Votes at a glance: Adrian adopts two ordinances, approves industrial exemption for Adrian Steel and sets franchise hearing for Citizens Gas

The Adrian City Commission took several formal actions during the meeting, voting unanimously on multiple items brought forward by staff.

Ordinances adopted - Ordinance 25-003 (second reading): An amendment to Article 2, Chapter 26 of the Adrian City Code (fire prevention code) was adopted following a roll-call vote; the motion was moved by Commissioner Casselberry and seconded by Commissioner Roberts and carried with all present members voting yes. - Ordinance 25-004 (second reading): An amendment to Article 11, Chapter 46 (operational requirements) was adopted after discussion and a roll-call vote; the motion was moved by Commissioner Miller and seconded by Commissioner Roberts and carried with all present members voting yes.

Industrial facilities exemption - Resolution R25-044 (economic development): The commission approved an Industrial Facilities Exemption Certificate application for 1357 Division Street, the Adrian Steel warehouse expansion. Don DeLong, president of Adrian Steel, told the commission the company "is going to be investing $6,700,000 in that facility" and expects to add approximately 7–10 positions at that site; the resolution was moved by Commissioner Behnke, seconded by Commissioner Casselberry, and passed on roll call.

Franchise agreement process - Resolution R25-045 (administration): The commission voted to set a public hearing on a proposed franchise agreement with Citizens Gas and to bring ballot language back for discussion; staff explained a franchise grants Citizens Gas the right to use the public rights-of-way and that the question will be placed on the November ballot for voter approval.

Procurement - Resolution R25-046 (administration): The commission approved awarding the car-wash services contract under a bid waiver. Staff explained the higher-priced bidder was selected because it offered 24/7 access (important for police vehicles) and avoided long queues that could take squad cars out of service; the motion carried on roll call.

How commissioners voted - Roll calls recorded consistent 'Yes' votes from Mayor Heath, Commissioners Casselberry, Gauss, Roberts, Schwartz, Behnke and Miller on the recorded measures (detailed roll-call names used during the meeting). No public or recorded 'No' votes were recorded on the adopted items.

What the city did: The commission enacted two code amendments, approved Adrian Steel’s industrial tax exemption request, set the process for a Citizens Gas franchise ballot question, and authorized a car-wash services award.

What to watch next: Staff will finalize the IFEC implementation details and the ballot language for the Citizens Gas franchise; citizens will have the opportunity to weigh in at the scheduled public hearings and on the November ballot.