001Follow meeting the order of the Oxford Downtown Development Authority Board meeting September 15, 2025 at 706. Please rise. Pay respect to the flag. >> I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. How can you do roll call, please? >> Oh jeez. Yes. >> Uh Pete Schultz >> here. >> Rod Charles >> excused. >> Marie Powers >> excused. >> Ashley Ross >> here. >> Jacob Nosia >> here. >> Uh Scott Taylor. >> Uh I would say excused. >> Uh Jay Choy >> here. >> Melissa Cornelis here. Holly Piper here. >> All right. Thank you very much. Any public comment on non-aggenda items? >> Seeing none. Consent agenda. >> I will make a motion
002to receive and and file consent agenda items A, B, C, and D as presented. >> Support. Moved by Ross, supported by Nicoia. All in favor? >> I oppose. Same thing. Financials. Motion to approve financials items A and B uh with build in the amount of $24,63759 for August 2025. >> Second. >> Moved by Nicole, supported by Ross. Any questions, comments? Uh, roll call, please. >> Melissa >> Panelis. Panelis. Yep. Here. Present. >> J Troy. >> Yes. >> Holly Piper. Yes. Jacob Nosia. >> Yes. >> Ashley Ross. >> Yes. >> Pete Schultz. >> Yes. >> Motion carried. Thank you. >> DDA report. The or committee report. >> Do you want? >> Yeah. I'm looking for it. Okay. Most of the discussion centered around the trolley and current status of it, what needs to be looked at.
003Um mentioned at that time also about needing to find a place to store it for the wintertime. Um it was also talked about that ideally would be time to if we're going to sell it to sell it at the end of the season so that we don't have to worry about storing it. So there's um more discussion to follow on that but I believe there was supposed to be something coming for the EV. So that should be farther you know done on the agenda for that part of it then. And then we briefly discussed a quick overview of the uh Verdict Street project and with the gazebo, gave an update on that. And then Kimberly gave us an update on the volunteer program and how great of a job Holly is doing. So thank you
004very much. And that was about it. ED report. >> Missing the report. >> We are. My apologies. That is out. >> So, we actually just Marie and I um we looked into more trolley information. Uh we looked at some used trolley ranging from 30,000 to 178,000 depending on age, the model, how many miles it has. And these are all over the country. So obviously we'll have to tack on some kind of way, you know, get paid to have it transported or not. We have to look at we need an ADA compliant trolley or not. I know the one that we have now it was ADA compliant and then we had to like fix something. We never got it fixed. So it's been functioning as ADA non-compliant. So I don't know if we have if that's
005something we have to look into but depending on what's spoken for longevity obviously pay 180 grand with better material better quality. So, um, we did, um, discuss finalizing whether we're going to continue with Lake Oran DD or not. And if we don't, there's plenty of ideas for just Oxford Township and Village going down as far as the Indian Lake neighborhood right by where Jimmy John's and then Chicken Shack all the way up to Ray Road where my area is. So having um Oxford Lakes subdivision, Water Stony, possibly Indian Lakes, I know it's a little bit hectic about the roads and stuff, but having those two neighborhoods along with the Legacy Center and some of the sp these plazas in between, I think it could be really good. Um some major events that we talked about
006was a tough mutter. I like there's thousands of people at, you know, the quarry right down the street and if we could get them into downtown freshing beer afterwards or a meal like that's an opportunity we're missing out on could be really good for that point. And there's a huge lacrosse tournament for I think middle school and high school at Sen Lake Park. Another big opportunity that we can take advantage of for downtown businesses. >> They don't have those there anymore. >> Oh, it >> No, they moved to a bigger location. Those were insanely well attended. I could figure out where they are, though. Interesting. >> Yes, >> I guess that's what but um timing some of our downtown events would seem more like park events. You know, these are all things that we can
007use to kind of, you know, straight between connect a lot of these events for Oxford as a whole. So, we thought, you know, Murray and I thought that the businesses would still, you know, want to have some kind of transportation or even like having like a date night. So, subdivisions, bringing people into town, just taking a driving off of them really help get people in. So, we have a few ideas. I guess we'll talk more about it, you know, at the next committee meeting about what ideas that we can add to it. But, it seems like we want to go ahead and to replace. >> Was there any discussion around um a recommendation if we should continue our partnership with or stick with Oxford? >> We both Marie and I thought that it would be
