5151 MARSH ROAD OKEMOS, MICHIGAN (517)

Okemos Library ~ After the Renew the Okemos Library Renovations

5151 MARSH ROAD OKEMOS, MICHIGAN 48864-1198 (517) 853-4000 www.meridian.mi.us

TOWNSHIP BOARD MEMBERS

Elizabeth LeGoff, Supervisor Brett Dreyfus, Clerk Julie Brixie, Treasurer Milton L. Scales, Trustee Ronald J. Styka, Trustee John Veenstra, Trustee Angela Wilson, Trustee

CHARTER TOWNSHIP OF MERIDIAN Elizabeth Ann LeGoff Brett Dreyfus Julie Brixie Frank L. Walsh

TO:

Milton L. Scales Ronald J. Styka John Veenstra Angela Wilson

Supervisor Clerk Treasurer Manager

Trustee Trustee Trustee Trustee

Townsh ip Board

FROM: FrankL. Walsh, Townsh ip Manager

DATE:

March 14, 2014

RE:

2013 Annual Report

The Meridian Township Management Team and I are pleased to present you with the Township's 2013 Annual Report. The enclosed report of departmental activities is meant to satisfy the requirements of the Charter Township Act and provide our residents with a complete overview of 2013 operations. This report is a compilation of activities written by the staff of each department. Most of the information was assembled from the Monthly Reports distributed in 2013. Distribution of the Annual Report is limited to those individuals on boards and commissions who specifically request a copy. A copy of this report will be on file in the Clerk's Office and posted on the Township's site at www.meridian.mi.us. Please feel free to contact me or any Department Director should you have any questions regarding this report. We will continue our efforts in 2014 to work as a team united in spirit for the betterment of our 40,000 Township residents.

5151 MARSH ROAD, OKEMOS, MICHIGAN 48864-1198 (517) 853-4000 www.meridian.mi.us

TABLE OF CONTENTS

ACCOUNTING and BUDGETING ............................................................................... 1 ADMINISTRATION ...................................................................................................... 3 ASSESSING ................................................................................................................ 4 CLERK’S OFFICE ....................................................................................................... 6 COMMMUNICATIONS .............................................................................................. 11 COMMUNITY PLANNING and DEVELOPMENT ...................................................... 17 COMMUNITY RESOURCES ..................................................................................... 23 EMS/FIRE .................................................................................................................. 26 HUMAN RESOURCES .............................................................................................. 39 INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY ............................................................................... 40 PARKS and RECREATION ...................................................................................... 44 POLICE...................................................................................................................... 74 PUBLIC WORKS and ENGINEERING.................................................................... 102 TREASURER’S OFFICE ......................................................................................... 119

ACCOUNTING AND BUDGETING The Department of Accounting and Budgeting is responsible for all aspects of the Township's accounting system. The Department maintains the general ledger, processes payroll for the Township's employees, processes outgoing payments through the accounts payable system, prepares purchase orders, processes utility billing transactions, prepares and monitors the budget, coordinates grant accounting, and is the coordinating department for the annual financial audit.

GENERAL ACCOUNTING •

Maintained financial records for all Township Funds.

•

Received the Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting from the Government Finance Officers Association for 2012.

•

Monitored financial condition to assure compliance with the Policy Governance Manual.

•

Coordinated the annual financial audit for the year ended December 31, 2012.

•

Provided assistance to the Township Manager and departments in preparing the 2014 recommended budget.

•

Complied with new state requirements regarding transparency to remain eligible for statutory state shared revenue.

•

Began using the Miscellaneous Receipts module in BS&A for tracking Township receivables.

•

Began recording the Township Pension Plan activity within BS&A.

•

Worked with attorney on revision of Pension Plan document for new determination letter. (Successfully submitted in early 2014)

ACCOUNTS PAYABLE •

Processed and paid all invoices for the Township with approximately 2,867 checks totaling $10.4 million from the common cash account and 377 checks totaling $6.4 million from the public works account. Also processed 291 checks totaling $35.1 million through the Trust and Agency Fund.

•

Recorded 2,495 credit card transactions totaling $232,000.

•

Issued over 462 Purchase Orders totaling $8.4 million.

PAYROLL •

Continued to work with third party provider ADP to process payroll and administer tax reporting.

•

Administered the timekeeping systems and imported records into the payroll system. Assured that all pay was at proper rates and recorded into the proper fund/account.

•

Issued payments to third parties for non-tax amounts withheld from earnings. (Contributions to pension plans, union dues, etc.)

1

UTILITY BILLING •

Calculated, printed, mailed, and receipted payments of water and sewer bills for approximately 16,000 customers. This involved uploading/downloading hand-held reading equipment on a regular rotating scheduled basis and issuing a monthly average of 5,000 bills. Invoices represented over 1,150,000,000 gallons of metered water totaling approximately $7.7 million for water/sanitary services in 2013.

•

Processed over 2,600 utility work orders for meter changes, final bills, or to confirm a meter reading.

•

Processed 11,510 on-line utility payments totaling $1,303,000 by ACH or credit card for 2,991 customers.

Team members Gretchen Gomolka, CPA, Director (Hired July 2013) Diana Hasse, CPA, Director (Retired June 2013) Char Bargy, Bookkeeper Deanne Feldpausch, Bookkeeper Danielle Hughes, Bookkeeper Sue St. Laurent, Bookkeeper Heather Baker, HR/Payroll Specialist

2

ADMINISTRATION •

Manager Walsh attended monthly meetings of the Meridian Economic Development Corporation and the Okemos Downtown Development Authority.

•

Assisted in the coordination and implementation of the Cornell Road project.

•

Had the lead role in the negotiation and adoption of eight (8) new union contracts during October and November 2013.

•

Gave oversight to the Okemos Renew the Library project.

•

Manager Walsh assisted with the closure of the 2012 Blosser issue.

•

Assisted in the efforts to build a new Central Fire Station.

•

Guided the effort to enhance the Township’s economic development efforts.

•

Development and adoption of the Township’s 2014 Budget and fiscal oversight of the 2013 Budget.

•

Assistance given to enhance the parking opportunities for senior citizens at the Senior Center.

•

Provided oversight in developing tools to broaden opportunities for team recognition.

Team members Frank L. Walsh, Township Manager (Hired May 2013) Gerald J. Richards, Township Manager (Retired May 2013) Carol Hasse, Executive Assistant

3

ASSESSING DEPARTMENT RESPONSIBILITIES AND 2013 2013 ACTIVITY Routine Tasks: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Maintained parcel records and created new records for property splits. Tracked all building permits and added new value to the assessment roll. Processed all recorded deeds and property transfer affidavits. Reviewed sales studies for level of assessment ratio determination. Appraised all taxable real and personal property in the Township. Maintained assessing data pertinent to each parcel. Held meetings for the March, July, and December Boards of Review. Prepared defenses for appeals to the State Tax Commission and the Michigan Tax Tribunal. Prepared the annual assessment roll and mailed notification of value changes to taxpayers. Prepared required forms for the State of Michigan and Ingham County. Calculated the millage rates and rollback factors for the Township. Compiled various millage rates from the taxing authorities to levy property taxes; authorized the levy of taxes by the Township. Kept informed of legislation pertaining to property assessment and other issues affecting local government. Explained assessment practices, property tax law, and Township policies to taxpayers. Administered principal residence exemptions. Performed land and building sketches in the assessing software. Updated photos of real property parcels with digital photographs.

Special Projects: • • •

Initiated an annual review of properties for accuracy in assessing. Conducted an Assessor’s Review to provide an informal appeal opportunity to property owners. Improved the groupings of neighborhoods for residential, commercial, and industrial properties.

Team members David Lee, Assessor Cathy Groce, Appraiser Marti Townsend, Assessing Clerk David Upchurch, Appraiser

4

2013 Top Ten Taxpayers SEV

TV

EYDE COMPANIES

34,148,000

29,777,686

MERIDIAN MALL, LP

28,513,300

28,513,300

CONSUMERS ENERGY

18,939,100

18,386,333

SPARROW DEVELOPMENT, INC.

14,908,300

14,824,763

EAST LANSING I, LLC

14,021,200

14,021,200

MICHIGAN PROPERTIES, LLC

9,115,000

9,115,000

BRANDYWINE CREEK, LLC

8,295,100

8,158,083

MEIJER THRIFTY ACRES

7,322,500

7,322,500

VIKING PARTNERS LANSING, LLC

5,116,200

5,040,464

KNOB HILL APARTMENTS, LP

4,134,800

4,134,800

2013 Value Summary PROPERTY CLASS Agricultural Commercial Industrial Residential Personal Exempt TOTALS:

PARCEL COUNT 4 675 43 13,036 1,899 327

SEV 836,400 351,119,000 4,642,800 1,144,512,350 61,348,000 0

TV 411,613 333,636,426 3,958,843 1,128,124,404 61,321,716 0

15,984

1,562,458,550

1,527,453,002

2013 Board of Review Activity PROPERTY CLASS Agricultural Commercial/Industrial Residential Personal Poverty/Veteran’s Exemptions Principal Residence Exemptions TOTALS:

MARCH APPEALS 0 18 123 39 4 0 184

JULY CORRECTIONS 0 0 8 0 5 10 23

2013 2013 Board of Review Members Brett DeGroff Suzanne Rebeck Xavier Durand-Hollis Barry Spengler Katie Jones Deborah Federau (alternate) Charles Hagen (alternate)

5

DECEMBER CORRECTIONS 0 0 4 0 10 17 31

CLERK’S OFFICE RESPONSIBILITIES AND 2013 ACTIVITY The responsibilities of the Meridian Township Clerk are largely set by state statute and include: Election Administration; maintaining voter registration files; serving as an officer and voting member of the Meridian Township Board; keeper of official Township records; minutes preparation for the Township Board, Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals; updating the Code of Ordinances Book; publishing all legal notices; maintaining the Township general ledger; serving as official Freedom of Information Act Coordinator; providing Notary Public services, and a multitude of additional responsibilities.

BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS MEMBER LISTS The Clerk’s Office maintains the member lists for all official Meridian Township Boards, Commissions, Committees, Authorities, etc.

CODE OF ORDINANCE BOOK The Clerk’s Office continues to work with the Municipal Code Corporation. Their services include checking new ordinances for compliance with Michigan law, completion of updates for both the full Code of Ordinances Book and the smaller zoning portion of the Ordinance Book. The service also includes maintaining a website with our Code accessible on the left side of the front page of the Township’s Website. In 2009 we subscribed to a new Municipal Code service allowing us to update the website immediately upon the effective date of new ordinances. The new/changed ordinance section is found on the front page of the Ordinance Website. All new and changed ordinances are merged into the Ordinance Book on an annual basis.

ELECTION ADMINISTRATION The Electronic Poll Book (EPB) was introduced to the Election Workers and the voting public in the August 2010 Primary Election. The EPB is designed to automate the voter verification and ballot tracking functions carried out by the boards of election inspectors at the polls on Election Day. The application also supports the automatic uploading of voter history into the QVF (Qualified Voter File) following the election. The Michigan Department of State’s Bureau of Elections provided laptop computers (one per precinct) free of charge to the cities and townships for this program. Michigan’s Qualified Voter File (QVF) continues to be recognized around the nation for its innovative use of technology for effective, efficient statewide voter registration data. The statewide file contains computerized signatures to ease the cumbersome process of checking signatures prior to issuing absentee ballots as well as other signature checking requirements. The QVF tracks voters through daily changes to Michigan’s Drivers’ License file and simultaneously transfers the information to Meridian Township where it is reviewed/verified and accepted. The QVF allows communities to maintain their voter files with a superior level of accuracy. The QVF process and programs provide our election staff and Meridian voters a significantly less stressful record keeping process and Election Day experience. The Clerk’s Office registers new voters, and manages address changes, cancellations, absentee ballots, overseas voting, and the issuance of voter registration cards. Numerous other duties related to election administration include: preparation, publication and/or posting of all election-related public notices, tabulating equipment accuracy testing, election results, and information related to polling locations as well as special elections in adjacent 6

communities. Duties also involve confidential storage of ballots and other election-related documents and materials as directed by State of Michigan statutes.

2013 ELECTIONS CONDUCTED IN MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP FEBRUARY 26, 2013 CITY OF EAST LANSING SCHOOL DISTRICT ELECTION CITY OF EAST LANSING SCHOOL DISTRICT BONDING PROPOSAL Shall the School District of the City of East Lansing, Ingham and Clinton Counties, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Five Million Three Hundred Thousand Dollars ($5,300,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, for the purpose of: acquiring and installing instructional technology for school facilities; and remodeling, furnishing and refurnishing, and equipping and re-equipping school facilities? The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2013 is 1.25 mills ($1.25 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). The maximum number of years the bonds may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is five (5) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is 1.25 mills ($1.25 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited, and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses. As part of a consolidated agreement that increases efficiencies and reduces costs, the City of East Lansing agreed to conduct the election for Meridian Township residents (Precincts 18, 19 and part of 20) who reside in the East Lansing School District. No separate results were available for Meridian Township as voter turnout included East Lansing precincts as part of the total voter count. YES: 1,921

NO: 881

Total Voters: 2,808 (10.4% voter turnout).

MAY 7, 2013 WILLIAMSTON COMMUNITY SCHOOLS ELECTION SINKING FUND PROPOSAL Shall the Williamston Community Schools, County of Ingham, Michigan, be authorized to levy 1.00 mills to create a sinking fund for the purpose of the construction or repair of school buildings and the improvement and development of sites and for any other purpose which may be permitted by law, by increasing the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on taxable property in the School District for a period of ten (10) years, being the years 2013 to 2022, inclusive? It is estimated that 1.00 mills ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable valuation) would raise approximately $385,000 when first levied in 2013. Under state law, sinking fund proceeds may not be used to pay teacher or administrator salaries. YES: 32 NO: 32 (Tie in Meridian Township Precincts. These totals include only Meridian Township residents in the Williamston Community School District) The Sinking Fund Proposal FAILED when votes from all jurisdictions were tabulated.

7

AUGUST 6, 2013 HASLETT PUBLIC SCHOOLS ELECTION MILLAGE PROPOSAL, BUILDING AND SITE SINKING FUND TAX LEVY Shall the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be assessed against all property in Haslett Public Schools, Ingham, Clinton and Shiawassee Counties, Michigan, be increased by and the board of education be authorized to levy not to exceed 1.25 mills ($1.25 on each $1000 of taxable valuation) for a period of 10 years, 2013 to 2022, inclusive, to create a sinking fund for the construction or repair of, and the purchase of real estate for sites for school buildings and all other purposes authorized by law; the estimate of the revenue the school district will collect if the millage is approved and levied in 2013 is approximately $650,000? YES: 1,135

NO: 893

These totals also include Woodhull Township, Williamstown Township, and Bath Township voters in the Haslett Public School District.

NOVEMBER 5, 2013 OKEMOS PUBLIC SCHOOLS ELECTION BONDING PROPOSAL Shall Okemos Public Schools, Ingham County, Michigan, borrow the sum of not to exceed Seven Million Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($7,500,000) and issue its general obligation unlimited tax bonds therefor, for the purpose of: acquiring and installing educational technology and related cabling in school facilities; remodeling, equipping and re-equipping and furnishing and refurnishing school facilities, in part for security purposes; purchasing school buses; and equipping athletic facilities? The estimated millage that will be levied for the proposed bonds in 2014, under current law, is 0 mills ($0.00 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). The maximum number of years the bonds may be outstanding, exclusive of any refunding, is six (6) years. The estimated simple average annual millage anticipated to be required to retire this bond debt is .93 mill ($0.93 on each $1,000 of taxable valuation). The school district expects to borrow from the State School Bond Qualification and Loan Program to pay debt service on these bonds. The estimated total principal amount of that borrowing is $8,293,188 and the estimated total interest to be paid thereon is $3,048,185. The estimated duration of the millage levy associated with that borrowing is 10 years and the estimated computed millage rate for such levy is 7.00 mills. The estimated computed millage rate may change based on changes in certain circumstances. The total amount of qualified bonds currently outstanding is $17,352,871. The total amount of qualified loans currently outstanding is $0. Pursuant to State law, expenditure of bond proceeds must be audited, and the proceeds cannot be used for repair or maintenance costs, teacher, administrator or employee salaries, or other operating expenses. YES: 2,670

NO: 1,050

These totals include Alaiedon Township and Williamstown Township voters in the Okemos Public School District.

8

NOVEMBER 5, 2013 WILLIAMSTON COMMUNITY SCHOOLS ELECTION SINKING FUND PROPOSAL Shall the Williamston Community Schools, County of Ingham, Michigan, be authorized to levy 1.00 mills to create a sinking fund for the purpose of the construction or repair of school buildings and the improvement and development of sites and for any other purpose which may be permitted by law, by increasing the limitation on the amount of taxes which may be imposed on taxable property in the School District for a period of ten (10) years, being the years 2013 to 2022, inclusive? It is estimated that 1.00 mills ($1.00 per $1,000 of taxable valuation) would raise approximately $385,000 when first levied in 2013. Under state law, sinking fund proceeds may not be used to pay teacher or administrator salaries. YES: 45

NO: 31

These totals include only Meridian Township residents residing in the Williamston Community School District (part of Precinct 7). The Sinking Fund Proposal PASSED when votes from all jurisdictions were tabulated.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION (FOI) COORDINATOR The purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (Public Act 442 of 1976) is to allow citizens access to information about the priorities, deliberations and decisions made by their government. The FOIA supports full disclosure of certain public records, unless a statutory exemption allows an agency or unit of government to deny disclosure. The Act details specific actions and timetables that public bodies must follow in order to remain in compliance. The Clerk's Office responded to fifty-one (51) FOIA requests during 2013.

LEGAL NOTICES AND POSTING OF OFFICIAL TOWNSHIP MEETINGS Several hundred legal notices, advising residents of upcoming meeting dates, agendas, information for public hearings, proposed resolutions, and ordinance changes were published during 2013.

NEIGHBORHOOD ASSOCIATIONS CONTACT LIST The Clerk’s Office maintains a current list of Neighborhood Associations contact names, addresses, and phone numbers. This is only as current as provided by the Associations and was last updated in August 2013.

NEWSPAPER/HISTORY CLIPPING BOOK The Clerk's Office continued to provide the clipping service from The State Journal, Towne Courier, and some State News and City Pulse articles relating to Meridian Charter Township activities. The Newspaper Clipping Books begun in the early 1960’s and are complete through 2013.

NOTARY SERVICE The Clerk's Office has Notary Public service available to residents. During 2013, multiple members of the Clerk's Office served the public as qualified Notary Publics at no cost.

9

PETITION SIGNATURE VALIDATION PROCESS The Clerk's Office carries the responsibility to verify and validate petition signatures received for school board candidates, all local candidates for public office, as well as periodic referendum and annexation petitions.

TOWNSHIP BOARD MEETING PACKETS AND MINUTES The Clerk’s Office coordinates the Township Board Meeting packets twice per month on the Fridays before meetings. The meetings are recorded and minutes are prepared by the Clerk’s staff.

TOWNSHIP CEMETERY OVERSIGHT There were 23 lot sales and 38 burials during 2013. As a historical note, the newest section of the Glendale Cemetery was opened in April 2002, with the first burial in that section occurring in March 2003. Riverside Cemetery, while no longer available for burial, continues to be maintained by the Township. During the year 2004, cemetery records were entered into a new cemetery computer program created by Information Technology Personnel. The original 18 x 11 leather bound books continue to be used and maintained. The Clerk’s Office responds to genealogical requests as well assisting researchers seeking information on family history using cemetery records.

TOWNSHIP MAIL SERVICE The Clerk's Office is vigilant in efforts to work with the U.S. Postal Service to ensure each department is using the most cost-effective method for all mailings. In 2013, the office installed a new mail processing system that provided additional digital features with faster throughput and increased efficiency.

TOWNSHIP RECORDS MANAGEMENT Evaluation of our record keeping needs, status, priorities, retention periods, and storage options (both paper and electronic) is an ongoing process. Each year the Clerk’s Office reviews and updates record management procedures. We have placed emphasis on continually building efforts to permanently preserve records as well as increase the efficiency through which records may be retrieved.

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS Clerk’s Office staff attends, records, and prepares the minutes for ZBA meetings.

Clerk's Clerk's Activities -

Chair, Election Commission Election Official for Haslett and Okemos Schools Board Liaison to Economic Development Corporation Member of Tri-County Region Planning Comm: Urban & Rural Services Mgt. Committee Member, Ingham County Health for All Project

Team members Brett Dreyfus, Township Clerk Joan Horvath, CMC, Deputy Clerk and Assistant to the Clerk Sandra Otto, Administrative Assistant II Angela Ryan, Records Technician 10

COMMUNICATIONS

Narrative The Communications Department of Meridian Charter Township serves six main functions: •

Operates HOMTV, the government access television station which appears on Comcast cable service. Operates CAMTV, the public access channel, which appears on Comcast cable service and AT&T u-verse.

•

Oversees the Uniform Franchise Agreements between Meridian Charter Township and video service providers including overseeing Metro Act Permits.

•

Provides assistance to township video cable subscribers with any unresolved ongoing dispute with video service provider(s).

•

Serves as the PIO (Public Information Officer) for emergency situations as outlined in the Meridian Township Emergency Plan.

•

Provides staff support to the Cable Communications Commission.

•

Supports the television/video production, social media, websites, press releases, press conferences, print material, and promotion needs of other departments and divisions in Meridian Township Government.

2013 2013 Achievements and Awards HOMTV entered two national contests in 2013, the Philo T. Farnsworth Local Video Competition and the Government Programming Awards competition sponsored by NATOA (National Association of Telecommunication Officers and Advisors). Recognized by Philo, HOMTV received nine first place awards, three finalist awards and one Excellence in Directing award. Recognized by NATOA, HOMTV received one national first place award, one national second place award, one national third place award and one national honorable mention.

Philo T. Farnsworth Local Video Competition 1st Place Arts/Cultural Awareness Category - Community Connection #118 1st Place Empowerment/Inspirational Category - Special Feature #236: Life As A Zebra 1st Place Instructional Category - 25 by 25 #4 Finalist Interview Talk Show Category - InnerView #43 1st Place Magazine Program Category - Beyond the Badge #127 1st Place Magazine Program Category - Special Feature #227: Paws 1st Place News Program Category - Meridian Magazine #1068 Finalist News Program Category - Meridian Magazine #1048 1st Place P.S.A. Category - Howl at the Moon Promo Finalist P.S.A. Category - Blood Drive 1st Place Promo (3:00 or less) Category - Meridian Fishing Derby Promo 1st Place Seniors Category - Senior Living #50 Excellence in Directing Category - Special Feature #236: Life As A Zebra

11

NATOA (National Assoc. of Telecommunication Officers & Advisors) Government Programming Awards National 1st Place Visual Arts Category - Beyond the Badge Opening Animation National 2nd Place Use of Social Media Category - HOMTV Social Media National 3rd Place Election Coverage Category - Ballot Meridian 2012 Township Trustee Debate Honorable Mention Public Affairs Category - Special Feature #234 - Charrette Project

2013 2013 Achievements and Awards NUMBER OF NEW HOMTV PROGRAMS AIRED DURING THE MONTH Show

Jan

Feb

Mar

April

May

June

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Show Total

Prod. Hours

25 by 25

0

2

1

2

2

1

0

1

0

0

0

0

9

4.5

All Access

1

2

2

1

0

1

2

1

0

1

1

0

12

6

Beyond the Badge

0

0

1

1

1

0

1

1

1

1

0

1

8

4

Coffee Break

0

1

2

1

2

2

1

3

2

0

1

0

15

7.5

Community Connection

0

0

1

0

1

0

0

1

0

0

0

1

4

2

InnerView

3

4

4

5

4

4

5

1

4

1

2

0

37

18.5

Jewels 'N General

17

18

19

21

22

18

21

19

15

22

11

10

213

106.5

Meridian Magazine

2

4

3

5

0

3

5

2

2

4

3

1

34

17

Meridian News Now (Good Afternoon Meridian)

0

6

0

4

3

1

4

4

4

5

3

2

36

18

Open Line

0

2

2

1

2

1

1

2

2

2

2

1

18

9

Promos

3

17

8

11

2

17

14

8

6

19

12

4

121

60.5

Senior Living

1

1

1

1

1

0

1

1

1

1

0

0

9

4.5

Special Features

0

0

1

2

2

0

0

0

0

3

3

3

14

7

Women of Meridian

1

1

1

2

1

1

1

1

1

1

0

0

11

5.5

Monthly Totals

28

58

46

57

43

49

56

45

38

60

38

23

541

270.5

12

NUMBER OF NEW HOMTV MEETINGS AIRED DURING THE MONTH Meridian Live

Jan

Feb

Mar

April

May

June

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Show Total

Prod. Hours

Township Board

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

3

2

2

2

25

75

Planning Commission

2

1

2

1

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

2

22

66

1

1

1

1

1

0

0

0

1

1

0

1

8

24

1

2

1

1

2

2

2

1

0

2

0

1

15

45

1

0

1

1

0

1

0

1

0

1

0

0

6

18

7

6

7

6

7

7

6

6

6

8

4

6

76

228

Environmental Commission Zoning Board of Appeals Park Commission Monthly Totals

HOMTV PROGRAM CUMULATIVE

608

NUMBER OF NEW CAMTV PROGRAMS AIRED DURING THE MONTH Show

Jan

Feb

Mar

April

May

June

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Show Total

Battle of Ideas

4

3

2

5

4

4

4

3

5

4

4

4

46

Bulletin Board

0

0

0

1

1

0

0

1

0

0

1

0

4

City Pulse Newsmakers

3

3

4

4

1

4

1

2

4

4

2

2

34

Cooking with Cathy

0

0

4

0

2

2

2

0

0

2

2

2

16

Court Stories

0

0

0

1

0

0

1

1

1

1

1

0

6

Democracy Now

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

4

4

3

4

2

17

Event Coverage

0

0

0

3

0

0

0

0

8

4

0

0

15

Inspirational Corner

0

0

0

0

0

0

4

0

5

3

3

2

17

Joy of Travel

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

MSU Today

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

One Hit Wonders

0

0

1

0

0

2

0

0

0

0

3

0

6

Poetree-n-Motion

1

4

4

3

2

3

3

1

3

5

2

5

36

Promos/PSA's

0

15

3

2

0

2

0

0

1

1

0

0

24

Soldiers Journal

2

1

1

1

0

1

1

1

1

1

1

0

11

Veterans Update

0

1

1

1

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

5

Monthly Totals

10

27

20

21

10

18

16

13

32

29

23

18

237

Prod. Hours

2

12

25

39

HOMTV and CAMTV PROGRAM CUMULATIVE

826

HOMTV and CAMTV PRODUCTION CUMULATIVE

533

13

COMPLETED Requests/INQUIRIES Requests/INQUIRIES Program Duplications:

121 requests processed

Cable Subscriber Inquiries/Complaints: 20 CAMTV Inquiries:

25

sponsorships • • • •

Michigan Parkinson Foundation Walk-A-Thon (9/21/13) - $1,510 in kind media coverage donation Walk to End Alzheimer’s (9/22/13) - $2,185 in kind media coverage donation American Heart Association 5K (9/28/13) - $1,855 in kind media coverage donation Harris Nature Center Turtle Toast (9/26/13) - $225 in kind media coverage donation

* The Communications Department also raised money and participated in the Making Strides against Breast Cancer 5K on (10/26/13).

Production services services In 2013, CAMTV was contracted by the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission to produce three videos documenting the Design Charrette project that happened in October of the same year in the Township and surrounding communities. The final videos were each approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes in duration. Production continued on the $15,000 Tri-County Regional Planning Commission HUD Grant awarded to the Township to include five to six Green themed shows in three years.

Online Content The Communications Department oversees the HOMTV website and the Meridian Township website. It also oversees areas of social media content and outreach on various sites. In addition to regular postings on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, WordPress, YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram, HOMTV also features a Twitter feed on the www.homtv.net website, and includes regularly updated news stories with YouTube video links. The Communications Department oversees 22 Facebook fan pages. The highest average number of people reached at any given time for the Meridian Township fan page in 2013 was 2,282 people on December 23 during the ice storm. The highest average number of people reached at any given time for the HOMTV fan page in 2013 was 7,841 people on September 14. At the time of this report, the Township Facebook page has 918 fans and the HOMTV Facebook page has 847 fans. The Communications Department oversees seven Twitter accounts. Meridian Township has 715 followers and HOMTV has 755 followers. In 2013, the Communications Department focused on organizing and maintaining the layout consistency and information on the Meridian Township website. Some of the main changes included easier ways for the public to connect with Meridian Township and easier navigation of the site.

14

Print Publications Pub ications The Communications Department produced four township wide publications: the semi-annual Parks & Recreation Family Fun Guide and two Meridian Monitor newsletters. The monthly Meridian Senior Center newsletter and other various posters and flyers for Township departments were also created. In addition, the Communications Department writes press releases for all Township departments except the Harris Nature Center to which assistance is provided when needed. In 2013, the Communications Department wrote 139 press releases; 129 for other departments and 10 for HOMTV. More than half of the press releases written were published by local media outlets.

