1/27/23

At 5:07pm, deputies responded to a mental health complaint, at a residence in Green TWP. A female was taken into protective custody after making suicidal statements. Transported to Corewell Health Hospital without issue.

Calls for service 15

Traffic accidents 3

1/28/23

Calls for service 10

Traffic accidents 5

Car/deer accidents 1

1/29/23

Traffic accidents 2

Calls for service 7

1/30/23

At 6:35pm, deputies responded to a disorderly  complaint, at a residence in Green twp.   Caller advised that his G/F's son  showed up at the residence and was being aggressive.  The male subject was arrested for a probation violation.

Calls for service 7

Traffic accidents 1

Monday…1/16
Officers were dispatched to a complaint regarding an attempt to fraudulently obtain a prescription. The matter is under investigation.

An officer issued an abatement for a damaged fence. Pending on removal or fixing of the fence.

Wednesday …1/18
The School Liaison Officer assisted the Elementary School staff that were having difficulties contacting a parent of a sick student that needed to go home. The officer was able to contact the parents.

After stopping a 38 year old woman for disregarding a stop sign she was issued an appearance citation for having a suspended license. She was also cited for the stop sign and having an expired plate. A license driver drove the vehicle away.

An officer issued an abatement for a large amount of trash in the front and side of a property.

An officer issued an abatement for having a horse in city limits and for having a large amount of trash in the yard.

An officer issued an abatement to someone that was staying in a camper behind a residence.

An officer responded to a call regarding a man making suicidal threats. Upon arrival, officer noticed the male was extremely intoxicated. He denied being suicidal. He was checked over by EMS and refused treatment or to be taken to the hospital.

Thursday …1/19
The School Liaison Officer assisted with a Reed City Middle School student that assaulted a staff member.

Officers arrested a 22-year-old woman on an outstanding warrant for Child Neglect.

Friday …1/20
An officer conducted a traffic stop for minor traffic infraction. The 46-year-old male driver was arrested on 2 different warrants.

The School Liaison Officer was informed that a Reed City High School student might be in possession of a personal video of another student that was taken without their permission. Case is still under investigation.

An officer investigated a possible fraudulent check situation.

The School Liaison Officer was called to the Reed City High School in regards of a student making
comments about suicide. After investigating and talking to the parents, it was determined that the student was no threat to themselves.

An officer assisted Osceola Sheriff Office with the well being check on a 34yr old female. Upon arrival to the house, no one was home.

An officer responded to a call regarding possible adult abuse/neglect. Case is still under investigation.

Saturday …1/21
An officer was dispatched to a home regarding possible child abuse. Case is still under investigation and was sent to CPS.

An officer was contacted regarding an argument between family members and allegations of adult abuse. Situation was de-escalated before the officer left and the matter is under further investigation.

Sunday …1/22
An officer was contacted regarding some text messages about some inappropriate behavior.
An officer was contacted to do a welfare check on a 26yr old female that was having an argument with her 25yr old boyfriend. Upon arrival, both individuals were fine.

An officer was dispatched to a residence where it was alleged there had been a minor assault between a dating couple. There were no injuries and the individuals separated. The matter has been sent to the prosecutor for possible charges.

Monday…1/23

An officer was called regarding some graffiti/vandalism that was found on the North Chestnut Bridge. Case is still under investigation.

An officer was called about a suspicious letter that a 73yr old male received. After investigation, no threat to anyone was found.

An officer was contacted regarding a VIN verification on a snowmobile.

An officer arrested a 32yr old female for trespassing the Reed City Hospital after exhibiting threatening behavior and refusing to leave.

Tuesday …1/24
An officer was dispatched to the Reed City Hospital regarding a 15yr old male who physically assaulted his mother while in the emergency room.

The School Liaison officer got reports from a High School student about a possible incident between two brothers resulting with an injury to the head.

An officer is investigating a case where a parent of a male initially refused to take him to the hospital after suffering a head injury. Case was transferred to CPS for further investigation. Charges of obstructing an officer have also been requested.

Thursday …1/26
Officers assisted with drug interdiction efforts.

An officer served a notice of trespassing. The man was unwanted at a local establishment after his behavior the previous day.

An officer was dispatched to a residence after a 911 call came in from a juvenile alleging possible abuse. After investigation, the abuse was unfounded.

Friday …1/27
The School Liaison officer was notified regarding in appropriate use of a cell phone at the high school. The matter is under investigation.

The School Liaison officer responded to the elementary school regarding a juvenile being assaultive toward staff members. The student was taken to the hospital for evaluation and treatment. The matter has been sent to the prosecutor for possible charges.

Saturday …1/28
Officers issued a citation for failing to clean up refuse.

Officers assisted Osceola County Sheriff Department corrections officer with transporting an inmate from the hospital to the jail.

Sunday …1/29
An officer was dispatched regarding a person slumped over the wheel of a car. Upon arrival and after
investigation, the officer arrested the man on an outstanding warrant. Approximately 2.5 grams of cocaine was found and seized. The matter us under further investigation.

The body of a missing woman has been found in Clare County.

Deputies say they found the body of 34-year-old Sara Burns in the Leota area on Saturday.

Burns was reported missing to the Ogemaw County Sheriff's Office January 17th.

She was last seen January 9th in the Prescott area where she had been staying after leaving her previous residence in the Houghton Lake area.

A number of area non-profits have been awarded money through Great Lakes Energy's People Fund.

Angels of Action here in Big Rapids was awarded $1,000 for summer family engagement, nutrition, and literacy programs. Bread of Life Food Pantry in Baldwin was awarded $2,000 for food and supplies for the greater Lake County area and Reed City Area District Library was awarded $2,000 for backyard games and seating.

Since its inception in 1999, the People Fund has awarded more than $4.2 million in grants to organizations in the cooperative’s 26-county service area which stretches from Kalamazoo to the Straits of Mackinac.

“The People Fund is yet another example of the cooperative business model making a positive difference in the lives of the community,” Great Lakes Energy President/CEO Shaun Lamp said. “This program allows us to combine the power of the cooperative’s reach with the generosity of our members to make a positive impact in the communities we serve.”

Funding for the program comes from members of the electric cooperative who agree to have their monthly bills rounded up to the next whole dollar. Members are encouraged to enroll in the People Fund online at gtlakes.com or by contacting Great Lakes Energy’s office.

Central Area:

• Angels of Action, Big Rapids: $1,000 for summer family engagement, nutrition, and literacy programs.

• Bread of Life Food Pantry, Baldwin: $2,000 for food and supplies for the greater Lake County area.

• Caritas Food Pantry, Custer: $2,000 for purchasing canvas bags for the pantry.

• Carr Community Volunteer Fire Department, Inc., Branch: $2,500 for turnout gear for new volunteer firefighters.

• Circle Rocking S Children’s Farm Inc., Free Soil: $3,000 for roof repair, asphalting for handicap, and a hard drive.