008better if we just went on our own >> instead of waiting for them, relying on them kind of not being full all in like we have been. I think it's just more that we program. >> Ashley, >> oh, I was just going to suggest if we could pause an all trolley talk until C. >> Okay. >> And then I have a recommendation whether now or later to move 8D up so that our friend here doesn't have to wait all night while we talk about trolley. >> Okay. >> Thank you for that. He seems to be very intrigued by it. [Music] >> Oxford >> support. >> Do we need a motion for that? >> Yeah, we'll go ahead and take a motion. >> I'll make a motion to um move 8D Brownfield Redevelopment Authority discussion up
009to in front of 8A >> support. It's been moved by Ross, support by Nicicoia, to move 8D up before 8A. Uh, any discussion? All in favor? >> I >> oppose the same thing. All right. Very good. Uh, promo committee. >> Okay. Um, so we had a really good meeting. Um, we were mainly focusing on Scarecrow Festival. Um, it seems to be pretty well coming together and they have pretty much all of it done and going. We are looking for a tractor driver. So, if you know anybody >> and trailer >> and Oh, I thought we had the tractor and trailer. >> We have the driver. We don't have the tractor and trailer, unfortunately. >> Oh, I thought it was backwards. Okay. The trailer that was identified is not suitable for taking passengers. >> So, got
010it. >> That's what happened with that one. >> Um, we do have uh we came up with a new idea about um having a local dance studio put together, let's say, like a thriller dance by video ahead of time um to where we could do like a flash mob style with possibly a drone to catch it. the footage. Um, everyone seemed excited about that. I think we've reached out to an instructor and she was willing to do it. They were already working on Thriller for their studio. >> So, um, it could be fun and we're hoping that it'll bring more people into town for the fun. Um, let's see. for the downtown day. We are promoting it. Um, but we're not going to run anything special because it's right next to Scarecrow Festival and all
011our attention is on that right now. Um, let's see. Decorating Day is September 17th. Uh, do you know the time? Is that 10:30? >> 10:30. Yeah. So, if anybody wants to volunteer, has any volunteers to send, we would appreciate it. And then we added another meeting. So we're going to do September 22nd at 10:00 a.m. at Evergreens. >> Very good. >> Yeah. >> Any questions? >> Thank you. >> Uh design committee report. >> I want Do you want to do >> You want me to do it? >> All right. You're better at it. >> No, it's not. I think primarily what we uh spoke about was the um decorating day. We did an inventory within our um storage area just to make sure that we had enough materials and then made um kind of a
012list of additional things that we needed to do for decorating day. Um so all of that is in motion. Things are being delivered and have been delivered over the last week. So, we're just going to gather together on Wednesday and get it placed instead of doing we're going to do four different like scenes in downtown trying to keep things a little bit more contained for watering purposes. So, we'll have one in Washington Square and then one in the park and then two on the east side in our new um community spaces. We'll have like a little scene that people can see. Okay. Um and I I think Holly, do you want to talk about the >> dactics? So, um, we have, you know, we have a couple different samples that are out there, but I
013don't think any have been chosen as far as which ones are we're going to do or I believe Joe was looking at um materials like where we could order them from and get some information that way. >> Yeah. and potentially also maybe even a better design of what we've already started. We've kind of given, you know, where we've got the backdrop being like the larger building and then smaller, clearer photos up front with the historical information that was provided. So, I mean, they're coming together, but nothing's been like decided. >> Yeah. Any other questions here? Thank you. And the home and history subcommittee did not meet this month. So, moving on to the executive directory report. >> We had a relatively slow month in fact that we had no official events. our events kind of
014closed out right before our last board meeting, but we did do um the Michigan Downtown Association IG takeover day. So, we had an opportunity to highlight Oxford to all members of MPA, which was great. Um we met with some of our partners at Oakland County and throughout the um DDA community to talk about life and what's going on here in Oxford and pick brains and things like that. Um, also I wasn't there this year, but the dragon boat races, they came in second place. So, congratulations to the team. That's very exciting. I know they're ready to go back already to win number one. So, that's very exciting. >> Should have won. >> And that's about all to highlight, I think. >> Um, moving on to unfinished old business. It'll be 8A now, which the Brownfield
015Redevelopment Authority. >> Yeah. All right. >> Thank you. >> Thanks for the opportunity to be here this evening. It's very kind of you to uh to adjust the agenda after sitting through an hour and 15 minutes of public comment on a deer management system for Grand Haven. I kindly The trolley talks are fun. >> Uh, I'm I don't know how much you know about the I've requested for you. So, I'm I'm going to probably give you too much. Uh, and I'll pause. If you have questions, by all means, please raise your hand, stop me, um, raise your hand, whatever you like to do. Um, the project, are you guys familiar with the project at 147? Okay. So, um, as part of that, it's a 32-unit town home project. Uh, and it will be a four