Members Members of the Cable Communications Commission Walter Benenson, Chair Patrick Crowley, Vice Chair Tunga Kiyak Andrew Lathrop

Interns, Paid Interns & Freelancers Forty-seven interns and freelance employees participated in the Multi Media Television Journalism and Production HOMTV Internship Program during 2013. HOMTV received 130 applications, interviewed 67 prospective interns, and accepted 35 first time interns. The total number of paid interns/freelance staff during 2013 was nine. The average number of interns and freelance employees per semester during 2013 was 15. Twelve interns and freelance employees from 2012 continued on in 2013. The Communications Department offered a Social Media Internship opportunity in 2013 to assist with Township-wide social media outlets. Four social media interns participated in 2013. Social Media interns launched the Township Manager’s blog and managed the LinkedIn pages for the Township and HOMTV. They created infographics on the Township and HOMTV Pinterest accounts. Events were created by social media interns on various fan pages and submitted to outside media sites. They also uploaded videos produced by HOMTV on HOMTV and township YouTube accounts.

HOMTV Attended 6 Recruitment Fairs • • • • • •

MSU Summer Employment & Internship Fair (2/13/13) MSU Career Gallery/Speed Networking (2/15/13) MAB Great Lakes Broadcasting Conference (3/13/13) LCC Career Fair (3/28/13) MSU Earn, Learn & Intern Career Fair (9/4/13) MAB Broadcasting Career Builder Conference & Speed Networking (10/25/13)

15

HOMTV ALUMNI During 2013, more than 36 interns and alumni members from HOMTV entered into or were promoted within the television/marketing industry with full-time careers or internships: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Josh Sidorowicz, Reporter/Fill-In Anchor, WILX Channel 10, Lansing, MI Savana Ciavatta, Reporter/ Video Journalist, WLNS-TV Channel 6, Lansing, MI Chloe Hill, Producer, WWMT Channel 3, Kalamazoo, MI Thea Tio , Marketing & Communications, Holy Angels Academy, Buffalo, NY John Chickering, Software Designer, Epic, Madison, WI Jaimie Atkinson, Video Freelancer, Nashville, TN Allison Drieband, Account Executive, Alpaytac, Chicago, IL Kate de Longpre, Art Director, J. Walter Thompson Advertising Agency, New York City Erin Miner, Website/Social Media Coordinator, Franklin County Animal Shelter, Farmington, ME Natalie Nako, News Assistant, WILX Channel 10, Lansing, MI Karl Rausch, Senior Editor, RingSide Creative, Detroit, MI Brendan Knapp, News Producer, ABC-KGO Channel 7, San Francisco, CA Tania McLaughlin-Bengtsson, Director of Marketing, Gibson Insurance Company, South Bend, IN Lauren Ragan, Producer, NBC-WPBN Channel 7 & 4,Traverse City, MI Melissa Steinhofer, Producer, Headline News Evening Express at CNN, Atlanta, GA Jolyn Thomas, Radio Talk Show Host, Idaho Falls, ID Shelley Childers, Reporter, KRGV Channel 5,Weslaco, TX Katelyn Coates, Associate Editor, Reader’s Digest, Milwaukee, WI Audrey Dahlgren , Sports Reporter, WLNS-TV Channel 6, Lansing, MI Lauren Hansard, Reporter, KOB-TV Channel 4, Albuquerque, NM Cindy Harb, Assignment Editor, KTNV-TV Channel 13, Las Vegas, NV Al Martin, Sports Reporter/Host of Current Sports, Public Broadcasting Station WKAR, E Lansing, MI Cedra Mayfield, Sunrise Reporter, WAVE 3 News, Louisville, KY Colton Mullinix, Senior Public Relations Assistant, Wharton Center, East Lansing, MI Tim Schafer, Photojournalist, WLNS-TV Channel 6, Lansing, MI Zach Berridge, Sports Anchor/News Reporter, KKCO Channel 11, Grand Junction, CO Erica Bivens, News Reporter, KPLC Channel 7 News, Lake Charles, LA Morgan Hall, Assistant Producer/Reporter, Michigan’s Big Show, Lansing, MI Kevin McElroy, National Sales Coordinator, KSAZ Channel 10, Phoenix, AZ Michelle Oliver, Video Journalist/ Producer, WDIV Channel 4, Detroit, MI Cara Jasiolek-Klaer, Corporate Communications Director, WellPoint, Inc., Indianapolis, IN Paul Garland, Senior Digital Editor, Switch Post, Royal Oak, MI Jazmin Bailey, Traffic Reporter, WESH Channel 2, Orlando, FL Karlee Humphry, Social Media and Community Manager, Rebuild Nation, Royal Oak, MI Max Ieuter, ESPN Project Manager, Paragon Marketing, Chicago, IL Mia Bain, Production Assistant, Harpo Studios, Chicago, IL

Team members Deborah Guthrie, Communications Director Rob Gingerich-Jones, Production Manager Brandie Hansen, Internship Coordinator Kristi Schaeding, Administrative Assistant II

16

COMMUNITY PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT During 2013, the Department of Community Planning and Development continued to provide services to the community relating to planning, building inspections, code enforcement, and rental housing. In addition to day-to-day responsibilities, staff provided services to various Boards, Commissions, and Committees, including the following: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

Township Board Planning Commission Zoning Board of Appeals Building Board of Appeals Environmental Commission Downtown Development Authority Economic Development Corporation

PLANNING DIVISION The Planning Division was involved in a variety of projects during 2013: •

•

• • •

•

• •

Provided staff assistance to the Planning Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, Township Board, Environmental Commission, Economic Development Corporation, and Downtown Development Authority. Prepared staff reviews for rezonings, special use permits, platted subdivisions, planned unit developments, mixed use planned unit developments, commercial planned unit developments, commission reviews, zoning amendments, variance requests, wetland use permits, code interpretations, land clearing permits, site plan reviews for building permits, assignment of addresses, land division requests, and zoning ordinance code enforcement. Continued to review the zoning ordinance to identify outdated and conflicting regulations and continued to prepare amendments to the specific sections. Coordinated with multiple departments in the preparation of the 2014-2019 Capital Improvement Program. Worked on a variety of special projects such as medical marihuana ordinance; redevelopment ready communities program; public art policy; and master plan goals & objectives and urban service management area. Through Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, served as a member to the Capital Area Regional Transportation Subcommittee (CARTS) and the Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability, the Ingham County Board of Health, and the Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) Michigan/Grand River Avenue Transportation Study. Assisted with the Health Impact Assessment/Analysis; East Lansing/Meridian Wellhead Protection Committee. Worked with property owners to replace missing, dead, or decaying trees and/or vegetation on commercial sites. Applied for and received a grant for the public art sculpture at the Marsh/Hamilton roundabout.

17

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (DDA) The Planning staff assisted the DDA with the following: • • • • • • • •

Installation and display of the Werner sculpture Successful Celebrate Downtown Okemos event Display of banners and snowflakes on streetlights Input on projects proposed in the DDA Douglas J Brownfield redevelopment Overlay Zoning District Proposed expansion of the DDA boundary Review of parking needs

Staff Mark Kieselbach, Director of Community Planning and Development Peter Menser, Associate Planner

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (EDC) The Planning staff assisted the EDC with the following: • • • • • • • • •

Received a four-star ranking award from University of Michigan (Dearborn) eCities Program for successful economic development initiatives Participated in a mini-documentary on economic development in Meridian Township for the University of Michigan (Dearborn) Provided input on proposed projects in the community Facilitated opening of the Meridian Asset Resource Center (MARC) Community Profile EDC goals and objectives for the Master Plan Haslett Placemaking Mini-Grant Completed 200 business visits Attended Meridian Area Business Association’s monthly meetings (MABA)

Staff Mark Kieselbach, Director of Community Planning and Development Peter Menser, Associate Planner Robin Faust, Administrative Assistant II

18

2013 2013 COMMISSION and BOARD MEMBERS PLANNING COMMISSION MEMBERS Patricia Herring Jackson, Chair Holly Cordill Lynn Hildebrandt Ody Norkin John Scott-Craig

Tom Deits, Vice-Chair James Salehi Richard Honicky Milton Scales (resigned) Dante Ianni

ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS MEMBERS Brian Beauchine, Chair Jim Hershiser, Vice-Chair Elizabeth LeGoff – Township Board Rep Carol Ohlrogge Patricia Herring Jackson – Planning Commission Rep Philip Deschaine (Alternate)

ENVIRONMENTAL COMMISSION James E. Jackson, Chair Kathleen Donahue John C. Scherbarth Jeralyn Moran

Michael R. Thomas, Vice-Chair J. James Kielbaso Richard Searl

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY Brian G. Dale, Chair James Raynak, Treasurer David M. DeLind Renee Korrey Jim Spanos Bill Cawood Elizabeth LeGoff, Supervisor

Sherry Fisher, Vice-Chair Georgia Carpenter (resigned) Pat Hagan Dr. Kerry Lewis Will White (resigned) Scott Weaver

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Marsha Madle, Chair Julie Brixie, Township Treasurer, Ex-Officio Brett Dreyfus, Township Board Liaison Dave Ledebuhr Christine Teneglia William White (resigned) Adam Carlson

19

Lyn Rowlee, Vice Chair Craig Allen Malinda Barr Gerald Richards (resigned) Gil White David Yuan (resigned) Frank Walsh

The following table illustrates comparative levels of planning permit applications between 2011 and 2013. PLANNING CASES Type

2011

2012

2013

Zoning Amendments

11

2

2

Rezonings

1

0

2

Special Use Permits/Conditional Use Permits

12

11

22

Plats (Preliminary / Final)

0

0

0

Commission Reviews

4

6

5

PUD / PRD / MUPUD / CPUD*

0

3

7

Site Plan Reviews

25

22

17

Land Clearing Permits

0

7

2

Wetland Use Permits/Wetland Delineation Verification

7

13

8

Variances

33

49

32

TOTAL

93

113

97

* Planned Unit Development Planned Residential District Overlay Mixed Use Planned Unit Development Commercial Planned Unit Development

BUILDING DIVISION In 2013, the Building Division processed 2,802 total permits and completed approximately 1,191 building permit inspections. Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing plan review and inspections were conducted by the contracted inspectors from the City of East Lansing. The Building Division has continued to provide plan review and inspection services for the City of Mason. A total of 203.5 hours of plan review and inspections occurred. The following table illustrates the comparative building activity and permitting for new construction in the Township for the past three years: PERMITS Type

2011

2012

2013

56

64

117

$17,104,870

$18,064,986

$33,066,173

1

4

5

$3,050,000

$9,664,700

$27,800,000

Single family permits Value of single family permits Multiple family permits Value of multi family permits

20

Commercial permits

2

3

1

$1,706,900

$2,075,128

$5,100,000

Sign permits

91

72

106

Other permits (all other types)

558

602

608

Total permits

772

745

908

$42,365,356

$41,753,692

$80,983,366

$408,884

$436,695

$816,324.50

1,563

1,706

1,894

$218,269*

$316,148*

$449,939*

Value of commercial permits

Value of construction Permit fees Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing Permits issued Mechanical, Electrical & Plumbing fees

*The Township portion of MEP permit fees collected is 50% of the total, per contractual agreement with the City of East Lansing.

The major commercial, office, industrial, multi-family, and institutional buildings receiving building permits in 2013 were as follows: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15.

Hannah Lofts - 282 Apts Okemos Healthcare Planet Fitness Shoe Carnival H & M (White Box) 2900 Place Apts Option One Credit Union Speedway Convenience Store Bosworth Urgent Care MSU Osteopathic Manipulative Med Spartan Net MSU Spine Center MSU Physical Therapy Penn Station Subs Value World

2929 Hannah 4830 Central Park Meridian Mall Meridian Mall Meridian Mall 2900 Northwind 6025 Hagadorn 1659 Grand River 1881 Grand River 4660 Hagadorn 3032 Lake Lansing 4660 Hagadorn 4660 Hagadorn 4758 Marsh 4790 Hagadorn

New construction New construction Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel/Addition Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel Remodel

$ 22,217,500.00 $ 5,100,000.00 $ 1,300,000.00 $ 600,000.00 $ 515,000.00 $ 455,000.00 $ 430,000.00 $ 350,000.00 $ 350,000.00 $ 260,584.00 $ 250,000.00 $ 206,761.00 $ 195,580.00 $ 180,000.00 $ 161,000.00

RENTAL HOUSING In 2013, there were approximately 7,638 individual rental units in the Township and over 1520 rental safety inspections completed. There were 47 new rental registrations approved for single-family homes and condominiums; 46 rental registrations were removed or canceled.

CODE ENFORCEMENT Code enforcement duties were shared among the Community Planning and Development, Public Safety, and Public Works and Engineering Departments with the majority of the complaints investigated by the Building Department staff. In 2013, the combined staff responded to over 603 recorded complaints and performed approximately 1,099 site visits.

21

The categories and number of complaints are listed below. 2013 Code Enforcement Building Code 24 Dangerous Building 3 Home Occupation 5 Motor Vehicle 50 Noise 7 Nuisance 92 Outdoor Storage 10 Over Occupancy 6 Parking on Grass 54 Property Maintenance 20 Rental Complaint 34 Rental Registration 49 Safety 7 Sidewalk Obstruction 1 Sight Triangle 4 Signs/Banners 6 Snow Removal 42 Street Number 19 Weeds 6 Wetland Use/Floodplain 134 Zoning Ordinance 3 Other 21 Code Enforcement Total 6

Team members Mark Kieselbach, Director of Community Planning and Development Carol Lowe, Administrative Assistant II Lori Hagan, Administrative Assistant I Gail Oranchak, Principal Planner Rick Brown, Associate Planner Peter Menser, Associate Planner Martha Wyatt, Associate Planner/Landscape Architect John Heckaman, Chief Building Inspector Ron Aven, Senior Building Inspector Moniqué Esser, Senior Building Inspector Frank Christmas, Rental Housing Inspector Kevin Reed, Rental Housing Inspector

22

COMMUNITY RESOURCES The Community Resources Program (CRP) functions to ensure that the human infrastructure within the community remains strong and vital. To that end, the program strives to help residents by developing, coordinating, and promoting local resources. In 2013, existing programs continued to be modified or expanded to meet increased community needs.

General Information, referral, or emergency assistance was provided to Township residents for various services on an as-needed basis. 883 requests were received and included, but were not limited to, emergency assistance for shelter, utilities, furniture, food, clothing, transportation, food baskets, or medically-related issues. Requests for assistance came from 475 households. Year 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Number of Households Served 299 281 342 528 475

Emergency Services Township residents received either direct assistance or referrals to appropriate programs. Many residents that requested assistance reported that their bills fell behind due to job loss, difficulty locating employment opportunities, underemployment, or medical reasons. 47 households were assisted by the CRC Needs Fund, the majority requesting rent or utility assistance. Total combined rent and utility assistance was 40: 17 requests for rental assistance and 23 for utility assistance. Additional requests included medication, housing information, transportation, senior services, furniture, and personal needs. utilities - 47% housing - 35% other - 10% transportation - 2% medical - 4% food - 2%

In 2013, $7,823.59 of CRC Needs Funding was used for emergency services and $18,229.82 was leveraged from partnering agencies. Staff teamed up with representatives of the following organizations to provide emergency services: 55th District Court Eviction Diversion Program, Advent House Ministries, Capital Area Community Services, Capital Area Michigan Works!, Christian Services, Community Mental Health, EVE, Haven House, Greater Lansing Food Bank affiliates, Justice in Mental Health Organization, Lansing Community College, Legal Services of South Central Michigan, Lutheran Social Services, Michigan Department of Human Services, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, MSU Rental Housing Clinic, St. Vincent Catholic Charities, the Salvation Army, the Societies of St. Vincent de Paul at St. Martha Parish and St. Thomas Aquinas Parish, the St. Vincent de Paul Store, St. Vincent Catholic 23

Charities, Tri-County Office on Aging, Volunteers of America, and the Women’s Center of Greater Lansing.

Community Outreach Provided and expanded community service project information and referral sources to residents and groups. The CRP worked closely with local agencies that promoted programs that benefited township residents. Staff also served as a Meridian Senior Center Advisory Board member. Staff worked with Blondie’s Barn to promote a free community Thanksgiving dinner.

Back to School Distributed 31 backpacks filled with school supplies to Meridian Township children. CRC Coordinated delivery of back to school breakfast food baskets for children in 20 families.

Poverty Exemption Program CRP assisted in evaluating the financial status, eligibility, and resources for 8 households who applied for the Charter Township of Meridian Poverty Exemption.

Fundraising GolfFest was held in August and raised $6,243.00. The CRC was a participating entity in Macy’s Shop for a Cause. Total Emergency Services funds raised for 2013 were $6,928.00.

Holiday Food Baskets In April, CRP connected 20 low-income Meridian Township resident families with a local church that provided Easter food baskets. In November and December, CRP worked with 43 sponsors that provided food to households in need, including senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and families. 304 low-income Meridian Township households received a Thanksgiving food basket, and 305 households received a food basket for the December holidays. Sponsors for the Holiday Food Basket Program included private donors, churches, service clubs, businesses, a variety of Meridian Township departments, and the Meridian Senior Center.

Be a Santa to a Senior HomeInstead Senior Care and several agencies teamed up to seek donated gifts to lowincome seniors and adults with disabilities during the 2013 holiday season, including 30 in Meridian Township. The groups involved with the program included Ingham County Department of Human Services, Tri-County Office on Aging, Community Mental Health, several group homes, and the Community Resources Program.

Miscellaneous programs •

• •

Ambulance Waiver Program (AWP): Worked closely with the Meridian Township Treasurer’s Department to improve the program guidelines. In 2013, the Community Resources Commission reviewed 3 applications for an ambulance waiver; all were approved. Meridian Township Website: Created and maintained the CRP division Poverty Exemption: Updated and improved the written guidelines, policies, and application 24

•

• • •

•

Grange Acres Community Garden: Worked with management, residents, and volunteers to establish an approximately 2,000 square foot garden expansion to accommodate 20 an additional gardeners to the 15 who gardened in 2012. Funding was provided by Meridian Christian Church and the Greater Lansing Food Bank Garden Project. Michigan Coordinated Access to Food for the Elderly (MiCAFE): Completed the online application process to enroll 12 low-income seniors for food assistance. Michigan Bridges: Completed training to assist residents in applying for Michigan Department of Human Services benefits. Assisted in programs that serve the needs of senior citizen residents: - Be a Santa to a Senior Program - Tri-County Office on Aging Senior Tax Preparation Program - Meridian Senior Center Events The CRP staff supported and assisted the Community Resources Commission (CRC) in the following events of 2013: - Macy’s Shop for a Cause to benefit the CRC Needs Fund - CRC’s holiday basket distribution- delivered food baskets and gifts

Grange Acres Garden Expansion ~ Included Raised Beds for Residents with Limited Physical Abilities

Team member Darla Jackson, Human Services Specialist

25

EMS/FIRE DEPARTMENT Mission Statement: “Where there is no vision, the people perish.” Our mission is to provide efficient, dependable, and professional services to the citizens of Meridian Township. Our values are to educate and to provide caring, compassionate service with excellence and dignity. Our vision is to exceed the expectations of the community by proactively responding to the established priorities and needs. Serving our community with Pride, Integrity and Professionalism since 1929. In 2013, the Fire Department continued to provide comprehensive fire, rescue, and paramedic ambulance service to Township residents. Fire Chief Frederick Cowper managed a department of 33 full-time and 7 part-time staff. The Department continued to add part-time personnel, ending the year with six. The Department experienced a decrease in overtime costs due to using part-time employees to fill shifts. Other significant achievements were the design completion of the new Central Fire Station, placing a new ambulance in service, and purchase of new mask mounted voice amplifiers for clearer fire ground communication. Fire Chief Fred Cowper was asked to present at the International Association of Fire Chief’s conference in August. He spoke on the successes MTFD has had reducing costs with the part-time firefighter program. Chief Cowper held positions on the Lansing Community College Fire Science & Fire Academy Advisory Board as well as their Paramedic Program Advisory Board. Chief Cowper also represents the department on the Ingham County 9-1-1 Dispatch Advisory Board. He is the Township’s Emergency Manager and the Director of Fire & Rescue Resources for the Ingham County Emergency Operations Center. Lastly, Chief Cowper represents the Michigan Association of Fire Chiefs (MAFC) on the Michigan Joint Fire Service Council overseen by State Fire Marshal Rich Miller. The Department responded to 737 fire and 3,619 ambulance runs. Total responses were slightly lower than the previous year. The fire loss for the year was 50 percent of the 10-year average. The value of property saved in 2013 was $44,134,025.

Fire Prevention Division In 2013, Fire Inspector Mark Hornberger continued as a State of Michigan Certified Fire Inspector, Fire Inspector I, and Fire Plan Examiner by the National Fire Protection Association and the International Code Council. In addition, he is an NFPA Certified Fire Protection Specialist and a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator through the National Association of Fire Investigators. Firefighter Tavis Millerov completed State of Michigan and National Fire Academy courses in Fire Investigation. He is certified by the State and NFPA as Fire Inspector I and a Fire Plan Examiner. There were numerous construction plans reviewed for compliance with the fire code. Sprinkler tests, fire alarm tests, emergency lighting tests, and commercial cooking hood suppression system tests were conducted during the year. Of the 312 inspections/plan reviews conducted, the major projects were: 26

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

The Lodges of East Lansing Phase 2 The Hannah Lofts Planet Fitness Osake Sushi & Hibachi Buffet Redi Care Okemos - ongoing Shoe Carnival Trilogy Health - ongoing

The Fire Department developed a new fireworks ordinance which was adopted by the Township Board. A new state law allowed local municipalities to regulate fireworks outside of the state approved holidays. Fire investigations were conducted on all significant fire losses during the year to identify trends or problem areas. The fire loss total was $821,097 which was approximately half of the 10-year average of $1.7 million. Auxiliary heating with wood caused the largest single fire loss for the year. One civilian fire fatality occurred in March tied to careless smoking.

FIRE SAFETY HOUSE/HAZARD HOUSE PRESENTATIONS In 2013, the Fire Department provided fire safety education to elementary, middle, and high school children. Stop, Drop & Roll (Preschool/Kindergarten) E.D.I.T.H. (First Graders) Hazard House (Second Graders) Fire Safety House (Third Graders) High School Fire Safety

330 300 60 80 180

ANNUAL HALLOWEEN OPEN HOUSE The Annual Fire Department Open House saw approximately 630 visitors at the three fire stations the Saturday before Halloween. All children received a Meridian Fire “Trick or Treat” bag containing a light stick and imprinted with fire safety messages. Visitors spent time touring the stations and gaining hands-on experiences with the fire apparatus.

Fire Responses In 2013, the Department responded to 737 fire-related alarms. The number of fires for the year increased and the fire loss was approximately half of the ten-year average. In December 2013, the fire department was the busiest it has ever been with 485 total incidents. This number was driven up by an ice storm emergency followed by a snow storm. The ice storm caused approximately 70% of the Township to be without power for days. There were numerous power lines down and, due to no heat, there was an increase of house fires as citizens attempted to heat their homes with fireplaces.

27

FIRE ALARM CATEGORIES

FIRES RUPTURE/EXPLOSIONS HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS SERVICE CALLS GOOD INTENTS FALSE CALLS SEVERE WEATHER OTHERS

# of Incidents

Fire Alarm Category FIRES Damage of property by burning RUPTURE/EXPLOSIONS Excessive heat, scorch burns with no ignition HAZARDOUS CONDITIONS Chemical spills, utility problems, gas leaks, wires down SERVICE CALLS Unauthorized burning, water removal, assist police, lock out GOOD INTENTS No incident found, legal burning, smoke scare, cancelled en route. DISPATCH ERRORS An incident number with no incident FALSE CALLS Including malicious as well as accidental SEVERE WEATHER Natural disasters OTHERS School programs, parades, citizen complaints

TOTAL

82 2 157 53 168 -73 285 4 59

737

28

FIRES BY INCIDENT TYPE 28

30 25 19

20 15

8

10 5 5

1

1

1

2

2

1

2

2

3 1

1

2

1

1

1 2013

0

Incident Type Per NFIRS Fire, other Building fire Fires in structures other than a building Cooking fire, confined to container Chimney or flue fire, confined to chimney or flue Fuel burner/boiler malfunction, fire contained Trash or rubbish fire, contained Fire in mobile home used as fixed residence Fire in motor home, camper, recreational vehicle Mobile property (vehicle) fire, other Passenger vehicle fire Natural vegetation fire, other Grass fire Outside rubbish fire, other Outside rubbish, trash or waste fire Dumpster or other outside trash receptacle fire Special outside fire, other Outside equipment fire Outside mailbox fire TOTAL FIRES

29

Incident Count 5 19 1 28 1 1 2 2 1 2 8 2 1 1 3 2 1 1 1 82

FIRE LOSS OVER $500 Date of Fire

Incident #

Address

Type of Fire

1/14/13

13-0173

3945 Okemos

Commercial

$35,000

3/16/13

13-0822

1676 Indian

Outdoor

$1,000

4/2/13

13-1014

5610 Cornell

House

$90,000

4/23/13

13-1256

5712 Edson

Apartment

$9,000

4/26/13

13-1287

4350 Oakwood

House

$3,000

5/29/13

13-1669

2084 LaMer

Vehicle

$1,000

6/11/13

13-1803

6197 Pollard

RV

$6,000

7/1/13

13-2046

2837 Kittanset

Vehicle

$500

7/4/13

13-2079

4397 Cherrywood

House

$55,000

7/10/13

13-2143

4829 Marsh

Vehicle

$6,100

7/13/13

13-2178

1018 Haslett

Vehicle

$4,000

7/19/13

13-2242

4965 Campus Hill

Apartment

7/20/13

13-2262

EB I96

Vehicle

$3,100

8/8/13

13-2472

3975 Dayspring

House

$150,000

8/12/13

13-2533

Haslett Road

Vehicle

$2,100

8/16/13

13-2585

1982 Grand River

Vehicle

$9,700

9/5/13

13-2821

3050 Lake Lansing

House

$15,000

9/6/13

13-2832

6190 Hardy

Dumpster

10/26/13

13-3489

5324 Chantilly

House

$1,200

10/27/13

13-3502

1801 Nemoke

Apartment

$30,000

11/18/13

13-3804

I96 WB

Vehicle

$4,000

12/2/13

13-3965

5228 Madison

Apartment

$1,800

12/13/13

13-4096

4563 Blackfoot

Apartment

$8,000

12/22/13

13-4261

1924 Birchwood

House

$3,000

12/24/13

13-4293

5370 Timberlane

House

$5,500

12/24/13

13-4308

215 Newman

House

$212,000

30

Estimated Loss

$510

$500

10 YEAR FIRE LOSS $6,000,000

$5,000,000

$4,000,000

$3,000,000

Fire Loss

$2,000,000

$1,000,000

$0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Year

Fire Loss

2004

$408,450

2005

$2,243,500

2006

$426,600

2007

$545,500

2008

$673,100

2009

$422,300

2010

$1,178,850

2011

$4,779,590

2012

$101,750

2013

$821,097

31

10 YEAR INCIDENT COUNT 5000 4000 3000

Fire Incidents

2000

Ambulance Incidents

1000

Total Incidents

0

Year

Fire Incidents

Ambulance Incidents

Total Incidents

2004

577

2,615

3,192

2005

591

2,752

3,343

2006

569

2,881

3,450

2007

599

3,029

3,628

2008

662

3,137

3,799

2009

649

2,987

3,636

2010

588

3,490

4,078

2011

532

3,711

4,243

2012

600

3,847

4,447

2013

737

3,619

4,356

Training & EMS Division In 2013, Chief Bill Priese continued to administer the Training and EMS Division. There were over 1,200 hours of fire training and over 1,900 hours of EMS training accounted for during the year. The focus for EMS training in 2013 was on new EMS Protocols that were adopted by the State of Michigan. These protocols guide the EMS provider in patient treatment and transport to the emergency room. Various other medical trainings were provided for all fire staff. In recognition of MTFD’s professionalism, multiple EMS students from Lansing Community College and Lansing-Mason Ambulance gained valuable experience working alongside the paramedics. The focus on fire for 2013 was geared towards practical fire operational drills. As an example, the old White’s Music building was used for search and rescue drills with the metro partners and over 80 area firefighters participated in this hands-on training. This training also included working for the first time with Michigan Search and Rescue Group. This is a group of canine handlers, along with their canine partners, who able to locate patients and victims buried by debris from a possible structural collapse. In cooperation with the District 1 Regional Medical Response Coalition (D1RMRC), Meridian Fire participated in two hands-on drills. Fire fighters also completed drivers training utilizing a cone course that is set-up utilizing approximately 100 traffic cones in the Meridian Mall parking lot. 32

The fire department was able to complete all hose testing and ladder testing in house. Crews worked throughout the year to complete this task of service testing all fire hose and ladders. This testing meets the NFPA testing standards and helps to assure us that nothing will break or fail during fire ground operations. Towards the goal of making Meridian Township a Fire/EMS safe community - multiple interviews with HOM-TV were conducted, Facebook and Twitter accounts were continued, and CPR & First Aid classes for Township employees were held. Chief Priese continued as the Metro Lansing EMS Consortium Coordinator. This group combines to provide continuing EMS education for all the metro partners. The Department had 11 members re-licensed as Paramedics and 15 recertified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support. Additionally, 11 Medical First Responders from the Police Department were recertified and continuing education training was provided for them. MTFD had three license audits with the State of Michigan that were successfully completed and the agency license was also renewed. Chief Priese was able to attend the National Fire Academy where he attended and successfully completed Effective Leadership Skills for Fire and EMS Organizations. The National Fire Academy is the premier training institution for the development of future leaders in the fire service. The fire department was able to send eight fire officers to the Fire Department Instructors Conference (FDIC) in Indianapolis, Indiana. FDIC is the largest training conference in the United States offering many classes involving hands-on training, fire command and leadership. The department’s two Battalion Chiefs, one Captain, and five Lieutenants received instruction from the most influential leaders in the fire service.

