Spear Street Update, Streetlight Removal Request

City Council Agenda Item Report

FROM:

Scott Herbert – Public Works Superintendent

MEETING DATE:

July 23, 2025

SUBJECT:

Update – Streetlight Removal Request – Spear Street

DESCRIPTION:

Background: At the May 12, 2025 City Council meeting, staff presented a request from residents at the east end of upper Spear Street to remove or deactivate a recently reactivated streetlight near the dead-end. After discussion, City Council directed the Department of Public Works to proceed with requesting deactivation of the light through Consumers Energy. Following Council direction, the Public Works Superintendent submitted a formal deactivation request and has followed up with Consumers Energy multiple times.

Update from Consumers Energy: Consumers Energy has notified the City of a change in available service options: “As of April 4, 2025, and as approved by the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), we no longer offer the temporary shutoff of a streetlight while continuing to bill at a reduced rate. This option was removed from our MPSC-approved rate schedule due to infrequent use. Unfortunately, I was unaware of this change at the time of our earlier discussions.”

Updated Options Moving Forward: 1. Retain the light in its current, active state – no action required. 2. Request full removal of the streetlight – Consumers Energy has provided a revised cost estimate of $500 for complete removal, to be paid by the City, and the current flat fee for streetlights will be reduced by an estimated $11 per month.

Recommendation: Staff seeks Council direction on how to proceed considering this new information. Should Council choose to proceed with full removal, staff recommends also pursuing previously discussed signage upgrades to maintain safety at the dead-end and nearby pedestrian easement.

BUDGET ACTION REQUIRED: Estimated cost to remove the streetlight is $500. COMMITTEE/COMMISSION REVIEW: N/A LEGAL REVIEW: N/A SAMPLE MOTION: Discussion Only.