016four unit town homes, two unit town homes. Um, as part of that, uh, we have a brownfield housing tiff request. I don't know if you're familiar with the amendments to act 31. It's under the brownfield act. It can be confusing. Uh, but it is a housing tiff request. As part of that, it's all based on tax increment financing. to see the DVA is familiar with that. It's how you guys are funded, which is why we're here. Uh we are asking for the partnership and your support and allowing pass through to allow the brownfield to take precedent to reimburse the project over a period of of 15 years. Um the the primary uh eligible activities included in this plan uh are site preparation and infrastructure. We do have some potential rent loss and I'll get into
017that a little bit. Um the developer's commitment would be for a term of 15 years uh to maintain 120% or less area median income. Um that is the threshold for the project. Uh Michigan has been very differential to the communities that support these projects. But as part of that in order for the project to benefit from that tax income financing, we're here to ask for your support. Um that pass through would be for determin following that uh the DEA has captured Zoom. DEA continues to get uh what they're getting off the property now. Um but obviously in the current environment I think everybody appreciates everything's more expensive to build finance. Uh so this support is really helping to make the project pencil um and attract lenders to the project to support it. Um total project
018is about 9 and a half million. The tip request before you is about 2.2. Under that potential rent loss um we are utilizing um I guess if you flip to the back you guys got a cop. >> So this is utilizing has posted control rents. Um and in comparison to the project rents at 120%. Um that kind of cost differential qualify for financing gap. Uh they call potential rent loss. Um this program was amended after one was amended 2023. They really didn't start implementing this program until 2024. Uh but it's helped unlock a lot of projects uh that just simply didn't depend because of the current environment we're in. Uh you can see it's kind of highlighted in yellow under the program the project is technically eligible for 1.1. Uh we're only seeking 516,000 balance
019of the eligible activities for all the infrastructure and site preparation. Um so I guess I pause there kind of throwing a lot at you. I'll pause there and see if there are any questions thus far. Um, one question that I've been having going through all of this is it talks about the proposed begin date, but when does this actually go into effect at the completion of all the units or how does this work >> with the uh Yes. So, it obviously there's lease up periods and we'll have to work through that with brownfield authority that will be outlined in the reimbursement agreement. Um, but the the proposal is for a total of seven units under this program. The tiff would be generated from all of the units. uh the entire development as a whole. Uh
020so some of that we'll need to work through with the county brownfield authority. This would be going through the county brownfield authority. Um we would need obviously your support through pass through come back to the village for things proceed. I think it would be October 14th uh at that meeting for the village's consideration. They would need to concur with that in county. Um but with the seven units there will be some fluctuation in the lease up period. Uh and then that would be a full 15year term once those seven units are in place. >> So going on to that, you know, our taxes go out at the end of this year. So at that point we would still capture the full capture at that point. Correct. >> Uh for this year. >> Yeah. >> Correct.
021Yes. Yeah. you you'll continue to get what you're receiving from the property through the duration of this this plan. It's it's foregoing that increment for a period of time. >> Okay. Uh I know we did um I think the vill's attorney has some plan. Um I think he had one question. administrative fee. Uh but absent that I haven't seen anything I know there was a presentation done to the village as well by this was this was it was earlier in the year >> or maybe even late last year. It was a while ago but he he did a pretty in-depth memo. So >> I'll make a motion for the village of Oxford Downtown Development Authority uh to approve and move forward with the open county brownfield redevelopment authority tax increment pass through moved by Ross
022supported by Scholes. Any other questions, comments? And can we have a roll call vote on that please? >> Yes. Uh Pete Schultz, >> yes. >> Uh Ashley Ross, >> yes. >> Jacob Nicoia, >> yes. >> Holly Piper, yes. J Choy, >> yes. >> Melissa Cornelis, yes. >> Good. >> Thank you all very much. >> Right. >> I do have a track, but it's over in Green City and probably >> Thank you. >> All right. Next thing under could be 8B at this point is the sidewalk repairs. So, I think this is just an update of where we're at with the sidewalk repairs. We have everything in motion to, I believe, start on October 16th. Um, originally it was October 6th, but they pushed it out. We're having our precon meeting on the 7th of U.