AMBULANCE CONTACTS

Transports Non-Transports

# of Incidents

% of Incidents

Transports

2900

78.63%

Non-Transports

788

21.37%

Ambulance Contacts

3688

100%

33

EMS INCIDENT COUNT BY MONTH 370 350

349 337

330

330 314

310

307 299

290

291

290 280

310

296

# of Incidents 285

270 250

Month January February March April May June July August September October November December

# of Incidents 291 280 290 299 307 296 285 330 314 337 310 349

34

% of Incidents 7.89% 7.59% 7.86% 8.11% 8.32% 8.03% 7.73% 8.95% 8.51% 9.14% 8.41% 9.46%

TOP TEN EMS DISPATCH REASONS 600

514

500 400

325

298

300

278

276 219

183

200

182

158

135

100 # of Incidents

0

Top 10 EMS Dispatch Reasons

# of Incidents

% of Incidents

1. Fall Victim

514

13.94%

2. Sick Person

325

8.81%

3. Breathing Problem

298

8.08%

4. Other

278

7.54%

5. Chest Pain

276

7.48%

6. Traffic/Transportation Accident

219

5.94%

7. Altered Mental Status

183

4.96%

8. Abdominal Pain

182

4.93%

9. Pain

158

4.28%

135

3.66%

10. Unconscious/Fainting

35

PATIENT GENDER 4000

2054

1603 # of Incidents

2000 0 Female

Male

Patient Gender Female Male Not Indicated on Report

# of Incidents 2054 1603 11

% of Incidents 55.69% 43.47% 0.84%

PATIENT AGE (IN YEARS) Less Than 1 1-4 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+ Unknown

Patient Age Less Than 1 1-4 5-9 10-14 15-19 20-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55-64 65-74 75-84 85+ Unknown

# of Incidents 19 49 26 41 157 202 259 256 458 484 513 545 644 35

% of Incidents 0.52% 1.33% 0.70% 1.11% 4.26% 5.48% 7.02% 6.94% 12.42% 13.12% 13.91% 14.78% 17.46% 0.95%

Average Patient Age: 59

36

LOCATION OF EMS INCIDENTS Bath East Lansing Haslett Lansing Mason Okemos Webberville Williamston Unknown

Location

# of Incidents 5

% of Incidents 0.14%

1,051

28.50%

Haslett

961

26.06%

Lansing

3

0.08%

Mason

1

0.03%

1,607

43.57%

Webberville

2

0.05%

Williamston

51

1.387%

Unknown

7

0.19%

Bath East Lansing

Okemos

TRANSPORT DESTINATIONS Community Mental Health Eaton Rapids Medical Center McLaren - Greater Lansing Other Hospital Sparrow St. Lawrence

Destination Community Mental Health Eaton Rapids Medical Center McLaren - Greater Lansing Other Hospital Sparrow* St. Lawrence

# of Incidents 1 1 497 2 2328 71

% of Incidents 0.03% 0.03% 13.48% 0.05% 63.12% 1.93%

*Sparrow Hospital continued to be the most used emergency room destination due to its proximity to the majority of the Township. 37

DISTANCE TRANSPORTED (IN MILES) 1869

2000 1800 1600 1400 1200

# of Incidents

1000 800 600

394

400 134

200

9

6

0 0-5

6-10

11-15

16-20

Distance Transported (in Miles) 0-5 6-10 11-15 16-20 >20

>20

# of Incidents 394 1,869 134 9 6

% of Incidents 10.68% 50.68% 3.63% 0.24% 0.16%

Average Distance Transported: 7 Miles

38

HUMAN RESOURCES •

Working alongside the Township Manager, contract negotiations were conducted with all eight union groups – AFSCME Administrative Professional Employees Unit, AFSCME DPW Employees, AFSCME Non-Supervisory Professional Supervisory Employees, FOP Meridian Township Police Supervisory Unit, Professional Supervisory Association, Fraternal Order of Police (Command Staff), Meridian Township Fire Fighters Association, Police Officers Association of Michigan (POAM), Professional Supervisory Association, and Teamsters Local #214.

•

Employee healthcare meetings were held to explain health and dental benefits.

•

The Pension Board convened six times and had presentations from the Asset Manager and Actuary.

•

Staff processed four (4) Employee Computer Purchase Program applications from interested employees during the year.

•

Listening Sessions with the Township Manager and Human Resources Director were coordinated with all eight (8) union groups and non-union staff members.

•

The Department conducted the recruitment and selection process for the following positions: Finance Director, Human Resources Director, Police Officer, Utility Worker, Video Programmer/Studio Producer, Part-time Paramedic/Firefighter, Communications Assistant, and several seasonal, temporary, and intern positions.

TEAM MEMBERS Deb LaPine, Human Resources Director (Hired April 2013) Amy Holda, Human Resources Director (Resigned April 2013) Heather Baker, HR/Payroll Specialist

39

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY Mission Statement The mission of the Department of Information Technology is to maintain a stable and robust environment for the Township’s information systems infrastructure; to plan, coordinate & execute system enhancements in preparation for emerging technology needs; and to provide expertise that facilitates internal end-users’, citizens’, and customers’ abilities to leverage the Township’s deployed technologies to meet their needs for information and municipal services.

Methodology for operational imperatives 1. Highest priority is given to core infrastructure stability and keeping existing services and resources operating at optimum performance and availability. 2. Resolution of emergent end-user issues related to technology is an important function that all Department personnel spend a significant time addressing. 3. Training initiatives are utilized in cases where staff resources are recognized to be deficient in the use of available technology or additional expertise would increase employee productivity. 4. Remaining resources are committed to replacing technology that is still functioning, but aging, and at end of useful life. These activities are intended to benefit the organization as a whole to the extent that they enhance the ability to function and perform duties in support of the Township Board Goals & Objectives and essential services.

Staff Resources In 2013, the Department of Information Technology leveraged four full time employees for the entire year, and one part-time employee for part of the year to provide technology services to the entire Township operation. Please see the Organizational Chart at the end of this report for more detail.

Notable Changes in 2013 2013 For 2013, the Department of Information Technology mission, policies, Goals & Objectives, and general operations remained substantially similar to previous years. Most significantly, Department projects leveraged a 2012 conversion to Microsoft’s Active Directory. This paved the way for conversion of the Township e-mail system early in the year and significant enhancement to the Township’s data protection infrastructure later in the year.The telephone system enhancements originally budgeted for 2013 were put on hold to allow the new Township Manager and Director of Accounting & Budgeting additional time to evaluate both the existing infrastructure and the financial health of the Township operation. Finally, expansion of our existing virtual infrastructure continued to be integral to technology advancements throughout the year. The following sections give more detail with respect to department routine functions, specific accomplishments in 2013, and also provide an overview of Department personnel as of December 31, 2013. 40

Routine functions • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Maintain and enhance the Township Local Area Network at three facilities in the main campus and those established at four remote facilities. Maintain and enhance the Township Wide Area Networks utilized to consolidate all of the Township Local Area Networks. Manage interconnections with other agencies and outside entities. Maintain and enhance the Township Network File/Print/Application Servers. Maintain, enhance, and replace Township end user computers and printers. Provide secure access to the Township’s electronic resources from Township facilities in support of normal Township operations. Provide secure access to the Township’s electronic resources from remote sites in support of normal Township operations. Provide expert support and consultation to end users and departments in the on-going operation of various technologies used in the execution of their operations. Provide design services for specialty programming used to enhance operations and services executed by end users and departments. Provide Geographic Information Systems services to Township operations. Provide training services to further enhance existing investments in technology. This includes classes, programs, and other opportunities to learn about existing technologyrelated systems. Maintain, enhance, and provide expert services for all technology-related projects conducted within Township operations. Provide data and system backup services for all Township technology resources. Coordinate technology-related professional and contractual services on behalf of the Township with external consultants and vendors. Represent the Township’s technology related interests when working with external entities. Complete regular updates to the security profiles used to protect 190 network servers, workstations, and connected devices across our network.

Accomplishments in 2013 • • • • • • • • •

Staff decommissioned network application servers and moved their services to virtualized infrastructure. Staff replaced 31 workstations, replaced 2 printers, replaced 1 DVD burner/printer, and installed 3 three new printers throughout the year. Staff worked with the Department of Community Planning & Development to make significant enhancements to the systems for field based access to Township data and infrastructure. Staff worked with the Department of Community Planning & Development to provide access to Building Inspection data to the Plumbing & Electrical inspectors at the City of East Lansing. Staff worked with the Fire Department to enhance mobile computing in the fire command vehicle. Staff performed significant maintenance to our primary firewall, trying to keep it functioning at acceptable levels throughout the year. Staff assisted the Department of Accounting & Budgeting with import of parcel numbers into the Utility Billing system. Staff assisted the 911 Dispatch Center with re-write of several server queries that were believed to be causing poor performance on the dispatch systems. Staff worked with the Police Department, Fire Department, and Ingham County 911 Dispatch Center to review potential impact of software replacements at the 911 center.

41

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Staff assisted with updates to the Police Department’s Records Management System, Field Based Reporting System, and Mobile Dispatch client software to improve workflow, insight into managed data, and reduce paper management. Staff worked with the Police Department to improve performance of Automatic License Plate Reader system deployed across Ingham County. Staff assisted the Police Department with crime maps and statistical reports for activity throughout both Meridian and Williamstown Township. Staff worked with the Police Department to develop stable mapping features to replace the unstable vendor provided solution. Staff worked with the Department of Public Works and outside consultants to improve the CityWorks work order management system. New reports were created to improve efficiency of Public Works staff. Staff made all significant and regular updates to Township assessing and tax data made available on the Internet. Staff assisted with setup of hardware in support of enhanced access to information during the March Board of Review. Staff assisted the Department of Accounting & Budgeting in support of the 2013 Audit procedures. Staff assisted the Fire Department with response time maps for multiple fire operations in the tri-county area. Staff assisted the Department of Community Planning & Development with improvements to technology infrastructure used to manage the Capital Improvements Plan. Staff coordinated training sessions for Microsoft Office applications, Microsoft SQL reporting services, applications used for parcel & tax management, and other desktop applications used throughout the organization. Staff coordinated access to internal systems for various application vendors employed by the Township. Staff assisted the Clerk’s Office with secure access to the Qualified Voter file maintained and deployed in conjunction with the State of Michigan. Staff assisted the Clerk’s Office with connection to the County Clerk’s Office for the transfer of election information. Staff assisted the Office of the Assessor with the export of their data sets for several outside vendors and consultants. Staff assisted with cleanup of several virus related issues at the Harris Nature Center and within the Communications Department. Staff converted the legacy GroupWise e-mail system to a Microsoft hosted Exchange based solution. Staff upgraded memory in the virtual server environment to provide increased capacity for end-user access to data and services. Staff assisted with the creation of thematic presentation materials for the Deer Management program. Staff worked with internal players involved in the creation of the Township Board Packet to begin designs for potential improvements to creation, distribution, and function of the packets. Staff assisted the Police Department with deployment of an online crime reporting portal. Staff assisted in the management of cellular telephones and wireless data services employed by various Township departments. Staff assisted the Communications Department in support of video streaming services for both the HOM TV and CAM TV live streams. Staff converted several databases from stand-alone configuration to leverage the Township’s centralized SQL server infrastructure. Staff managed licenses for most software applications and services used throughout the organization. Staff assisted in the review of standards for the Employee Computer Purchase Program and the compliance of all computers purchased under this program. 42

• • •

Oversaw the maintenance of all software and performed updates as required. Provided Internet access in support of various meetings throughout the organization. Performed over 850 service calls for our estimated 1,000 network nodes throughout nine separate Township facilities.

TEAM MEMBERS Stephen Gebes, Director of Information Technology Eric Miller, System Administrator II Wade Prestonise, Geographic Information System Specialist Chris Richards, System Administrator I Ryan Larson, Computer Support Intern (Resigned November 2013) Vacant, Computer Support Intern Vacant, Computer Support Intern

Information Technology Director Stephen Gebes

System Administrator II Eric Miller

Geographic Information Systems Specialist

System Administrator I

Wade Prestonise

Chris Richards

Computer Support Intern

Computer Support Intern

Computer Support Intern

Ryan Larson (resigned)

Vacant

Vacant

43

PARKS AND RECREATION VISION “Creating Community through People, Parks and Programs”

MISSION STATEMENT To enhance the quality of life for Township residents and visitors by providing diverse park facilities and recreation opportunities where participants are able to learn and play; create and imagine; and be safe and secure; utilizing qualified, professional staff and volunteers emphasizing community interaction.

In 2013, the Parks and Recreation Department continued their dedication to make Meridian Township a more viable and vibrant place to live through the development, improvement, protection, and management of publicly-owned parks and natural areas. They were able to accomplish this by working with a very devoted Park Commission and Land Preservation Advisory Board, an enthusiastic staff of 12 full-time parks and recreation employees, various part-time staff, and many passionate volunteers from the community. Together, they managed 904 acres of parkland, over 70 miles of pedestrian/bicycle pathway, more than 20 miles of nature trails, the Harris Nature Center, Snell-Towar Recreation Center, Meridian Senior Center, year-around Farmers’ Market, 85 acres of Township grounds, over 800 acres of land preserves, two cemeteries, and a wide variety of community recreation programs and services, while simultaneously providing new and improved recreation facilities and programs to residents – even with extremely limited resources. MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP'S PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT CONSISTS OF THE FOLLOWING DIVISIONS: Community Recreation, Parks, Harris Nature Center, Snell-Towar Recreation Center, Farmers’ Market, Park Maintenance, Grounds Maintenance, Cemetery, Meridian Senior Center, Meridian Historical Village, and Land Preservation. The Department is funded by: • • • •

Parks – .317 mill Park Millage, General Fund, Grants, Volunteer Support, Donations Recreation – 1/3 of 1/10th mil Community Services Millage, General Fund, Fees and Charges, Volunteer Support, Donations Land Preservation – .33 mil Land Preservation Millage, Volunteers Meridian Senior Center – Community Services Millage, Okemos Public Schools, Fees and Charges, Volunteers 44

• •

Meridian Historical Village – Volunteer non-profit organization (Friends of Historic Meridian), Grants, Fees and Charges, and a Small General Fund Contribution Farmers’ Market – Vendor Fees (self-sustaining)

pARK COMMISSION MEMBERS Todd Wilson, Chair Teri Banas, Vice Chair Marilyn Aronoff Teri Banas Marilyn Jaramillo Mark Stephens

• • • •

• •

Held ten (10) regular meetings, three (3) special meeting, one (1) work sessions, three (3) committees and two (2) joint meetings with other Township Boards and Commissions. Supported the annual Music in the Park series; Meridian Garden Club's gardening projects in the Historical Village and Meridian Heritage Festival. The Park Commissioners elected Todd Wilson as Chair and Teri Banas as Vice Chair for 2013 at the November 2012 regular meeting. Received unanimous support from the Township Board to place a new 2/3 mil Park Millage on the August 2014 ballot. These funds will be utilized to make necessary upgrades and improvements to the Meridian Township Park System. Mark Stephens was appointed as the Park Commission Representative to the Land Preservation Advisory Board. Will conduct the Friend of the Park Volunteer Recognition Ceremony in May 2014 to recognize volunteers from 2013. The list of volunteers is as follows:

2013 PARK VOLUNTEERS FRIENDS OF THE PARK ADOPTION LIST The following people live adjacent or near a park and have volunteered to provide stewardship activities and monitoring on a regular basis to help keep them safe and clean for the entire community. They have a direct connection to the Parks and Recreation Department to report vandalism, fallen trees or suggestions for improvements. Their involvement helps alert our staff by identifying and implementing necessary repairs. These individuals are true partners in Parks! Jim Hershiser Steve DeBrabander

Brattin Woods Brattin Woods

Keith Hanna

Tacoma Hills

Rick Little

North Meridian Road Park

John Green Bobbie DuByne

Hillbrook Park Hillbrook Park

Terri McElhinny & Pat Bills Tim Potter

Ted Black Woods Park Ted Black Woods Park

Layne Cameron

Red Cedar Natural Area and Meridian Riverfront Park

Haslett Beautification Association

Planted and maintained the Marshall Park and Welcome to Meridian Township Signs 45

Meridian Garden Club

Planted and maintained gardens in the Historical Village, the gardens in front of the Municipal Building and Claire Twohy Memorial Garden Located in Central Park

The Hentz/Buck Family

Hartrick Park (Martha Hentz, Chris, Evan, & Phillip Buck) – Planted and donated flowers at Hartrick Park around flagpole and sign

Jim and Lisa Bignall Orlando Park Allison and Russell Gallegos Orlando Park VOLUNTEER EFFORTS Stephen James & Friends

Refurbished two sand volleyball courts, two horseshoe pits, cleaned up park pavilion, play structure, restroom building and park grounds in Wonch Park

Paige McKeon

Distributed posters for Celebrate Downtown Okemos, cleaned park signs and planted flowers

Jon Mayes

Removed trash from Sower Woods Land Preserve

Cindy Metier & Cub Scouts

Picked up trash in Central Park and Historical Village

Teri Banas

Weeded flower beds at Marshall Park and Orlando Park; volunteered at Heritage Festival

Brownie Troop 30544

Weeded and spread mulch at Orlando Park along with neighbors

Haslett Robotic Club

Cleared weeds at Orlando Park

Faith Lutheran Church

Spread mulch around 15 trees at Nancy Moore Park

Leslie Kuhn & Laurie Kaufman

Treated invasive species in Ted Black Woods; pulled garlic mustard, phragmites and knotweed mapping/permitting/owner contacts and treatment

Matt Delong

Weeded Brattin Woods parking lot area and spread mulch

Dave Caszatt 44 volunteers

Northwest Land Preserve - clearing invasives and planting trees

Deer hunters - 61

Managed deer harvest on 21 properties

Murphy Elementary School

Planted a prairie at Lake Lansing North – in the 120 acre Meridian Township conservation easement

Mark Stephens

Volunteered at Heritage Festival fishing event; Donated 10 rod and reel combos and miscellaneous tackle for community use

Dan Smith

Cleared trails in Ted Black Woods 46

Robin Faust & Christina Hamilton

Spread mulch and pulled weeds at Welcome to Meridian sign on Marsh Road

Heidi Nusdorfer & 10 Okemos Girl Scouts

Planted native shrubs at Ted Black Woods

Eckhart Dersch

Provided reports on Ferguson, Wonch, North Meridian Road Parks to identify needed maintenance

Lansing Oar & Paddle Club

Cleared branches and fallen trees from the Red Cedar River between Grand River Avenue and Dobie Road to improve navigation (Jay Hanks, Mont Roberts, Bonnie Mernitz, George Stockman, Tina Ciaramitaro)

Larry Hennessey

Maintenance, monitoring and reporting of Bluebird boxes and cleanup efforts at Sander Farm Preserved Natural Area

Gene Wasserman

Maintenance, monitoring and reporting of Bluebird boxes in Meridian Riverfront Park and Hartrick Park

Patrick & Michelle Allen

Geocache liaisons for the parks – placed and monitored the placement of geocaches and geocache permits in the parks

Georganne Withey

Fitness Over-50 Program Coordinator at the Meridian Mall

MSU Educating Student Athletic Trainers in Medicine (ESTIM)

Meridian Township Family Winter Sports Weekend Polar Bear 5K Race (8 volunteers)

Kiwanis Club of Okemos

Volunteered for the fishing activity during the Meridian Heritage Festival, contributed $500 toward the youth nature exploration area at the Harris Nature Center and $500 toward the Youth Summer Recreation Program. (Larry Bacon, Jim Decker, Al Wood, Dick Witter, Arnie Johnson, Paul Marttila)

Forest Hills Neighborhood Association

Spring Clean-up - Forest Hills Natural Area (Cecelia Kramer)

Kelly Colflesh

Assisted with maintenance around the Central Park pond to improve fishing access

PARK SUPPORTERS Harris Nature Center Foundation

Fund raising efforts for the Harris Nature Center (Julie Moore, Tony Bauer, Jim Buscetta, Norman Granneman, Barbara Kissling, Michael Lenkowski, Mike McDonald, Patty Robbins, Robert Rusch) - 2013 accomplishments – bus scholarships, turtle sculpture

Mid-MI Stewardship Network

Created to educate and involve the community in protecting and Initiative and conserving native plants and wildlife in all their natural diversity in Mid-Michigan, while allowing for compatible and sustainable human use (Leslie Kuhn) 47

Towar (TC3) Community Concerns Committee

Support of neighborhood activities and fundraising for the Towar Teens Program; participated in the garlic mustard pulls in the neighborhood land preserves, and summer Youth Recreation Program (Dave Caszatt)

Friends of Historic Meridian

Outstanding efforts toward growth and sustainability of the Meridian Historical Village and for providing meaningful and educational programs for youth and families; (Jane Rose, Executive Director; George Grettenberger, President)

Nokomis Learning Center

Supporting cultural activities and events that educate the community on Native American cultural history; Cooperative efforts with the Meridian Township Parks and Recreation Department and Meridian Historical Village in organizing the Heritage Festival special event.

DONATIONS Buddies Bar & Grill, East Lansing

One fundraiser night for the 2013 Towar Summer Playground Program; provided pizza for volunteers at two garlic mustard pull events at a reduced cost ($500 / Tammy Black)

TC3

2013 Towar Teens and Summer Playground Program ($7,356)

Edgewood Village

2013 Towar Summer Playground Program ($1,500)

Teri Banas

Donated a portion of her Park Commission salary to the SnellTowar Summer Playground Program ($211.44)

Biggby Coffee

Biggby donated coffee and hot chocolate for Polar Bear 5K Race (Keegan O’Connor)

Scot Miller

Partial donation of service fee and materials for ice sculpture demonstration during the Winter Wonderland at Harris Nature Center

Fireworks Celebration Contributors

Okemos Meijer - $2,000 (Terry Cole, Cindy Nunn, Chris Wilson) Douglas J Spa and Salons $2,000 (Douglas & Sharon Weaver; Peter Eichler) Meridian Plumbing - $2,000 (Craig Phillipich) The Hubbard Law Firm PC - $1,000 (Andria Ditschman) WLNS TV 6 – in-kind advertising (Barbara Bruce) Culvers Butterburgers & Frozen Custard - $531 (Cory Chavala) Eastside Tax and Accounting, LLC – $250 (Thomas Johnson) Okemos Animal Hospital - $250 (Nydia Alfonso) Ingham County Medical Care Facility and Rehabilitation Center $250 (Karen Webster)

Youth Scholarship Program

Kiwanis Club of Haslett ($500); Jeffrey Kessner ($200); Haslett/Okemos Rotary Foundation ($500) Brian Beauchine ($360)

Kelly Colflesh

Donated tackle and bait; ongoing stewardship of Central Park Fishing Area in Historical Village 48

David Reicosky

Donated eight (8) trees to the park system

MEDIA CATEGORY Dawn Parker

Consistent, timely reporting on park activities and special events that improve public awareness and interest of our parks and recreation facilities in the Towne Courier

WLNZ Radio Station

Karen Love & Jack Robbins interview Senior Park Naturalist monthly promoting programs and activities at the Harris Nature Center

HOM-TV Channel 21

Dedicated efforts to promote the Meridian Township Park System by providing coverage of programs and special events for community viewing. Deborah Guthrie, Communications Director; Rob Gingrich, Senior Production Manager; and Lynn Meikle, Freelance Producer

2013 VOLUNTEER TOTALS Parks Recreation Harris Nature Center Meridian Historical Village Land Preservation

2013 TOTALS:

VALUE

VOLUNTEERS

HOURS

122 525 152 118 135

3,316 20,475 1,364 1,782 7,046

$73,416 $453,316 $27,375 $39,453 $155,998

1,052

33,983

$701,069

@ $20.63/hour

PARK GRANTS AND DONATIONS 1. Central Park/Meridian Historical Village • Meridian Garden Club members cleaned, planted and maintained the Claire Twohy Memorial Garden, Meridian Historical Village and Town Hall gardens. • Meridian Garden Club donated $1,500 toward the installation of irrigation for the Town Hall gardens. • The Meridian Garden Club donated a tree that was planted near the barn. • The Kimball Family donated a tree in memory of Bill Kimball. It was planted near the general store. • Added accessible picnic table with chess board in the Clare Twohy Memorial Garden in memory of Eleanor Leucke through a donation from LINC. 2. Hartrick Park • A volunteer donated and planted perennials around the flagpole and sign. 3. Ferguson Park • Applied for two grants for riparian enhancement (National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and Land and Water Conservation Fund). Both grants were denied. • 75 school children from Murphy elementary released salmon in the Red Cedar River. 4. North Meridian Road Park • Applied for a Natural Resources trust fund grant to develop a pavilion and warming room (grant was denied).

49

5. Hillbrook Park • Applied for a Michigan Recreation Passport grant for a tennis court renovation (grant was denied). 6. Wonch Park • Awarded Natural Resources Trust Fund Grant ($60,000) to develop a universally accessible loop pathway. Construction scheduled for the spring of 2014. Meridian Township Engineering Department is developing construction plans and specifications. 7. Green Road Acquisition • Received notice of a $99,000 Michigan Department of Natural Resources acquisition grant for a future land preserve at 6269 Green Road. Grant funding will officially be awarded in 2014. 8. Legg Park • 75 students from Ralya School released salmon into the Sloan Creek. 9. Orlando Park • Park neighbors and members of Haslett Beautification Club assisted with flower bed maintenance throughout the year. 10. Harris Nature Center • Harris Nature Center Foundation funded a new turtle sculpture that was constructed just east of the building. • River clearing event on October 6; 20 volunteers; opened 10 of 14 log jams to improve navigation along Meridian Riverfront Park.

PARK IMPROVEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT PROJECTS 1. Central Park • Began master plan meetings for entire park site; explored partnership opportunities with EDC on the Farmers’ Market. • Added a sidewalk, benches at Clare Twohy Memorial Garden. • Stocked pond with 1,000 hybrid sunfish, 200 crappie, 35 pounds of fat head minnow, and 10 pounds of golden shiners. 2. Eastgate Park • Worked with the Ingham County Drain Commissioner’s Office to remove a major log jam in the Red Cedar River. The erosion control measures included building a revetment and planting native plugs to secure the stream bank. • Nick Sanchez created an interpretive sign about the log jam removal/restoration for visitor education. 3. Legg Park • Completed the Red Cedar Glen Stream Restoration Plan that includes access and a drainage easement with the Ingham County Drain Commissioner’s Office. A trail was built on the easement which now will be open to bicycles through the Red Cedar Glen Preserve. 4.

Invasive Species • Continued to collaborate with the statewide Stewardship Network on the formation of the Mid-Michigan Cluster; focusing on invasive species control and natural area restoration. • Treated phragmites in Towner Road Wetland Preserve and Davis/Foster Preserve, Transfer Station, and Ted Black Woods. • Nick Sanchez developed priority recommendations for invasive species treatment at Ted Black Woods Park, Brattin Woods Park, Harris Nature Center, Hartrick Park, Hillbrook Park, Eastgate Park, and Legg Park. 50

Hunter Glen Thomas’s first deer at 76 years young

5.

Deer Management as a Natural Resource Management Tool • Administered the third deer harvest as part of the Deer Management Program on 20 Township-owned parcels, Lake Lansing North, and Delta Dental. 127 deer were harvested during the regular hunting season. 60 residents participated in the harvest. According to the Mid-Michigan Food Bank, 1,300 pounds of venison were donated to allow for 6,500 meals to be served. Venison was donated to the Haslett Community Church, Okemos Community Church, Lansing Rescue Mission, and to needy families in the Township. Deer processing was paid for by Michigan Sportsmen Against Hunger.

6.

Water Trail: Worked with Williamstown Township, MSU, and the City of East Lansing to develop plans for a “water trail.” A water trail is a new trend and is simply a trail on the water that focuses on facility planning along waterways to promote outdoor recreation and tourism.

PARKS COMMUNITY OUTREACH AND EDUCATION 1. Publicity: Ms. Greenway and Mr. Sanchez were interviewed numerous times on the topics of deer management. The articles were published or aired in the Towne Courier, Lansing State Journal, Michigan Outdoor News, WKAR, EMU’s Public Radio station, and meridiantimes.wordpress.com, a MSU journalism program Web site. 2. Professional Networks: Active member of Mid-Michigan Stewardship Network and Michigan American Society of Landscape Architects. 3. Eagle Scout Candidates: Worked with future Eagle Scout candidates to discuss their proposed projects within the parks. 4. Helped organize prairie restoration efforts at Lake Lansing North with Murphy Elementary School. 5. Soundscape Ecology – Dr. Stewart Gage continued his soundscape ecology project in Ted Black Woods that measures the quality of the environment based on sounds. The project began in 2012 and continued in 2013. 6. MSU and USDA: Students continued to study the emerald ash borer effects in Legg and Central Parks. 7. Worked with a MSU PhD student on a project involving the range of suburban deer in the Township. 8. Provided press releases related to deer management in the Township and advice for residents who are suffering landscape damage due to deer browsing. 9. Worked with local girl scouts (Heidi Nusdorfer troop leader) to plant native shrubs in Ted Black Woods. Jane Greenway also spoke to them about the career of landscape architecture. Kit Rich spoke to them about the importance of native plants. 10. Garlic mustard pull: Helped third-grade teacher, Ivy Schmidt, organize a garlic mustard on school grounds. 86 students and six adults pulled 10 bags of garlic mustard. 11. Mid-Michigan Stewardship Initiative (MMSI): Conducted a site visit and gave a presentation of our restoration project of the Davis/Foster Savannah to the MMSI.