• Eagle Village, Hersey: $1,393 to convert current fluorescent lighting to LED to increase energy efficiency.

• Gateway to Success Academy, Scottville: $2,000 for a garden and sustainability center, contingent on raising the rest of the funding needed.

• Grant Township Fireman’s Association, Manistee: $1,900 for task-appropriate turnout gear.             

• Habitat for Humanity of Mason County, Scottville: $1,000 for their ramp program.

• Irons Seventh-day Adventist Church, Irons: $3,500 for the Irons Community Center and Food Pantry for fill, limestone, and excavation around the building, lawn, and parking lot.

• Lake County Habitat of Humanity, Baldwin: $2,500 towards home construction, contingent on raising the rest of the funding needed.

• Lincoln Township Fire Department, Reed City: $2,400 for firefighter safety communications equipment.

• Mid-Michigan Honor Flight, Inc., Mecosta: $1,000 for #13 and #14 honor flights and missions.

• Norman Township Fire Department, Wellston: $1,500 for Seek Thermal imaging cameras.

• Osceola County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT), Reed City: $7,000 for purchasing vital safety equipment for the CERT team.

• Pathfinder Community Library, Baldwin: $2,399.97 for replacing two aging public computers and one staff computer.

• Reed City Area District Library, Reed City: $2,000 for backyard games and seating.

• Riverside Park Campground, Scottville: $3,000 for the City of Scottville Riverside Park & Campground public restroom refurbishment project.

• Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers Association, Ludington: $1,000 for an informational panel for the fog signal building.

• Sandcastles Children's Museum, Ludington: $5,000 for the Hola! Speaking Spanish at Sandcastles! exhibit.

• Staircase Youth Services, Ludington: $500 for the Back-to-School Backpack Bonanza.

• Western Michigan Fair Association, Ludington: $1,500 for roofing repair.

In February, staff members from the office of Congressman John Moolenaar will host meeting times across the district where constituents can sit down to discuss personal casework issues they are having with a federal agency.

Last year, Moolenaar's office helped thousands of constituents who needed assistance with a federal agency, including the VA and the IRS. The office helped constituents cut through federal red tape and reclaim millions of dollars owed to them by the federal government.

Staff members will be available at the following times and places:

February 1, 2023
11:00 AM -12:00 PM
City Building
200 South Main Street
Evart, MI 49631

February 2, 2023
9:00-10:00 AM
Hastings Public Library
227 East State Street
Hastings, MI 49058

12:00-1:00 PM
City Building
28 State Road
Newaygo, MI 49337

2:30-3:30 PM
City Building
320 West Broadway Street
Mount Pleasant, MI 48858

4:00-5:00 PM
Alma Public Library
525 East Superior Street
Alma, MI 48801

February 6, 2023
3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Township Library
80 North Union Street
Sparta, MI 49345

February 7, 2023
10:30-11:30 AM
Manistee City Hall
70 Maple Street
Manistee, MI 49660

12:00-1:00 PM
Township Building
145 Main Street
Sunfield, MI 48890

1:00-2:00 PM
Ludington General Offices
400 South Harrison Street
Ludington, MI 49431

February 9, 2023
9:00-10:00 AM
Hart Public Library
415 South State Street
Hart, MI 49420

10:00-11:00 AM
County Building
401 West Cedar Avenue
Gladwin, MI 48624

11:00-12:00 PM
Community Library
3900 White Lake Drive
Whitehall, MI 49461

12:00-1:00 PM
City Hall
201 East Railway Street
Coleman, MI 48618

2:30-3:30 PM
Portland District Library
334 Kent Street
Portland, MI 48875

3:00 pm - 4:00 pm
Community Library
812 Michigan Avenue
Baldwin, MI 49304

February 13, 2023
3:00-4:00 PM
Township Library
80 North Union Street
Sparta, MI 49345

1:30-2:30 PM
Township Building
3509 Sehler Street
Conklin, MI 49403

February 15, 2023
9:00-10:00 AM
City Building
652 North William Street
Carson City, MI 48811

12:30-1:30 PM
City Building
200 North Lake Street
Cadillac, MI 49601

3:00-4:00 PM
Big Rapids City Hall
226 North Michigan Avenue
Big Rapids, MI 49307

Mecosta County Sheriff Brian Miller is reminding residents to buckle up and be careful when traveling on area roads now that we have gotten ice and snow following a rollover crash Saturday. 

Deputies say it happened on New Millpond road south of 15 Mile road.

The 53-year old female driver complained of head pain. Mecosta County EMS took her to Corewell Health Big Rapids Hospital for a medical evaluation.  

The City of Big Rapids is looking for residents to fill various board positions.

City Communications Coordinator Lilly Franklin says they are looking to fill seats on Assessment Board of Review, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Compensation Commission, Dial-A-Ride Council, Property Maintenance Board of Appeals and Zoning Board of Appeals.

Franklin says it's a great way for residents to get involved with the city.

If you have any questions, please contact the City Clerks Office  (231)592-4020.

A ruling by the Michigan Court of Appeals stops the state's minimum wage from increasing to $13.03 in February and keeps current wage and benefit requirements intact.

The Thursday ruling reverses a lower court decision in July of last year that would have increased minimum wage in the state by nearly $3. Had the Court of Appeals not acted, minimum wage in the state would have increased from $10.10 to $13.03, and tipped minimum wage would have also increased significantly, eventually matching minimum wage in 2024.

The decision will be appealed to the Michigan Supreme Court.

Michigan's Earned Income Tax Credit will be expanded under a bill passed Thursday by the State Senate on a vote of 27-11.

The plan's sponsor Democrat Kristen McDonald Rivet says it will lift more taxpayers out of poverty. But a number of Republicans voted no, saying they favor tax relief that would benefit all Michigan taxpayers.

The State Senate also approved a plan to eliminate the socalled retirement tax, on Michiganders who receive a pension.

Nurses at McLaren Central in Mount Pleasant have voted to authorize a potential strike.

In doing so, they joined nurses at MyMichigan Alma, which also voted to provide their elected bargaining team with the ability to call for a strike. The Michigan Nurses Association says the votes come despite McLaren threatening nurses with the loss of healthcare and even their jobs should they strike.

The union says a 10-day notice would be provided before any strike begins at either hospital.

Nurses at both facilities have been working under expired contracts since November.

"The state of our state is strong, and ready to go." Those words from Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer last night, as she delivered her fifth State of the State address inside the state Capitol. 

The Governor outlined an agenda during a joint session of the house and senate. 

Whitmer first addressed Michiganders affected by inflation. 

"The #1 issue for folks trying to make ends meet is costs. First: let’s roll back the retirement tax, saving half a million households $1,000 a year. Second: let’s expand the Working Families Tax Credit, delivering at least $3,000 refunds to 700,000 families. And third: Pre-K for All to save families an average of $10,000 a year and ensure every 4-year-old in Michigan gets a great start. With inflation, every dollar saved makes a difference. That’s why we’re moving fast. Parts of the plan have already been introduced by Representatives Witwer and Shannon and Senators Hertel and McDonald Rivet. Let’s get it done." Whitmer said. 

