In a recent government meeting, officials addressed pressing community concerns, particularly regarding road safety and street lighting assessments. Kirk Malcolmson, the assistant director of building and engineering, highlighted the significant issue of oversized trucks damaging Newburgh Road, a vital artery for local traffic. He noted that the road is frequently compromised by heavy vehicles, which could lead to extensive disruptions if repairs are needed.

Malcolmson also discussed the ongoing street lighting assessment, emphasizing its importance for public safety. He pointed out that crime rates tend to rise after dark, and the assessment, which has been in place for 12 years, is designed to enhance safety for residents. The proposed increase in the assessment amounts to just 1.5 cents per night, a modest rise compared to the overall budget for street lighting, which has seen a steady increase due to rising utility costs from DTE Energy.

The financial figures presented indicated that the street lighting budget for 2024 is projected at $665,749.50, up from $623,668.80 in 2023 and $561,852.97 in 2022. Malcolmson reassured residents that the assessment structure remains unchanged, with all residential lots subject to the same fee, and urged property owners to ensure their contact information is up to date to facilitate communication regarding these assessments.

The meeting also clarified the process for residents wishing to protest the assessment. It was noted that protests must be submitted with names and addresses, although some confusion arose regarding the timing of such protests. Overall, the discussions underscored the local government's commitment to maintaining public safety and infrastructure integrity amidst rising operational costs.