51

EVENTS 1. Family Winter Sports Weekend – 1,671 attended events held on January 27 - 29. Hosted 100 people at “Meridian Swims” at Michigan Athletic Club; 262 individuals at Polar Bear 5k Run/Walk; 96 at Meridian Bowls at City Limits East; the Harris Nature Center hosted Winter Wonderland with 600 visitors, 200 visitors participated in Curling at Central Park South, and 203 attended target practice training at the Demmer Center. Family Moonlight Sledding was postponed to February 2 with 60 attendees and Meridian Skates at Suburban Ice was moved to February 3 with 150 attendees(1,200/2012; 1,977/2011) 2. Meridian Fireworks Celebration – Conducted fundraising efforts to support the 2013 Meridian Fireworks Celebration. Approximately 15,000 attended. Raised $7,481.75 $2,000 major sponsors: Meijer, Douglas J Salon and Spa, and Meridian Plumbing and $1,000 from Hubbard Law Firm and in-kind advertising support from WLNS. 3. Meridian Heritage Festival – Hosted in conjunction with the Meridian Historical Village and Nokomis Learning Center on September 21 in Central Park from 11 am to 4 pm. Visitors enjoyed crafts and activities as experienced by Pioneers and/or Native Americans. Activities included a petting zoo, demonstrations, art, music, food court, entertainment, base ball games and the Farmers’ Market was held in the Meridian Mall. Approximately 2,000 visitors attended. 4. Meridian Arts & Crafts Marketplace – The Market consisted of consisted of 25+ crafters and artisans from the Greater Lansing Area featuring jewelry, soy candles, paintings, photographs, pottery, knitters, quilters, embroidery, and handmade creations or items. The Crafters’ Marketplace was hosted on the fourth Sunday of each month from June through September from 11 am – 4 pm and was managed by Department Secretary Robin Faust. 5. Celebrate Downtown Okemos – Organized the Okemos DDA annual event on June 1; included free ice cream, children’s art work display, musical entertainment, dancing, beer tent, children’s games and 5K race. Approximately 3,500 attended. 6. Chinese New Year Event - Planning meetings began in October 2012 with the event being held on February 9, 2013. Activities included a Lion Parade, entertainment stage, activity booths and carnival games. Approximately 2,000 attended. It was a cooperative effort consisting of 16 Chinese organizations in the Greater Lansing Area. 7.

40th Anniversary Celebration of the Farmers Market – held on September 28. The event was highlighted with birthday cake, giant inflatable obstacle course for children, distribution of embossed reusable tote bags, balloons, live music and planting of memorial tree dedicated to original vendor Howard Stone and long-time market manager Earl Threadgould.

52

Land Preservation Advisory Board Activities 1.

Davis/Foster Land Preserve: Continued to monitor 50-acre savannah restoration project (partly funded by a federal Wildlife Habitat Incentives Program grant from the Natural Resource Conservation Service). Continued to work with Capital Area Audubon Society to help protect State-threatened Henslow’s sparrow on the property. Demolished two existing residential structures that were not being utilized for a land preservation purpose.

2.

Northwest Land Preserve: Staff and 44 volunteers undertook a five-acre invasive species removal and reforestation project on the property adjacent to Walnut Hills Country Club and Golf Course. The area was seriously degraded with the invasive shrub, buckthorn. The shrubs were removed and the area was replanted with white and red pine. Staff designed an interpretive sign that will be installed in spring 2014.

3.

Lake Lansing North Acquisition: The LPAB met with Friends of Lake Lansing Park and representatives from Ingham County Parks on the management plan for the 120-acre portion of Lake Lansing North that is under a Meridian Township Conservation Easement. The LPAB viewed the three interpretive signs, four deer exclosures, and a native deer-resistant demonstration garden that was planted at the neighborhood park entrance. Provided financial support for a prescribed burn on thirty acres of the park. 50 elementary-aged schoolchildren from Haslett collected seed to plant in a one-acre area of the park that has been cleared of invasive woody shrubs (autumn olive).

4.

Property Marker and Boundary Survey Program: Continued to work with KEBS Surveying on the development of several boundary surveys for Land Preserves. Coordinated Property Corner Marking Program to define the limits of the Land Preserves.

5.

Continued to monitor 789 acres of land preserves.

6.

Continued to attend and be actively involved in Mid-Michigan Stewardship Initiative Group, learning about and planning activities for the management of Township natural areas.

7.

Continued to monitor land preserves and parks for evidence of encroachment.

8.

Property Acquisitions: There were no property acquisitions. However, the Land Preservation Advisory Board conducted site visits and reviewed two properties using ecologically based screening criteria.

9.

Red Cedar Glen: • Completed site restoration of the Red Cedar Glen Stream Restoration Plan that includes access and a drainage easement with the Ingham County Drain Commissioner’s Office. Inventoried wildflowers in the preserve with Harris Nature Center staff. The project restored streams that were severely degraded due to an increase in storm water from the property to the south. The project was truly a collaborative project between the designing engineers, the Drain Commissioner, Meridian Township Parks and Land Preservation. The project won an award from the Michigan Association of County Drain Commissioners, 2014 Innovation and Excellence Award, and the American 53

•

Council of Engineering Companies of Michigan, Engineering and Surveying Excellence Merit Award. The restoration project included planting 48 new trees on the 15-acre preserve

10.

Southwest Land Preserve • Met with Vern Stephens from Designs by Nature to explore options for native site restoration at the preserve on a five acre area that was burned two years ago. Also met with US Fish and Wildlife Service who are planning to provide a grant of $1500 toward the restoration project. • Removed a massive fort with bunkers from the preserve.

11.

Assisted in compliance with local, state and federal laws: Completion of MDEQ permit application for treating the invasive grass, phragmites, at the Towner Road Wetland, Meridian Transfer Station, Hubbel Land Preserve, and Davis Foster Land Preserve. The phragmites was treated by representatives from the Mid-Michigan Stewardship Initiative and Assistant Naturalist Nick Sanchez.

12.

Held nine Land Preservation Advisory Board meetings in 2013, one joint meeting with the Park Commission, and the joint Board/Commission meeting.

13.

Developed an Adopt-A-Preserve program and assigned each LPAB member to one or more preserves. The intention is for the board member to periodically walk the property, meet with neighbors, etc.

RECREATION Organized and implemented the following programs in 2013: • Okemos K - 8th Grade youth soccer: A total of 749 (799/2012; 669/2011): spring 472 (444/2012; 410/2011) and fall 277 (355/2012; 259/211) soccer programs • Okemos K - 6th Grade youth flag football program: A total of 103 participants (104/2012; 91/2011) • Haslett K - 5th Grade Youth Recreation Association (HYRA) youth sports programs: soccer 198 (192/2012; 251/2011), basketball 240 (252/2012; 253/2011), flag football 90 (111/2012; 31/2011), tee-ball 91 (69/2012; 69/2011), 3rd and 4th Grade Lacrosse – canceled due to weather (12/2012; 12/2011) • Okemos 1st - 8th Grade youth recreation softball program: 70 players (74/2012; 49/2011) • Haslett 1st - 8th Grade recreation baseball and softball youth programs: 158 players (167/2012; 207/2011) participated in the programs (baseball: 111/2013; 125/2012; 139/2011 and softball: 47/2013; 42/2012; 68/2011) • Okemos 1st - 8th Grade youth recreation baseball programs: 75 players participated in the tournament/travel in 2013, 2012 and 2011 and 150 players in the baseball recreation programs in 143/2012 and 143/2011 • Sporties for Shorties – 176 participants (195/2012; 203/2011) • Adult Fall Kickball Leagues: 32 teams, 340 participants (25 teams in 2012; 24 teams in 2011) • Adult Summer Kickball Leagues: 14 teams; 150 participants (12 teams in 2012; 11 teams in 2011) • Adult Softball Leagues: 33 teams, 396 players (34 teams in 2012; 33 teams in 2011) • Adult Fall Softball Leagues: 12 teams; 145 players (13 teams in 2012; 5 teams in 2011) • 4 on 4 Sand Volleyball Leagues: 19 teams, 80 participants (23 teams in 2012; 23 teams in 2011) • 7 on 7 Adult Flag Football League: 10 teams; 100 participants (9 teams in 2012; 12 teams in 54

•

• • •

• • •

•

•

• •

•

2011) Adult Golf Clinics/Classes/Leagues: 145 participants
Meridian Sun Adult Couples Leagues: 4 participants (16/2012;12/2011)
Meridian Sun Junior Golf Leagues: 102 participants (71/2012; 112/2011)
Meridian Sun Ladies Night Out Golf Clinic: 19 participants (19/2012; 20/2011)
Hawk Hollow Adult Golf Classes: 14 participants (11/2012; 11/2011)
Hawk Hollow Junior Golf Classes: 8 participants (4/2012; 8/2011) First Class Dog Training: Dog Obedience, Puppy Obedience, Off-Leash, Scent and Tracker Classes: 169 participants (137/2012; 97/2011) Introduction to Target Archery (MSU Demmer Center): 74 participants (47 in 2012; 44 in 2011) Introduction to Air Rifle (MSU Demmer Center): 13 participants (9 in 2012; 26 in 2011)

Senior Exercise Program in the Meridian Mall – 110 registered participants who participate three days per week year-around (106 in 2012) Assisted the Haslett and Okemos Baseball Clubs - umpire scheduling and field maintenance Provided recreation administrative services to the City of Williamston under a contractual agreement for the following youth sports programs: Softball (89/2013; 93/2012; 86/2011), baseball (130/2013; 124/2012; 149/2011), tee ball (66/2013; 73/2012; 77/2011), flag football (71/2013; 76/2012; 76/2011), tackle football (107/2013; 121/2012; 137/2011), basketball (258/2013; 222/2012; 211/2011), and cheerleading (45/2013; 40/2012; 26/2011) Co-hosted the local Hershey track and field event with Haslett Community Education. Thirty five (35) Meridian Township youth participated (35/2012; 27/2011) and 14 youth advanced to compete in the state meet at Holt High School on June 28 (10/2012; 10/2011) Hosted the local NFL punt, pass and kick competition on September 29. Thirty-six (36) Meridian Township youth participated (25/2012; 23/2011) with winners advancing to the sectional competition at Haslett High School. For the sixth year, coordinated the “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” family event with 53 participants attending the Detroit Tiger baseball game (55/2012; 53/2011) Hosted the 7th Annual “Meridian Tackles Fishing” Derby on Saturday, June 8. Thirty (30) participants entered the event that was held at the Central Park pond in the Historical Village (70/2012; 50/2011) - event was supported by Dick’s Sporting Goods. Operated a scaled-back summer recreation program at Snell Towar Recreation Center for the 14th summer. Funding assistance from Edgewood Village, Towar Community Concerns Committee (TC3), Capital Region Community Foundation, Buddies of East Lansing and Joe D Pentecost Foundation - $9,356 with 66 youth registered for the summer ($4,160 with 77 youths in 2012; $4,829 with 77 youths in 2011) - assistance also provided by Lansing Public Schools Summer Lunch Program and Meridian Township Police Department.

55

•

•

• • •

Park Ranger Program continued to be an asset in assisting park users during evening hours and weekends. Park Rangers were on duty from mid-May to mid-September and consisted of police cadets and other part-time staff. This program has been very successful in providing positive interaction and assistance to park visitors. The program was first implemented in 2001. Pavilion rentals – 123 recreation (114/2012; 71/2011); 44 Farmers’ Market dates; four (4) Crafters’ Marketplace dates; one (1) Fireworks Celebration; one (1) Heritage Festival; two (2) recycling events; 44 CSA produce pick-up dates; four (4) races; one boy scout camp; four (4) baseball, softball and kickball tournaments. Implemented three (3) soccer clinics for area soccer coaches. Implemented two (2) soccer referee trainings and one baseball umpire clinic. In conjunction with Haslett Community Education hosted “school’s out-teen field trips” during the holiday breaks. Trip location included Craig’s cruisers with 39 participants (50/2012).

ECONOMIC IMPACT OF RECREATION In 2013, we started asking participants how much money they spent participating in a program aside from the registration fee. The amounts were calculated by averaging the responses and multiplying that by the number of participants (examples included equipment, travel, snacks, gate fee, pre-game food/beverage, post-game food beverage, etc.) • • • • • • • • • • •

Adult Softball Leagues– 552 players Adult Kickball Leagues – 370 players Adult Volleyball Leagues – 95 players Adult Football Leagues – 99 players Okemos Youth Flag Football – 104 players Okemos Youth Soccer – 750 players Youth Baseball/Softball – 469 players Haslett Youth Basketball – 278 players Haslett Soccer – 198 players Haslett Flag Football – 90 players 3,005 players Total Williamston Youth Sports-737 players 3,742 players

$145,340 $36,763 $6,840 $1,188 $7,081 $47,718 $31,423 $16,680 $11,880 $5,580 $310,493 $126,095 $436,588

PARKS AND RECREATION SPECIALIST - MIKE DEVLIN • • • • • • •

Union Representative. Developed and implemented games for the end-of-the-year picnic for Haslett 6th grade students. Volunteered at the Michigan Recreation and Park Association Hershey's Track and Field State Meet with over 1,000 participants. Coached 7th and 8th Grade middle school basketball in Haslett. Instructed six (6) summer playground training sessions to 1,200 participants throughout the State. Facilitated team building activities for 6th Grade orientation in Haslett Middle School. Instructed the HYRA kindergarten and first grade basketball skills clinic, 117 participants (118/2012; 130/2011). 56

• • • • • •

Attended Michigan Recreation and Park Association Annual Conference and Trade Show in February. Continued as an active member of the Southern Michigan Recreation & Park Association Certified Youth Sports Administrator (CYSA) a nationally accredited program through National Alliance of Youth Sports (NAYS). Certified CPR and first aid training. Board member of East Side Soccer Club. Webpage master for the East Side Soccer Club.

RECREATION SPECIALIST - GREG GROTHOUS • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Attended Michigan Recreation & Park Association Annual Conference & Trade Show in February. Member of the Towar Community Concerns Committee (TC3). Board member of the Edgewood Village Community Outreach Board. Volunteered for the Super Bowl 5K race in Okemos. Volunteered at Hershey Track and Field State Meet in Holt. Certified in CPR and First Aid. Certified as a NASP Archery Instructor. Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP). Elected President of the Southern Michigan Recreation & Park Association. Attended MRPA Board Retreat in September. Chair of the SMRPA Tony Noyola Golf Outing Committee. Section 3 Coordinator of the NFL Punt, Pass and Kick Competition. Union Representative.

harris nature center The Harris Nature Center (HNC) is in its 17th year of operation and sits on the edge of the Red Cedar River in the middle of the 200 acres of Meridian Riverfront Park. The nature building contains live animal exhibits, a library, and a classroom. Praised for its large variety of programs reaching people of all ages and backgrounds, the HNC provides opportunities for residents to connect with nature here in their own community. Participation in programs and visitorship has increased from 1,064 in July 1997 (inception of the Center) to 19,385 in 2013. These numbers are calculated by visitors per day. Year Drop In Classes Total Participation

2008 7,430 8,524 15,954

2009 7,318 9,037 16,355

2010 6,997 11,485 18,482

2011 6,823 10,005 16,828

2012 8,038 11,175 19,213

2013 7,696 11,689 19,385

The HNC was open for general public drop-in from 9 am – 4 pm, Monday through Saturday and 12 pm – 4 pm on Sundays. In addition to the 7,696 drop-in visitors, 11,689 people attended classes and programs. Together, a total 19,385 people visited the HNC in 2013. 2013 Programs Educational School Programs Additional Education Program Children’s Programs Nature Camps

Number of Programs 189 38 55 57 57

Number of Participants 4,402 1,554 603 403

Adult Programs General Public Programs Winter Wonderland Event Turtle Toast Event Halloween Adventures Event Building Rentals/Uses

21 36 1 1 1 57

324 609 600 80 840 2,274

Points of Interest concerning HNC programs: Education school programs increased by 25%. Nine (9) Weekday Science programs held which provided science education for home schooled children. • Participated in Annie’s Big Nature Lesson (ABNL) which brings school classes out to the nature center for a week long emersion in nature education. Seventeen (17) classes participated in ABNL in 2013. • Nature Day Camp participation increased by 20%. A new camp offered in 2013 was the Counselor-in-Training Camp. The six (6) campers who attended the camp will be eligible to volunteer as Junior Counselors in 2014. • HNC partnered with the Capital Area Audubon Society to lead five (5) bird walks during the spring, bringing 73 people into five (5) different parks and preserved areas of the Township. • There were nine (9) Stewardship Mornings with 69 people volunteering their time to enhance HNC and Meridian Riverfront Park with projects such as pulling invasive plants, maintaining the building gardens, painting the front sidewalk “river” and removing saplings from the future Nature Exploration Area. • It was a bad summer for nature walk and campfire program participation due to the heavy mosquito populations. • HNC staff attended the spring Meridian Business Expo at Haslett High School, Smart Start Saturday at the Okemos Library and four local elementary school Science Fairs to promote HNC and its programs.

• •

HNC operations were supported by a full-time Senior Park Naturalist, a full-time Park Naturalist, and five (5) quarter-time Assistant Naturalists, with these programs taught by outside instructors: • Two photography classes taught by Ron St. Germain. • One garden class taught by Vern and Sue Stephens. • One cross-country ski/ snow shoe class taught by Jackie Blanc of Eaton County Parks. • One bird watching class taught by Clara Bratton. • Two bird nest box/ bird feeder workshops taught by Gene Wasserman. • Five bird watching walks led by Capital Area Audubon Society members. Staff promoted HNC programs through print, radio, television, web site, and social media. • HNC programs appeared in various local newspapers over 25 times each month including many photographs and newspaper web sites. • HNC staff was featured on local radio and television 33 times. • Designed, implemented, and maintained the HNC portion of the Township Web site consisting of 26 pages of information on HNC, its programs, opportunities and operations. • Maintained the HNC’s Facebook page and Twitter account in order to promote the HNC via social media. HNC finished the year with 735 fans on Facebook and 275 followers on Twitter. • Created three (3) HNC newsletters which were emailed to interested people.

58

Media Coverage WLNZ Radio: Coffee Break Show WKAR Radio: Current State WMMQ Radio WILX Radio: Mid-Michigan Pet Expert The Big Show- Michael Patrick Shiels WILX-TV, Channel 10 WLNS-TV, Channel 6 HOM-TV: InnerView Show HOM-TV: regular interviews Okemos Life Magazine Healthy and Fit Magazine Grand Learning Network Documentary MSU Student interviews (print & online) Okemos High School student interview

Number of Interviews 11 3 1 1 1 3 1 2 10 3 1 1 3 1

Services provided by the Harris Nature Center in 2013: • Provided 76 cross-country ski rentals and 36 snowshoe rentals to the public (not including the use of equipment during the Winter Wonderland event). • Processed twelve (12) geo-cache permits for Township Parks. • Provided the all-terrain wheelchair for use by one visitor. • Promoted recycling at the HNC by providing a bin for water bottles in the building, replacing polystyrene cups with paper cups at all major events, and providing recycling information to HNC visitors. • Eight (8) existing Wood Duck nest boxes were cleaned and replaced or repaired as needed for the current nesting season. Three (3) existing nest boxes were removed. There was evidence of 3 successful nests during the 2012 nesting season. • Twenty (20) bluebird nest boxes in Meridian Riverfront Park were monitored through the spring by a volunteer. There were eleven (11) successful song bird nests, but no bluebird nests. The volunteer will re-locate some of the nest boxes in 2014 to better habitat for bluebirds. • Coordinated an ongoing program to fight invasive plants in the parks with 60 volunteers working on various days. 46 bags (1380 pounds) of garlic mustard were removed from Meridian Riverfront Park. • Partnered with the Michigan Duck Hunter’s Association (MDHA) to enhance the wetland habitat in Meridian Riverfront Park for waterfowl. The MDHA provided wild rice seed and bulrush, arrowhead and wild celery plants. 198 elementary students helped plant the seeds and plants in the wetlands. • Joined Frog Watch, a group that monitors the health of frog populations. HNC staff volunteered their time on four (4) evenings. In the future, citizen volunteers will be invited to join the monitoring efforts. • Coordinated one (1) Eagle Scout candidate on his project. Peter Miklavcic of Troop 97 built a 30 foot bridge on the Deer Run Trail at HNC in 2013. He will complete the project by adding steps in 2014. • Coordinated fifteen (15) MSU student volunteers from Kappa Delta Pi and the Parks and Recreation Club (PARC) who designed and implemented the fun house and games area for the Halloween Adventures event. • Processed 151 library books for the HNC Library which houses 2,137 nature reference books and nature story books. 59

Improvements to the Harris Nature Center in 2013: • The kitchen and associated hallway received new vinyl flooring. • The three (3) restrooms, foyer, display area and classroom were painted. • Designed and installed an interpretive sign for the Red-tailed Hawk exhibit. • The HNC Foundation (HNCF) commissioned a large turtle sculpture to be built by local artist Doug DeLind. This climbable sculpture is the first piece of the proposed Nature Exploration Area and the HNCF continues to fundraise for its development. • Developed two (2) program brochures: One to outline the Summer Day Camp programs and one to promote the Weekday Science Program. • Developed six (6) new live animal exhibits. • Developed thirty (33) new programs for children, families, and the general public. • Staff received first aid and CPR training. • Naturalist Kati Adams began training the Red-tailed Hawks as education birds. • Six (6) people participated in the Adopt an Animal donation program. This program was designed to encourage the public to become more invested in the live animal exhibits and to raise funds to help care for them. $400 was donated in 2013. • The HNC Foundation granted twenty (20) school bus scholarships, allowing 767 students to participate in educational nature programs at HNC. • Marilyn Lee of the Lansing Orchid Society continued to maintain a woodland flower bed featuring native orchids. • Honored 121 groups and individuals for volunteer efforts and support of the HNC at the 2013 Nature Friends Barbecue in August. • Dr. Evelyn Cudel continued to maintain the herb garden on the west side of the HNC building.

SENIOR PARK NATURALIST KIT RICH •

• • • •

Interviewed on WLNZ Radio, WKAR Radio, WMMQ Radio, WLNS-AM Radio, WILX-AM Radio, WILX-TV, WLNS-TV and HOM-TV, and by the Lansing State Journal, Okemos Life Magazine and Healthy and Fit Magazine. Served on the HNC Foundation Board. Served on the Mid-Michigan Stewardship Initiative planning committee. Volunteered at the Meridian Township Citizens’ Recycling Events in April and October. Attended two (2) regional meetings of the Association for Nature Center Administrators.

PARK NATURALIST KATI ADAMS • • • • • •

Certified Interpretive Guide. Certified Medical First Responder. Interviewed five (5) times by HOM-TV and other media outlets. Filmed leading a program for a documentary by the Grand Learning Network. Participated in the regional Arbor Day Celebration at Potter Park Zoo. Earned five (5) continuing education credits for Medical 60

• •

First Responder license. Earned a certification in Basic Wildlife Rehabilitation. Served on the Grants Committee for the National Association for Interpretation Region Four.

SNELLSNELL-TOWAR RECREATION CENTER Snell Towar Recreation Center is in its 39th year of providing programs to Towar Gardens and Meridian Township residents. 2013 was the eighth year under the direction of Center Coordinator Greg Grothous. Snell Towar Recreation Center is located in the middle of 4-acre Towar Park. The recreation center contains a billiards table, two foosball tables, air hockey table, carpet ball table, Nintendo Wii game system. Snell Towar Recreation Center is a great place for kids (young and old) to gather. 1. Teen Grant: Towar Community Concerns Committee (TC3) received $1,500 grant from the Capital Region Community Foundation to conduct programs for teens in the Towar Gardens Neighborhood from March 2013 to March 2014. 2. Programs and events offered at the Center include: • Youth after-school activities every Monday through Thursday from 4 - 6 pm • Teens/Tweens (ages 12-18 or still in high school) activities - Thursdays from 6:30 to 9 pm. • Monthly Senior potluck luncheon, first Thursday of every month from Noon - 1:30 pm. 3. Summer Recreation Program: June – August; a total of 66 youth registered and attended daily activities that promoted self-esteem, emotional, social and physical fitness, and included field trips to local recreation facilities. This program received support from Towar Community Concerns Committee (TC3), Edgewood Village Apartments ($1,500), Capital Region Community Foundation ($2,000), Joe D Pentecost Foundation (2,500), Kiwanis Club ($500) and Buddies of East Lansing ($500).

4. Building rentals – 2 5. Special programs/events included: • Halloween Costume Party: 75 participants with six volunteers • Halloween Open House: 200 drop-ins. • Towar Teens trip to Caberfae Peaks in Cadillac Michigan (12 kids) and Craig’s Cruisers (8 kids) one (1) staff and one (1) volunteer

Farmers' Market Christine Miller completed her sixth year as Market Manager. The spring market was held on Saturdays, May 4 to June 29, with a total of 50 vendors.

61

Year Annual Vendors Daily Vendors

2009 25 15

2010 28 18

2011 27 18

2012 35 18

2013 37 13

The summer market was held on Saturdays and Wednesdays during the months of July through October, with a total of 59 vendors. Year Annual Vendors Daily Vendors

2009 29 25

2010 30 25

2011 31 26

2012 38 21

2013 43 16

The Thanksgiving Market was held on November 27 especially for fresh turkey pick up. A total of 23 vendors participated in this event. Year Number of Vendors

2009 14

2010 19

2011 23

2012 29

2013 23

In partnership with the Meridian Mall, a Winters Farmers’ Market began on Saturday, December 4, 2010. The Market is held in the JC Penney Corridor. The Winter Farmers’ Market was held once a month during the 2010/2011 market and increased to two times a month during the 2011/2012 market. Year

12/2010 to 4/2011 26 6

Number of Vendors Number of Dates

12/2011 to 4/2012 40 10

12/2012 to 4/2013 27 2

12/2013 to 4/2014 TBD TBD

“Music at the Market” was held for a total of 88 market days. Music Saturdays Wednesdays

2009 11 1

2010 18 4

2011 18 4

2012 16 0

2013 16 0

Partnered with local businesses to provide free activities for youth during the market hours. Year Number of Partners Number of Activity Dates

2009 3 9

2010 3 15

2011 6 11

2012 4 15

2013 5 14

Weekly E-Newsletter, Twitter posts and Facebook postings for communication with customers began in 2011. Year Email addresses

2011 1,100

2012 1,300

2013 1,428

In 2012, the market began accepting the Michigan Bridge Card, Double Up Food Bucks (DUFB), WIC Project Fresh coupons and Senior Market Fresh coupons. Many of the vendors also began accepting credit card payments at their booths. The Bridge Card acceptance and DUFB program created 135 new customers and an additional $9,000 in revenue. In 2013, the programs created 122 new customers and an additional $14,000 in revenue.

62

Hosted 40th Anniversary Celebration on September 28. The event included birthday cake, inflatables, reusable tote bag giveaway, balloons and music. In memory of original Farmers Market vendor Howard Stone and long-time market manager Earl Threadgould, a memorial tree was planted adjacent to the Central Park pavilion.

PARKS, GROUNDS AND CEMETERY DIVISION Ended the year with 38 interments at Glendale Cemetery. (41/2012; 35/2011; 40/2010) Collected 535 cubic yards of compactable trash from trash barrels throughout the park system. Staff noted an increase in household waste added to trash barrels in parks. (495/2012; 402/2011; 354/2010) Approximately 1,900 Christmas Trees were chipped and recycled. (2,000/2012; 1,900/2011; 1,800/2010)

ROUTINE FUNCTIONS FOR THE PARKS AND GROUNDS MAINTENANCE WINTER

•

• • •

• • • • • • • • • • •

Ski and Showshoe Equipment: In December, moved equipment into the Harris Nature Center and in March move, equipment back into storage. Installed (and removed) holiday decorations at Township Hall and other Township sites. Install bubbler on Central Park dock in the Historical Village (remove in March). Snow removal in 30 Township parking areas including township facilities, libraries and parks and along pathways (total 75 miles of pathway). Plowed, shoveled, salted and checked for ice at all Township sites. Christmas Tree Recycling – Signage, set up two locations, checked tree piles for possible safety hazards, chip. Dumped trash and placed dog waste bags in Township parks (twice a week). Maintained salt barrels at crosswalks throughout the Township. Hung banners at corner of Marsh and Central Park Drive and over Hamilton Road. Deer removal from roadway and pathways as needed (assisted Ingham County Transportation and Roads as requested). Cold patched in Township parking areas. Weekly Park Maintenance activities. Assisted Building Maintenance crew with repairs. Delivered and picked up equipment for repairs. Spring/summer/fall equipment: Bring in from storage, clean, and repair if needed. SPRING/SUMMER

• •

Winter Equipment: Clean, repair and move into storage. Prepare athletic fields by aerating, rolling, seeding, field design and layout, spray fence lines, install and repair soccer equipment, hang nets, install bases, and clean sand volleyball courts, etc.).

