By Staff
Identity theft policy: In compliance with federal regulations pertaining to the Fair and Accurate Credit Transactions Act of 2003, the city has implemented an Identity Theft Prevention Program.
The purpose of this administrative policy is to establish an Identity Theft Prevention Program designed to detect, prevent and mitigate identity theft in connection with the opening of a municipal utility account or altering an existing account and to provide for continued administration of the program.
Leaf collection: Leaf collection operations are in full swing. All residents should be reminded of the importance that leaves be placed on the tree lawn between the sidewalk and the curb.
Piles of leaves in the street become safety hazards for children and motorists, as well as interfere with storm drainage should we have a large rainfall. Again, cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Power plant demolition: The power plant structure is on the ground and removal of the debris continues to move forward.
The cornerstone has been saved and is in the possession of the Department of Public Services.
Economic development policies: The city is continuing its review of its economic development policies.
Recommendations on policies regarding tax abatements and land use controls will be before council for action at the Oct. 27 meeting.
While the abatement policy gives companies investing in the community the opportunity to expand the personal property abatement from six to 12 years, it also includes accountability standards to assure the community that the jobs and investment continue throughout the abatement period.
Lake Michigan Molding: Lake Michigan Molding has applied for a site plan review for a new building in the industrial park. The site plan is tentatively scheduled for the Nov. 3 Planning Commission meeting.
Michigan Community Forestry Grant Program: The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Friday announced the award of 50 grants totaling $214,665 for community forestry projects statewide.
The City of Dowagiac was selected as one of the recipients for a grant in the amount of $2,250.
The city's grant monies will be used to purchase trees to replace approximately 30 ash trees infected with the emerald ash borer.
This is the second grant the city has received through the Michigan Community Forestry Grant Program.
Presidential election: Just a reminder, the presidential election is quickly approaching and as of Friday, we had 11 days left before the election.
City Hall will be open on Saturday, Nov. 1, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. if you are interested in an absentee ballot.
On Nov. 4 the polls will open at 7 a.m. and close at 8 p.m. Let's not forget to vote because your vote counts.
– Kevin P. Anderson
City Manager