Staff Reports: City Manager, Treasurer, Clerk, Planning & Zoning, Department of Public Works, Police, Engineer

City Manager Report January12, 2026

Chief Haverdink • The Mayor and I paid our respects at the funeral of Chief Haverdink. It was a deeply humbling experience and an opportunity to stand alongside his family, colleagues, and first responders from across the region to reflect on a life defined by service, courage, and compassion. The outpouring of respect was a powerful reminder of the profound impact Chief Haverdink had on so many, and of the sacrifices our first responders make every day in service to others. • If you haven’t already, I hope you will take some time to watch a couple of videos that honor Chief Haverdink’s life and service: o https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1CmVgDgY5W/ o https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1QEujcwiDV/ Strategic Planning • A reminder that the annual strategic planning session is scheduled for January 14 at 9a at Saugatuck Yacht Club. • This meeting is open to the public and we will have a public comment opportunity. • One of the items we will be discussing will be the master plan survey results. We will include the results in the packet that goes out next week, but given the length, it may be good to start reviewing a bit earlier. Here is a link to view them: https://www.saugatuckcity.com/uploads/1/3/3/9/133977444/saugatuck_master_p lan_survey_results_2025.pdf Mt. Baldhead Restroom Update • Midwest Construction provided the following update: o We had some progress through the holidays as we inch towards completion:  Soffit/Fascia Installed  Countertops and Sinks Installed  Plumbing/HVAC/Electrical Fixtures complete.  Plumbing and HVAC Inspection Scheduled for Friday, 01/09. o Upcoming this next week:  Complete Gutters  Remove Dumpster, Fence  Clean up Parking Lot o Issues:  Permanent Doors have been delayed AGAIN. My last update was expected completion of 01/28. Due to this, we have ordered

temporary doors so we can get final inspection, which is expected to be late next week. Drinking Fountain: This is expected to arrive around the same time as the permanent doors. It requires some extensive site work, but should only affect the property for a day. While the material delays are not what we hoped for, I hope that providing temporary doors will excite visitors to use MT Baldhead's used facilities.

Blue Star Trail • I met with our engineers, Township, and Friends of the Blue Star Trail (Friends) to discuss the status of the Blue Star Trail project. • Douglas and the Township received significant grant funding from the state to complete additional trail sections. This is very positive news and shows our state partners also remain invested in seeing the remaining trail pieces completed. • Our engineers are working on a draft RFP for phase 1 archeological survey work due to known contributing resources to the traditional cultural property. Once the draft is complete, MDOT and the tribal nations will have to review and approve. The work won’t be able to begin until the ground unthaws and snow is gone. Once we have proposals for the work, we will review with City Council, including a proposed cost share between the Friends, Township, and City. • Our engineers are also working on an amendment request and request for payment for the work on the walk through with the tribal nations and preparing the RFP. They are also going to be preparing a proposal for the construction phase as well.

Quarterly Community Engagement Report • We have continued our efforts to share information with the community in a variety of places. This has included greater use of Facebook and a regular City Manager report to the community. Here is an updated chart showing stats for October– December:

1 Quarter 43,224 151,103 Did Not Record 163 st

Viewers Views Total Followers New Followers

1 Quarter 8,447 17,320 1. Oval Beach 2. City Council 3. Public Works st

Unique Visits Views Top Pages

Facebook 2nd Quarter 49,518 326,726 4,820 367

City Website 2nd Quarter 18,844 33,553 1. Oval Beach 2. Landing Page 3. Chain Ferry