63

•

• • • •

• • • • •

• • • • •

Prepare 17 park sites for opening after April 1st for general clean up, picnic table inventory and repairs, trash barrel inventory, repairs and ordering, clean and repair grills, open restrooms and make necessary repairs, hang cables in Central Park pavilion for Farmers’ Market vendors, playground equipment safety inspections, install new safety surface material where necessary, etc. Spring clean-up in both cemeteries. Mow, trim Pathways, trails and sidewalks (clean, clear, brush hog, trim bushes and tree limbs, etc.). Ferguson and Wonch Parks (special cleaning and disinfectant after spring flooding, this may occur two or three times during the spring season). Township garden areas, Grand River Bus Stop, Transfer Station, Township Hall, Public Safety Building (begin spring cleaning with trimming, removing dead plants and debris, spreading mulch, spray areas for weeds as needed, etc.). Okemos Library (assist with annual spring clean-up, deliver and spread mulch, trim and remove brush, limbs and other debris, repair areas as requested). Clean restroom facilities, dumped trash and placed dog waste bags in Township parks (twice a week). Remove salt barrels from crosswalks throughout the Township and reorder if necessary for end of year. Hung banners at corner of Marsh and Central Park Drive and over Hamilton Road. Deer removal from roadway and pathways as needed (assist Ingham County Road Commission as requested). Cold patched in Township parking areas. Assisted Building Maintenance crew with repairs. Weekly park maintenance activities. Delivered and picked up equipment for repairs. Assist with site preparations for four (4) softball/baseball tournament weekend events in Nancy Moore and Hartrick Parks (4/2012; 3/2011). FALL

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Clean restroom facilities, dumped trash and placed dog waste bags in Township parks (twice a week). Winterize Township Parks: In November, close and winterize restroom facilities, gather and stack picnic tables, remove athletic equipment (goals, bases, nets, etc.). Inventory of Athletic Equipment and repair and/or order new if necessary. Spring/summer/fall equipment: Clean, repair if needed and put into storage. Winter Equipment: Bring out, clean and repair if needed. Salt Barrels: Inventory and repair and/or order new if necessary. Hung banners at corner of Marsh and Central Park Drive and over Hamilton Road. Deer removal from roadway and pathways as needed (assist Ingham County Road Commission as requested). Cold patched in Township parking areas. Assisted Building Maintenance crew with repairs. Weekly park maintenance activities. Delivered and picked up equipment for repairs.

64

SPECIAL EVENTS

Staff members assist with site preparation and cleanup, delivery and installation of equipment, and other work orders as required specific to each event and on occasion are onhand the day of the event: • HNC ski classes, Family Winter Sports Weekend (January 24-26): Polar Bear 5K Run/Walk Moonlight Sledding, Winter Wonderland at HNC • Fishing Derbies (February and June): Clean area and bring extra trash barrels for the events. • Three (3) Family Moonlight Sledding events (two events in 2012): Inspect the hill, deliver firewood, fire rings, generators, lights, extra barrels, inspect hill). • Starlight ski and snowshoe events at HNC (cleaned and cleared trail, set up lights). • Recycling Events (April 27 in Central Park and October 5 in Nancy Moore Park): cleaned area; brought extra trash barrels, tables and signage. • Wildflower Festival and Native Plant Sale at HNC: Cleaned and cleared trail, erected signage, cleaned overflow parking area. • Meridian Garden Club Plant Sale (May 17): Cleaned Central Park pavilion and surrounding area; install green tarp walls; arrange picnic tables and their spring and fall garden clean-up events. • Memorial Day Ceremony at Glendale Cemetery (clean and clear debris, erect fallen headstones, spread mulch around flower bed areas, set up for ceremony). • Celebrate Downtown Okemos: Deliver tables and chairs, cleaned and cleared sidewalks and parking area behind Okemos/Hamilton Road businesses; set up tents; erect banners; set up stage, set up dining area; cleaned area when event completed. • Music in the Park Concert Series: Set out extra picnic tables and trash barrels; clean up Historical Village area the morning of the event and the morning after the event for six concerts in June and July. • Fireworks Celebration: Erect banners, dig trenches in launch area, deliver sand and remove after event, mow and trim grounds, additional trash and recycle barrels, hang buntings, flags and banners in pavilion. • Elections: Deliver, set up, take down and store equipment for three (3) elections in 2013 (3/2012; 2/2011; 3/2010). • Heritage Festival (September 21): Mow Eyde property for parking, weed whip garden area, erect tents, recycling containers, barricades and orange cones for parking areas, set up signage, bring over extra-long tables and folding chairs, move bike rack into area, set up plywood dancing area, set up area and moved bleachers for baseball game; dig fire pit in front of Log Cabin, bring out extra fishing equipment; picked up and returned golf carts. • Halloween Adventures at HNC (October 26): Pick up and return trailer used for hayrides, purchase hay, clean and clear trails, mow area used for pumpkin patch and overflow parking, erect tents and banners. Christmas in the Village (December 8): String lights in tree, clean area, clear and salt sidewalks through the Village and from parking areas, extra trash barrels, erect signage. • 2nd Annual Paul Peterson Memorial Softball Tournament: Assisted staff with site preparations and clean up after event in Nancy Moore Park.

65

SPORTS SEASON

Staff began field preparation in April and ended in November. •

•

•

•

Fields preparation activities at Hartrick, Nancy Moore, Hillbrook, Towar; Kinawa, Chippewa, Ralya, Murphy, and Haslett Middle School: - Youth Baseball – 287 times (287/2012; 261/2011 and 231/2010) - Adult Softball – 140 times (146/2012; 133/2011 and 113/2010) - Adult Kickball – 124 times (121/2012; 110/2011 and 78/2010) - Youth Softball – 72 times (72/2012; 65/2011 and 43/2010) - Practice fields – 48 times (48/2012; 40/2011 and 35/2010) Field Painting at Hartrick, Nancy Moore, Hillbrook, Towar, Kinawa, Chippewa, Ralya, Murphy, and Haslett Middle School: - Youth Baseball – 17 fields; 19 times each (266/2012; 144/2011 and 120/2010) - Adult Softball – 3 fields, 39 times each (117/2012; 93/2011 and 84/2010) - Adult Kickball – 3 fields, 19 times each (57/2012; 18/2011 and 16/2010) - Youth Softball – 3 fields, 11 times each (33/2012; 15/2011; 15/2010) - T-Ball – 6 fields, 9 times each (72/2012; 25/2011; 30/2010 and 20/2009) Soccer fields at North Meridian, Hartrick, Central and Nancy Moore Parks; Chippewa, Kinawa, Murphy, Ralya and Wilkshire Schools: - Spring: Laid out and painted 17 soccer fields 49 times (17 fields; 49 times/2011 and 2012) - Fall: Laid out and painted 23 soccer fields 85 times (23 fields; 85 times/2011 and 2012) Youth and Adult Flag Football fields at Nancy Moore Park and Kinawa Middle School: - Laid out and painted 7 fields 21 times each (7 fields; 21 times/2011 and 2012) MOWING SEASON

Staff started the mowing season in March 2013 and ended in November 2013. Staff mowed 43 locations of approximately 215 acres. Mowing consisted of at least once per week but on several occasions was twice per week. MOWING ACRES BY SITE LOCATION

TOTAL SITE ACRES

ACRES MOWED

Twp Hall and Central Park

187.5

35

15

15

2

2

Cedar Bend Heights Park

0.33

0.33

0.33

Eastgate Park

53.5

7.643

7.643

Ferguson

5.7

3.3120

Harris Center

48.44

2.7123

2.7123

Hartrick Park

60.7

14.602

14.602

Hillbrook Park

16.4

4.5053

4.5053

5

3.566

3.566

103

7.5597

7.5597

Central Park South

Indian Hills Park Legg Park

66

POST MILLAGE

PREMILLAGE

3.3120

TOWNSHIP OWNED 20

Marshall Park

5

4.0486

Nancy Moore Park

40

17.3735

Newton Road Park

5

5

North Meridian Road Park

60

9.9421

Ottawa Park

3

1.0395

1.0395

Orlando Park

1.3

0.9169

0.9169

Schreiner Park

1

0.5975

0.5975

Tacoma Hills Park

22

0.7452

0.7452

Towner Road Park

22

12.6546

Towar Park/Rec Center

4

2.8054

Van Atta Woods Park

74

0.0276

Wonch Park

15

8.2206

Welcome sign – N.

0.2

.01132

.01132

Welcome sign – E.

0.2

0.2

0.2

Transfer Station

51

0.1657

0.1657

Service Center

36

3.8199

3.8199

Glendale Cemetery

19.5

11.3594

11.3594

Riverside Cemetery

3.0

2.8397

2.8397

Meridian Activity Center

1.0

0.15

0.15

0.439

0.439

0.439

Mt. Hope Lot

4.0486 17.3735 5 9.9421

12.6546 2.8054 0.0276 8.2206

Rental House next to Library Haslett Library

0.3

0.2277

0.2277

0.487

0.2254

0.2254

Okemos Library

1.73

0.7852

0.7852

North Water Tower

2.85

2.5

2.5

South Water Tower

0.55

0.4850

0.4850

Central Fire Station Complex

0.5

0.3

0.3

North Fire Station

9.37

0.5601

0.5601

South Fire Station

8.33

0.7640

0.7650

40

40

108.9

3.2327

3.2327

994.026

212.876

Pathways Land Preservation Davis Farm TOTALS

67

65.2851

59.3167

87.71

Parks and grounds maintenance Staff • •

• •

Zack Archibald and Chad Houck hired to fill open Utility Worker positions. All Utility Workers attended the following training sessions/classes: CPR; Fork Truck Operator; MDOT Traffic Control; Lock Out/Tag Out; Personal Protect; Overhead Crane; and Confined Spaces. Facilities Superintendent Dennis Antone, Certified Associate Park & Recreation Professional (APRP) and Class A & B UST Operator License Parks & Grounds Maintenance Lead Worker Scot Stillman, Certified Pesticide Applicator

department Communications •

ActiveNet On-line Registration – Began this method of registration in 2007 and it has streamlined processes for registration, class lists, team roster development, communication with participants and promotion of future programs. To date, the Township has 11,300 customers enrolled in ActiveNet.

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Total Number of Transactions During the Year 1,942 2,166 2,327 2,896 3,346 4,554

Number of On-Line Transactions During the Year 407 347 332 388 594 683

2013

4,771

787

Year

Year Dec-06 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Customer/Families New Customers Created On-line Accounts Opened Accounts During Year 12 16 570 2,090 356 1,386 315 1,329 320 1,377 578 2,222 426 1,628 476 1,685

Total Number of Customers In Activenet 16 2,106 3,492 4,821 6,198 8,420 11,300 11,700

• Family Fun Guide – This brochure markets all divisions of the Parks and Recreation

Department and other Township news and serves as a snapshot of high quality of life we experience here in our community. Total distribution is 22,000 and was direct mailed each address in the Township in March and August. • Web Site – Our Web site management was more effective and efficient since given the ability to update and post information ourselves. We utilized it to post game and officials’ schedules, league standings and location maps for youth and adult sports programs. The Harris Nature Center staff also utilized the Web site for educational purposes as well as promotion of programs and events. 68

• Facebook, Twitter and You Tube – This was the year we entered the world of social media.

This has provided an opportunity to become more effective in promotion and education of all the great things happening in the Township. We posted videos to You Tube of programs and events, posted news releases on Twitter and Facebook, to reach a greater audience of media providers, which in-turn, results in greater exposure. www.facebook.com/MeridianTownshipParks; www.facebook.com/MeridianTownshipRecreationandSports; www.facebook.com/HarrisNatureCenter; www.facebook.com/MeridianFarmersMarket; www.twitter.meridiantwp; www.twitter/meridianParkRec; www.twitter/HrrisNatureCnt • E-mail – This method has proven to be the most efficient and cost effective form of

communication. It has become much easier to coordinate programs and activities, and communicate with coaches and officials. The Farmers’ Market sends a bi-monthly newsletter to interested market patrons. • Developed promotional material and maintained park kiosks in Nancy Moore and Central Park/Historical Village and indoor display boards in the Township Municipal Building with program description flyers.

Meridian Senior Center The Meridian Senior Center provides for the educational, enrichment and social needs of adults aged 55 and over for all older adults in the Township. This program is a joint effort between Meridian Township and Okemos Public Schools. The center has 562 members who take part in computer, exercise, driver safety and other classes. Additional group activities which promote health and wellness include games, dance classes, golf and bowling leagues; immunization and blood pressure clinics; luncheons, lectures and special events. In coordination with the Human Services Program, many volunteer their time to collect food and other donations for Township residents with a need. The Senior Center has 46 active volunteers who donated 3,668 hours in 2013. 103 congregate meals were served that fed 1875 individuals. A total of 348 exercise classes were offered with 2,308 individual participants; and 56 health screenings in which 317 people participated. Total participation for 2013 was 11,756. The Meridian Senior Center is supported in part by a ten-year 0.15 mill Millage that was passed in August 2012 for Parks and Recreation, Meridian Senior Center and Human Services Programs. The Senior Center completed Phase 1 of its improvements in 2013 that included new paint, lighting, furniture, greeting area, WiFi, window treatments and artwork. • Senior Coordinator, Cherie Wisdom advanced to full-time • A part-time assistant coordinator was hired to facilitate new programs and longer hours of operation. • The monthly newsletter was upgraded with assistance from Lynn Meikle from HOM-TV • Senior Center hours are Monday – Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

69

Meridian Historical Village The Village, founded and operated by the Friends of Historic Meridian, is a living history museum – a place where visitors can see, touch, hear, and even taste what life was like over 100 years ago. The seven (7) historical buildings provide a wonderful setting in which to experience life of an early mid-Michigan settler. The Village is reserved by schools as part of history curriculums and for tours and/or programs for individuals and groups. In addition, the Village Chapel was available for rent. The following is a summary of the activities the Village conducted in 2013: •

•

•

• •

•

The Village office was open during the week Tuesday through Thursday from 9 am to 2 pm, except in July when the office was open on Wednesdays only. The office was closed from December 15 - January 31. The Village was open for walk-through tours on Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm from May through October which coincides with the Farmers’ Market open hours on Saturdays. (152 Volunteer hours for the season.) Open for school groups and tours. Thirty-two tour groups, including 21 schools, 11 homeschool groups, child and adult daycare groups, and other private groups toured the Village in 2013, with all tours conducted by one or more of our 18 school docents. (410 Volunteer hours.) The Village was the location of a week-long morning day camp in August, which served 12 children in grades 3 through 6. (140 Volunteer hours.) Three spring and three fall membership meetings were held with guest speakers. Two of those meetings were scheduled for a Sunday afternoon in the Village Chapel to encourage attendance by who can no longer drive in the evening. (114 Volunteer hours.) The Board of Directors of the Friends of Historic Meridian held 11 meetings in 2013, including 2 meetings specifically dedicated to long-range planning. (240 Volunteer hours)

Special events: Volunteers include the 18 school docents above plus 25 event docents = 43 total. • • • • •

Music in the Parks series: 6 concerts in June and July with 600 - 800 attendees (279 Volunteer hours) Be A Tourist In Your Own Town with 40-50 visitors (45 Volunteer hours) Halloween Meridian-Style with 20 visitors (16 Volunteer hours) Meridian Heritage Festival 2,500 - 3,000 (188 Volunteer hours) Christmas in the Village in December with approximately 300 visitors; 300+/2012 (198 Volunteer hours)

Members/Attendance/Wedding Totals: • • •

Total number of Friends of Historic Meridian members: 201 (207/2012) Number of total volunteer hours in 2013: 1,782 (1,951/2012; 1,955/2011) Number of wedding rentals in 2013: 22 (12/2012; 10/2011)

George Grettenberger was President of the Friends of Historic Meridian Board of Directors. Staff consists of Executive Director Jane Rose and Administrative Assistant Melissa Andresen. 70

Nokomis Native American Learning Center In Nokomis, the gallery exhibits rotated twice during the year as well as classroom full of handson activities that taught visitors about the history, arts and culture of the People of the Three Fires – the Ojibwa, Odawa and Potawatomi nations. The Center maintained limited open hours in 2013 due to funding. Nokomis conducted the following activities: • • •

Presentations to local and statewide schools and groups. Continued to host an open Craft Night on Monday evenings and a lecture series on Thursday evenings. Special events: - Meridian Heritage Festival - Fall Feast, Wikogewin - American Indian Art Market

COMMUNITY OF PARTNERS The Meridian Township Parks and Recreation Department makes it a priority to engage local businesses and organizations in its daily operations. Our goal is to create win-win opportunities with these partnerships to increase their exposure and customer engagement as well as assist us in the delivery of quality programs and special events for the community. Below is a list of community partners for 2013: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Art Unlimited Bodies in Motion Personal Training Buddies of East Lansing Barry Tons and Associates Capital Region Community Foundation City Limits East Bowling Center Coco Loco Taco (formerly Sip N Snack) Culver’s of Okemos Celebration Cinema – Studio C Designs by Nature Delta Township Parks and Recreation Department Dr. Maureen Sander Dick’s Sporting Goods Douglas J Salon & Spa Cedar Creek Apartments Eastside Soccer Club Eastside Tax and Accounting East Lansing Department of Parks, Recreation and Arts Edgewood Village Town Homes and Apartments Edward Jones Investment First Class Dog Training First Baptist Church Framers Edge Friends of Historic Meridian Friends of Meridian Pathways Home Depot HOM-TV Channel 21 Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness, Health and Sports Graff Chevrolet Greater Lansing Food Bank Greater Lansing Chinese Association Harris Nature Center Foundation Haslett Beautification Association 71

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Haslett Community Education Haslett Kiwanis Club Haslett/Okemos Rotary Club Haslett Youth Recreation Association (HYRA) Haslett Youth Baseball Association Hawk Hollow Golf Course Ingham County Parks Ingham County Medical Care and Rehab Facility JW Kettlecorn Lansing Curling Club Lansing Oar and Paddle Club Lansing Parks and Recreation Department Lansing Public Schools Summer Lunch Program Lansing Community College Lansing Parks and Recreation Department Meridian Area Business Association MARC/Meridian Asset Resource Center City Limits East Bowling Center Meijer Meridian Mall Meridian Plumbing Meridian Economic Development Corporation Meridian Township Police, Fire and Public Works Departments Meridian Township Citizens’ Recycling Advisory Committee Meridian Sun Golf Club Meridian Garden Club Michigan Athletic Club Michigan Steelheaders Association Michigan Recreation and Park Association Michigan State University - Department of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies - Department of Urban Planning - Grand Learning Network - Project Fish - Recycling Center - Department of Asian Studies - Chinese Student Committee - Chinese Faculty Club - Chinese Students Scholars Association - Chinese School - Chinese Undergraduate Students Association - Confucius Institute - Office for International Students and Scholars Miller Ice Sculptures Mid-Michigan Stewardship Network Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council MSU Demmer Center MUSH Dog Sledding Association Playmakers Nokomis Learning Center Okemos Ace Hardware Okemos Community Education Okemos Community Church Okemos Public Schools Okemos Baseball/Softball Club Okemos Soccer Club Okemos and Haslett Libraries Okemos and Haslett Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts 72

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Okemos Kiwanis Club Okemos Masons Pruess Pets Riverside Cat Hospital Ralya Elementary School Ron St. Germain, Professional Photographer Shupan Recycling Summit Sports Tiawanese Association of Greater Lansing The Training Space The Golf Course Builders Association of America Foundation Towar Community Concerns Committee (TC3) Tasty Twist Wal-Mart City of Williamston Williamstown Township WLNZ Radio/TV Wood’s Marathon Wood Carvers Association YMCA

TEAM MEMBERS LuAnn Maisner, Director of Parks and Recreation Robin Faust, Administrative Assistant II Michael Devlin, Parks and Recreation Specialist Katherine (Kit) Rich, Senior Park Naturalist/HNC Coordinator Catherine (Kati) Adams, Park Naturalist Greg Grothous, Recreation Leader/Snell-Towar Rec Center Coordinator Jane Greenway, Parks and Land Management Coordinator Dennis Antone, Facilities Superintendent Scot Stillman, Parks and Grounds Maintenance Lead Utility Worker Keith Hewitt, Parks and Grounds Maintenance Utility Worker Zachary Archibald, Parks and Grounds Maintenance Utility Worker Chad Houck, Parks and Grounds Maintenance Utility Worker Nicholas Sanchez, Assistant Park Naturalist (March – December) Ashton Anthony, Recreation Intern (April - July) Amy VanHuffel, Recreation Intern (June - December) Christine Miller, Farmers’ Market Manager Cherie Wisdom, Meridian Senior Center Coordinator Playground Supervisors (June-August): • Jon Fletcher • Maddie Heilman

Park Rangers (May-September) • Christina Hamilton • Abigail Meirndorf

Parks & Grounds Seasonal Staff (May-August) • Marvin Nash Jr. • James Andrews • Scott Baldwin • Evan Wegener • Derm Carkson • Jennifer Little • Max Nyquist

Assistant Park Naturalists: (25% time or less, January– December) • Allison Goodman • Jamie Wise • Rebekah Struck-Faivor • Alicia Olsen • Cristen Barber • Amanda Lorenz

73

POLICE DEPARTMENT MISSION STATEMENT The Meridian Township Police Department is committed to establishing and maintaining partnerships in our community; and with understanding, cooperation and equality we strive to enhance the quality of life and protect the rights of our community.

VALUES COMPASSION We care for and empathize with our fellow human beings.

COURAGE We face danger to ensure the safety of others. We will stand up for what is right. We will be brave when others may not. We strive to eliminate fear through our actions.

EXCELLENCE We employ those who strive to achieve a higher standard. We listen to our employees and the members of our community to continually improve our effectiveness and reliability. We strive to exceed community and professional expectations.

FAIRNESS We will treat all individuals impartially. We will act in a just manner. We appreciate different points of view. We exercise discretion appropriately.

INTEGRITY We will fulfill our mission in its entirety using sound principles, honesty and sincerity.

RESOURCEFULNESS We can be relied upon for help and support. We have the ability to deal with situations effectively. We build on our mutual experiences to effectively resolve problems.

RESPECT We value the rights and beliefs of others. We are courteous. We treat others as we expect to be treated. We appreciate diversity.

WORK ETHIC We are self-motivated and self-directed. We do what is asked and strive to achieve expectations. We hold ourselves to a higher standard.

74

TEAM MEMBERS OFFICERS Police Chief David Hall Lieutenant Greg Frenger Lieutenant Ken Plaga Sergeant Don Lound Sergeant Dawn Sawallich Sergeant Lana Howell Sergeant Scott Dawson Sergeant Andrew McCready Sergeant Brad Bach Sergeant Bart Crane

Officer Brett Reed Officer Erin Linn Officer Brian Canen Officer Greg Harris Officer Charles Glumb Officer Andrew Tobias Officer Richard Grillo Officer Christopher Lofton Officer Aaron Hubbard Officer Robert Jurhs Officer Jonte Slack Officer Kyle Royston Officer Edward Besonen Officer Rebecca Payne Officer Kevin Harvey Officer Mark Divney Officer Jason Clements * Officer Michael Hagbom * Officer Michael Brazier * ***

Officer Jon Wicks ** Officer Kelly Blask Officer Gayelord Mankowski Officer Kristi Lysik Officer Paul Rambo Officer Dave Metts Officer Judy Hood Officer John Free Officer Christina Scaccia Officer Jeff Adams Officer Curt Squires

SUPPORT STAFF Steven Nordquist, Administrative Assistant II Andrew McEntee, Property Technician

Cindy Cummings, Records Supervisor Lynne Bodell, Records Technician Carrie Gross, Records Technician Rhonda Floyd, Records Technician

CADETS Scott Foote*** Kalea Frisbie-Horton Chris Hurst*** Craig Long*** William Starbird Amanda Tripplet*** Nicholas Wagner Jordan Woodruff

Lance Gilbert* Sidra Alvi* Rebecca Smith*

* Hired in 2013 ** Retired in 2013 *** Resigned in 2013

75

Meridian Township Police Department Effective January 2013 Total Sworn 39 Chief of Police Administrative Assistant II

Lieutenant - 1 Uniform Division

Citizen Volunteers

Day Shift 3 Sergeants 12 Officers Two Platoons, 6 each Night Shift 3 Sergeants 10 Officers Two Platoons, 6 each

Lieutenant - 1 Uniform Division

School Resource DARE - TEAM 2 Officers

Sergeant - 1 Investigations

Adult Crossing Guards 6

Invesigators - 4 3 General Case 1 Fraud Investigator

Canine Unit 2 Officers

Special Response Team 1 Sergeant 3 officers

76

Records Unit 1 Supervisor 2.5 Clerical

Court Officer - 1

Cadet Unit 9 Part-Time

Property Technician 1

ADMINISTRATION The command structure of the Department remained consistent with previous years. There is the uniform division and the services division. Both divisions are led by Lieutenants.

UNIFORM DIVISION The Uniform Division serves as the primary role of the Police Department. Patrol coverage continued 24 hours a day, 7 days per week. Six sergeants and twenty-four patrol officers are assigned this task. Officers work 12-hour shifts and cover both Meridian and Williamstown Townships. Two Uniform Division officers are assigned to the School and Community Resource Unit during the school year. These two officers provide instruction in DARE and TEAM in Okemos and Haslett School Districts. In 2013, there were 13,839 calls for service (not including traffic stops), 5,973 written police reports (these written reports may include multiple offenses), and 864 arrests. Officers issued 2,883 citations that yielded a total number of 3,468 charges. 2013 Written Reports Alarms 867 Traffic Crashes 978 All Other 4,128 Total 5,973 Yearly Comparisons:

2009 6,274

Written Reports 2010 2011 2012 6,152 6,057 6,160

2013 5,973

2009 13,577

Calls for Service 2010 2011 2012 13,600 13,512 14,162

2013 13,839

2009 1,259

Arrests 2011 978

2013 864

2010 932

2012 975

Citations 2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Citations Issued

5,528

4,622

3,666

3,789

2,883

Total # of Charges

6,174

5,224

3,888

4,296

3,468

77

Calls for Service As Received From Dispatch 911 Hang Up Abandoned Vehicle Admin Alarm Animal Call Arson Assault Assist Attempt to Locate Bar Check Bomb Threat Break In Business Check Canine Assist Check Area Check Subject Check Vehicle Child Neglect City Ordinance Civil Code Violation Community Meeting Court Conservation Criminal Sexual Conduct Curfew Violation Disorderly Conduct Death Investigation DOA Domestic Drugs Driving While License Suspended Endangered Person Extortion Family Trouble Fight Fire Assist Fireworks Follow-up Foot Patrol General / Non-Criminal Fraud Harassment Hit and Run Incapacitated Person Indecent Exposure Juvenile Kidnapping Lock Larceny Liquor Law Inspection

119 92 549 905 410 1 131 11 22 24 1 146 2 38 127 229 181 46 4 164 30 13 52 2 33 0 5 5 5 118 113 36 16 3 0 97 110 70 645 14 208 662 128 170 14 2 74 1 23 483 33

Lost Property Malicious Destruction Medical Assist Mental Missing Person Minor In Possession Motorist Assist Noise Obscene Operating While Intoxicated Operating Under Influence of Drugs Panhandling Peace Officer Complaint Personal Injury Accident Personal Protection Order Pickup Property Police Assist Police Pursuit Private Property Accident Probation Property Damage Accident Prowler Receive / Conceal Stolen Property Reckless Driving Retail Fraud Robbery School Walk Through Security Check Shots Sex Offender Registration Violation Special Assignment Stabbing Stalking Subpoena Service Suicide Suspicious Situation/Person/Vehicle Threat Traffic Hazard Traffic Stop Trash / Littering Complaint Trespass Trouble With Subject Unlawfully Driving Away An Automobile Unknown Injury / Accident Unwanted Person Utility / Wires Down Vehicle Impound Warrant Arrest Weapon Violation Welfare Check

TOTAL CALLS FOR SERVICE: 19,746

78

21 195 683 48 50 11 346 441 21 68 1 24 26 112 55 157 226 1 88 4 894 17 1 111 359 17 536 164 61 22 76 3 15 77 48 672 94 362 5907 20 39 235 43 65 132 43 31 309 23 425

Written Reports* Alarm Response Arson Assault Burglary Conservation Criminal Sexual Conduct Damage to Property Disorderly Conduct Embezzlement Extortion Family Abuse / Neglect / Other Forgery / Counterfeiting Fraud Health and Safety Hit and Run Motor Vehicle Accident Incapacitated / Mental Health Intimidation / Stalking Investigation / Inspection (NonCriminal) Juvenile Offenses / Runaway Larceny Liquor Violations Lost / Found Property

867 3 261 168 8 39 174 47 20 0 24 12 235 30 188 118 85

Medical First Responder Miscellaneous Criminal Offense Miscellaneous Non-Criminal Offense Motor Vehicle Theft Negligent Homicide / Manslaughter Obscenity Obstructing Justice Obstructing Police Ordinance Violation OUI of Liquor of Drugs Parental Kidnapping Public Peace Other Retail Fraud Robbery Stolen Property Traffic Civil Traffic Criminal

155 0 461 26 4 5 269 25 2 79 5 0 371 31 14 978 200

359

Trespass

42

12 400 33 134

Vagrancy Violation of a Controlled Substance Weapons Offense

0 77 12

TOTAL WRITTEN REPORTS: 5,973 *Some written reports have multiple offenses

Officers investigated 978 traffic crashes in 2013 compared to 899 in 2012. These included personal injury, property damage, and hit and run accidents. Of the total, 180 accidents involved injuries. There were no fatal crashes in Meridian Township in 2013.