023But everything is looking good for that um project to move forward with a potential completion date mid to end of November. Any questions? Very good. Then the next one would be the gazebo plan update. >> Yes. So, I apologize for not getting this in the packet. It was sent to me this morning, I think. Um, but we had, so I believe Pete and Jess and Joe all sat down and met with the awarded bidder for the project to go back and look at potential um material changes to the railings and potential cost savings. So, this particular amendment is for that. There were three options that were submitted and option one was the one that our our project manager is recommending. >> And that will save it looks like um >> 3500 grand. >> I think
024it's 12 grand in total. So, it's basically it's it's taking that Fiberian one and replacing those. >> Yeah, it should be option. >> I believe it says option option one is just replacing the post at the brick columns >> and attaching the cotton railing directly to the columns as opposed to having a post. >> Yeah, it's the >> so 3500. >> Okay. So we would go with alternate >> number two for some reason. >> So alternate to if we use it by 3500 is what he's recommending. So, you also need an electric >> I'm not aware that >> we haven't talked on that. >> Sorry, I'm just looking at all your Yeah. >> composite >> that I um I know we met the day we talked to the contractor. He even mentioned fact that, you
025know, it's existing old conduit, everything that's up there. But at this point, it wasn't in the specs to redo that. The only thing in electrical portion of it was to redo the receptacles, make them um GFI receptacles outside plus there's no covers on everything right now. So do the whole thing for weather type and unless there was something that was come down from the building official or something if you knew he had got to do it, but haven't heard a word on that. So >> yeah, I I remember Joe saying something very specifically about that with DPW. So we may want to check with him. I assume it needs more conversation if we're going to pick up that head off. Um, so what are we looking for? Are we looking for uh a decision on
026going for alternate number two today? >> Yes, we're hoping to walk away so we can start getting the project moving. >> Exactly. And we're assuming the alternate one was provided for pricing information at this point or are you also looking for approval of alternate one the GFCI upgrades for the outdoor electrical? >> I think that would be up to the board to decide if they want to approve that pending conversations with Joe. Like I said, I'm not aware of and I was on vacation when the group met with the the bidder, so I don't know what was discussed exactly and he's indicating that wasn't part of what >> I haven't seen any email regarding that. And I don't think justice or anything on it on it either. So, >> so we can option one is
027to hold until next month and not include that as part or we can approve it conversations with Joe. So, we don't have to wait until next month. we can approve the base, you know, the the alternate two base bid allowing them to continue working. If we do have to do the electrical, then we can approve his electrical at next month's meeting. Not a problem because it'll be probably in the middle of construction at that time. >> Yeah, I think if I'm not mistaken, um Joe's allowed to approve under five grand if I'm not mistaken. But I think that's that's a good one to to understand if your DPW is going to be tackling some of that. I think that was sort of the conversation, but I can't I don't want to go on record. >>
028Okay. >> Yeah. You know, we've had highle discussions about repairing the electrical box >> and having some external plugs for us to use without having to open the whole >> box. But I don't know anything further than that. Yeah, that's not part of this. >> Okay. So, motion to approve ad alternate number two um to replace or for the Intex railing system uh deduct of $3500. Um and all well I guess probably need two separate motions for that maybe. Um and okay and then approve alternate number one as well pending conversations uh with the village manager in the amount of 489961. Okay. So you're you're asking to approve the electrical portion if needed >> As needed and then the other portion as far as the railing change. >> Correct. >> And then we'll do a
029separate motion for the actual bid of the rest of the construction. >> Correct. >> Yes. Yes. Sorry. >> All right. And I'll second that. So motion by Pacia to approve the electrical portion. Alternate one for 40 >> 48004961 and alternate two for 3500. >> Any comments, questions? Roll call, please. >> Ashley Ross. Do I have to say both names? >> I don't. >> Yes. >> Okay. Jacob Nosio. >> Yes. >> Holly Piper. Yes. J Choy, >> yes. >> Melissa Conales, >> yes. Pete Schultz, >> yes. >> That part of it. All right. So now we need approval on the base bid and that amount of $43,95011 cents would be modified subtracting 3500 from that. >> Correct. >> All right. Been moved by Ross, second by >> Holly. >> Very good. to approve the So in