With a state budget surplus projected to reach over $9-Billion by next fall, the Governor also proposed funding for free preschool access to all 4-year-olds in Michigan.   

"Let’s expand our bipartisan preschool effort—the Great Start Readiness Program—so every 4-year-old in Michigan can access a free, public preschool education by the end of my second term. This investment will ensure children arrive at kindergarten ready to learn and saves their families upwards of $10,000 a year. It helps parents, especially moms, go back to work. And it will launch hundreds more preschool classrooms across Michigan, supporting thousands of jobs. Together, we can lower costs for Michiganders feeling the pain of inflation right now. For our seniors, families, and kids, let’s get this done." Whitmer said. 

Whitmer also announced wanting to have universal background checks for people who want to buy firearms and strict safe storage laws. 

To read the full speech CLICK HERE

A woman in Lincoln Township, near White Cloud, has been arrested for t-boning a school bus while drunk.

Tuesday night, Deputies in Newaygo County received a call in Lincoln Township that an SUV, driven by a 49-year-old woman from White Cloud, failed to stop at the scene of a crash. They were able to locate the SUV near the scene.

She was charged with failure to stop at the scene of a crash, operating while intoxicated and resisting.

The White Cloud Public Schools bus driver and two passengers were not injured.

In partnership with Ferris State Athletics, the Sports Careers student organization and sports
communication classes will be hosting a “Red Out” fundraiser event to support women’s heart health
and Corewell’s Big Rapids Cardiopulmonary Unit.

The event will be taking place Saturday, Feb. 11 during the Ferris State women’s basketball at 1:00 p.m., men’s basketball at 3:00 p.m., and hockey game at 6:07 p.m. in the Ewingleben Sports Complex.

“It's great to be back promoting our annual Red Out the Wink and the Rink event for Corewell Health Big Rapids Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit in celebration of the American Heart Associations ‘Go Red for
Women’ campaign,” Sports communication professor and advisor Sandra Alspach said.

Silent auction items will be available at the event for bidding, including Grand Rapids Griffins gear, Ferris football and hockey signed memorabilia, and other local business gift baskets. All proceeds as well as other donations during event activities go directly to the Big Rapids Cardiopulmonary unit.

All fans and attendees are encouraged to wear red alongside all three teams in support of the cause.

“We are very excited to be participating in the Red Out game on Feb. 11 vs Bemidji State University,”
Ferris State hockey coach Bob Daniels said. “The event will help bring attention to women’s heart health and will also be a great opportunity for our fans to show school spirit.”

For more information, following the club on social media at “Ferris State Sports Careers RSO” and on
ferrisstatebulldogs.com.

There were a handful of accidents in Mecosta County Wednesday because of slick roads due to snow and ice.

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office says the first one happened on US-131 Southbound near 18 Mile Rd in Green Twp. The accident occurred when a 70-year old man from Indiana loss control of his vehicle and rolled in the median. The driver received non-life threatening injuries.

The second, happened  on 9 Mile Rd east of 50th Ave in Wheatland Township. The accident occurred when a 32-year-old man lost control of his vehicle and crossed a ditch hitting a wire fence and fence post. The driver had no injuries and the female passenger had non-life threatening injuries.

The third crash happened  at 5 Mile and 130^th Ave in Deerfield Twp. Two New York residents were traveling east bound, lost control and struck a tree. The passenger, a 57-year-old from New York, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The driver, 57-year-old man, was not hurt.

Have you ever craved something sweet in the middle of the night but there was no delivery and no place open? Well your luck is about to change as two local residents have started a business with you and your cravings in mind. 

Jamie Hillman of Mecosta and Shante Johnson-Deason of Weidman started ‘Midnight Mobile Munchies’ a late night delivery service operating Fridays and Saturdays from 8pm-3am offering desserts and other delicious sweets. They also deliver throughout Mecosta County.   

"We are night owls and we like to bake, so one night we were just sitting and I had a craving for something sweet like chocolate cake, I live in Mecosta and there is not a lot around here in terms of delivery especially after a certain time and that’s when I had the idea that there has to more people like me craving the munchies during late night hours and that’s how we created ‘Midnight Mobile Munchies’ ” Hillman said. 

Midnight Mobile Munchie sells its goods under the Cottage Law for the state of Michigan. 

“Everything is baked fresh, we sell brownies, cookies, muffins, no-bake rice crispy treats, chocolate covered pretzels and more. Our menu is always evolving.” Hillman said. 

Last weekend was a pilot weekend for Hillman and Deason to see if their idea would be successful. After posting advertisements on a number of Facebook groups about their business, Hillman says they had a great weekend. 

“Friday night we covered our startup costs and Saturday night it blew up for us and we were getting an order every 45 minutes, we were in Big Rapids, Mecosta, Stanwood, up in Barryton.” We were reaching people and it was really neat.” Hillman said.  

Hillman and Deason hope to have another successful weekend. 

For more information or to purchase delicious desserts, log on to MidnightMobileMunchies.com

Two Big Rapids Middle School students were honored by the Big Rapids Department of Public Safety this week.

On Tuesday, Student Resource Officer Andre Torres presented Aaron Brown and Daniel Langell with awards of excellence.

According to the Big Rapids DPS Facebook page, during an unplanned lockdown at the middle school, Brown and Langell were in the gymnasium with a classmate who could not go down the stairs. The two boys acted quickly, picked up their classmate, and took him to a safe area until the lockdown was complete.

Big Rapids DPS says their quick actions and selfless behaviors are a true testament to their character.

Before you file your 2022 taxes, you may want to wait for the potential passage of Senate Bill 3.

The proposal, which is advancing in the State Senate would increase Michigan's Earned Income Tax Credit.

If passed, the benefits are retroactive, which means those eligible could see up to an extra $750 dollars on tax returns. Next, the bill has moved to the Michigan Senate floor for a vote.

A judge has approved a $20 million class-action settlement covering thousands of people who were wrongly accused of fraud by Michigan when seeking unemployment benefits.

People accused of cheating to get jobless aid, were forced to repay money, along with substantial penalties, before the Unemployment Insurance Agency finally acknowledged widespread errors that affected more than 40,000 people. Although refunds were issued, the state still was sued by people who argued that their right to be heard was violated while they tried to sort things out.

Court of Claims Judge Douglas Shapiro, who signed off on the deal last week, says more than 8,000 people have been identified as possible beneficiaries of the settlement so far.

A 58-year old Greenville man is behind bars following a fight at a residence in Montcalm County.

It happened late Friday night, deputies were sent to a home in Montcalm Township where they found a 56-year old Greenville man unconscious after being assaulted. Police say the victim was unconscious and bleeding from his head. 

EMS transported the Greenville man to Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital. 

