Councilmembers took time during reports to thank residents for participating in the recent election and to publicly recognize the city clerk and poll workers for administering the process. City Manager Mark Vanderpool praised Clerk Miss Ryska and her team for a "glitch free" election and encouraged public appreciation for long poll-worker hours and organization.

Several councilmembers delivered extended tributes to Councilwoman Dianna Koski, who did not attend the meeting. Members described Koski as a local historian and a dedicated public servant with 36 years on the council. Councilmember Sierowski said Koski was "1 of the most incredibly smart women I have ever met" and noted her attention to council history and detail. Councilmember Radke and others recalled Koski's long service, institutional knowledge and personal warmth.

Mayor Taylor read a statement submitted by Dianna Koski to the council and public that thanked voters and volunteers after her campaign and said, in part: "I want to sincerely thank everyone who supported my campaign for Sterling Heights City Council. While we came up short this time, I could not be prouder of the positive community focused campaign we ran.... This isn't goodbye. It is just the next chapter. I will always be here to support our city whenever and wherever it's needed." The mayor and council emphasized that Koski's service will continue to be valued and that she is welcome to remain engaged with the city.

Council comments also included community-service announcements such as Veterans Month offerings at the Sterling Heights Youth Bookstore and the DPW food drive, and multiple members reiterated appreciation for those who ran for office and those who voted.