During a recent government meeting, officials revisited a long-standing partnership with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) aimed at improving local traffic safety and pedestrian access. The discussion highlighted the need to reduce curb cuts and enhance pedestrian crossings, particularly in areas frequented by schoolchildren. Concerns were raised about driver behavior, with anecdotal evidence suggesting that drivers often speed up when approaching crosswalks.

The meeting also addressed ongoing challenges related to a proposed overpass and sidewalk project near local schools, which has stalled. Traffic signal warrants were discussed, with officials noting that a recent study did not justify the installation of a traffic light at a key intersection due to insufficient traffic volume.

In new business, the focus shifted to a property at 427 Water Street, which is currently for sale. Officials discussed potential development opportunities, particularly the need for affordable housing in the area. The conversation centered on the feasibility of converting the building into apartments, with concerns about minimum square footage requirements for units. The current ordinance mandates a minimum of 500 square feet per apartment, which some officials argued may be too restrictive given the pressing need for housing.

Suggestions included exploring options for shared parking solutions and possibly reducing the minimum square footage to accommodate more units. However, there was caution against continually lowering standards, as officials expressed concerns about the implications of smaller living spaces on quality of life.

The meeting concluded without public comments, but the discussions underscored the community's ongoing efforts to balance development needs with safety and quality of living standards.