As of Monday, the victim was taken out of ICU, but remains in the hospital, and is in and out of consciousness. Police arrested the suspect, 58-year old David Thompson at the scene.

He has been charged with assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder and remains in jail with a $175,000 bond. 

Deputies in Mecosta County believe alcohol is a factor in a two vehicle crash Friday evening. 

It happened on Taft Road near New Millpond Road.

An investigation found that a 30- year old woman from Big Rapids ran the stop sign and struck a vehicle driven by a 44- year old woman from Big Rapids. 

The 30-year old driver was taken by Mecosta Co EMS to Corewell Health Big Rapids for non-life threatening injuries.

1/19/23

At 3:44pm, deputies made a traffic stop on 30^th/Arthur in Sheridan TWP.  The stop resulted in the male driver being arrested on a warrant.  He was lodged at the Mecosta County jail.

At 3:00pm, deputies transported a mental patient from Big Rapids Spectrum Hospital to Grand Rapids.

Calls for service 7

Car/deer accidents 1

Traffic accidents 2

1/20/23

At 1:03am, deputies made a traffic stop on US-131 in Big Rapids TWP.  The stop resulted in the male driver being arrested for OWI.  The male driver was lodged at the Mecosta County Jail.

Calls for service 5

Traffic accidents 3

1/21/23

Traffic accidents 1

Calls for service 13

The tax season kicks into high gear today when taxpayers can begin filing returns.

Tax experts says refunds are expected to be lower than previous years because various tax credits and other programs put into place during the pandemic have been cut or are ending.

The filing deadline is April 18th.

State Rep. Tom Kunse announced a $14 million grant for Reed City to improve the city’s water management.

            The Clean Water State Revolving Fund (CWSRF) awarded $14 million to Reed City. The CWSRF program is a low-interest financing program that helps qualified local municipalities with the construction of necessary water pollution control facilities. The Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) offers many communities grants to substantially lower the balance of loans taken out for critical water infrastructure projects. These projects include wastewater treatment upgrades and the elimination of combined sewer system overflows, pumping station improvements, and non-point source pollution project to reduce nutrient and contaminant runoff to waterways.

            “This vital grant will bring much-needed improvements to the overall management of Reed City’s water,” said Kunse, of Clare. “I hope this serves as a catalyst for further infrastructural improvements in the area.”

            Rep. Kunse announced three more projects throughout his district:

• Reed City is set to receive $3.5 million to replace an old and unreliable watermain along Todd Avenue. An estimated 120 lead service lines will also be replaced across the distribution system, and sites will be restored to original condition. Reed City will also replace its water supply well number four, as it has exceeded its useful life and has limited isolation distance to neighboring properties. Additionally, other water system improvements including fire hydrant replacement and Geographic Information System database updates will be made.

• Harrison is set to receive $180,000 for a project involving work related to the city’s Distribution System Materials Inventory (DSMI) and drinking water Asset Management Plan (AMP). Harrison’s drinking water AMP will be updated based on a comprehensive asset inventory as well as other portions of the plan, including condition assessment, water system criticality, level of service assessment, capital improvement plan, and revenue structure development.

• Clare is set to receive nearly $130,000 for a project involving work related to the city’s drinking water AMP. The AMP will be updated based on capital improvement planning and revenue structure development. Moreover, Clare has already updated other portions of its AMP via a comprehensive asset inventory and will incorporate that information into their AMP and existing Geographic Information System database.

“These grants will bring much-needed improvements to our community,” Kunse said. “I am eager to see the final product.”

Big Rapids Public Schools is set to receive a grant for its virtual school.

Big Rapids Virtual School along with nine other schools around Michigan will get an ASPIRE grant of $5,000 each as part of being selected by Michigan College Access Network's High School Innovation Grants program.

“Michigan’s students deserve robust, equity-based post secondary guidance that prepares them for college and careers,” said Ryan Fewins-Bliss, MCAN executive director. “By addressing systemic inequities and employing best practices, we can help ensure that all students — especially low-income students, first-generation college-going students, and students of color — can access post secondary education that helps them achieve their career goals.”

In alignment with Michigan’s Sixty by 30 goal, High School Innovation Grants encourage schools to assess and improve their college-going cultures through a multi-year collaborative process. The schools will work collaboratively with MCAN and community partners to develop sustainable, systems-wide plans to improve post secondary outcomes for their students. This is a new grant program that builds on MCAN’s prior work with high schools.

Upon completion of the ASPIRE stage, schools will progress to the ACTIVATE stage, a 12- to 18-month period that includes an additional $10,000 in grant funding, where they will develop and execute plans to improve college-going culture, as well as create data infrastructure to measure student trends. The final stage, ALIGN, is a six- to 12-month period that includes another $10,000 in grant funding. In this stage, the schools will focus on sustaining best practices and sharing results with others in the education community.

To learn more about High School Innovation Grants or other MCAN grant programs, visit micollegeaccess.org/grants.

1/14/23

At 3:07am, deputies responded to an OWI complaint, on Jefferson/ 150^th Ave Deerfield TWP. Male driver ran off the roadway causing minor damage to his vehicle. After speaking with subject he advised deputies that he was drinking SFSTs were administer. Subject was taken to BRH for a blood draw and released with a appearance ticket of 02/09/2023 at 9:00am.

Calls for service 7

Traffic accidents 1

1/15/23

At 9:25pm, deputies responded to a mental health complaint, at a residence in Fork TWP.  Male subject  stated he was suicidal after finding out his wife cheated him. The male subject was transported to BRH for a voluntary eval.

At 2:01am, deputies responded to a gas drive off complaint, in Morton TWP. Unknow driver took off in a burgundy Explorer without paying for his gas.

At 10:00am, deputies did a mental transport to Indiana.  Male subject was transported from Big Rapids to a mental health facility in Indiana.

Calls for service 5

1/16/23

At 7:17pm, deputies responded to a larceny complaint at a residence in  Morton Twp.  Male caller  had a pickup parked at male suspect’s residence as it was broken down. Male suspect had been removing parts from caller’s pickup. The caller  had towed the pickup to another residence yesterday after he found out what was going on to his pickup. Attempted contact with suspect, still under investigation

At 12:08pm, deputies responded to a fraud complaint, at a residence in Big Rapids TWP.  Male caller sent a photo to who he thought was a girl online, who then requested money to extort him.

Calls for service 7

1/17/23

At 10:00am, deputies responded to a larceny complaint at a residence in Hinton TWP.  The caller stated that a catalytic converter was cutoff of his vehicle. 

At 12:00pm, deputies investigated a retail fraud complaint, at a business in Big Rapids TWP.  The male and female suspect had stolen several items from the store.  The male and female were located and arrested.  The stolen property was recovered and returned to the store.

Calls for service 8

Traffic accidents 1

1/18/23

At 3:00pm, deputies responded to a larceny complaint, at a residence in Aetna TWP. Male caller had a pre paid credit card taken by another male subject.  Still under investigation.