Traffic Crash Total to Injury Comparison 1200

1006

892

1000

911

978

899

800 600 400 200

145

198

147

179

180

0 2009

2010

2011

79

2012

2013

Injury Total

TRAFFIC SAFETY Traffic safety has always been a top community concern. This concern is taken seriously and the Department considers it to be a quality of life issue. Traffic issue concerns are handled in several different ways. Patrol officers are assigned directed patrols to allow high visibility during peak traffic hours in areas of concern. The Department also utilizes the speed awareness trailer in areas of concern to make drivers more aware of their speed. The Department has a motorcycle officer that is used in traffic safety. Motorcycles are also utilized in neighborhoods and business areas where a patrol vehicle may have trouble performing traffic enforcement. The Department considers the Ingham County Roads Department to be a valued partner in offering input on traffic safety needs that allows us to focus our resources to those areas with the greatest need. The Department provides educational programs to adults and youth with an emphasis on the importance of safe driving habits; included are the adult and youth citizen’s academy. The Department conducts child safety seat inspections by appointment and special event. The Office of Highway Safety and Planning (OHSP) is also a valued resource and partner in the township’s traffic safety efforts.

TRAFFIC CRASH INVESTIGATION TEAM The Department investigated 978 traffic crashes in Meridian Township 2013. Crashes involving death or life-threatening injuries require additional investigation and time. Five personnel are assigned to the crash investigation team to investigate those crashes. In 2013, the Traffic Crash Investigation Team responded to one fatality. The fatal crash occurred in Williamstown Township. The investigation determined that a passenger car was traveling north on Meridian Road and a motorcycle was traveling south on Meridian Road. As the passenger car approached the curve south of Grand River Avenue, the driver crossed the center line, struck the oncoming motorcycle, then struck an embankment and rolled over. The occupants of the vehicle were not injured. The driver of the motorcycle was transported to the hospital and died. The report has been turned over to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office for review.

VOLUNTEERS The Department receives support from volunteers who provide hours of their skills and talent. Skills of prospective volunteers are matched with identified needs in the Department. Prior to being accepted into the volunteer program, applicants are screened through a background investigation. The Department provides training to familiarize volunteers with police services and the Department’s basic rules and regulations. The Department recognizes the value of the volunteers and continually seeks to expand the number of volunteers. The Department received 154 volunteer hours in handicap and fire lane parking patrols. These patrols resulted in 54 parking citations insuring that fire lanes are clear and those with disabilities have available parking. The Department’s Records Unit received 36 volunteer hours that allowed for statistical reports and other necessary functions to be completed in a timely manner.

COMMUNITY POLICE OFFICERS Community policing is an ongoing initiative of the Department. Meridian officers are assigned neighborhoods to provide a connection between the Department and the citizens. Regular neighborhood leaders meetings are held at the Department providing citizens access to police administration and an opportunity to voice concerns and ask questions. The Department also promotes the national crime prevention awareness program National Night Out on the first Tuesday in August. Community Officers assist in organizing events that bring neighborhoods together in a stand against crime. 80

ADULT CROSSING GUARDS Adult crossing guards are an important role in providing for the safety of student pedestrians walking to and from school. Six crossing guards provide assistance to children in three school districts. When crossing guards are unable to staff their post, officers and cadets fill in. Traffic assessments known as gap studies are conducted to determine the need for a crossing guard post. The Department partners with AAA of Michigan to remain current on proper training and to have access to appropriate resource materials.

CANINE TEAM In 2013 Meridian Township welcomed an additional canine to the Department – Yukon. Yukon and his handler, Officer Andy Tobias, joined canine Uby and Officer Erin Linn in June. Both Yukon and Uby are dual purpose trained for narcotics detection and tracking, including building/area searches. The canines also provide officer protection. While Yukon and Uby are on leave, Meridian Township receives canine services from other area Departments. Yukon and Uby also provide services to other Departments upon request. At the request of Lansing Police, Yukon and Officer Tobias conducted a suspect track on Moores River Drive that ended with the recovery of blood stained clothing related to a kidnapping/assault. Uby and Officer Linn conducted a track that ended with the recovery of a handgun used in a homicide in Meridian Township.

Canine Team Activity Numbers Calls Handled By Meridian’s Canine Calls Handled By Other Departments Call Outs To Other Departments Total Calls For Service

92 23 46 161

Activity Type Drug Search Suspect Track Building Search Evidence Location Demonstration Missing Person

58 55 28 4 12 4

*A canine call may include more than one activity type.

SPECIAL RESPONSE TEAM Meridian Police partners with local agencies in Ingham County as part of a countywide Special Response Team (SRT). The team includes officers from Meridian Township, East Lansing, Michigan State University Police and Ingham County Sheriff. In previous years, East Lansing Police held the leadership position of the team. In 2013, a new leadership structure was developed in order to allow each participating agency equal authority and responsibility in the partnership. Administration from each participating agency is part of an advisory board that governs and provides direction for the team. The Department provides four members, including Sergeant Brad Bach as the supervisor. The team is trained in the use of special weapons, equipment and tactics to utilize during high risk situations such as felony arrest and search warrant executions, response to barricaded gunmen incidents and while policing incidents of civil unrest. The team is headquartered at Michigan State University and members participate in monthly training to enhance skills. The team is activated by an on-call plan. In 2013, SRT responded to 4 call-out activations. One call-out was in Lansing Township where a bank robbery suspect out of Ann Arbor was taken into 81

custody while hiding out at a local hotel. Another activation involved the execution of a search warrant in East Lansing that led to suspects being taken into custody. In addition to these types of incidents, SRT also worked with the Tri-County Metro Narcotics Team in a joint operation that ended in the closure of a 49 plant grow operation and the forfeiture of cash.

SCHOOL AND COMMUNITY RESOURCE UNIT The Department continued its presence in the Okemos and Haslett School Districts and St. Martha’s School by providing officers who instruct D.A.R.E. (Drug Abuse Resistance and Education) and T.E.A.M (Teaching Educating and Mentoring). The School Resource Unit is an excellent way for the Department to have positive daily contact with students and staff. In 2013 the School Resource Unit worked with the 55th District Court to present the “Court to School” program. This popular program enables a Judge from the 55th District Court to conduct courtroom activities such as traffic hearings and sentencing of convicted defendants for the day at a school. This provides students a unique opportunity to observe the criminal justice system in action as well as seeing firsthand court-ordered consequences resulting from poor choices. In addition to D.A.R.E and T.E.A.M., the officers continued to serve as a resource for the schools for their School Emergency Response Plans. In the fall of 2013 Meridian Police conducted a lockdown at Okemos High School. The lockdown involved clearing every room then instructing the students on evacuation procedures in the event of an actual incident. The officers were present for additional practice drills at other school buildings covering all education levels. It is important for students to enjoy a safe learning environment and to practice proper reactions in a crisis situation. The T.E.A.M. curriculum is taught as requested in any K-12 classroom. Educators are free to choose T.E.A.M. topics that work best with their class prior to scheduling an officer to present the instructional topics. Some of the most requested topics at the high school level include cyber safety (in particular the safe use of social media and the dangers of ‘sexting’), alcohol and drinking and driving laws, domestic violence, school violence awareness and response, and fire safety. At the elementary level “My Big Five Safety Rules” is popular as well as the proper use of 911, gun safety and computer safety. The D.A.R.E. program consists of a 10 lesson instructional course that addresses many of the same topics as the common core standards set forth by the federal government. Course curriculum includes lessons on self-awareness and management, responsible decision making, understanding others, relationship and communication skills and handling responsibilities. Both Haslett and Okemos school districts find the D.A.R.E. program valuable and continue to welcome officers back into their classrooms. The School Resource Unit taught “Halloween Safety” to hundreds of elementary age students and played an important role in planning the annual MTPD “Halloween Open House”. The unit also works with TRIAD, an organization dedicated to the elder community in Ingham, Clinton and Eaton Counties that sponsor events such as “Senior Prom” (a fundraising event) and “No Senior Without Christmas” (an event offering basic necessities and a small holiday gift to less fortunate seniors in our community). The School Resource Unit also hosts tours of the Police Department for any organization that requests them - oftentimes the girl scouts and boy scouts.

82

Number of Classes Held in 2013 D.A.R.E 293 T.E.A.M. 154 Other Presentations 151 Total for 2013 598

SERVICES DIVISION The Services Division includes the Records Unit, Investigations Unit, Cadet Staff, and the Property Technician. The personnel in the Services Division support the patrol staff with investigations, resources, information systems, and statistical reports. The Services Division also works in cooperation with the Township’s Human Resources Director in the recruitment and hiring of police officers and cadets.

INVESTIGATIONS UNIT Personnel are selected for the Investigations Unit for a three-year assignment. The unit includes a supervisor, three investigators, a fraud investigator, and a court services officer. The investigators conduct follow up investigations on cases that require additional time and/or specialized training. The court services officer serves as our liaison with the courts and prosecutor. The investigator’s duties include, but are not limited to, conducting follow-up investigation on a broad array of complaints, including the more serious criminal complaints such as breaking and entering, criminal sexual conduct, stalking, identity theft, and embezzlements. This is considered a special assignment for the officers. At the conclusion of the assignment, officers rotate back to road patrol where they are able to continue to use their acquired knowledge, experiences, and contacts to serve the community. Complaints Investigated Per Year 2009 493 2010 490 2011 430 2012 305 2013 256 The above table shows that the Investigations Unit investigated a total number of 256 complaints in 2013. The larger chart on the following page lists the types of offenses investigated. The total number of offenses investigated during the year (287) is higher than the complaints investigated during the year (256) because some complaints involved more than one offense. Investigations Unit Yearly Comparisons – Meridian Township * Homicides are the fatal crash and death of a newborn Crime 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Homicide Kidnap Criminal Sexual Conduct Robbery Assault/Stalking Arson Extortion

0 0 25 27 10 6 0 83

0 3 26 9 34 2 2

2* 0 28 14 30 1 0

0 1 25 7 21 1 1

4 2 26 11 14 1 0

Burglary Larceny Unlawful Driving Away Auto Forgery Fraud Embezzlement Stolen Property Malicious Destruction of Property Retail Fraud Drugs Sex Offenses Obscene Material Child Abuse Liquor Law Violation Obstructing Police Obstructing Justice Warrant Arrest for Other Agency Weapons Offense Public Peace Hit & Run Accident Health and Safety Invasion of Privacy Conservation Juvenile Runaway Traffic Offenses Juvenile Violation Civil Custody Motor Vehicle Accidents Accidents Other Accidents Other, Shooting Suspicious Situations General Assist Death Investigations Missing Persons TOTAL

97 136 10 4 151 5 9 13 19 19 0 4 5 4 4 2 1 2 7 2 0 0 0 4 0 0 0 0 1 0 6 3 16 1 593

95 100 8 11 115 11 1 3 21 9 2 4 9 1 6 6 5 5 7 2 1 0 0 4 3 0 0 1 0 0 12 7 16 1 542

62 90 6 3 109 4 3 6 22 8 6 4 6 2 1 1 1 0 4 0 0 0 0 9 0 0 0 0 0 0 18 7 13 3 463

47 72 10 7 54 7 6 8 12 5 0 4 3 0 2 0 0 1 5 1 0 0 0 7 1 0 0 1 0 0 18 2 10 6 345

27 48 5 1 47 6 3 11 26 0 3 4 4 2 0 0 2 2 2 2 0 1 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 8 0 14 3 287

In 2013, the Investigations Unit continued 101 investigations from 2012, 256 reports were assigned, 157 reports were cleared, 77 reports were inactivated, and 107 will continue to be investigated in 2014.

2013 Report Dispositions Continued from 2012 Assigned in 2013 Cleared in 2013 Inactivated in 2013 Continued in 2014

101 256 157 77 107

When an investigation is completed and reviewed for charges, the investigator is responsible for taking the warrant request to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. There were 105 total cases reviewed by the Prosecutor’s Office in 2013. This is a decrease from 131 total cases reviewed by the Prosecutor’s Office in 2012.

84

Investigations Warrant Requests & Petitions for 2013 Felony Misdemeanor Totals Requested 105 75 30 Issued 53 35 18 Denied 28 18 10 Diversion 3 3 0 Status Pending 24 15 9 A total of $5,300 worth of stolen property was recovered in 2013. The majority of the recovered stolen property was returned to the victims. The Investigations Unit supervisor reviews all written reports taken by the road patrol. During this review, unsolved cases are examined for solvability in order to select those that will be assigned to an investigator. Cases lacking sufficient solvability factors are placed in an inactive status and a letter is sent to the victim notifying them of this change in their case status. This letter also informs the victim that the case may be reopened should new information be uncovered that increases its solvability. There were 287 victim letters sent in 2013. Whenever a crime occurs on school property, on a school bus, at a school sponsored event, within 1,000 feet of school property, or if the incident itself poses a significant threat or imminent danger to students, staff, or school property, a school notification letter is sent to the school administrative office informing them of the incident. In 2013, 86 school notification letters were sent to the Haslett, Okemos, and East Lansing school districts. There were no incidents affecting Williamston Schools. Members of the Investigation Unit continued participation in a number of boards and task forces. These included Elderly Death Review Board, Child Death Review Board, Capital Area Sexual Assault Response Team, Pediatric Subcommittee for Abuse and Sexual Assault, Michigan Association of Check Investigators, Tri-County Loss Prevention, Crime Stoppers, and Tri-County Sex Offender Task Force (TriSort). Most meetings were held once a month to discuss cases of concern or interest, problem solve, create county-wide protocol, and share information on suspects and trends. The investigators also participated in weekly area detective meetings to discuss current crimes, share intelligence, and foster working relationships between agencies. 2013 Cases of Interest: Harassing Telephone Calls – A suspicious profile of a funeral home with fake obituaries was posted online. The account was traced back to an individual in the Armed Forces who was part of the Arizona National Guard. The computers used were in Phoenix and the Middle East. It was determined the Department had no jurisdiction and it was forwarded to Phoenix Police Department as well as the Army CID. Stalking – A subject was posting harassing messages on Facebook and Twitter and also sending texts from an unknown number. Five search warrants to various online service providers tracked back to a childhood friend of the victim’s located in Petoskey. A confession was obtained at our request by the Emmett County Sheriff. ICPO issued warrants. Child Abuse – The Department received a CPS referral alleging an individual had assaulted his daughter causing her to injure her wrist. Investigators interviewed the victim and the suspect; both accounts of the event were the same. The father was attempting to grab the daughter by the arm when she fell backward injuring her wrist. This case has been sent to ICPO for review. 85

Armed Robbery – It was an armed robbery of the Marathon gas station/convenience store. The Department posted a picture of the suspect on social media. We received numerous tips that indicated the suspect was an Okemos resident. During the course of the investigation the Department was able to recover the clothing the suspect wore during the robbery. ICPO issued Robbery and Habitual Offender charges against the individual. Illegal Use of a Credit Card/Larceny from Building – The victim had his credit card stolen from his home by an acquaintance. The card was then used by the suspect at two different Speedway gas stations in the Lansing area. Investigators identified the suspect but were unable to locate her. Investigators conducted photo line-ups with the Speedway employees and the victim. A two count felony warrant was issued by ICPO. Larceny from Building – A suspect stole a key to the backroom of a store. A suspect was identified through security footage. A warrant was requested. Larceny from Auto/Illegal Credit Card Use – Money and credit cards were taken from a vehicle. The credit cards were used at three local Meijer stores. The suspect was interviewed and confessed. Warrants were requested. Breaking & Entering/Uttering & Publishing –The office of the apartment complex was broken into and a lock box was stolen. Money orders were then cashed at a local Walmart. Suspect confessed and ICPO has the case to review charges. Open Murder – A male subject was stabbed to death. A suspect was identified, charged and convicted of 2nd Degree Murder. Death Investigation – A mobile home burned to the ground. The male half of the elderly couple made it out of the fire. The female half perished in the fire. Investigators interviewed the male survivor in an attempt to ascertain if foul play had occurred. After the interview, Investigator’s found that no foul play occurred. Unarmed Robbery – A victim was grabbed and pulled to the ground in front of the Meijer store. Items were stolen from her. A suspect was identified. The case was sent to the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office for review. Indecent Exposure – A male subject was exposing himself to a female subject near a local coffee shop. The victim took pictures of the suspect. A flyer was made and put out to area detectives; however, no one recognized him. The subject was later identified and charged based on information received from social media. Retail Fraud – Two black females stole large amounts of baby formula from the Okemos Meijer store as well as other area stores. The suspects were identified through social media. A request was sent for warrants to ICPO. Unarmed Robbery – Three suspects stole $1,800 in merchandise and left the area in a car. Investigators obtained one suspect’s name from the registration plate on the car. This case was sent to ICPO for charges. Larceny from Building/Illegal Use of Credit Card Use – An unknown suspect stole a purse with credit cards and then used the credit cards at Wal-Mart, Meijer and Dick’s. Investigators received suspect information from Culver’s. The suspect confessed and Investigators recovered the purse, ID, and credit cards. The case was sent to ICPO for charges.

86

Attempted Murder – The victim was involved in a mutual combatants fight and her throat was cut by a known suspect. Originally the victim did not want to press charges; however; she changed her mind. Investigators removed some text messages off her phone and forwarded the case to the ICPO for a warrant. Uttering and Publishing/False Police Report – The suspect filed a false police report through MTPD and altered the date on a check from the victim. A two-count warrant for false police report and U&P was issued by ICPO. UDAA – A vehicle was stolen from the parking lot. The vehicle was found in Bath Township due to the fact that the suspects burned the vehicle. A suspect eventually confessed to taking the vehicle and they were interviewed. The case was sent to ICPO for warrant request. False Information to Police – A subject was involved in a property damage accident. He provided false information to the responding officer to avoid being cited for driving while revoked. The information given to the responding officer was for the brother of the suspect. The suspect later came to MTPD and admitted to giving false information. ID Theft/Credit Card Fraud – The victim’s ID and credit card were used at Wheat Jewelers, JB Robinson and Fred Meyer at the Meridian Mall. The same suspects committed the same crimes in Kent County during the same time frame. The Kent County Detective was able to locate a suspect in Chicago, Illinois. The suspect was arrested in Chicago and will be extradited to Kent County once Illinois has completed their charges. A four count felony warrant was issued against the suspect and the warrant is in LEIN. Embezzlement – A former employee embezzled approximately $400,000 while employed as the office manager of the vet clinic. The suspect confessed and the complaint was sent to the ICPO. Organized Retail Fraud – An unknown female was captured on surveillance footage stealing clothing from Younkers. Her picture was put on Facebook and she was identified from the tips received. She subsequently confessed to stealing from various stores all over the Lansing area and then selling the merchandise. Murder/Suicide – The female victim was shot by her husband who then shot the dogs and himself. He had called 911 minutes before shooting himself and explained there had been an accidental shooting at his residence. Surveillance of an Unclad Person – The victim reported while in a changing room at Target she noticed that she was being videotaped by a cell phone under the stall door. The suspect was identified and confessed to the crime. Charges were authorized through ICPO.

COURT SERVICES The court services officer (CSO) transports prisoners, seeks warrants, and delivers required paperwork to various offices. The CSO seeks warrants and juvenile petitions for the Department as well as arraigning persons that are arrested for Meridian Township and Williamstown Township charges. The CSO also verifies registered sex offenders on a quarterly basis and participates with Tri-SORT while conducting registered sex offender address verification sweeps.

87

Arraignments Subpoenas Served Warrants Into LEIN Personal Protection Orders Warrant Requests Warrants Signed by CSO Twp. Attorney Requests Total Petition Requests Retail Fraud Requests OWI Requests Assault Requests Assault Requests-Domestic Larceny/Fraud Requests Narcotics Requests

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

282 1,906 622 58 1,210 521 328 107 457 121 91 190 60 74

227 1,333 168* 51 779 439 250 98 297 100 68 159 55 61

131 1,031 0 71 783 379 105 93 207 52 44 190 50 61

314 1,069 0 61 930 389 150 97 261 81 77 189 78 49

261 393 0 55 696 471 199 108 311 51 60 151 47 61

*Beginning in 2010 the 55th District Court assumed the responsibility of entering Meridian Township warrants into LEIN.

RECORDS UNIT The Records Unit consists of a supervisor, two full-time records technicians and one part-time records technician. The unit processes police reports, issues permits to purchase pistols, processes freedom of information requests, conducts local background checks, creates and maintains several statistical tables, processes insurance requests, assists with sex offender quarterly registrations, handles requests for information from the public by telephone and the service counter, and answers the overflow telephone calls from the township hall. In 2013, the records unit was assigned the additional duties of entering, maintaining, and canceling Personal Protection Orders and Conditional Bonds in the LEIN (Law Enforcement Information Network) System. The Michigan State Police is responsible for the administration of the LEIN System and in November that agency conducted an audit of the Departments LEIN activities. The Meridian Township Information Technology Department also played a significant role in the audit. Meridian Township received “Satisfactory - Exceeds Standards” rating by the auditor. Michigan Incident Crime Reporting (MICR) incidents continued to be validated to ensure the appropriate reporting codes and required fields were reported. This process insures the Department’s data is accurately submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation for publication in their annual publication titled Crime in the U.S. The records unit performed all of these same duties for Williamstown Township as part of that community’s agreement for police services with Meridian Township.

Annual Crime Reporting Summary 2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

% Change 2012-2013

Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter

0

0

1

0

4

400 %

Rape and Attempted Rape

24

29

29

32

25

-22 %

Robbery

22

22

12

18

25

39 %

Aggravated Assault

51

44

33

31

30

-3 %

Total Part 1 Violent Crime

97

95

75

81

84

4%

Burglary

203

172

186

183

110

-40 %

Larceny

1,058

761

692

672

574

-15 %

Vehicle Theft

26

19

25

42

18

-57 %

Arson

10

9

6

5

3

-40 %

88

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

% Change 2012-2013

Total Part 1 Property Crime

1,297

961

909

902

705

-22 %

Total Part I Offenses

1,394

1,056

984

983

789

-20 %

OWI Arrests (Liquor or Drugs)

123

113

90

87

56

-36 %

Traffic Accident – Roadway

892

1,005

917

905

949

5%

Part 1 Violent Crimes

Part 1 Property Crimes 1400

1297

1200

961

1000

909

902 705

800 600 400 200 0 2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

Part 1 Offenses 1394 1400 1200

1056

983

984

1000

789

800 600 400 200 0 2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

TRAINING Training plays a significant role in individual and Departmental development and progression. Training is accomplished through in-service, roll-call, and external training. The Michigan Commission on Law Enforcement Standards (MCOLES) requires annual active-duty firearms training which includes an educational and skill component. The Department also has a training plan set forth to give officers the skills and knowledge necessary to perform their duties in a safe and professional manner. Officers in special assignments and officers with specialized skills require additional training in order to perform those assigned tasks. In 2013, Department members completed a total of 1,322.25 hours of in-service training. The training is broken down by the following categories each individual received: 30 hours of scheduled Department training 10 hours of firearms and active violence incident training The Department hosted a legal update course in May where 23 additional police officers from area Departments attended. In the fall, officers participated in “Emergency Vehicle Operation” training sponsored by the Ingham County Sheriff’s Department. Officers attended 89

other in-service training sessions, including training in Autism Safety, Automated License Plate Reader, Alzheimer’s Awareness, Domestic Violence, Personal Protection Orders, Pressure Point Control Tactics, Taser Operation and Medical First Responder. Additionally, ten members of the Field Training Cadre attended a Field Training Update while the Field Training Program underwent changes to an alternative program. The Department documented 1,880.5 hours of external training in 2013. Officer Tobias attended Canine Handler School and a second canine (Yukon) was welcomed to the Department. Personnel also attended training in Police Executive and New Chief School, Detective School, Street Survival, Cyber Investigation, Emergency Medical Responder, Glock Armorer, Child Death Investigation and Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement, to name a few.

MIDMID-MICHIGAN POLICE ACADEMY In 2013, our Training Sergeant contributed 104 service hours to the Mid-Michigan Police Academy at Lansing Community College (LCC). During these service hours our Training Sergeant conducted Wednesday morning inspections and participated in academy scenario based training. In exchange for the Training Sergeant’s time at the police academy, scholarship funds were allotted to the Department. A portion of these funds were used to pay for an officer to attend Emergency Medical Responder class at LCC. Remaining funds were used for firearms training where students attending our Citizens’ and Youth Academies were able to utilizing the firearms training simulator in scenario based “shoot” or “don’t shoot” training. This highly realistic experience helped participants gain an understanding of the decision making process an officer experiences when encountering potentially deadly circumstances.

CITIZENS’ ACADEMY In September, the Department sponsored the fifteenth annual Citizen’s Academy. Thirteen citizens participated in classroom and hands-on instruction on the operation of the Department and police procedures. The nine week academy ended in November with all participating students receiving a Certificate of Completion.

YOUTH CITIZENS’ ACADEMY In February, the Department hosted the seventh annual Youth Academy with twelve individuals participating. Students learned about the Department organization, crime scene investigation, use of force, traffic enforcement, alcohol laws and experienced many hands-on activities. The seven week academy ended in May with all participating students receiving a Certificate of Completion.

CITIZEN SATISFACTION SURVEY A total of 1,180 citizen satisfaction surveys were mailed to victims and complainants involved in traffic accidents and other calls for service. Surveys are used as a tool to monitor customer satisfaction with the Department’s services. In 2013, a total of 178 surveys were returned. The 16% response rate was a decrease compared to 2012.

90

Citizen Satisfaction Survey for Sworn Personnel

Category

Rating of Excellent/Good

Helpfulness Friendliness Knowledge Quality of Service Professional Conduct Response Time

92% 92% 94% 94% 91% 89%

Rating of Emergency and Non-Emergency Dispatch Service

Category

Rating of Excellent/Good

Helpfulness Friendliness Knowledge Quality of Service Professional Conduct

83% 78% 77% 73% 74%

*Not all questions generated a response.

CITIZEN SERVICE COMPLAINT SUMMARY The Department investigated 12 formal citizen service complaints during 2013. Below is a summary of the findings. 4 2 5 1

Sustained – Sufficient evidence exists to support the allegation and further action was taken. Not sustained – Insufficient evidence existed to support or refute the allegation. Exonerated – The incident occurred but was lawful or proper. Unfounded – The alleged incident did not in fact occur.

AWARDS 2013 Officer of the Year – Sergeant Brad Bach, an eighteen-year veteran who is a dedicated and highly respected supervisor, was recognized for his broad range of professional skills he brings to the Department and for his generous sense of community expressed by his involvement with volunteerism in the community. Unit Citation – Sergeant Bart Crane, Officer Erin Linn, Officer Rebecca Payne, Officer Kyle Royston, Officer Kevin Harvey, and Deputy John Vance (Clinton County Sheriff Department) were recognized for their rapid response and outstanding teamwork that lead to the apprehension of a burglar responsible for numerous crimes that had occurred in various jurisdictions in Michigan. Certificate of Commendation – Sergeant Andrew McCready was recognized for his unique skills and abilities to connect the Department with the community to solve crimes through the use of internet based social media platforms. Sgt. McCready develops and maintains all of the Department’s social media sites and is recognized statewide as a leader in this developing area of law enforcement. Letter of Appreciation – Officer Judy Hood and Officer Dave Metts were honored for their skilled use of CPR to extend the life of a citizen and giving his family the opportunity to later stay by his side and comfort him before passing.

91

Letter of Appreciation – Cadet Nicholas Wagner was recognized for his professionalism, his exceptional work ethic and his willingness to volunteer personal time while enforcing the Township’s handicap parking ordinance to ensure greater access to these parking spaces for motorists with a legitimate need.

CITIZEN AWARDS Certificate of Appreciation – Rachel Freeman was honored for her compassion for children and sense of community. Ms. Freeman hosted bake sales and arranged matching funds that in total exceeded $6,000 to benefit the “Mankowski Annual Holiday Party for Needy Children.” Ms. Freeman’s efforts helped event organizers extend the reach of this annual children’s event to many more children in need. Certificate of Appreciation – Betsy Bowers, Julie Stauffer, and Summer Palmer were recognized for their volunteer time contributed to the Meridian Township Police Records Unit through their involvement in the Volunteers In Police Service program. Their volunteerism helped enhance the delivery of police services while building effective partnerships within the community. Certificate of Appreciation – Crary Grattan was recognized for responding to a life-threatening medical emergency at his neighbor’s home. Mr. Grattan administered CPR immediately prior to the arrival of emergency personnel and helped extend the life of his neighbor. He was honored for his sense of community and willingness to take action. Certificate of Appreciation – Peyton Houghton was recognized for his quick thinking and sense of guardianship for his younger brother. In spite of his age and the difficult circumstances, Peyton reacted quickly to alert his parents that his younger brother was suffering from a serious medical condition in need of immediate emergency medical treatment. Certificate of Appreciation – Michelle and Tracey Wellman were recognized for their willingness to respond to a cry for help and their quick action in helping aid an individual suffering from dehydration and hypothermia. Their involvement lead to the victim receiving the emergency medical attention he badly needed.