3rd Quarter 45,965 215,980 5,093 430

4th Quarter 38,648 192,943 5,240 147

3rd Quarter 28,267 46,932 1. Oval Beach 2. City Council 3. Mt. Baldhead Park

4th Quarter 9,664 18,496 1. City Council 2. Oval Beach 3. Short Term Rentals

News You Can Use E-mails

1 Quarter

2nd Quarter

3rd Quarter

4th Quarter

44,297

58,111

45,549

52,290

26,830

30,735

22,764

11,435

3rd Quarter 893

4th Quarter 905

st

Delivered Messages Opened Messages

1 Quarter st

Meeting Video Views

YouTube

2nd Quarter 783

Warming Station • CVB Executive Director, Ashley Siebelink will be at the February 4 workshop to go over survey results and answer questions that were raised at your previous meetings. HEARTSafe Initiative • Saugatuck-Douglas HEARTSafe Community Initiative submitted a copy of their annual report which is listed under correspondence. • I talked with them this week and they advised they have received some donations and are working to identify public spaces in Saugatuck to strategically place AEDs for immediate use should a sudden cardiac arrest occur. Once we know more, I anticipate having them attend a future meeting to discuss further. Kalamazoo River Greenway (KRG) • As part of the KRG work, the Outdoor Discovery Center has developed community outreach materials on water quality and salt use. Each week leading up to Winter Salt Week, we will be posting the materials on Facebook. Here is snapshot:

Miscellaneous • Held one on one meeting with Public Works Superintendent. • Responded to numerous inquiries about the logo/branding RFP. Proposals are due 1/9 at 4p and the committee will be reviewing them on 1/13. All proposals will be presented to Council for a decision. • Met with Land Conservancy of West Michigan. • Met with Strategic Planning Facilitator.

Treasurer Report

January 12, 2026

Tax Administration • • • •

Fielded resident inquiries related to mailing addresses, PREs, deferments, and partial payments. Researched returned or undeliverable mail and updated address records accordingly. Coordinated address and contact updates with the Assessor’s Office to ensure property records reflect current ownership information. Continue to receive summer and winter tax payments and preparing property tax disbursements to Allegan County, Saugatuck Public Schools, OAISD, Interurban, Library, and Fire. These distributions will continue on each payables through March 1. Coordinated setup of electronic property tax bill delivery to Lereta to improve efficiency and reduce manual handling. Processed property tax overpayments

Accounts Payable •

Continue to monitor the credit situation with Republic Services to ensure a service credit will be properly applied to the other account after a delayed cancellation. Just received proof of the credit application – waiting on the actual autopay to make sure it goes through appropriately. Processed regular payables, including the property tax disbursement batches. Review vendor billing for appropriate charges compared to prior-year amounts. Worked with vendors to maintain and update contact and payment information to ensure accurate records and timely processing

Payroll & Benefits • •

Processed two payrolls. Coordinated DOT drug/alcohol testing setup for new DPW employees, ensuring they are enrolled in the required testing program prior to starting safety-sensitive duties. Coordinated a random drug test, as well. Reviewed COLA-related payroll data and supplemented the payroll file with additional supporting information.

Reviewed upcoming regulatory changes impacting payroll reporting (including 1099 filing requirements and overtime regulations) to confirm current systems remain compliant.

Financial Management / Audit Preparation • • • •

Processed credit card payments for permits. Addressed follow-up requests from the auditor. FINISHED THE AUDIT!!! Beginning post-audit cleanup and documentation to incorporate audit feedback and improve processes for the current fiscal year. Filed the F65, the Qualifying Report, the Retirement Summary Report, and the Act 51 filing. Completed the November bank reconciliation. Continued management of high seasonal workload across tax administration, audit completion, and year-end financial filings.

Investments and Banking • •

Several CD maturities – some rollovers, some cash-ins. One more CD left to bring our investment banking relations under the safety of FDIC insurance. Beginning review of the City’s banking and investment relationship to evaluate opportunities to optimize earnings while maintaining appropriate safety and liquidity. Working through the process of updating the City’s bank signatories to reflect current personnel and ensure alignment with required financial controls.

Miscellaneous / Administrative • • • •

Finalized coordinating quotes for the City Hall fire alarm and monitoring system upgrade. The Fire Department has reviewed and agree that the specifications meet all required standards before proceeding.. Coordinated with Public Works and administrative staff on sidewalk repair invoicing, including establishing internal tracking for homeowner reimbursements. Reviewed grant award information and completed initial administrative steps to ensure readiness for future implementation. Monitored and assisted with multiple property damage insurance claims at varying stages, including ensuring required City property is properly scheduled for coverage. Processed escrow refunds.

