Sylvan Lake council approves zoning conversion, places delinquent utility bills on tax roll and adopts county hazard mitigation plan; generator discussion table

Sylvan Lake City Council approved several routine and planning items at its Oct. 9 meeting and delayed a decision on a generator for the Community Center.

Council unanimously approved an agreement with Giffels Webster to convert the city's zoning ordinance into the firm’s Clearzoning format, a map-based format intended to make property requirements easier for residents to understand. City Manager Martin said funding for the project is included in the city budget.

The council also voted unanimously to place outstanding water and sewer receivable bills totaling $2,683.89 on the winter tax roll, with the caveat that any bill paid before the roll is finalized will not be placed on the tax roll.

Council approved a resolution adopting the Oakland County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan, which Martin said is required by FEMA for the city to remain eligible for certain federal hazard-mitigation grants.

On the question of installing a generator at the Community Center, Councilmember Clarke urged the city to consider solar options and available grants; City Manager Martin said solar had been considered during construction but was judged too costly for the building’s expected use. Council agreed to table the generator purchase and requested additional cost and feasibility information.

Earlier in the meeting, Council approved the Greater West Bloomfield Cable Communications Commission 2025 budget, which presenter Dave Albery said reflected a 5.5% decrease in budget and funding with no change in services.

The meeting concluded with a brief public comment from a congressional candidate and adjournment at 8:26 p.m.