SOCIAL MEDIA The Department continued its commitment to an online presence using social media. The Department identifies those sites that bring value to the community. These sites include Facebook, Twitter, Blogger.com and Nixle. We have solved crimes that would most likely have remained unsolved without the teamwork of the Department and community members made possible through social media. A breakdown of those crimes includes: •

•

•

The wrong individual had been charged with Retail Fraud 3rd as a result of the suspect presenting fake identification. A photograph of the suspect was posted on Facebook resulting in him being positively identified and then charged with the offense that he had committed. The photos of two suspects were posted on Facebook seeking their identity. They were both identified and we will be seeking Retail Fraud charges through the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. A suspect’s photograph was posted on Facebook seeking his identity. The suspect was identified and arrested for multiple counts of indecent exposure based on information received from Facebook. 92

• • •

•

•

•

A suspect’s photograph was posted on Facebook seeking his identity. The suspect was identified and charged with Felony Organized Retail Fraud. A suspect’s photograph was posted on Facebook seeking his identity. The suspect was identified and charged with Retail Fraud. Photographs of two suspects were posted on Facebook seeking their identity. Both suspects were identified and charged with Retail Fraud 2nd degree resulting from information received from social media. A suspect’s photograph was posted on Facebook in reference to a larceny from a building. The suspect was identified and charged based on information received from social media. A suspect’s photograph was posted on Facebook in reference to a Retail Fraud 2nd degree. She was identified on information received from social media and subsequently confessed to the crime. A suspect’s photograph was posted on Facebook in reference to a Retail Fraud. As a result of this posting his name and address were provided by a tipster. Charges were submitted to Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office.

The Department’s semi-monthly reports continue to be uploaded to our Google Docs account and linked to our blog. Our blog includes press releases, crime prevention tips, and helpful links for the community (i.e., animal control, school district personnel) which together has contributed to our overall goal of maintaining closer communications with the public.

Nixle Nixle is used nationwide by police Departments to send out community alerts. The Department uses Nixle to inform the public about emergencies such as road closures and important incidents, as well as a means of providing links to our blog and other social media sites as we maximize internet distribution of critical information to the online viewing public. The 2,559 users of our Nixle account represent’s a jump of 44% over last year’s number of users.

Facebook Facebook offers the greatest return on time invested. The 1,949 site visitor’s that “like” our page represents a 27% jump over last year’s “like” volume. Facebook has been helpful in many areas including the identification of suspects, distributing traffic alerts, and the posting of wanted persons. The Department also uses its Facebook platform to engage the community in discussions. The following charts depict gender and age demographics of our Facebook page users in 2013.

Gender of Facebook Users

Male 34% Female 65%

93

Facebook Users by Age/Gender 20 18

Percent of users

16 14 12 10 8 6 4 2 0

13-17

18-24

25-34

35-44

45-54

55-64

65+

Male

5

6

10

7

5

3

2

Female

4

8

18

17

12

6

3

Twitter There are 888 individuals that follow the Department’s Twitter page. This number of followers represents a 29% jump over last year’s volume. Twitter is used in conjunction with Nixle to distribute much of the same information however Twitter offers the added benefit of enabling the Department to engage in real-time online conversations with individuals, other law enforcement agencies and local businesses. The “Twitter Users” chart on the following page shows the steady and consistent growth of users since the Department began using the Twitter platform in April of 2011.

Twitter Users 1000 800 Number of 600 users 400 Users

200 Jan-14

Oct-13

Jul-13

Apr-13

Jan-13

Oct-12

Jul-12

Apr-12

Jan-12

Oct-11

Jul-11

Apr-11

0

Blog The blog is the Department’s online newspaper. All social media traffic points to this site. We use our blog to post crime prevention tips, statistical reports, information on wanted persons, press releases, and links to community sites. As you can see from the below data, online 94

activity to our blog increased dramatically from the previous year, a strong indication of increasing public awareness and interest. 203,770 total page views since April of 2011 Our information continues to be viewed in many countries (including Great Britain, Canada, Russia, Turkey, India, Australia, and others) Internet traffic to our blog is originating from various sources outside of our sites, such as Google. Highest viewed posts of 2013 continue to be posts seeking suspect identity information; one of which attracted 6,093 page views.

• • • •

Pageviews by month 16000 14000 12000 10000 8000

Pageviews

6000 4000 2000 0 Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

POLICE DEPARTMENT 2013 GOAL BASED ACCOMPLISHMENTS As each year approaches a closing the police administration establishes specific organizational goals in order to help focus our delivery of law enforcement services to the community we serve. We are pleased to have successfully accomplished many of the goals in 2013 that we identified in 2012. Many of our goal accomplishments are listed below. •

• •

• •

The Department participated in three car seat events while continuing car seat inspections at the Department by appointment. Car seat events were held at Wal-Mart (2/9/13), Cedar Creek Apartments (6/1/13) and during the Department’s Halloween Open House (10/28/13). In addition to these events thirty-six car seat inspections were conducted and four new car seats were distributed. Expansion of the volunteer program continued with 154 volunteer hours of parking enforcement and 16 hours of volunteer hours in the Records Department during 2013. The Department continued its commitment to working with the Office of Highway and Safety Planning by managing the S.T.E.P. (Selective Traffic Enforcement Program) grant through the Office of Highway Safety. Additionally, grant preparation has begun for the next State fiscal year for this same program. In an effort to reduce traffic crashes, patrol supervisors were directed to assign officers to traffic enforcement assignments in high crash areas. The Department participated in a joint operation with the Sex Offender Task Force and conducted 32 address verifications to assure compliance with the Sex Offender 95

•

•

• • •

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

•

Registration law. Quality of life issues through code enforcement were addressed by the Uniform Division Commander’s continued participation in code enforcement meetings together with local citizens and other township Departments. The Department worked cooperatively with HOM-TV to address various law enforcement issues including tips on how to avoid thefts, home invasions, ID theft, and more. HOM-TV interviews included topics such as our Youth Academy, a public service announcement about our newly activated Citizen On-Line Reporting system, and interviews about a pedestrian/train fatality, bomb threats at Haslett High School and a bank robbery as well as updated information on that incident regarding arrests just a few days later. Thirteen youths participated in Session 7 of the Department’s Youth Citizens’ Academy beginning in February. Twelve citizens participated in Session 15 of the Department’s Citizens’ Academy beginning in September. Goals related to tuition cost reduction and specialized training for Department members were achieved as the Department hosted Legal Update classes during the month of May. In addition to Department members, these classes were attended by officers from Lansing Township, Williamston, Mason, Stockbridge and Meridian Township police Departments. The Department worked with Tri-County agencies on a cooperative training plan to eliminate repetition, increase scheduling opportunities and reduce costs. This goal was accomplished in cooperation with the Meridian Township Fire Department through an organized Autism Safety training program attended at no cost by Mason, Fowlerville and Meridian Township police Department officers as well as the Special Education Director of East Lansing Public Schools. MTFD administration submitted our training outline to the State of Michigan and 2-hours of credits were applied to all MFR licensed MTPD Officers at no additional cost. The goal of implementing automated traffic crash data entry to streamline data entry and electronically transmit traffic crash information to the State of Michigan has been partially achieved by the Department purchasing VISIO software. That software is currently being tested for long-term use. In order to achieve the goal of tracking the investigation of drug crime and tips through the Tri-County Metro Narcotics Squad the Investigations Unit has continued to provide a monthly summary of drug crimes and the disposition of those incidents. The goal of establishing a proactive approach to code enforcement has been achieved through cooperative relationship with the Planning Department. Our efforts include the Department regularly receiving information form the Planning Division and taking action on quality of life issues. The Department also reports code compliance issues to the Community Planning and Development Department by utilizing specific forms developed for patrol officers. The Department worked with the Planning Department responding to code violation concerns. Officers conduct periodic sweeps of their assigned neighborhoods observing code violations. Our commitment to goals regarding the use of social media platforms were achieved by the expanded use of various sites, including nixle.com to provide crime information to residents on a weekly basis, and the increased use by citizens of our Facebook (+203 users), Twitter(+138 users) and online Blog (+30,677 page views) over 2012 volumes. Additionally, our Semi-Monthly report is posted on all three of these accounts. While challenged by working under our authorized staff strength throughout 2013, we nevertheless maintained minimum staffing levels by filling shifts with personnel on overtime. This action was taken in order to ensure that response times and quality of services were not affected. Our goal of improving the police records management system was achieved through participation with the Technology Improvement Cooperative (TIC) in the improvement of police records management system. Specific action items included our active 96

•

involvement in meetings with the RMS Software vendor (including monthly conference calls to discuss updates and support requests), and one of our Lieutenant’s holding the TIC Chairperson position. Treatment of Consumers goals were achieved through a variety of initiatives, including the promotion of our newly instituted online reporting system through our Facebook, Twitter and blog accounts as well as a local radio interview on WILS-AM 1320, and the distribution of nearly 1,200 citizen surveys used as a tool to monitor our processes and ensure the provision of best services. Adverse survey responses were assigned to a Lieutenant for follow-up and problem solving.

WILLIAMSTOWN TOWNSHIP POLICE SERVICES Both Williamstown and Meridian Townships continued to appreciate the cooperation on police services. Both Townships entered into a second contract covering 2013-14. The year 2013 completed the first year of that two-year contract. The Department continued to receive positive feedback from residents on the presence of Meridian officers in the Township. The Department continued to provide 80 hours of patrols weekly at a cost of $197,200. Officers responded to calls-for-service outside the 80 hours of weekly patrols at a rate of $51.75. There were 210 hours of patrol calculated at that rate. Included in those 210 hours is time investigating case by investigators. Williamstown Township Statistics 2011

2012

2013

Written Reports

326

402

448

Calls for Service Calls for Service (excluding traffic stops) Arrests

1369

1474

1432

859

981

1035

14

20

14

Citations Issued

220

179

164

Total Number of Charges

249

194

176

Alarms Traffic Crashes All Other Total

Written Reports 2011 2012 45 58 119 103 162 241 326 402 97

2013 132 116 200 448

Calls for Service As Received from Dispatch 911 Hang Up Abandoned Vehicle Admin Alarm Animal Call Assault Assist Attempt to Locate Attempt Warrant Pickup Break In Check Area Check Subject Check Vehicle Civil Community Meeting Criminal Sexual Conduct Death Investigation Domestic Driving While License Suspended Drugs Fight Fire Assist Fireworks Follow Up Fraud General Harassment Hit and Run Juvenile Larceny Malicious Destruction of Property Medical Assist Mental Missing MIP Motorist Assist

14 0 6 132 43 5 1 1 3 17 10 9 12 5 2 1 0 9 3 2 3 38 1 29 10 4 7 6 2 15 24 134 3 1 2 30

Natural Death Noise Operating While Intoxicated Park Peace Personal Injury Accident Personal Protection Order Pickup Property Police Assist Private Property Accident Property Damage Accident Prowler Reckless Driving Robbery School Security Check Shots Sex Offender Registration Violation Suicide Suspect Person Suspect Vehicle Suspicious Situation Threat Traffic Hazard Traffic Stop Trash Trespass Trouble with Subject Unlawfully Drive Away Automobile Unknown Injury / Accident Unwanted Person Utility / Wires Down Warrant Arrest Weapon Violation Welfare Check

TOTAL CALLS FOR SERVICE: 1,432

98

0 6 4 2 4 9 0 7 15 1 103 0 32 1 11 30 11 1 4 10 32 18 6 66 397 2 1 22 2 1 9 12 7 0 22

Written Offense Reports* Alarm Response 132 Investigation / Inspection (Non-Criminal) Assault 14 Larceny Burglary 21 Liquor Violations Conservation 2 Medical First Responder Criminal Sexual Conduct 1 Miscellaneous Non-Traffic Offense Damage to Property 18 Motor Vehicle Theft Disorderly Conduct 0 Obstructing Justice Embezzlement 0 Obstructing Police Family Abuse / Neglect (Non-Violent) 2 Ordinance Violation Fraud 11 OUI of Liquor or Drugs Health and Safety 5 Traffic Civil Hit and Run Motor Vehicle Accident 9 Traffic Criminal Homicide – Negligent (Vehicle) 1 Trespass Incapacitated / Mental Health 6 Weapons Offense Intimidation / Stalking 4 TOTAL WRITTEN REPORTS: 448 *Written reports may have multiple offenses Williamstown Township 2013 Annual Crime Reporting Summary Part 1 Offenses and OUIL/OUID Arrests & Traffic Accidents 2011 2012 2013 Part 1 Offenses: Murder/Non-Negligent Manslaughter Rape and Attempted Rape Robbery Aggravated Assault Total Part 1 Violent Crime Burglary Larceny Vehicle Theft Arson Total Part 1 Property Crime Total Part 1 Offenses OUIL / OUID Traffic Accidents

0 0 0 1 1 18 18 3 1 40 41 6 199

0 1 0 3 4 24 20 2 1 47 51 9 115

0 1 1 2 4 21 8 0 1 30 34 3 116

Officers investigated 116 traffic crashes in Williamstown Township in 2013. These included personal injury, property damage, and hit and run accidents. Of that total, 14 accidents involved injuries. Of those 14 injury crashes, 1 was a fatal injury accident resulting in the response of the traffic crash investigation team. The fatal injury crash that occurred in Williamstown Township in 2013 is described below: •

A passenger car was traveling north on Meridian Road and a motorcycle was traveling south on Meridian Road. As the passenger car approached the curve south of Grand River Avenue, the driver crossed the center line, struck the oncoming motorcycle, then struck an embankment, and rolled over. The occupants of the vehicle were not injured. The driver of the motorcycle was transported to the hospital and died. The report has been turned over to the ICPO for review. 99

52 12 2 16 0 1 3 2 0 3 116 12 1 2

INVESTIGATIONS UNIT The Investigations Unit continued providing services to Williamstown Township. During 2013, 13 reports (with 15 offenses) were assigned, 10 reports were cleared, 0 reports were inactivated, and 3 will continue to be investigated in 2014. 2013 Report Dispositions 13 10 0 3

Assigned Cleared Inactivated Continued in 2014

The following chart shows the types and individual number of offenses that occurred in Williamstown Township and that were investigated by Meridian Township Investigators. Offense

2013

Robbery Non-Aggravated Assault Arson Burglary – Forced Entry Larceny – Theft from Building Larceny – Theft From Motor Vehicle Fraud Damage to Property Investigation/Inspection – Non-Criminal Total Offenses Investigated

1 1 1 4 1 1 3 1 2 15

CASES OF INTEREST •

•

•

Bank Robbery - A bank in Williamstown Township was robbed at gunpoint by four individuals. The investigation determined that these same individuals were connected to earlier bank robberies in the City of Brighton and in Livingston County. After the Department began working with the FBI to identify and arrest the suspects they robbed yet another bank, this one located in Stockbridge, MI. Due to the four crimes being linked to the same suspects and cases we were already investigating, MTPD detectives took the lead for the Stockbridge case as well. The cooperative work between various local and federal agencies contributed to a rapid arrest of all four suspects. These subjects were charged federally and subsequently pled guilty to offenses related to the bank robberies. Assault and Battery - Multiple subjects were involved in a fight in Williamstown Township. A cab driver had picked up a group of individuals and was taking them home in Williamston when they began fighting amongst themselves. The victim suffered a fractured skull and brain hemorrhaging. Detectives assisted in locating witnesses and interviewing the suspect. Charges were subsequently authorized by the Ingham County Prosecutor’s Office. Arson - An unknown subject set a vehicle afire in a cul-de-sac in Williamstown Township. The North East Ingham Emergency Service Authority (NEISA) Fire Department responded and extinguished the fire, however the vehicle was a total loss. By working with an expert from the Michigan State Police we were able to locate the burned vehicles V.I.N. This information verified that the vehicle had been stolen from within the City of East Lansing, however all investigative efforts failed in determining the identity of the person(s) that had stolen the vehicle. 100

•

Breaking and Entering - Several items were stolen from an outbuilding located on the property of an unoccupied residence in Williamstown Township. A suspect later attempted to sell some of these stolen items at the Williamston Antique Mall. The suspect was identified and charges were issued.

HIGHLIGHTS •

• •

•

•

•

•

•

• •

Zimmer Road received a substantial upgrade by Ingham County Department of Roads. The redevelopment of the road included Zimmer Road at Haslett to the railroad tracks south of Grand River. The Zimmer Road bridge was replaced. A traffic signal was installed at Grand River and Zimmer by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT). The construction included an upgrade of the roadway with emphasis on the Zimmer Road approaches to Grand River. Williamstown staff requested additional hours of patrol at Grand River and Zimmer to take enforcement action on drivers unaware of the new traffic signal. Enforcement consisted of warnings. The MDOT also placed signage at the approaches to the intersection to remind motorists of the newly installed signal. The accident investigation team investigated one fatal accident that occurred at the curve on Meridian Road south of Grand River. A vehicle traveling north bound at an excessive rate of speed collided with a motorcycle south bound approaching the curve. The Department began working cooperatively with the Township staff on enhancing code enforcement in the Township. It is anticipated the enhancement will be implemented in 2014. Expected changes include officers taking a more active role in code enforcement working cooperatively with Township staff. As part of the enhancement Township staff members are reviewing and upgrading ordinances. Officers continue to work closely with neighborhoods as part of the community police officer concept. Officers are pleased to see neighborhood leaders representing their neighborhoods at regular neighborhood leader meetings held by the Department. Many neighborhoods participated in Nation Night Out held annually in August. There are 15 active neighborhood groups working with police. Police administration met quarterly with the Township Board to discuss the quarterly police report, law enforcement items of interest, and be available for questions and comments by the Board. Firearms training occurred quarterly at the Lansing Capital area Rifle Club on Germany Road. The Department has an excellent relationship with the range board. Officer’s conduced residential vacation checks for Township residents. On one particular day, an officer noticed the odor of natural gas at a home whose owner was away on vacation. NEISA fire was called to the scene and Consumer Energy arrived to investigate. The homeowner later called the Police Department thanking them for the response, as Consumers relayed that over time, the leak, in all likelihood, would have caused catastrophic damage to the home and property.

101

PUBLIC WORKS & ENGINEERING MISSION STATEMENT To provide for the health, safety and welfare of the public and Township staff by ensuring proper construction and maintenance of the Township owned infrastructure, vehicles and equipment. This is accomplished utilizing modern techniques with personnel who are trained, experienced and empowered to work at their highest potential.

The Public Works and Engineering Department has twenty five (25) full-time employees, four (4) part-time employees, and several summer employees; a 2013 budget of nearly twelve million dollars ($11,950,000); and is organized into three major divisions: Engineering, Facilities, and Water & Sewer. The major source of funding is revenue from Water/Sewage services, Motor Pool receipts, Roadway Millage, and Pedestrian-Bicycle Pathway Millage, with some functions supported by the General Fund.

ADMINISTRATION The Director of Public Works & Engineering manages the Department with assistance from three Division Heads: Chief Engineer, Water & Sewer Superintendent, and Facilities Superintendent. Major responsibilities include budget preparation and control; long-range planning for utility systems, facility maintenance, vehicle maintenance and replacement; technical engineering support; inspection of utility installations, and coordination of consultants. Public Works Administration was involved in numerous projects throughout 2013 in all areas (water, sanitary sewer, roads, pathways, facilities, recycling, motor pool, utilities, and telecommunications). The Director provides quality control for Township construction plans and specifications, review of developers’ plans, and department correspondence.

ACHIEVEMENTS •

•

•

The Director continued participation in planning and budget oversight for the operation of the East Lansing-Meridian Water and Sewer Authority, and is the Vice-Chair for the 20132014 fiscal year. The Operator/Manager is Clyde Dugan. Began negotiations with the Lansing Board of Water & Light for renewal and modifications to the contract for water supply for the southern section of the Township. Using the rate model prepared by a consultant in 2001, the water and sewer rates are reviewed annually. The water and sewer connection charges remained unchanged for 2013; however, the commodity charge for water increased from $3.00 to $3.40 per 1,000 gallons and the commodity charge for sewer increased from $3.10 to $3.40 per 1,000 gallons. The Director continued to meet with several other municipalities comprising the Greater Lansing Area Storm Water Committee to address the requirements from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Storm Water Phase II Final Rule. We received our original “Certificate of Coverage” (COC) under NPDES General Permit No. MIG619000 in November 2003. Under a 2008 General Permit, a new “Certificate of Coverage” was issued June 25, 2009, with an expiration date of April 1, 2013. However, because of a lawsuit, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Environment withdrew the 2008 General Permit, nullifying our 2009 COC. We now fall under the 2003 watershed general permit. We submitted a new permit application in 2013 and a new permit will be issued sometime in 2014. 102

•

•

Improvements to Cornell Road from Grand River Avenue (M-43) to Orlando Drive (1.9 miles) were completed in November 2013. The project retained the original 22 foot pavement width, striped the travel lanes to 10 feet wide, improved drainage, and lowered the hill south of Tihart Road to improve sight distance. The work consisted of pulverizing the existing pavement and gravel base in place and resurfacing the road with new asphalt pavement. The final project design did not include adding paved shoulders. Construction of roadside drainage ditches, installation of cross-culverts and driveway culverts, and the hill cut were completed by Ingham County Road Department crews. The roadway base and resurfacing were completed by Reith-Riley. Because of the length and scope of the project, Cornell Road was the only local road improvement project in 2013. We received a $990,000 Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) grant in 2012 to inspect our sanitary sewer system to locate sources of inflow and infiltration (I/I) into the system. Our consultant has nearly completed the study and inspection phase of the project by utilizing flow monitoring, televising, smoke testing, and dye testing of the sewers. They have identified deteriorated pipes and manholes, sump pump connections from homes, and other sources of I/I. The final report, including a plan for repairs, will be submitted to MDEQ in July 2014.

Continued work with the Ingham County Road Department and a citizen group to update criteria and priorities for local roadway pavement preservation. We purchased Cityworks maintenance management software from Azteca Systems, Inc. in 2008. Cityworks works in conjunction with our graphic information system (GIS) to assist in the management of the Township’s entire infrastructure: water system, sewer system buildings, parks, street lights, etc. The program has been installed and data is being entered to make this a fully functional program, first for Public Works & Engineering and then Parks & Recreation. The work request/work order system is being successfully utilized by support and maintenance staff. We purchased field tablets with wireless capabilities to increase efficiency of collecting data from field operations. This data will be wirelessly downloaded into the Township GIS for better maintenance scheduling and asset management.

TEAM MEMBERS Raymond O. Severy, P.E., CFM, Director of Public Works & Engineering Denise K. Green, Administrative Assistant II

ENERGY The Meridian Energy Advisory Team helped the Township envision, plan, and support energy improvements. The Energy Team consists of local experts, citizens, and Township staff. Priorities included increasing energy awareness, identifying new energy-saving opportunities, and exploring community energy projects. A major focus of the Team in 2013 was a series of Community Energy Forums. These were well attended by residents, the media, utility reps, and other regional partners and experts. Community energy projects are growing in popularity as a way to support larger renewable energy systems, pool investments, and take advantage of economies of scale. Please view a video of the forum and some companion resources at http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/energy/cep. Energy efficiency improvements installed during recent years helped Meridian avoid over $20,000 in energy costs (and pollution/greenhouse gases/etc.) in 2013. More than $90,000 of energy improvements installed during 2010 and 2011 continued to provide savings -- a 103

portion of which are placed in an Energy Fund. The intent of the fund is to create a sustainable fund that will continue to be reinvested in fast-payback energy improvements – and create even more energy savings, dollar savings, and pollution reduction. Energy improvements also helped “insulate” Meridian from colder weather and rises in fuel costs as our region experienced a colder winter (25% more heating degree days) in 2013. Still, organization-wide energy consumption increased by only 8% compared to the same period previous year. Of this, electricity use remained the same and natural gas increased by 12%. Meridian Township spent approximately $295,000 on electricity and natural gas for buildings and pumps in 2013 (not including street lights and vehicle fuel). The following graph is an example showing consumption at various locations. This provides a sense of the higher priorities. The full report can be viewed online at https://my.planetfootprint.com (password needed) or http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/energy.

Meridian Township facilities consumed approximately 2 million gallons of water in 2013. While water conservation has not been an organization-wide priority in recent years, droughts, climate change, competition for water, and rising energy costs (to pump and process/treat) will make water more of a priority in the future. The solar panels on Harris Nature Center produced 514 kilowatt-hours of power during 2013. Since installation (summer of 2012), the two panels have produced 679,000 watt-hours of power (679 KWH). The panels are installed in a way that they can be added to in the future.

You can view real-time production of this system on line: http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/harris.

104

The following chart shows production of solar energy over a twelve month period.

A Community Energy Study was launched in 2013 as part of the Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability. Meridian staff helped kick off the study, organizing a press conference and energy evaluations in businesses and buildings in the area. More at http://www.michiganenergyoptions.org/current-projects/regionalenergystudy

The Bike-sharing Program was maintained for Township employees and volunteers. Denny’s Bike Shop lent the Township a “comfort bike” in 2013 and MSU Bikes shared a tandem (bicycle built for two) upon request, after one was donated at our Fall Recycling Event. Meridian Township also received recognition as a bicycle-friendly business.

TEAM MEMBERS Raymond O. Severy, P.E., CFM, Director of Public Works & Engineering LeRoy Harvey, Recycling Coordinator Meridian Energy Advisory Team

105

COMMUNITY GARDENS With help from community gardeners, Meridian Township Community Promotion Funds, the Greater Lansing Food Bank’s Garden Project, and others, 2013 was another successful year for community gardens in Meridian Township. Below are a few highlights, summarized in (and adapted from) a brief report from the Garden Project (GP): Okemos International Garden at Central/Cedar Creek This was a successful season for 3 new families, bringing the total number of plots this year to 24. Good relations with Okemos Public Schools continued. GP performed tilling and grounds maintenance, organized a workday with partner business Target, and delivered compost purchased from Hammond Farms, utilizing a reduced rate trucking partner. This garden continued to provide a good gathering space for Meskhetian Turks and steps were taken to find a good garden leader to help the garden improve in self-sufficiency. Marsh Pointe Garden Marsh Pointe Garden had a tough go of plant disease this year, but GP recruited a graduate student at MSU to provide technical assistance and diagnosis. Regardless, new gardeners joined, bringing the total served to 16 families at this site. GP was able to till this site, add horse manure (upon request of the garden leader) and provide many site visits, including providing MSU soil tests to help prevent future disease and increase fertility Grange Acres Grange Acres had 20 gardeners and an addition of 3 new raised beds, bringing our total on-site to 7. Residents came on a field trip to the GP Resource Center to pick up seeds and plants. There is desire for expansion in 2014, possibly adding a shed. Edgewood Village Community Garden Edgewood Village continued building on the success of the past few years. Compost and some extra technical assistance were provided. The garden was able to expand this year and hosted a summer Americorps member. GP expects to supply more tools next season as the garden gains popularity. Northwind Community Garden Northwind continued to be a pride and joy. The tentative land arrangement meant that the garden is to be cleaned significantly each year which keeps it clean and tidy, but leaves an air of uncertainty for the following season. Steps will be taken this winter to find a new home. Requests for supplies were limited to compost and straw. Attendance at garden leaders meetings was requested to assist with a transition plan and to meet with the

106

land owner to guarantee full cleanup when/if the garden will no longer be allowed on the current site. Northwind has been on a year-to-year agreement as the landowner expects to eventually develop the lot. Wardcliff Garden Wardcliff had 94 gardeners in 2013! The size of the garden increased to 7,800 square feet. Gardeners donated over 200 pounds of produce again this year, this time to the MSU Student Food Bank and to nearby East Glen Apartments. East Glen is HUD section 8 housing for the elderly.

TEAM MEMBERS LeRoy Harvey, Recycling Coordinator Greater Lansing Food Bank Garden Project Community Gardeners

MIDMID-MICHIGAN PROGRAM FOR GREATER SUSTAINABILITY (MMPGS) Meridian continued to play a key role in the Mid-Michigan Program for Greater Sustainability (www.midmichigansustainability.org). Meridian helped in a variety of ways including: •

Developing educational and promotional videos related to the project. A video describing the grant and its various components can be viewed at http://bit.ly/sustainingthefuture

•

Promotion and participation in an on-line forum at http://ideas.midmichigansustainability.org

•

Hosting several charrette activities where dozens of people helped envision future development, growth, and sustainability in the region. More at http://migrandcharrette.com/

•

Starting to develop a list of green businesses in the region

MMPGS is supported by a $3,000,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. It is one of the largest sustainability initiatives ever in the Tri-County Region and Meridian Township is a key partner -- and the only Township partner in the original proposal.