Calls for service 6

Car/deer accidents 2

Traffic accidents 2

Playing it safe paid off for a Montcalm County man who won two $110,000 Fantasy 5 Double Play prizes from the Michigan Lottery.

The lucky player, who chose to remain anonymous, matched the Fantasy 5 numbers in the Dec. 17 Double Play drawing to win the big prizes: 06-11-12-16-29. He bought one of his winning tickets at the Sheridan EZ Mart, located at 130 South Main Street in Sheridan, and the other at the Mobil gas station, located at 319 West Main Street in Stanton.

“I have been playing Fantasy 5 for a long time and I always play the same sets of numbers,” said the player. “I was at the gas station, and I couldn’t remember if I’d purchased a ticket for the Fantasy 5 drawing that night, so I decided to purchase one to be safe.

“After the drawing, I was on the Michigan Lottery website checking the numbers and when I saw the two locations where winning tickets were sold, I knew I had to be the big winner. I checked my tickets and confirmed I had won, but I thought I’d won $55,000 on each. When I called the Lottery and they confirmed both tickets were $110,000 winners, a feeling of relief came over me.”

The 67-year-old player recently visited Lottery headquarters to claim the big prizes. With his winnings, he plans to complete home renovations and share with his family.

Monday…1/9
An officer responded to a call regarding a 14yr old runaway. The teenager was found and is back home.

An officer responded to a building alarm. Upon arrival, it turned out to be a false alarm.

An officer responded to a call regarding the bank alarm. Upon arrival, it turned out to be a false alarm.

Tuesday …1/10
An officer while in foot patrol, found the door of a business open. After securing the building, the door was locked.

An officer responded to a call to do a welfare check on a man who had suicidal thoughts earlier in the day. Upon arrival, the individual was found to be ok.

School Liaison officer was called to the High School regarding an inappropriate note found.

Wednesday …1/11
An officer responded to a call regarding a 14yr old runaway. The teen returned home and was okay.

An officer while on patrol, investigated a suspicious parked car at the park after hours. After investigating, it was determined that no crime was committed.

An officer responded to a call for a wellbeing check on a 78yr old female. After arrival and investigating, it was determined that the female was ok.

An officer responded to a call about someone fishing on a section of the river that is closed at the moment. The man was released with a verbal warning.

Thursday …1/12
School Liaison officer responded to a call regarding a middle school student having an altercation with a teacher.

School Liaison officer responded to a call regarding a middle school student having an altercation with a teacher.

School Liaison officer responded to an uncooperative teen who refused to go with parents. It was determined that while unhappy with her parents, there was no reason not to go home with them. The teen agreed and left with parents.

Officers were dispatched to assist with a teen who refused to get out of his mother’s car and enter a medical facility for a mental health evaluation. The officer was able to calmly talk the teen into cooperating.

An officer issued an abatement regarding an inoperable vehicle in a driveway. Pending on removal of the vehicle.

An officer was dispatched to a home regarding a possible fraud attempt to a 68yr old woman. The fraud attempt was not successful. The woman was educated on how to prevent this type of scam in the future.

Friday …1/13
An officer was dispatched to a joint investigation with CPS regarding possible abuse. The matter is under investigation. Upon stopping a vehicle for an equipment violation, officers arrested a 36-year-old male on an outstanding warrant for Contempt of Court. He was lodged at the Osceola County Jail.

Saturday …1/14
Officers were requested to check the well-being of an individual who had left against medical advice.

Officers checked her last known address but she no longer lives at that location.

Officers were requested to check on two teen passengers, at the hospital, from an auto accident in Lake County. One was an autistic non-verbal individual and the other a foreign exchange student. The exchange student spoke English very well and family was on the way to pick them up.

Sunday …1/15
Officers were dispatched to investigate and individual who believed he had been drugged. No details could be provided as to where, when or how it occurred. The individual was checked out by medical staff. After investigating, it is believed to be a result of being paranoid due to his state of self-inflicted intoxication on more than one substance.

Officers where dispatched to an apartment complex for a disorderly person. Upon arrival the caller stated another resident had been yelling and using profanities at the caller’s children. The exact identity of the other resident was not known but she is believed to have been intoxicated at the time.

The Isabella County woman accused of catfishing her own daughter and another teen is heading to trial.

Kendra Licari is charged with two counts of stalking a minor, two counts of using a computer to commit a crime and obstructing justice.

Isabella County prosecutor David Barberi says it began when Licari's daughter complained to her parents about getting harassing text messages, social media messages for months. Licari reported it to police and police say it was Licari who had catfished and harassed her daughter and her daughter's boyfriend.

Barberi reportedly says it was mostly harassing type messages, demeaning , demoralizing and just mean texts that appeared to be from other students.  

A message of encouraging advocacy opportunities at any age is coming to Ferris State University campus Monday, Jan. 16 at 5 p.m. as Martese Johnson, an associate with a New York City law firm, shares his experiences and wisdom during a keynote address for the 37th annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration.

Office of Multicultural Student Services Assistant Director Darnell Lewis said Johnson, a 2021 graduate of the University of Michigan Law School, was the victim of a violent encounter with Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control officers in 2015 while he was an undergraduate student at the University of Virginia. A video of the incident, where Johnson received deep cuts on his face while being placed in handcuffs and leg shackles, prompted a #JusticeForMartese social media campaign.

“The theme of our MLK celebration is ‘Bloody But Unbowed: The Fight Continues’ as Martese still bears scars from that savage and unprovoked attack,” Lewis said. “He was able to take that experience and build a platform of social justice advocacy. We feel Johnson’s call to stand confident and speak out for equality and fair treatment will resonate with our students and campus community.”

The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration begins with the 29th annual In-Service, beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 16, in the David L. Eisler Center ballrooms. The theme of this program of faculty and staff presentations is “Helping Others Rise.” Also, the annual campus Freedom March begins at the Rankin Atrium, in the David L. Eisler Center, at approximately 4 p.m. Johnson’s presentation starts at 5 p.m., in the Eisler Center ballrooms.

On Wednesday, Jan. 18, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Student Tribute will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in Ballroom A of the David L. Eisler Center.

“We are confident our students will offer a variety of meaningful presentations for this event,” Lewis said. “We have advised a number of student organizations. This is an opportunity to play an important role in celebrating Dr. King and his legacy.”

For more information, contact the Office of Multicultural Student Services by phone at (231) 591-2617 

One person is dead the other injured following a two car crash in Lake County over the weekend.

It happened Saturday afternoon, on US-10 and Depot Street in Chase Township.

The Lake County Sheriff's Office says two people were airlifted to Grand Rapids from the scene. One of those patients passed away at the hospital as a result of injuries sustained from the crash. At this time there is no indication that alcohol or drugs were a factor in the crash.

The crash remains under investigation.

If you have any information related to the crash please contact Sgt. Ron Bullis at 231-745-2712.