030essence now we're looking at 40,400 no 40,000 >> we're doing >> 40450 >> pardon >> 40,450 11 cents >> roll call >> okay J Choy >> yes >> Melissa Konas Yes. >> Holly Piper. Yes. Jacob Nosia. >> Yes. >> Ashley Ross. >> Yes. >> Pete Schultz. >> Yes. >> Did you get a approximate start date from them? I know they they had the calendar and they were looking at scarecrow that almost like they're probably wants to start immediately right after that. Yeah, I think he just wanted to get all the paperwork to them and they said they could keep going. >> Yes. >> Okay. Awesome. >> Very good. Now we're back to the favorite the trolley stat. [Music] >> Uh we said the end of the season. What does that mean? Oh, >> well that's
031a great question, Jacob. I think we should discuss that >> because I actually got that same question from Nota. Apparently, there was and this is information was provided by not today that there was some shenanigans that happened over the weekend and due to that the one of the drivers has refused to drive the trolley. I don't know the details. Again, I was out still this morning, so I not I'm not completely caught up, but it sounds like there were some um intoxicated individuals that were being disrespectful on the trolley and the gentleman who was driving has indicated he does not feel comfortable or safe driving in that type of environment. So, I need to look into that a little bit further and see what happened, what's going on. But um I think when we originally
032discussed it back in April May time frame, we talked about early October. That being said, we do have or we have had a gap of approximately four weeks throughout the summer. So I don't know if we want to add that to the end of October right now. However, they're sourcing trying to find a driver for Saturday. So there is potential that they could come back and say we don't have a driver for Saturdays going forward. So that is also a consideration. >> So if you're saying originally we were going to end it in October, >> correct? I believe it was early to mid October depending on the weather >> and then after that it would be >> special events. special events >> which I think we have two to three that we would have between
033end of November and mid December >> Polar Express be in the final >> correct >> and our contracts of April >> when next year April >> well the contract is noted and >> I think it was all three wasn't it should have been all three >> it is I'm saying so that's like >> yes >> we And just for as an FYI, the contract we signed is through April, >> correct? >> Of next year with all three of us. So when we talk about potential future, that's what where we're at right now. >> In the past, has there been anything? Yeah, because it ran St. Patrick's Day, didn't it? >> Yes. So at the last not meeting, we had some good discussion. The not board agreed that they would honor the contract pending obviously some
034outliers through April. There has been no official vote or anything, but the discussion lends itself that there's a few caveats. One, they don't want really anything to do with alcohol. So, I think we would no longer be able to use the trolley if we move forward for um the club crawl. Even if that's within our current contract period, they will not service events like that. That was a decision made prior to this discussion anyway until what you just said. They seemed fine with everything moving forward, understanding that people that ride the trolley may have, you know, drinks out and are partaking, but we've never had a situation until now. Um, they do not want to continue with this trolley. Period. I think full stop. Again, no vote yet, but it was heavily implied. It doesn't
035meet their standards. It doesn't meet any of our needs. It's very unreliable. So, I think that was it sounds like we have some recommendations coming out of committees about what to do moving forward. Sounds like we have some different routes, but we basically have to figure everything out by April. >> Okay. After going back to my question, Ken, after the Polar Express, normally there is nothing except St. Patrick's Day. >> So, it's dependent on the year. Excuse me. We have had it run in the past for I think we've had like a restaurant week or an ice fest. We did it this past year. I think the biggest um issue was there was no heat and the drivers refused to drive it with no heat, rightfully so. Um not them for that. Um my understanding
036is the heat has been fixed and resolved. So there that should not be an issue at this time. Of course, we still have several months to go, but at this time I think we've been discussing potentially one larger event instead of these smaller onesie twoozies. So there might be the potential of having something in February. Do we have to have the trial? No. For that, but it would be something we would it could it could be at that. >> But the meantime, the contract the contract currently would still get effective. >> It would. Yes. But they're pushing to not the only event we would have as of now would be the St. Pat. And it doesn't even necessarily coming from our board. It's with all the new insurance, all the new stuff with Smart. They're
