Grant City council accepts 2023 audit, appoints assessor, endorses watershed representative and withdraws festival plans

Grant City Council accepted the 2023 annual audit, appointed a one-year assessor contract, endorsed the city’s representative to the Bronze Creek Watershed District and withdrew plans for a community festival.

On the audit, staff and the auditor reported no new significant findings beyond recurring segregation-of-duties issues that the council said stem from small staffing levels. "No significant findings other than the findings we have had for the last 10 years which are basically segregation of duties," a council member said while summarizing the audit review. The council moved to accept the audit as required for state submission and approved the acceptance by roll call.

Under unfinished business, members considered two assessor proposals (county versus a private assessor). The council noted being a month behind on assessor work and discussed operational considerations and costs. They moved to appoint Patrick to a one-year assessor contract effective July 1 with a 30-day early termination clause; members said the short contract gives both parties a chance to evaluate fit.

The council also voted to endorse Celia Worth to continue representing Grant on the Bronze Creek Watershed District. Worth appeared and was greeted by council members.

Finally, the council agreed to withdraw consideration of a community festival this year after the organizer said there was insufficient momentum; members asked staff to consider budgeting for the event next year.

The meeting closed after community calendar announcements and a roll call to adjourn.