Building on the success of the retailer's popular digital coupon and rewards program, Meijer announced today that it is revamping mPerks to make it even easier for customers to save on the products they need and want. 

The enhanced mPerks program will allow for more personalized rewards and savings, with customers now earning points for every dollar spent* and every qualifying prescription filled, along with additional opportunities to earn even more points. 

"Meijer is committed to providing value and convenience for our customers, and the changes we've made to mPerks expands on both by offering more personalized savings, along with more opportunities to earn points," Meijer Vice President of Customer Strategy Derek Steele said. "We want to ensure we're continuing to provide personalized value while also making the experience fun and engaging."

Customers in Southeast Michigan will begin transitioning to the new mPerks program first on Jan. 16, while the retailer's other Midwest markets will roll over to the new program in phases throughout January and February.

Meijer has millions of total mPerks users. In the first half of 2022, mPerks customers saved more than $100 million on their purchases.

Changes customers will notice include:

• Purchases now earn points, which customers can apply toward the savings of their choice
• Each qualifying prescription filled now earns points, instead of every five prescriptions filled
• Points expire after 90 days, as opposed to 45 days in current system
• Customers choose when and how they want to redeem points for additional savings

Customers' existing unclaimed rewards will automatically transition to the new program with the same value. Any in-progress rewards, as well as existing pharmacy credits, will be transferred to the new program as points.

Signing up for mPerks is easy and free. Shoppers can enroll at meijer.com/mperks, or by downloading the Meijer app.

 State Sen. Roger Hauck was formally sworn in as senator for the 34th District on Wednesday during a ceremony at the Capitol. Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Elizabeth T. Clement administered the oath of office.

“It is a great honor to serve the people of mid-Michigan and I want to thank everyone for entrusting me to be their voice in Lansing,” said Hauck, R-Mt. Pleasant. “I’m ready to join my new colleagues and continue working to advance policies that help families and businesses across this great state.”

Hauck was joined on the Senate floor by friends and family for Wednesday’s ceremony.

Hauck also announced that his office is now open and ready for business. The senator’s office is in Room 3300 of the Connie B. Binsfeld Office Building, at 201 Townsend St., across the street from the Michigan Capitol.

Residents can contact Hauck’s office at 517-373-1760, via email at SenRHauck@senate.michigan.gov or by mail at Sen. Roger Hauck, P. O. Box 30036, Lansing, MI 48909.

More information, along with helpful resources can be found at SenatorRogerHauck.com.

Michigan’s 34th Senate District includes Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Osceola, Mecosta and Isabella counties and parts of Bay, Clinton, Lake, Midland and Saginaw counties.

Angels of Action is set to host the 2nd annual Snow Angel Fat Tire Bike Race at St. Ives Golf Course in Canadian Lakes on Saturday, February 4th, 2023. Proceeds to benefit Angels of Action.

The Snow Angel Fat Tire Bike race is a fundraiser held during the winter months where racers can choose from Beginner (eight miles), Sport (16 miles), or Expert (24 miles).

The competition is held on a groomed trail that runs between St. Ives and the Highlands golf courses in Canadian Lakes, Michigan. This is a timed race using chip timing.

Registration is available now until February 3rd and can be done at www.bikereg.com/55667. Included in the ticket price are post-race refreshments provided by the St. Ives Grille, as well as a beverage token. Spectators can purchase a ticket to the Founders Tap Room Takeover Party that will be held at the conclusion of the race on the heated patio of St Ives Grille to enjoy appetizers and music.

Angels of Action is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization based in Big Rapids, Michigan, that has been proudly serving children and families in Mecosta and Osceola Counties since 2011. In 2021, Angels provided 45,416 free meals to families in need, in addition to providing clothes, hygiene products, cleaning supplies, and more.

Angels of Action is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the community to help the less fortunate youth of today.

It is opening day for Jersey Mike's Subs in Big Rapids. 

Owners Mac and Mackenzie Ganzak from the Grand Rapids area saw a need in the Big Rapids community and knew this would be a perfect fit. 

"We are former athletes from Davenport University and ate a lot of subs  and love Jersey Mike's and we wanted to bring this restaurant to a college town, Big Rapids had a need and was a perfect fit." Makenzie said.   

One thing customers can expect is friendly, knowledgeable staff that like to have fun. 

"The music is going, people are having a good time, our staff is highly trained and skilled to slice and prep your sandwiches, it's a whole experience when you come here." Makenzie said. "We are really well-known for our cold subs but we also have hot subs as well. 

Makenzie also has a tip for customers. 

"If you get a  cold sub, always get it Mike's way!"

Jersey Mike's Subs is located at 15190 Isabella Dr, Big Rapids, MI 49307

Hours are Monday-Friday 10am-9pm

The Big Rapids Township Supervisor delivered his 'State of the Township' address last night.

Bill Stanek touched on a number of township accomplishments over the last ten years of his tenure including improving roads, the township getting out of over $1-million dollars of financial debt, improving the township sewer system and new construction in the area.

Stanek also discussed current issues being addressed including maintaining township roads, remodling of the township hall building, new fencing around the baseball fields, new dugouts and improvement work around Highbanks Park.

Finally, Stanek spoke about the potential of having advanced battery manufacturer, Gotion Inc. coming to the industrial park giving his support behind the project and quoting Ferris State President Dr. Bill Pink saying “This is an opportunity that most communities would give anything to have.”

To read the full speech CLICK HERE

Big Rapids area residents will soon be able to receive multiple outpatient services in one convenient location at the Corewell Health™, formerly Spectrum Health, Big Rapids Care Center being constructed on 215 th Avenue next to Menards.

The 33,000-square-foot, state-of-the art facility will have central registration and relocate the
Big Rapids Family Medicine practice, outpatient rehabilitation, occupational health and lab from
their current locations and provide space for specialty care services.

The first Corewell Health Urgent Care in the area will also be at the site. Located near the 131
expressway, the facility will provide convenient access to patients.

“We are so excited to open this facility for the community and our team members,” said Andrea
Leslie, president of Corewell Health Big Rapids, Reed City, Greenville and Kelsey Hospitals.
“We have a large group of team members who are busy planning for the summer opening and
construction is going very well.”

Peter Macdonald, MD, a longtime family medicine provider at Big Rapids Family Medicine, is
excited to move into the new facility.

This is a quantum leap in our growth to better serve the Big Rapids area community,” Dr.
Macdonald said. Having multiple services under one roof in a state-of-the-art facility will make
it easier to provide exceptional care.”

The facility, which is scheduled to open in August, will open with Spectrum Health signage that
will transition to Corewell Health at a later date.

Monday…1/2
An officer assisted the Osceola County Sheriff Department with a domestic dispute.

Tuesday …1/3
An officer responded to a call about an attempted larceny of gasoline. The matter is under investigation.

Wednesday …1/4
An officer responded to a call regarding a domestic dispute. Prior to the officer’s arrival those involved left the residence and refused to return to speak with an officer or file a complaint.