December Planning, Zoning, & Project Report Planning & Zoning • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Attended virtual Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) Community Feedback Session hosted by Consumers Energy. PUD inquiry meeting with property owner and continued discussion. Met with residents to review STR requirements and application process. Attended virtual MME Early Career Outreach Panel. Provided guidance on zoning text amendment application requirements. Continuous coordination with City Engineer on active and proposed projects. Conducted STR compliance checks on new property transfers and galvanized service line updates. Proposed recommended revisions to Planning Commission Bylaws to ensure compliance with the Michigan Planning Enabling Act and current practices. Coordinated sign ordinance updates with legal counsel. Researched requested IFC language and documented potential effects to zoning. Began draft of text amendment language for the adoption of the latest IFC. Advanced Historic District sign amendments and discussed updated proposal received by consultant. Prepared agendas, packets, and materials for Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Historic District Commission annual meetings. Communicated with planning consultant regarding Master Plan scope and proposal. Updated invoice tracking and escrow logs; maintained financial records. Conducted field inspections for code compliance and zoning verification. Engaged with residents regarding active projects, zoning inquiries, short term rentals, and several enforcement matters. Maintained ongoing communication with legal counsel on enforcement strategy. Continued enforcement follow-ups and outreach on ongoing violations. Issued permits and processed planning/zoning casework as documented in case log. Participated in internal staff coordination meetings. Met with Fire Department staff to review standards and active cases. 1

Open Casework Items Associated with Granicus Short-Term Rental Hotline: 510 Butler

Special Land Use

PC approved with conditions. Applicant to pursue parcel combination.

102 Butler

Historic / Zoning

Rose Garden warming station. Plans in progress. Presented at PPW meeting and conducting survey. Will reappear before Council.

700 N Maple

Enforcement

Correspondence between resident and legal is ongoing. Concern raised of current condition of existing drainage system. Engineering to review. Meeting with resident held. Further engagement with resident and confirmation of existing approvals ongoing. Single family residence proposed. Applicant working with Fire Department on access lane. Awaiting updated plans. Mature arborvitae planted as screening. Exceeds height limit for fencing. Met with owner to discuss remedy. Fencing will be removed in Spring of 2026. Received notice of gravel parking area located in public right of way with no record of permit. Letter sent 12/17 and meeting with resident held on 12/22. Resident in communication with Engineering to make final decision based on Maple St. project.

665 Spear

Enforcement

150 Dunegrass

Zoning

120 Mary/510 Butler

Enforcement

208 Maple

Enforcement

324 N Maple

Enforcement

Received notice of gravel parking area located in public right of way with no record of permit. Letter sent 12/17.

102 Butler

Historic

Rose Garden warming station seeking HDC approval. Awaiting guidance from Council prior to scheduling.

60 Griffith

Short Term Rental

Pending Fire Department inspection approval.

125 Elizabeth

Enforcement

Ongoing communication with resident and other applicable departments to come to an agreeable solution.

250 Mason

Zoning

Application for HDC review of external building modifications.

640 Water

Zoning

PUD application recommended approval with conditions to Council. Scheduled for January HDC meeting. Public hearing with Council at January 26th meeting.

997 Maple Woods

Zoning

Application for deck received and reviewed. Revisions needed.

Presented at November PC meeting where application was postponed. Official Zoning Administrator interpretation for a Bed & Breakfast provided. Continued meetings with applicant to determine how they will proceed. Application submitted for addition. Scheduled for January HDC & Planning Commission meeting.

510 Butler

Special Land Use

202 Butler

Historic / Zoning

125 Elizabeth

Other

Alley vacation in process. Communication with engineering and legal counsel ongoing.

565 Weirich

Short Term Rental

Renewal application reviewed and sent to Fire Department for inspection.

735 Park

Right of Way

Received 2 right of way permit applications. Forwarded to engineering and DPW for further review.

888 Holland

Historic / Zoning

Proposed gravel driveway. Requires HDC approval and zoning review.

954 Elizabeth

Short Term Rental

Renewal application submitted.