107

MMPGS included a number of efforts related to Meridian’s economy, environment, and social health and well-being including: • • • • • • • • •

A 5-year Comprehensive Regional Fair and Affordable Housing A Regional Affordable Housing Study A Community Reinvestment fund to build capacity Develop an energy audit study of built structures. Build capacity for a regional urban services management area Promote a multi-faceted and prioritized green infrastructure system. Develop a Sustainable Corridor Design Portfolio. Build capacity for Complete Streets planning and implementation. Create an online portal for sharing information, evaluating, and promoting sustainability

TEAM MEMBERS Raymond O. Severy, P.E., CFM, Director of Public Works & Engineering LeRoy Harvey, Recycling Coordinator Denise K. Green, Administrative Assistant II HOMTV/CAMTV Tri-County Regional Planning Commission Staff and Partners

RECYCLING Recycling efforts evolved on several levels: • • •

Township Operations/Internal Meridian Area (Haslett, Okemos, and East Lansing) Regional (Ingham, Eaton, and Clinton Counties)

TOWNSHIP OPERATIONS Recycling efforts included several internal, local, and regional initiatives. A move to single stream (mixing of recyclables) in most buildings led to greatly increased rates of recycling. Meridian was able to reduce the size of its trash containers (and costs). Meridian Township recycled approximately 20,000 pounds of material, including paper, cardboard, tin, aluminum, and plastic through its internal office recycling efforts. In addition, electronics, polystyrene foam, cell phones/rechargeable batteries, plastic bags, ink/toner cartridges, and other materials were recycled. A description of Township office recycling options can be found at http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/Township/what_goes_in_the_blue_bin.htm.

MERIDIAN AREA Two large community recycling events were held in 2013, each involving hundreds of hours of volunteer time. Tallies for 2013: • • • • • • • •

Over two hundred volunteer shifts 4.5 large semi-truck loads of electronics 25,000 lbs of metal 10,786 lbs shredded documents 500+ lbs of old medicines 1.5 vans full of packing peanuts 500 egg cartons 150 bikes donated, repaired, and reused 108

• • • • • • •

Hundreds of pounds of glass and cardboard $3,907 in donations to support recycling efforts 1500 pounds of books donated to charities 1000+ books sold to support recycling 900 pairs of shoes donated for re-use/resale A large truck filled with furniture & building materials (donated to Habitat) A load of athletic equipment donated locally

The events generated a tremendous enthusiasm, support, and goodwill from the community. This is partially evidenced by the volunteer involvement and also the level of support from the business community. The following organizations and businesses sponsored or supported 2013 recycling efforts: A C & E Rentals Alician Bleil ASAP Printing Bath Middle School BestWay Pak-N-Send Breadsmith of Okemos Buddies Charter Township of Meridian Clerical Technical Union of MSU Cottage Inn Pizza Delta Dental of Michigan Dunkin Donuts Dustys Cellar East Lansing Food Coop

Foods for Living Grand Traverse Pie Company Granger Recycling Guido’s Pizza Habitat ReStore Haslett High School IAM Financial Ingham County Health Dept. Jersey Giant Kroger Marsh Pointe Apartments Meijer Meridian Company Meridian Mall

Meridian Senior Center Michigan Energy Options MSU Bikes Okemos Ace Hardware Okemos High School Panera Bread Playmakers Reclaimed by Design Tim Horton’s VanAtta's Greenhouse & Floral Vintage Tech Recyclers World Mission Thrift

Meridian Recycling Center and Transfer Station continued to provide a high level of service to residents, contractors, the Township, and others. The Center, located at 5976 East Lake Drive in Haslett, is operated by Reclaimed by Design (RBD). Improvements in 2013: • • • • • • • • • •

Partnered with Hammond Farms to pick up (and eventually compost and mulch) yard clippings, branches, leaves, etc. Maintain extended the days and operation -- 6 days/ week year around (except holidays). Provide direct line to the Recycling Center at 703.4498. Maintain a website www.reclaimedbydesign.com. Accept credit cards for payment. Recycle hundreds of thousands (approx.. 800,000 pounds) of paper, cardboard, metal, glass, plastic, electronics, and foam. Accept co-mingled paper. Including bags, books, phone books, magazines, folders, newspaper, office paper, etc. Process about 500 cubic yards of trash and yard waste from streets, parks, roads, etc. Helped delineate wetland boundaries to protect native species and avoid infill. Hosted educational field trips about the environment and recycling.

Granger estimated that curbside recycling has increased to approximately 64% of eligible households and actual quantities of recycled material are growing with the advent of single stream recycling and the more convenient yellow-topped recycling bins. Thirteen issues of the Green Gazette were published (http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/news). Green events and recycling-related events and practices were promoted through HOMTV and other local media outlets. 109

A Recycling Survey was developed and distributed to attendees of the Fall Recycling Event and to subscribers to the Green Gazette. Anyone could take the survey. Results provided feedback on recycling events, services, and suggestions for the future. See the entire results (except most personal information at http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/mtrac/2013survey.pdf. Results are being discussed in a public forum in early 2014.

REGIONAL COLLABORATION The Township maintained a Web site for the Regional Recycling Coordinating Committee to promote regional recycling opportunities. See www.midmichiganrecycles.org Meridian co-sponsored Tri-County Environmental Leadership Awards (TCELA) in the region to help recognize individuals, businesses, and groups that demonstrate environmental leadership. Staff developed the TCELA Nomination form, helped organize a locally-sourced lunch, and helped line up speakers for the event. The Township also maintained the website for this effort at http://recycle.meridian.mi.us/ela The Township collaborated with surrounding governments and other organizations to hold educational events and several recycling events in the region including Recycle-Rama (a multiitem collection held at the Ingham County Health Department), and a booth at the Greater Lansing Home and Garden Show. More on these at www.midmichiganrecycles.org Discussions about a regional grant to study current recycling infrastructure and needs were begun in 2013. This includes discussion about the potential need for a material recovery facility or transfer station.

TEAM MEMBERS LeRoy Harvey, Recycling Coordinator Reclaimed by Design Citizen Action Teams

ENGINEERING DIVISION This division is managed by the Chief Engineer, and includes two Project Engineers, a Drafting Manager, an Administrative Assistant (shared with Public Works), a part-time Engineering Aide, and two interns, for a total of five full-time and three part-time employees. Major responsibilities include: Overseeing all activities related to replacements, additions and extensions of the existing sanitary sewer system and the water distribution system; construction and repair of the pathway system and sidewalks; planning, design, and construction of capital improvement projects; administering the Soil Erosion & Sedimentation Control (SESC) Program as a Municipal Enforcing Agency (MEA); administering the Lake Lansing Special Assessment District, and help administer FEMA’s Floodplain Program for the Township. All water main, sanitary sewer, pedestrian/bicycle pathway, sidewalk, and SESC plans for private developments are reviewed to ensure they meet current Township standards. Inspections are underway for Georgetown 3, Hannah Lofts, and Trilogy. The Engineering Division also inspects and tests the completed facilities prior to acceptance as part of the Township system. They also monitor the required annual maintenance reports for grease traps and implement the water system’s cross-connection program. 110

Activities for special assessment districts are coordinated through this division, including defining the district, preliminary estimate and design, preparation of petitions, computation of areas to determine if signatures are sufficient, spreading of assessments, final design, construction inspection, and preparation of the final assessment roll. In addition to special assessment districts for sanitary sewer and water mains, Engineering coordinates activities for districts requesting street lights, sidewalks, street paving, curb and gutter, and other public improvements. This division, along with an advisory committee, administers the Lake Lansing Watershed Management Special Assessment District. Major activities include water quality monitoring and weed control. 2013 was the sixth year of the ten year renewed special assessment district (2008 - 2017). This division enforces sidewalk code violations throughout the year to ensure safe and convenient use of the non-motorized system in the Township. This division cooperates with the Ingham County Road Department regarding road improvements, and with the Ingham County Drain Commission regarding storm drain improvements and drainage problems. The Engineering Division prepares construction plans and specifications and oversees all design and construction of sanitary sewer and water main replacement and rehabilitation projects, sidewalk repairs, and pedestrian/bicycle pathways. It also provided survey and engineering support to other departments.

ACHIEVEMENTS PEDESTRIAN/BICYCLE PATHW AYS

New pathway construction: The following sections of pathway were constructed by Township contractors during 2013: • • • •

630’ of 8’ wide off-road asphalt pathway, between Old Raby pathway and the interurban pathway west of Marsh Road. 335’ of 8’ wide concrete pathway, between Kansas Street and Robins Way. 20’ of 7’ wide concrete pathway gap at Songbird Condos, on the west side of Okemos Road. 35’ long x 8’ wide single span steel bridge between the old inter-urban pathway and Keystone development, across the Eberely Drain.

The following sections of pathway were constructed by private developers during 2013: •

280’ of 7’ wide concrete pathway gap along 5521 Okemos Road, CE substation.

Existing Pathway Repair: • •

1,528 square feet of concrete pathway were replaced by Township contractors at various locations. Ten ramps were replaced or repaired by Township contractors at various locations.

The work was completed to ensure the safety of our pathways and to meet ADA requirements.

111

New pathway design: • • • • •

Started design for pathway gap along the west side of Okemos Road from Raby Road to the Songbird Condos. Started design for the pathway gap along the south side of Haslett Road, from Okemos Road to the east. Continued design work for pathway gap along the north side of Grand River Avenue between Cornell Road and Northview Drive. Continued design work for pathway gap along the south side of Mt. Hope Road, between Okemos Road and Maumee. Design work was completed for pedestrian/ bicycle bridge over the Red Cedar River along the west side of the existing vehicular bridge. The project will be bid in 2014. SIDEW ALKS

Order to Maintain: Residential sidewalk repairs were completed in the following areas: Crestwood Subdivision #2 & #3, Indian Hills Plat, Indian Hills Subdivision #4, Keystone, Keystone #2, and Sunwind Estates in Sections 3, 16, 21, and 32, of Meridian Township. Notices were sent to each property owner with a defective sidewalk. Approximately 1,965 square feet were repaired, and 4 ramps were upgraded to meet ADA standards. A special assessment district was established to help pay for the sidewalk work. Other Sidewalk Repairs: 1,463 square feet were repaired as part of Township’s utility breaks repair (mainly water system breaks). Also, 724 Square feet including 2 ramps were repaired within Township facilities. MISCELLANEOUS PROJECTS

•

•

Service Center Resurfacing: Engineering staff completed the design and bid documents to resurface the interior parking lot and paved area of the service center, then oversaw the work. The completed work involved pulverizing 6,480 square yards of existing asphalt and suitable base material, then applying 1,105 tons of new asphalt. Wetland mitigation project: Engineering staff prepared the bid documents and oversaw the construction of new wetlands and habitat structures at the Rysberg Preserve. SANITARY SEW ER SYSTEM

•

• •

Completed phase I of the Wildwood lift station upgrade project, which included the installation of 977 feet of new 6” force main, the abandonment of 3,060 feet of 8” old force main, replacement of the pumps and related piping, installation of a by-pass line, and the lining of the wet well, valve chamber and the downstream manhole. Oversaw the extension of 2,946 feet of public sanitary main for Lodges-phase #2, Champion Woods phase 2, and Champion Woods phase #3. Completed ten reviews, inspections, and maintenance agreements for grease interceptors and related plumbing of new restaurants and food preparation establishments. WATER SYSTEM

• •

Oversaw the extension of 3,032 feet of public water main for Lodges-phase #2, Champion Woods phase 2, and Champion Woods phase #3. Administered the cross connection program which included review, inspection, and completion of 28 maintenance agreements for back-flow prevention devices (BFPs).

112

LAKE LANSING W ATERSHED MANAGEMENT

• •

The Special Assessment District to fund management of the Lake Lansing Watershed was administered for year six of the ten-year Special Assessment District (2008 - 2017). As part of the Lake Management Plan, the following activities were completed: Water Quality Sampling: In 2013, samples were collected from Lake Lansing and from tributary streams in spring and late summer. Lake Lansing is borderline between mesotrophic (moderately productive) and eutrophic (nutrient-enriched and productive). During the 2013 sampling period, phosphorus levels were generally low with a few exceptions. Water clarity was good in spring and poor in late summer. Algae growth was low in spring and late summer. Tributary streams carry only a small volume of water into Lake Lansing, but nutrients in the streams likely stimulate localized aquatic plant growth. Nuisance Aquatic Plant Control: On May 1, 2013, the herbicide fluridone was applied throughout Lake Lansing at 6 parts per billion in order to control Eurasian milfoil (Myriophyllum spicatum). On May 21, the lake was re-treated to bring the concentration of fluridone in the lake back up to 6 parts per billion. In early July, 35 acres of Lake Lansing were harvested to control nuisance growth of primarily Elodea (Elodea canadensis). The fluridone treatment successfully controlled Eurasian milfoil in Lake Lansing and none was found during the August plant survey. Watershed Improvements: In late September, a bioswale was installed to replace stormwater pipe that empties into Lake Lansing at the south end of Lake Lansing Park South. A bioswale is a shallow drainage ditch that uses plants to uptake nutrients from runoff, and uses check dams to slow the rate of runoff. Thus, instead of nutrients and sediments draining directly to Lake Lansing, the runoff is now filtered before it makes its way to the lake. In addition, the Advisory Committee supported the Mid-Michigan Stewardship Initiative and Ingham County Parks in their ongoing efforts to control the invasive non-native wetland plant Phragmites (Phragmites australis) in the Lake Lansing watershed. During the summer of 2013, the Clinton County portion of Perry Road was paved thus reducing the quantity of sediments and nutrients that emanated from unpaved gravel road and previously flowed into the Lake Lansing via a storm drain. The Advisory committee continued efforts to pave the remaining gravel section of the Perry Road, which is entirely in Meridian Township. SOIL EROSION & SEDIMENTATION CONTROL (SESC)

The Engineering Division has the responsibility to administer and enforce all SESC requirements for all private projects and developments within the Township’s jurisdiction. Engineering staff processed 228 SESC permit applications. FLOODPLAIN PROGRAM

Staff continued to provide technical support to property owners, real estate agents, and developers impacted by the new Township floodplain maps that became effective by FEMA in 2011. Engineering staff continued the process to allow the Township to join FEMA’s Community Rating System (CRS). By joining the CRS Program, Township residents who need flood insurance will be given discounts on flood insurance premiums. UTILITIES REVIEW AND INSPECTION

•

Engineering staff inspected 234 sewer and water service connections and repairs. 113

• •

Engineering staff reviewed, documented, and followed up on 75 utility permits for private utility company work. Engineering staff reviewed, documented, and followed up on 118 pathway and sidewalk permits.

The following is a summary of additions to the Township infrastructure: TOWNSHIP

Pathway Water Sanitary

0.193 mi. - 0.394 mi.*

BUILDERS & DEVELOPERS

2013 TOTAL

SYSTEM TOTAL

0.053 mi. 0.574 mi. 0.558 mi.

0.246 mi. 0.574 mi. 0.164 mi.

73.55 mi. 166.18 mi. 146.34 mi.

*Constructed New Shorter Force Main for Wildwood Lift Station

TEAM MEMBERS Younes Ishraidi, P.E., C.F.M. Chief Engineer Andrew Bisaha, P.E., Project Engineer Nyal Nunn, Project Engineer Jay Graham, Drafting Manager Tiffany Coleman, Administrative Assistant I (Shared w/ Facilities and Water & Sewer) Archie Virtue, Engineering Aide (Part-time) Aaron Marietta, Intern (Part-time; Hired May 2013) Dennis Chase, Intern (Part-time; Resigned May 2013) Ashley Cunningham, Intern (Part-time; Resigned October 2013)

PUBLIC WORKS DIVISION Public Works includes the Facilities Section and the Water and Sewer Section. Staffing includes the Facilities Superintendent, the Water & Sewer Superintendent, an administrative assistant shared with Engineering, and sixteen full time and 5-7 seasonal support personnel. The Facilities Section includes the Motor Pool, Building Maintenance, and the Recycle Drop-Off Center. The Recycle Drop-Off Center is operated by Recycled by Design, a private company. The Water & Sewer Section includes Water Distribution System operation and maintenance and Sewage Collection System operation and maintenance. Public Works is managed by the Facilities Superintendent and the Water & Sewer Superintendent under the direction of the Director of Public Works & Engineering. The Facilities Superintendent is also responsible for Parks and Grounds maintenance and the Cemetery within the Parks & Recreation Department. The following is a brief summary of the responsibilities and duties of each area:

FACILITIES SECTION Dennis Antone, Facilities Superintendent Tiffany Coleman, Administrative Assistant I (Shared with Water & Sewer and Engineering) VEHICLE & EQUIPMENT MAINTENANCE (MOTOR POOL) The Motor Pool is responsible for maintaining the Township's fleet of 86 on-road vehicles and approximately 50 miscellaneous pieces of equipment including large mowers, backhoes, and trailers. The mechanics perform preventive maintenance and major repairs to all Township vehicles and equipment. 114

ACHIEVEMENTS

Completed 806 preventive maintenance and non-routine emergency repair requests for various vehicles and equipment in the Township's fleet. The following list is per department work order and cost totals: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Administration - 2 work orders - $1,085.72 P/W Administration - 8 work orders - $2,251.51 P/W Water - 72 work orders - $25,082.75 P/W Sewer - 42 work orders - $23,263.49 P/W Buildings - 3 work orders - $539.31 P/W Engineering - 13 work orders - $8,399.51 P/W Pathway - 23 work orders - $9,380.97 P/W Fleet Maintenance - 3 work orders Recreation Administration - 2 work orders - $714.51 Parks & Grounds Maintenance - 101 work orders - $ 98,507.09 Cemetery - 10 work orders - $4,846.55 Community Development - 18 work orders – 3,737.46 Community Development Administration - 2 work orders – $241.37 Police Department - 289 work orders - $64,681.75 Fire Department - 218 work orders - $137,188.04 Purchased, and prepared for service 3 - 2013 Ford Police Interceptors Purchased and prepared for service 2 - 2013 Ford Utility Police Interceptor Purchased and prepared 2 - John Deere Gators Purchased and prepared for service 2 - 2013 Ford F-250 4X4 pickups Purchased and prepared for service 1 - 2013 Braun Ambulance Purchased and prepared for service 1 - 2013 Ford Expedition El Purchased and prepared for service 1 - 2013 Ford F-150 pick up Purchased and prepared for service 1 - 2013 Toro 4100 D Grounds Master field mower Prepared10 units to be sold at the ADESA Auction - $26,053.00 in sales TEAM MEMBERS John Bell, Lead Mechanic Ken Pung, Mechanic

BUILDING MAINTENANCE The Facilities Section maintains all Township-owned buildings and facilities. Activities include carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, oversight of building maintenance contractors, and custodial cleaning. ACHIEVEMENTS

• • • • •

Contracted with DEEM Mechanical to maintain and repair HVAC systems. Contracted with Dietz Janitorial Services for Municipal Building, Harris Nature Center, Towar Recreation Center, Public Safety Building, and Service Center cleaning. Maintained inventory and delivered cases of paper, envelopes, forms, and other paper products to all Township departments and buildings. Continued with room set ups and take downs in all Township buildings. Provided contract oversight and inspection for the following: Building fire alarms, fire extinguisher maintenance, elevator maintenance, and overhead garage door maintenance, HVAC maintenance, and electrical maintenance. 115

• • • • •

Provided contract oversight of the Okemos Library remodel. Completed 341 emergency and routine service calls. Contracted and managed the reroofing of Wonch Park restroom building. Contracted and managed the reroofing of the South Fire Station. Contracted to repave Service Center rear parking lot. TEAM MEMBER Rick Vasilion, Lead Worker

WATER DISTRIBUTION & SANITARY SEWER COLLECTION SECTION Lawrence J. Ondrias, Water & Sewer Superintendent Tiffany Coleman, Administrative Assistant I (Shared with Facilities and Engineering) WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM This section maintains, repairs and operates the water distribution system; which includes 158 miles of water mains, over 12,000 water services, 15,000+ water meters, 15,000+ remote readers, 2,000+ water distribution valves, 1,900+ fire hydrants, 1,900+ fire hydrant valves, and two 500,000 gallon elevated storage tanks. TEAM MEMBERS Joe VanDommelen, Lead Utility Worker Matt Foreman, Utility Worker Mike Ellis, Utility Worker Ron Hoffman, Utility Worker David Lester, Utility Worker Tom Oxender, Utility Worker Kyle Wilkins, Utility Worker Rob MacKenzie, Utility Worker ACHIEVEMENTS

•

•

•

•

Staff worked diligently locating and exercising valves within the distribution system and repairing the non-functional valves. Non-functional valves were identified as being broken, not accessible or unable to be located during our valve inspection program. Responded to 2,555 customer service requests. These requests were for new customer meter sets, replacing existing meters due to problems and/or age, high usage complaints, repair of non-functional meter reading units, final readings, taste and odor complaints, and many others items associated with operating a water distribution system. Worked with the engineering division and contractors on relocation and/or adjustment of valves and valve boxes, curb stops and curb boxes, and fire hydrants in areas of pathway and roadway construction. Water Section personnel were trained in Confined Space Entry Safety, Trench Safety, Personal Protection Equipment, Lockout/Tagout, Hazcom, Forklift Truck Operation and MDOT Traffic Control Safety. Water Usage July 1, 2012 – June 30, 2013 Gallons Water purchased from the East Lansing Meridian Water & Sewer Authority Water purchased from Lansing Board of Water & Light Total

1,142,725,000 292,992,000 1,435,717,000

Average Gallons per Day

3,933,472 116

Meter sets – potable water Meter sets – irrigation Service Calls Final Readings &/or Rechecks Water Services repaired Water Mains repaired Valves repaired/replaced Fire Hydrants Replaced Fire Hydrants Repaired Fire Hydrants Winterized Outdated meters replaced Miss Dig staking requests

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

2012

2013

112 20

71 20 707 763 49 22 15 5 5 64 84 2,017

56 18 544 630 77 17 13 4 11 64 98 2,023

80 40 811 1,338 73 29 11 4 9 71 94 2,990

69 17 746 1,346 64 13 10 3 12 73 88 2,124

61 20 748 1,340 63 15 10 5 16 83 85 2,316

138 33 764 1,620 46 21 20 4 622 87 82 2,384

50 36 63

57 2,214

SANITARY SEWER COLLECTION SYSTEM The Township has over 12,000 sanitary sewer customers and is responsible for the maintenance, repair and operation of approximately 138 miles of sanitary sewer collection lines, 2,800+ manholes and 29 sanitary sewage pumping stations ranging in size from 3.5 million gallons per day to a few thousand gallons per day. Maintenance items include: main line sewer cleaning, grease removal in sewer lines in areas of restaurants, manhole cleaning and repairs, manhole inspections, CCTV inspections, pump repair, pump back flushing, and electrical repairs of pump control panels. The Sewer Section also evaluates the capacity of the system by performing inflow and infiltration studies of the system. TEAM MEMBERS James Anderson, Lead Utility Worker Larry Bobb, Utility Worker Rich Wheeler, Utility Worker Dan Palacios, Utility Worker Guy Ferrier, Utility Worker ACHIEVEMENTS

• •

• • • •

• •

Repaired and/or inspected 110 manholes. Continued with preventative maintenance at 29 lift stations. Numerous electrical and electronic controls were replaced, including: motor starters, overloads, breakers, alternating relays, phase monitors, and other components. Continued to update and replace outdated and/or worn equipment at 29 lift stations. Replaced both pumps at the Dobie/Grand River Lift Station and pump #1 at Whitehills Lakes Lift Station. Replaced pumps, valves, piping and re-directed the force main at our Wildwood Lakes Lift Station. Maintained a total of 68,630 feet of sanitary sewer (13 miles) by Township staff and another 97,568 feet were cleaned and televised by contractor (18.47 miles). Grand total of 166,198 feet (31.47 miles). Televised sanitary sewer mains in areas where evaluations were required. Assisted the Water Section numerous times with the Vactor truck to do vacuum excavating to repair valves, install meter pits, repair water mains, and locate utilities. 117

•

Sewer Section personnel were trained in Confined Space Entry Safety, Trench Safety, Personal Protection Equipment, Lockout/Tagout, Hazcom, Forklift Truck Operation and MDOT Traffic Control Safety. Statistical Information •

Plugged sewer calls = 58 Township Mainlines Plugged = 10 Private Services Plugged = 48

• • •

Other complaint calls (slow drains, storm water, odor, sink holes) = 22 Feet of routine sewer cleaning = 20,970 feet Feet of problem sewer cleaning = 31,632 feet

• • • • • • •

Sanitary sewer root cutting = 5,775 feet Sewer televising = 10,253 feet Lift station preventive maintenance = 832 hours Lift station repair = 520 hours Manholes repaired and sealed = 14 Manholes inspected for defects = 196 Cleaned wet wells at 29 lift stations = 87 cleanings

•

Vactor excavations for water = 820 hours

(Fats, Oil, Grease (FOG) removal in restaurant areas)

(3 cleanings each per year)

MERIDIAN TOWNSHIP SEWER USAGE REPORT 2007/2008 MAIN LIFT STATION

2008/2009

2009/2010

2010/2011

2011/2012

2012/2013

739,023,000

726,001,000

92,314,000

413,124,000

388,840,000

1,204,500,000 1,336,202,000 1,143,925,000 1,034,890,000

CENTRAL LIFT STATION (new station – May 2010) EAST END LIFT STATION

96,187,100

100,001,600

97,046,500

78,549,400

71,491,700

69,898,000

TOWAR GARDENS FLOW METER

143,100,000

154,580,000

114,710,000

108,790,000

75,300,000

70,720,000

5,333,000

5,251,000

4,186,000

3,247,000

2,856,000

2,957,000

168,000

168,000

168,000

168,000

168,000

168,000

WARDCLIFF, L. LANSING, PARK LAKE, G.RIVER, NORTHWIND & DAWN AVE. SOUTH, ZONE 4

60,812,000

57,364,000

55,640,000

60,541,000

55,232,000

59,234,000

HERITAGE HILLS

14,115,000

12,340,000

11,012,000

11,340,000

12,838,000

12,926,000

35,760,000

33,996,000

35,447,000

37,556,000

35,132,000

37,799,000

5,565,000

4,730,000

4,467,000

4,774,000

5,144,000

5,668,000

CAMPUS HILLS APARTMENTS SMALL ACRES LANE

HAGADORN RD., RIVER TERRACE, HANNAH BLVD., EYDE PKWY. DAWN AVE. NORTH, THE GREENS, & SKYLINE COURT YEARLY TOTALS ( gallons ) AVERAGE DAILY FLOWS (gallons )

1,565,540,100 1,704,632,600 1,466,601,500 1,432,169,400 1,410,308,700 1,374,211,900 4,289,151

4,670,226

4,018,086

118

3,924,000

3,863,859

3,764,964

TREASURER’S OFFICE The Treasurer’s Office employees are committed to precise, reliable and courteous collection and distribution procedures.

The Treasurer’s Office is required by law to receive and take charge of all funds belonging to the Township and those funds to be distributed to other taxing authorities. These collections are primarily real estate and personal property taxes, but also include fines, licenses, permits, deposits, bonds, and fees. Included in this responsibility is the accurate accounting of all funds. The Treasurer is also required to pay out funds to local school districts. In Meridian Township, these include Okemos, Haslett, East Lansing, Williamston, Ingham Intermediate Schools, and Lansing Community College. Other governmental units also receive tax money from Meridian Township, according to each taxing authority’s millage. Temporary surplus funds are invested prudently with the emphasis on the safety of the principal as required by state law. During the calendar year 2013, the Treasurer’s Office reported: •

Total property taxes collected and processed in 2013 = $79,446,625.18.

•

Total other receipts collected and processed in 2013 = $13,797,900.09.

•

Total delinquent personal property taxes collected in 2013 for 2007 – 2012 tax years = $54,369.47.

•

Two new business bankruptcies/receiverships in 2013. Four active prior year bankruptcies.

•

Delinquent personal property bankruptcies owing $4,424.27.

•

Total tax collected from delinquent and active bankruptcies in 2013 = $9,764.20.

•

The Treasurer assisted with various Tax Tribunal cases providing revenue estimates and impacts for the Township.

•

Taxpayers can receive free tax information on their own property by using the Township website (www.twp.meridian.mi.us) or calling the Treasurer’s office at (517) 853-4140.

•

The Treasurer continued offering the ACH payment option for taxes.

•

The Treasurer collaborated with Delhi Township in the statutory cancellation of delinquent personal property taxes.

•

The Treasurer served as a Township Board member and attended semimonthly meetings. This responsibility includes deliberation and voting on all Board actions.

•

The Treasurer presented periodic reports to the Township Board on Township investments and collections.

119

•

The Treasurer served the Meridian Economic Development Corporation (EDC) as treasurer and attended monthly meetings to report finances and provide input on development projects.

•

The Treasurer served as Chair of the EDC’s Global Initiative, exploring economic development opportunities related to the growing international population at Michigan State University.

•

The Treasurer served on Global Lansing for LEAP.

•

The Treasurer served on the Land Preservation Advisory Board.

•

The Treasurer attended weekly Rotary Club meetings in order to improve communications between the Township and the business community.

•

The Treasurer served as a member of the Meridian Township Pension Board, which meets several times a year to oversee its financial condition.

•

The Treasurer served on the Capital Area Transportation Authority.

•

The Treasurer attended monthly MABA meetings in order to facilitate communication between the township and the business community.

•

The Treasurer served as co-chair of the Capital Area Treasurer’s Group.

•

The Treasurer began assisting the Finance Director with approval of paperwork for audit purposes.

TEAM MEMBERs Julie Brixie, Treasurer Mary Ann Groop, Deputy/Assistant to the Treasurer Deanne Feldpausch, Bookkeeper

120