The Munising City Commission met Wednesday, Jan. 15, to discuss a range of issues, including infrastructure updates, downtown development and events that will affect the area in the coming months.
City Manager Devin Olson announced his resignation, prompting the commission to approve the formation of a search committee to identify potential recruitment firms. The committee will help guide the search for Olson’s replacement, and Olson offered his assistance for a seamless transition.
Katherine Reynolds, director of the Downtown Development Authority, presented updates on the “Match on Main” grant program administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corp.
Munising, as a Redevelopment Ready Communities-certified municipality, is eligible for these matching grants, which provide up to $25,000 for downtown businesses to fund projects such as renovations, outdoor expansions and marketing.
Applications opened on Monday, and two businesses will be selected to proceed to the state level.
Reynolds also highlighted the success of the “Rekindle the Spirit” campaign, which has collected over $2.5 million in local receipts since its inception, demonstrating robust local business engagement. Additionally, a new banner art contest themed around the seasons is set to revitalize downtown aesthetics.
The commission approved the Munising Bay Trail Network’s proposal for a new trail — Fir Street Climb. Designed to provide easier access to the top of the hill for riders, the project is important to enhance the area’s non-motorized trail offerings. Commission members emphasized the importance of clear communication with residents to ensure community awareness and support.
The commission approved payments for two ongoing infrastructure projects: Coleman Engineering’s inventory of service line materials, part of a state-funded initiative, and the water tower renovations completed by Viking Industrial Painting, with final retainage payments to follow. Approval was also granted for the purchase of a dump truck through the MiDeal Program.
The upcoming Michigan Ice Fest, taking place Feb. 12-16, and the Polar Plunge fundraiser, scheduled for Saturday, Feb. 15, were approved for temporary street closures near Maple Street. The Polar Plunge is a Special Olympics fundraising event with a $16,000 goal in 2025.
The commission also touched on long-term challenges, including attracting non-tourism-related industries and addressing housing availability to draw young families to the area.