133 Main

Short Term Rental

Renewal application submitted.

132 Mason

Short Term Rental

Renewal application submitted.

549 Hoffman

Short Term Rental

Renewal application submitted.

128 Elizabeth #10

Short Term Rental

Renewal application submitted.

246 Butler

Historic / Zoning

Sign application requiring HDC review and approval. Scheduled for January meeting.

297 Sugar Hill

Short Term Rental / SLU

Application to use an ADU as a STR. On January Planning Commission meeting agenda.

Closed Casework 589 Hoffman

Zoning

Residential addition.

610 Lake St

Short Term Rental / STR

Attached ADU approved for STR during November PC meeting. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

810 Allegan

Short Term Rental

Application complete. Fire Department approved. License issued.

449 Water

Short Term Rental

Application complete. New ownership. Sent to Fire Department. Approved.

123 North

Short Term Rental

Application complete. Fire Department approved. License issued.

546 Butler

Historic

Entryway door replacement. Approved by HDC.

254 Francis

Enforcement

Received complaint of STR without license. Phone call with property owner and research. Insufficient evidence at this time. Closed.

57-850-010-00

Zoning / Variance

“Phase 1” zoning approved for new residential structure. Variance application heard at December meeting. Denied.

555 Grand

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

60 Griffith St

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

249 Culver #1

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Old fee paid initially, updated. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

249 Culver #2

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Old fee paid initially, updated. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

125 Water

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

201 Culver #5

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

125 Mason

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

347 Water

Short Term Rental

Change of ownership

160 N Maple

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Approved.

807 Lake #2

Short Term Rental

Application submitted. Fire Department inspection. Failed. Reinspection. Approved.

Enforcement

Sent notice of violation regarding events held at a Bed & Breakfast Establishment. Verbal and written communication confirming property owners understanding and compliance.

510 Butler

Department of Public Works Below is a summary of notable activities carried out by the Department of Public Works since the last summary provided to City Council at the December 8th regular meeting.

Winter Operations

Snow and ice control operations are ongoing. Public Works staff continue to monitor weather conditions and respond as needed to maintain safe roadways, sidewalks, and public facilities throughout the City. In the absence of snow, detailing of equipment and neutralizing of the salt in the equipment is taking place.

Christmas Decorations & Holiday Lights

Removal of Christmas decorations will begin soon as weather allows. Public Works staff continue to monitor holiday lighting throughout the City and address issues as they arise, including GFI resets, bulb replacements, and minor repairs to keep lights operational as long as possible.

Routine Maintenance

Erosion control fencing at the beach is coming down due to wind and is being put back up as soon as possible. Sand continues to be an issue in the parking lot at Oval Beach due to the wind. Work continues to be done to keep the parking lot open and clear. Motor pool maintenance continues as well. All of the Park’s equipment has been greased and has received new plugs and filters. Detailing of the street scaping downtown is being done when possible. 2 rounds of hot patching were able to be completed recently.

Staffing & Training

AJ is scheduled to take his CDL permit test at the Secretary of State on Friday, January 9th. Once he has his permit, he will then go through CDL school to obtain his CDL Class B.

Project Updates • •

Chain Ferry ArborsInstallation completed on January 7 by Diversified Welding Maple Street ReconstructionPlan review meeting was held on December 4. The project bid opening is scheduled for January 27, 2026

Mt Baldhead RestroomsConstruction is ongoing and continues to move forward as planned. The project is currently awaiting delivery of the restroom doors, which will be installed as soon as they arrive, anticipated in mid-January. Site cleanup, including removal of construction equipment and fencing will occur following door installation. Final landscaping will be completed in the spring. Pallet SignRepairs scheduled for Monday January 12. City Hall ElevatorDuring elevator repair work, it was found that the existing pump unit was not compatible with the new controller. A new pump unit has been ordered. Once the pump is received, McNally elevator will complete the installation. The installation timeline is the beginning of February.

