Councilor Lytle's parting remarks, moment of silence for Dave Wiitanen
Meeting Highlights
Councilor Ron Blau was absent from this meeting.
Moment of silence held to honor Dave Wiitanen
The council held a moment of silence near the beginning of their meeting for former Hancock Mayor Dave Wiitanen, who recently died. Councilor John Haeussler reviewed some of Wiitanen’s life and contributions to the community.
Mayor delivers report for absent administrator
City Manager Mary Babcock was absent from this week’s meeting, and Mayor Paul LaBine delivered the report from notes she provided.
Zoning Board of Appeals to hear arguments for two variances
Mayor Paul LaBine briefly addressed two variances coming before the Hancock Zoning Board of Appeals next week.
Councilor William Lytle resigns for job in Idaho
Councilor William Lytle has resigned from his position and will be moving to Moscow, Idaho to become the director of the USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council.
Each of the present councilors made appreciative remarks toward Lytle before he addressed his sudden departure. He intends to leave town Monday.
The council will appoint a replacement for Lytle who will serve the remainder of his term. The position should be posted soon.
Councilor “calls bologna” on governor’s campaign finance move
Councilor John Haeussler took time at the end of the meeting to address Governor Gretchen Whitmer’s recent transfer of $3.5 million in campaign funds to the Michigan Democratic Party. The move was ruled to be fair by the court, but Haeussler said it “creates a blueprint” for parties and candidates to circumvent campaign finance law.
He also shared comments on the Michigan Independent Citizen’s Redistricting Commission. Frustrated with their budget shortfall, he highlighted their refusal to rescind the pay raise they gave themselves, among other things.
Other notes
The city’s new website is live.