037just it's it's a not a good area that they want to be in if it's targeted specifically for drinking, right? >> A club girl. >> Good point. >> So, our essence, >> what are the obstacles of hiring our own driver? Um, unless we hired a management company to also do that, then we would be responsible for hiring, background testing, drug testing, scheduling, all of the HR that goes along with that, performance reviews. I don't believe that's something we would want to take on from our staff standpoint. >> Do we have data to review to see how many people come in for the trolley? how many people ride it on a daily basis, what where they're coming from. >> So, yes, we have numbers that they they have like a little clicker. Um, and that was
038shared earlier this year. I can get that to you. Okay. >> Um, the problem is is they not they're not tracking it like this person wrote down to Lake and now they're writing back. So, we don't, you know, we have to make the best guess with those numbers. Is it do you divide it in half and say half of these people are you know full trip? Um unfortunately right now we no longer have access to placeer AI data which is the data that pulls where people are coming from. The last that we have had I think it was April I want to say was the last poll that we got. Um, and we didn't specifically ask, you have to ask for like a specific date or a series of dates that would show that information.
039I I will say too, I would take any data coming from it right now with a grain of salt. Um, I think we've all heard time and time again like, is Trolley running today? Where is it? Mhm. >> And so if there was a reliable, consistent schedule, numbers would look very different than what hey, I can, you know, risk not hop in the trolley tonight, call an Uber like my grandma if I need to to pick me up. So it's I think that there's we've lost a lot of credibility with the program just in its current state. 100%. It is >> agreed. >> It is a huge consideration. I think our credibility I don't see the potential of really rebuilding that in current state. >> Ashley, a question for you. >> Yeah. >> I guess
040it would be not related more than anything. If we were to spend, you know, 130,000, whatever you said to buy a, you know, a newer trolley that's reliable, in good shape, having not drivers again still doesn't get us coverage for like St. Packers day still doesn't get his coverage for pup crawls. Still doesn't get for that kind of stuff. So on one hand our hands are tied for I mean at least a third of our usage feasibly. >> Would that also affect if for the recommendations of going into the neighborhoods? Let's assume that date nights you're going to go into downtown, have dinner, have a couple drinks, whatever people do on date nights. Um, is that a concern from a notice standpoint like that? >> It really didn't seem to be. It seemed to be
041these designated events where the whole point of it is to go and drink. Nobody's saying like they're all very reasonable people, but they they don't want to do anything that's specifically targeted towards drinking event. Um, I guess just to give I think we have a couple decisions. one, we need to decide, you know, it's kind of we either buy a new trolley or we don't do the program. I I think that's step one, like are we willing to invest in it and go even to step two? Step two is where do we go? So, we bought a trolley. Now, what we have to cover the insurance now we have new agreements. Do we do it within the township where we do these neighborhoods? Do we do, you know, special events? keep something with Orian. A
042newer trolley means we could have more stops. Um, I know a handful of us have seen some prototypes specifically for an app that tracks the trolley. Um, and not even I don't even know if it necessarily needs to be an app, but it's live tracking. You could call the trolley. You could scan it when you're in the neighborhood. So, it might not always go into water stone, but if you're at the stop and you scan it, oh, trolley is coming. It's three minutes away. And you can start seeing it. There's a lot of potential to move forward with it, but there's a big investment and I don't think the data that we have reflects what the program could be. And if it does, that's saying something. Um, I think the not board is agreeable to
043move forward. I think I think even Lynn the some of the drivers absolutely love it. We could expand the hours. We just can't do that right now with >> what your shape is in >> the shape it's in. And then we also have to consider we also have to pay. We're paying a lot more now than we were. And I I don't have the numbers, but you could provide that. the the other point or my thought on the whole thing is I mean I don't believe we have I don't know I don't think we have the money in the budget for us to walk out at the beginning of 2026 and spend hundred some thousand dollars to buy a >> a trolley when probably to sell this one we might get 2,000 3,000 or something