Meetings: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

12/01/2025DPW Weekly Goals Meeting 12/05/2025DPW Weekly Goals Follow Up Meeting 12/08/2025DPW Weekly Goals Meeting 12/10/2025Department Head Team Meeting 12/11/2025Special Event Safety MeetingSaugatuck Douglas Art Fair 12/12/2025DPW Weekly Goals Follow Up Meeting 12/15/2025DPW Weekly Goals Meeting 12/17/2025Oval Beach Concession Stand Tour 12/19/2025DPW Weekly Goals Follow Up Meeting 12/22/2025DPW Weekly Goals Meeting 12/23/2025Parks & Public Works Committee Meeting 12/26/2025DPW Weekly Goals Follow Up Meeting 12/29/2025DPW Weekly Goals Meeting

December 2025 Stats

12/24/2025 03:20:53

General Assist

Total calls - 99

12/23/2025 12:50:59

Check Welfare

12/22/2025 21:55:43

General Assist

12/22/2025 17:44:04

PDA

12/22/2025 00:37:30

General Assist

12/22/2025 00:21:02

Suspicious Situation

12/21/2025 08:20:34

Inspections

12/20/2025 22:57:41

General Assist

12/20/2025 19:50:52

Inspections

12/20/2025 19:33:44

Inspections

12/20/2025 05:56:33

Parking Violation

12/19/2025 23:10:40

Suspicious Situation

12/19/2025 22:50:42

General Assist

12/19/2025 13:31:21

Inspections

12/19/2025 13:27:48

Inspections

12/19/2025 07:50:38

On Foot

12/18/2025 22:19:48

General Assist

12/18/2025 01:10:52

General Assist

12/17/2025 13:37:11

Misc

12/17/2025 10:24:44

Inspections

12/17/2025 00:44:14

General Assist

12/16/2025 13:01:45

Inspections

12/16/2025 12:57:27

Inspections

12/15/2025 23:33:22

General Assist

12/14/2025 23:07:04

General Assist

12/14/2025 14:46:11

Assist Other Agencies

12/13/2025 23:34:17

General Assist

12/13/2025 12:20:04

Civil

12/12/2025 21:52:49

General Assist

Traffic stops - 18 School contacts - 25 Call Date/Time Incident Type =================== 12/31/2025 14:26:02

