarded contracting for equipment purchasing or rentals.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Move to authorize staff to purchase a new Dura Patch machine from Alta Equipment in the amount of $100,604.50.

H.4th Quarter Reforecast FY 2025-26Finance

AT this time, staff is seeking approval of the 4th Quarter budget reforecast for the 25/26 fiscal year.
The spreadsheet highlights the 4th Quarter Reforecast Requests for Commission approval.
Overall, the revenues for the General Fund went up from the last quarter by $227,395
Some notable changes to General Fund Revenues are:

• Income Tax Revenues up by $450,000
• State Grants down by $400,000
• Parking Revenue down by $300,000
• Business Licenses up by $35,000
• Property Taxes up by $60,000
• Transfer from other funds up by $168,361

Overall, the expenditures for the General Fund went up $2,100,433
Some notable changes to the General Fund expenditures

• Recognizable debt to the BRA Brownfield is $1,551,649 included in GL # 101-999-995-200000
• City Attorney Dept expenditures are up by $185,100

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Motion to approve the 4th Quarter fiscal year 2025-26 budget reforecast as presented by staff.

J.Appointment to the District Library BoardCity Clerk

Appointments to the District Library Board are made on the library's recommendation. The library is recommending the reappointment of Brad Hastings for a term expiring June 30, 2030.
Brad Hastings appointment is set to expire on June 30, 2026. The District Library Board has recommended to re-appoint Brad Hastings until June 30, 2030.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To appoint Brad Hastings to the District Library Board with a term expiring June 30, 2030.

I.Annual Action Plan Budget 2026Community & Neighborhood Services

The budgets for both CDBG and HOME funds are for your review and consent. The Annual Action Plan Budgets are presented to the Commission for approval based on the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) appropriations for FY2026. The Community Planning and Development (CPD) office-funded programs are Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and HOME Investment Partnerships (HOME) and the allocations total $1,113,814 for eligible programs administered by the office of Community and Neighborhood Services.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To approve the 2026 Annual Action Plan Budgets for CDBG and HOME Programs as presented.

I.Amendment to Construction Services for McGraft CourtsDPW- Parks

Staff requests approval to sign an amendment to Midwest Construction's contract in the amount of $48,227 for the addition of 2 tennis court renovations at McGraft Park.

The McGraft Park Improvements project currently includes the construction of eight new pickleball courts. During pre-construction discussions, staff identified an opportunity to renovate the two existing tennis courts at the same time the contractor is mobilized on site. Originally, the tennis courts were not estimated to fit into the McGraft Park improvement budget. The plan was to blast and repaint lines through smaller projects/contractors. However, with the project coming in under budget, we have the opportunity to add 2 high-quality renovated tennis courts to this project within budget.

The proposed amendment with Midwest Construction Group, in the amount of $48,227, will provide for resurfacing and repainting of the two tennis courts, as well as the installation of new tennis nets and posts. A credit was applied for tennis court cleaning that was included in the original contract scope, reducing the overall cost of the additional work. Completing the tennis court renovations concurrently with the pickleball court project will improve the overall quality and appearance of the facility, provide a consistent playing surface throughout the complex, and avoid the need for a separate future construction project with associated mobilization costs. The improvements will extend the useful life of the courts, enhance recreational opportunities for residents, and maximize the City's investment in McGraft Park. This cost is 12% of the total project cost while adding 33% more court.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Authorize staff to approve a contract amendment with Midwest Construction Group in the amount of $48,227 for additional tennis court renovations at McGraft Park.

Motion by Commissioner Kochin, second by Vice Mayor Keener, to authorize staff to approve a contract amendment with Midwest Construction Group in the amount of $48,227 for additional tennis court renovations at McGraft Park.

MOTION PASSES

K.Disability Pride Month ResolutionCommissioner Request

To adopt a resolution recognizing July as Disability Pride Month.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Adopt a resolution recognizing July as Disability Pride Month and to allow for the displaying of the history and information on Disability Pride and disability resources in the lobby of City Hall.

Motion by Commissioner Kochin, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to adopt a resolution recognizing July as Disability Pride Month and to allow for the displaying of the history and information on Disability Pride and disability resources in the lobby of City Hall.

MOTION PASSES

A.HBA Referral, Case A - EN2204438 - 1300 Langeland Ave.Public Safety

This is to request that the City Commission concur with the findings of the Housing Board of Appeals that the structure is unsafe, substandard, public nuisance and that it be demolished. It is further requested that administration be directed to obtain bids for the demolition of the structure and that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized and directed to execute a contract for the demolition with the lowest responsible bidder.

The residence has been without a roof for several years. In 2022, the roofing contractor passed away before completing the work, and the funds paid for the project were not returned. Dangerous Building Inspector Scott Kiaunis previously spoke with the owner, who indicated financial hardship. Mr. Kiaunis advised the owner to contact CNS to explore potential assistance programs. Scott Kiaunis last communicated with the owner in September 2023. No current telephone number for the owner is available in the City's records.

As of March 17, 2026, no permit had been obtained for roof replacement. The roof structure remains exposed, with deteriorated tarps providing inadequate protection. The tarps have significantly deteriorated, leaving sections of exposed wood decking vulnerable to further damage from the elements.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To concur with the Housing Board of Appeals decision to demolish 1300 Langeland Avenue.

Motion by Commissioner Kochin, second by Commissioner Kilgo, to concur with the Housing Board of Appeals decision to demolish 1300 Langeland Avenue.

MOTION PASSES

B.HBA Referral, Case B - EN1901362 - 965 Scott StreetPublic Safety

This is to request that the City Commission concur with the findings of the Housing Board of Appeals that the structure is unsafe, substandard, a public nuisance and that it be demolished within 30 Days. It is further requested that administration be directed to obtain bids for the demolition of the structure and that the Mayor and City Clerk be authorized and directed to execute a contract for the demolition with the lowest responsible bidder.

The subject property is a two-story wood-frame residence that appears to be vacant and in a state of significant deterioration. The front porch is extensively rotted and has begun to collapse inward. The foundation shows signs of failure, and the roof is in deteriorated condition.

Several windows are broken, and an upper-story window is missing entirely, leaving the interior exposed to the elements. Portions of the exterior siding are missing or severely deteriorated due to rot. The overall condition of the structure indicates a lack of maintenance and ongoing deterioration.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: To concur with the Housing Board of Appeals decision to demolish 965 Scott Street.

Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Commissioner St.Clair, to concur with the Housing Board of Appeals decision to demolish 965 Scott Street.

MOTION PASSES

C.Nelson House Purchase OffersPlanning

Four written purchase offers were received for the Nelson House. Staff is requesting that the City Commission endorse the recommendation of staff and authorize the realtor and City staff to negotiate a sale agreement with Tobin Bailey and Jesus G. Paz-Soto.

The Nelson House was officially listed on the MLS with realtor Tim Updyke beginning on April 8, 2026 with offers due two months later on June 8, 2026. The house was listed at $150,000 and all written offers received matched that reserve price. Following evaluation of each offer and discussion with the realtor, staff is requesting that the City Commission endorse the recommendation of staff and authorize the realtor and City staff to negotiate a sale agreement for the Nelson House with Tobin Bailey and Jesus G. Paz-Soto.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: I move to endorse the recommendation of staff and authorize the realtor and City staff to negotiate a sale agreement for the Nelson House with Tobin Bailey and Jesus G. Paz-Soto.

Motion by Commissioner Kilgo, second by Vice Mayor Keener, to direct staff to receive highest and best offers for the Commissions consideration at their July 14th meeting.

MOTION PASSES