An officer responded to a complaint about loud music from a vehicle in an apartment complex parking lot.

Resulting on an arrest of a 37-year-old man on a warrant for child support.

An officer responded to a call regarding some damage done to a car while it was parked at work. After investigation, it was determined that the damaged was done somewhere else.

An officer responded to a call about some damaged signs. After investigation it seems that the damaged was caused by the snow storm.

An officer responded to a call regarding someone being physically abused by their parent. The matter is under investigation.

Thursday …1/5
The School liaison officer responded to a call regarding truancy of a middle school student that hasn’t been at school for almost a month.

An officer took a report regarding an abandon vehicle.

An officers arrested and transported a 36 year old male to the jail on an outstanding warrant for failing to appear in court.

Friday …1/6
The School Liaison Officer responded to a report of a middle school student that made a statement that could be perceived as a threat of violence against the school. After investigation, the Liaison Officer determined there to be no legitimate threat to the school or its occupants by the student.

The School Liaison Officer responded to a report of a high school student being bullied. The officer worked in conjunction with school staff throughout this investigation.

Officers made contact with an individual parked facing the wrong way causing a traffic hazard. The driver became irate with the officer and began yelling and using profanity before spinning tires while pulling away and nearly causing a collision with another car. The officer stopped the car and the driver was issued a citation for careless driving. Charges of Obstructing an Officer are being sought in relation to the matter after the driver refused to provide any identification or cooperate with the officer.

Saturday …1/7
An officer was dispatched to a residence about a possible domestic assault. Upon arrival, the situation escalated resulting on the arrest of a 26-year-old female for Resisting and Obstructing Officers. Case is still under investigation.

An officer assisted EMS at a residence where a 75yr old female needed assistance after falling.
An officer was dispatched to a residence in reference to a 15yr old female was believed to be running away.

It was discovered she had met with her boyfriend who was trespassed from the property. The matter was turned over to her probation officer and Trespassing charges have been requested on the boyfriend.

Sunday …1/8
An officer was dispatched to a residence after the neighbor heard a loud boom. During this investigation, no evidence of a crime was discovered.

Officers received a complaint of possible unlawful sexual conduct between two teens. The matter is under investigation.

A White Cloud man died Friday following a crash in Newaygo County.

It happened on E 40th Street near of S Centerline Road, Everett Township.

When deputies arrived, they found that a pickup truck was traveling eastbound on E 40th Street near S Centerline Road when it crossed over the centerline, went off the road and overturned.

As a result of the crash, the lone occupant and driver, a 66-year-old male from White Cloud, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The crash remands under investigation at the Sheriff’s Office.

Community members can enjoy the increasingly popular game of pickleball while supporting a local cause in Big Rapids and Mecosta County. On Saturday morning, Jan. 21, at the Ferris State University Racquet and Fitness Center, competitive and beginner pickleball players will have opportunities to learn more about the game, then pick up a paddle to play.
 

The Learn and Play Charity Pickleball Event has a registration fee of $25 per person. Registration proceeds benefit WISE, the Women’s Information Service, Inc. of Big Rapids. At check-in, registrants can use cash, credit card or write a check payable to “Ferris State University” to enter the charity event, learn the game, compete and financially support WISE.

The registration deadline is Wednesday, Jan. 18.

The “learn” event runs from 10 a.m. to noon with opportunities for individuals who are 12 years old and older. “Learn” is for beginners to be introduced to the sport. This portion features an instructor teaching the participants. All participants should wear tennis/gym shoes and are encouraged to bring a water bottle. Paddles will be provided on the court.
 

The day also features a doubles tournament in the “play” portion. The event is designed to accommodate all skill levels. Players will indicate their skill level when registering. Players unsure of their playing level may contact Amy Nestle. Players can register with a partner or a partner will be assigned to them. The tournament starts at 10 a.m. at the Racquet and Fitness Center. The ending time depends on the tournament field.
 

Paddles are available for rent. Participants can exchange a paddle for a photo ID at no charge. Medals will be presented to the top three teams per group.
 

The cost is $25 per person, and the registration deadline for the competitive tournament is Wednesday, Jan. 18. All proceeds benefit WISE. As its stated mission, Women’s Information Service, Inc. (WISE) provides crisis intervention and support services to survivors of domestic and sexual violence by empowering individuals, children and families along with our community partners to reclaim their sense of self.

Donations to WISE can be left in a box at the Racquet and Fitness Center front desk through Saturday, Jan. 21. In addition, a WISE donation wish list is available for people to give items such as coffee and cream, canned and boxed foods, hair products, cleaning items, household items and toiletries.

The Ferris Racquet and Fitness Center is located at 14342 Northland Drive in Big Rapids, Michigan.

For more information or to register, you may also contact the Racquet and Fitness Center front desk at (231) 591-2212.

CranHill is providing families with a full day of fun winter activities and a meal at their annual ‘WinterFest’ event.

The long running event will take place from 2pm-6pm on Sunday January 29th and again on Sunday February 19th. The entire event is FREE for the public to attend. WinterFest will take place at CranHill’s 14444 17 Mile rd Rodney, MI location, just 10 minutes east of Big Rapids, MI.

WinterFest attendees will enjoy a full day of fun and engaging activities including pony rides, broomball, ice skating, wagon rides, sledding, tubing, marshmallow roasting, snowshoeing and much more. Guests will also enjoy a free meal. 

Attendees who register digitally at the event will have a chance to win prizes, including a free campground stay in CranHill’s popular Family Campground.

As WinterFest approaches, CranHill staff and volunteers are busy preparing. “We love WinterFest!” says Scott Barger, CranHill president, “it is so exciting to see so many families taking time to explore the outdoors and build memories together...memories that will last a lifetime.” 

Due to the rising popularity of CranHill’s Winterfest events, they will be hosting 2 events in 2023. Barger talked about how Winterfest plays a big role in how CranHill serves the community. “This is what CranHill is all about. We want to transform communities. WinterFest is one way we can help families and communities grow stronger together,” added Barger. 

CranHill is also looking for volunteers to help run their Winterfest events. Anyone interested in serving at the event should contact Abiah Brown, volunteer coordinator at abiah@cranhillranch.com, or call the office at 231-796-7669. Volunteers are provided lunch and dinner. It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and help to provide a great experience for families. Each event takes approximately 80 volunteers.

CranHill has been serving the Great Lakes Region since 1968, all while Transforming Lives into the Image of Christ through summer youth and special needs camps, family friendly camping, guest group and retreat facilities and programming, as well as adventure experiences. To learn more about CranHill, visit www.cranhillranch.com or call 231-796-7669. 

The month of January is recognized as National Radon Action Month to bring about awareness of how to prevent exposure to this dangerous gas. All month long, District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) is giving away free radon test kits to help you determine if radon is present in your home. 

Radon is a naturally occurring, invisible, odorless, tasteless radioactive gas released from rocks, soil, and water. As homes settle, foundations crack, and radon levels change, radon can unknowingly seep inside. If this continues, the long-term effects of breathing in radon could be the development of lung cancer later in life.  