Parking Violation

12/31/2025 07:35:43

Alarm

12/31/2025 05:42:43

Parking Violation

12/31/2025 04:24:57

Parking Violation

12/31/2025 04:10:08

Parking Violation

12/31/2025 02:01:35

Inspections

12/30/2025 22:16:36

General Assist

12/30/2025 08:33:59

Inspections

12/29/2025 22:37:36

General Assist

12/29/2025 06:25:22

General Assist

12/28/2025 22:40:17

General Assist

12/27/2025 21:49:56

General Assist

12/27/2025 19:20:21

Assist Other Agencies

12/26/2025 21:42:21

General Assist

12/26/2025 01:26:33

General Assist

12/25/2025 09:51:33

General Assist

12/25/2025 03:15:36

General Assist

12/24/2025 19:38:31

Inspections

12/24/2025 13:50:54

Alarm

12/24/2025 12:12:39

Inspections

12/24/2025 11:53:44

Animal-Dog Running

12/12/2025 10:26:44

Inspections

12/05/2025 22:17:20

General Assist

12/12/2025 05:58:24

Parking Violation

12/05/2025 17:51:47

Parking Violation

12/12/2025 05:54:36

Parking Violation

12/04/2025 05:58:05

Parking Violation

12/12/2025 05:48:20

Parking Violation

12/04/2025 05:51:51

Parking Violation

12/12/2025 02:11:27

Inspections

12/04/2025 05:45:26

Parking Violation

12/12/2025 02:03:14

Inspections

12/04/2025 00:04:30

Alarm

12/11/2025 22:13:48

General Assist

12/03/2025 22:17:44

General Assist

12/11/2025 18:16:00

Check Welfare

12/03/2025 11:32:57

Inspections

12/11/2025 17:48:56

General Assist

12/03/2025 10:01:55

Inspections

12/11/2025 02:53:18

Inspections

12/03/2025 09:04:44

General Assist

12/11/2025 02:45:55

Inspections

12/02/2025 22:31:19

General Assist

12/10/2025 22:03:22

General Assist

12/02/2025 05:54:30

Parking Violation

12/10/2025 13:22:00

Inspections

12/02/2025 01:36:51

Alarm

12/10/2025 13:18:45

Inspections

12/01/2025 23:01:47

General Assist

12/09/2025 22:30:11

General Assist

12/01/2025 17:31:32

Harassment/Threats

12/09/2025 19:08:50

General Assist

12/01/2025 15:33:12

Inspections

12/08/2025 22:41:57

General Assist

12/01/2025 15:30:12

Inspections

12/07/2025 22:59:56

General Assist

12/01/2025 13:22:36

Suspicious Situation

12/07/2025 14:52:24

Inspections

12/01/2025 11:35:17

Parking Violation

12/07/2025 14:28:38

Inspections

12/01/2025 10:36:04

Check Welfare

12/07/2025 07:36:57

Domestic Assault

12/07/2025 05:46:20

Parking Violation

12/07/2025 05:36:28

Parking Violation

12/07/2025 05:27:01

Parking Violation

12/07/2025 01:58:20

MDOP-29000

12/06/2025 19:06:09

General Assist

12/06/2025 10:01:36

Parking Violation

12/06/2025 05:37:41

Parking Violation

12/06/2025 05:33:32

Parking Violation

City of Saugatuck Status Report of Engineering Activities January 8, 2026 General Consultation •

Village Square Court Renovation: The City’s application was selected for funding. We are preparing a proposal for engineering and administration services on the project.

Developed a proposal for inspection of larger culvert crossings and storm sewer outfalls. This work could be completed in phases and areas of concern could be prioritized.

Pavement Markings: 2025 work is complete. 2026 work will take place in the spring. Current contract is 2025-2027.

Assisting with review of water and sewer agreements as needed.

EGLE Technical, Managerial and Financial (TMF) Project • •

The project is complete, final documents have been submitted to EGLE and notices have been sent to customers. Assisting staff with answering customer questions. Will be working with City staff on a plan to eliminate remaining unknowns and replace lead/galvanized services by the federal and state deadlines (11/1/2037 and 1/1/2041, respectively).

Mt. Baldhead Projects • • •

AT&T Project Assistance o Providing assistance on an as-needed basis. Restroom Building Replacement o Construction is complete except for a few items – doors, drinking fountain, concrete and restoration. Final site restoration will be completed in spring 2026. Observation Platform Replacement o Attended several meetings with area stakeholders and cultural resources specialists to help guide the design. o Received report of findings on cultural resources and anticipate meeting again with stakeholders soon. o Timeframe for design and construction will depend on the direction for design based on stakeholder input.

Maple Street Improvements • • •

EGLE permitting is complete and the project is out for bids. The bid opening is scheduled for January 27 and bids are anticipated to be presented at the February 4 council workshop for an award at the February 9 regular meeting. Incorporated sea wall repairs, resurfacing Mary Street (Water Street to Butler Street) and new valves on Water Street into the bid documents as separate items of work (outside the Maple Street budget). Construction is anticipated to be completed April – November 2026. We will receive a more detailed schedule once a contract has been awarded.

Park Street Improvements – Study Phase •

Park Street between Campbell Road and Mt. Baldhead has no specific non-motorized facility and a number of unique challenges and right-of-way encroachments. The asphalt pavement is deteriorating. A number of development projects have recently been completed or are ongoing along the corridor. A planning phase proposal has been developed to build on prior study work and develop a scope, concept and cost estimate for improvement of the corridor. The City received funding from EGLE’s Michigan Coastal Management Program, which will fund up to 50% of the planning cost. We are prepared to begin the work upon authorization.

City Hall Interior Renovations •

Prepared a conceptual floor plan that incorporates findings from the needs evaluation for staff comment.

Elizabeth Street Improvements • •

Planning phase services have begun. Topographic survey work is in process. Projected schedule is planning work in early 2026, design in mid-2026, bidding in late 2026 and construction in 2027.