Alpena council approves $26,342 Huron Pines contract for coastal restoration and pollinator projects

The Alpena City Council on April 21 approved a contractor agreement with Huron Pines for the Alpena Tri-Coastal Project in the amount of $26,342.42.

City Manager Rachel Smolinski presented the grant and contract materials, explaining the funds support the second phase of beach restoration at Michiquis Park and the establishment of a native pollinator garden and rain garden at Bayview Park. “The majority of the work will be coordinated with Huron Pines,” Smolinski told council, citing coordination needs and the project’s relationship to the city’s green stormwater infrastructure vision and the Lake Huron Forever pledge.

Council moved to approve the contract and authorized the city manager to sign the agreement. The motion was made by Councilman Mitchell and seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Walczak; the council recorded unanimous support during the vote.

Smolinski and staff answered council questions about project locations and timing. Staff said the shoreline work will be adjacent to the area where recent dune and shoreline plantings have been established and that the pollinator and rain garden would be located in a low-lying depression near the Bayview Park volleyball courts to better manage stormwater there. Staff noted Huron Pines will coordinate planting and outreach, and the city has applied for a DNR grant to supplement the work; final grant outcomes were listed as pending in the meeting packet.

Council approved the contractor agreement by motion and authorized Smolinski to execute it on the city’s behalf. Staff said much of the on-the-ground work could proceed this summer, subject to final scheduling and permitting.