“If radon is present in your home, it has the potential to build up and become harmful,” states Michael Kramer, Environmental Health Director at DHD#10. “Because there are no physical signs: rash, nausea, headache, that will alert people to the presence of radon in their homes, people tend to downplay the health effects and ignore the possibility that danger is lurking.”  

In Michigan, nearly one in four homes is expected to exceed the recommended federal action level and, in some counties, as many as 40-45% of homes could be affected. Because of this, DHD#10 is working to educate the public about the importance of testing their homes and building for radon exposure. Testing should occur in all homes, whether new or old, every two years. The only way to know for sure if a home has a buildup of radon is to test for it. That’s why, January is the perfect time to pick up a free test kit at any one of our ten DHD#10 offices.  

For more information on radon or radon testing, please visit www.epa.gov/radon. You can also call 888-217-3904 to connect with your local DHD#10 Environmental Health office.  

One person was injured following a two vehicle crash in Big Rapids Township Tuesday afternoon.

The Mecosta County Sheriff's Office says it happened on Waldron Way near Perry Avenue.

Deputies determined a 51-year-old  driver from Big Rapids ran a stop sign striking a vehicle driven by a 67-year-old Howard City woman.

A 57-year-old passenger from Howard City was taken to Corewell Health Big Rapids for non-life-threatening injuries.

Just into her second term, Governor Gretchen Whitmer will deliver her fifth State of the State address on January 25th.

The address will be held in the Michigan house chambers in front of a joint session of the state house and senate.

Whitmer says the address gives her an opportunity to talk about the issues that make a real difference in peoples lives and focus on what the state plans to get done this year.

The Big Rapids City Commission approved the annual interest rate for city income taxes during its first meeting of the year Monday night.

According to the resolution commissioners approved the the new annual interest rate of 5.65%. The rate is established by state officials at the Revenue Administrative Bulletin part of the state Treasury Department. Last year's rate was 4.27%.

In other business, Commissioners approved a resolution extending the property listing at 906 N. State Street with Remax together. City Treasurer Carla Staffen presented Commissioners with a quarterly investment report.

New Public Relations/Communications coordinator for Big Rapids Lilly Franklin was also introduced to the commission. Franklin has been on the job for the last week.

A Mt. Pleasant woman was injured in a three vehicle crash in Mecosta County Monday.

The Sheriff's Office says it happened near the intersection of 100th ave and East Royal Rd in Canadian lakes. That's where an investigation revealed a Lansing woman operating a passenger van was turning right onto Royal Rd from 100th Ave. A Mt. Pleasant woman who was operating a Jeep, attempted to pass the turning van improperly on the right shoulder of the road then hit the van as it was turning.

After the Jeep collided with the van, the Jeep then struck a Grand Rapids man operating a truck who was parked at the intersection waiting to turn.

The Mt. Pleasant woman was taken to a hospital in Mount pleasant for non-life threatening injuries. The other two drivers in this incident did not report any injuries. 

The Big Rapids City Commission meets for the first time in 2023 tonight at City Hall.

On the agenda, Commissioners will be presented a quarterly investment report by City Treasurer Carla Staffen.

In general business, Commissioners will be acting on a resolution extending the listing for a property on at 906 N. State Street. Commissioners will also be acting on a couple of resolutions regarding city income taxes. The first is amending the annual Interest rate of city income taxes. The second resolution is adopting poverty guidelines for administration of the poverty exemption from property taxes for 2023.

The meeting begins at 6:30pm.

For full agenda scroll down. 

CITY COMMISSION REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, JANUARY 3, 2023
226 N. MICHIGAN AVENUE
BIG RAPIDS, MI 49307
6:30 P.M.

Information and minutes are available from the City Clerk’s Office, 226 N. Michigan
Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 Phone: 231-592-4020.
AGENDA FOR REGULAR MEETING OF THE CITY COMMISSION

1. CALL TO ORDER.
2. ROLL CALL.
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE.
4. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES. Act on the minutes of regular meeting of December 19,
2022.
6. QUARTERLY INVESTMENT REPORT – Carla Staffen, City Treasurer
7. SPECIAL ORDERS OF THE DAY
a. Introduction of Lilly Franklin, New Public Relations/Communications Coordinator
8. STUDY SESSION
a. Rules of Procedures for 2023.
9. PUBLIC COMMENT NOT RELATED TO ITEMS ON THE AGENDA.
10. PUBLIC HEARINGS – None
11. GENERAL BUSINESS. (Regarding public comment, anyone may speak on an item of
general business. Please rise and wait to be recognized.)
a. Resolution Adopting the 2023 City Commission Meeting Schedule.
b. Resolution Authorizing a Listing Extension with Re/Max Together Realty to Sell
Property Located at 906 N. State Street.
c. Resolution Amending Annual Interest Rate of City Income Taxes.
d. Resolution Adopting Poverty Guidelines for Administration of the Poverty
Exemption from Property Taxes for 2023.
e. Resolution on Mayoral Appointments to Boards and Commissions.

12. WORK SESSION – None
13. UNSCHEDULED BUSINESS – (Commission Concerns/Reports)
14. ADJOURNMENT.

***Agenda items requiring a 4/5 Vote.
The City of Big Rapids will provide necessary reasonable auxiliary aids and services to individuals with
disabilities at a meeting or hearing upon one-week notice to the City. Individuals with disabilities
requiring auxiliary aids or services should contact the City by writing or calling the ADA Coordinator,
Melissa Hauger, 226 N. Michigan Avenue, Big Rapids, MI 49307 (231-592-4007). TRS users may dial 711 for service. The City of Big Rapids is an Equal Opportunity Provider and Employer

For the first time in four decades, the Michigan Democratic Party has the majority in both the state House and Senate, as well as the Governorship.

Democrats emerging from November's midterm election with slim majorities in both chambers -- 56-to-54 in the state House and 20-to-18 in the state Senate.

The party making it clear over the past two months that they intend to repeal the state's "Right to Work" laws as one of their first orders of business.

However, a specific legislative agenda is yet to be set and is likely coming in the next couple of months. The Governor and others were sworn in yesterday.

Michigan's minimum wage is increasing.

With the New Year, the standard wage jumps from $9.87 to $10.10 per-hour.

The tipped employee minimum wage is increasing to $3.84 per-hour.

Wages will continue increasing every year through 2030. This is due to legislation meant to curb a voter initiative passed in 2018 that would have seen the increases happen over a shorter period of time.

2023 sees new laws going into effect in Michigan. One of which is the "Clean Slate" legislation which will streamline the state's criminal expungement process.

It will allow certain criminal convictions, such as a first time drunk driving offense to be erased from someone's past. This new law DOES NOT cover violent crimes or multiple felony convictions of the same crime.

Supporters of the law say it will allow many people to start fresh and get jobs after already serving their sentences.