044for it. So, I mean, I >> I think if if this were a priority, we would have to really look at the our current portfolio of what we're doing and see if we can pull the money from elsewhere. But I think it would severely restrict us from being able to do >> a lot >> operate the way we're currently operating certainly. And then if you're adding in additional hours for the drivers, um that's an additional cost. If we're not having Blake or support the program, that is a a large cost that we will take on. I know we can get sponsors or we can look for sponsors. Um >> yeah, it would be financially a very very large um program. So no matter what we did still going into 2026 starting to starting you know
045April not going forward we basically at this point would almost all have to agree that we don't have a trolley does that mean that you can't oper this one we have right now can't operate past that date because a motor is not going to drive it >> correct >> or operate it nor do I don't think any of us want to take that risk of everything that goes along with it at that point. So, and I would almost say feasibly, like I said, as of the end of April or whatever your date was, we we no longer have a trolley in essence. And that would be, you know, a very good time to start uh advertising it as of the 1 of January or whatever you wanted to say to say, "Hey, we have trolley
046for sale." That kind of a thing. But then again, trying to get stuff put together that quick to turn around and come up with some alternative would be very rough because again, I'm I'm sure they're not going to take payments. They're they're going to want their full amount. So, you know, maybe we, you know, maybe we get one for 80,000, but still 80,000 isn't just sitting there in the, you know, the budget doing. >> Yeah. I mean, we do have a healthy general fund >> fund balance. >> So, if we felt that this was a large priority and a huge benefit for the DDA, for the village, that would be something to consider. >> I have a question. >> Yes. >> Is there another option other than not for bus drivers and management system? Like,
047is there anybody else out there that does that? there. We looked into a private trolley um company and they're incredibly expensive. I think for one weekend it was about what we were paying a whole month. >> Right. But I mean for like notice supplies bus drivers and the insurance and all that good stuff and the scheduling. Is there another company that >> I'm not aware of any other than that >> would manage? >> Is that you? Yes. that we have. I think we're very lucky that we have partners that are willing to work with us because I don't think in normal circumstances we would even have a note up. >> Okay. Because I I know I've heard of like MTA and like I don't know anything about the busing industry >> like out of their
048um >> area. Yeah. >> Okay. Got it. >> I did just want to make the point if we don't have a decision by April. There's nothing saying we couldn't come back and relaunch trolley 2027 2028 at a different point instead of us going into a deficit pulling from the fund balance. I feel like trolley's always been a great idea, but it's kind of one like it's a chicken and egg. Like we're never caught up with it and it's always a problem where if we had the time to look at grants to look at that kind of stuff, we might be able to fund it in a better way. And when it does come back, it would just be it would be a good start from the get-go. I think at that point with a with
049a good clear well thoughtout business plan going forward as far as exactly okay what is number one what is the purpose of it and what we expect to to get from it you know for that much money what is the benefit and that's running that like that much of it I mean we're hoping there's a huge increase in business downtown and I I mean that would take a whole lot to really make the store to say wow you know we got 10% every single weekend you know so that's you know that kind of background but that kind of thought going into it or whatever or a plan would be, you know, something we would have to consider before we pull a pull out. >> I think you would get I don't know if trolley is
050ever going to be profitable, right? But like I think we could do marketing inside, marketing outside. There's lots of ways to move forward with it with the date nights. You're I I think you would have there's something to this program, but right now to meet all these deadlines, it it's very expensive. and we don't have the numbers. I I also can't say though what would this would look like in a year or two with not so I want to keep in that in mind not that NOTA would be disagreeable. I think they'd be very pleased if we came back with all these things. It's my understanding and I this is not a quote to go anywhere necessarily, but that SMARTT eventually wants like the plan is not that we're going to have all these regionals
051anymore. That it will all be with SMART, which it kind of is already, but things could change very drastically in the next couple years and we'd kind of be back to square one. Okay. And then if we just bought a hundred something thousand trolley, who like Nota likes us. Smart doesn't necessarily know us or care if we want trolley. >> Are we safe for witches night? Like will they come out for that? Cuz with that there's quite a bit of >> Well, there's not. >> No, there isn't. I take I strike that from the record. >> Yes. All very behavior ladies out there that night. >> This is the familyfriendly visual. >> Got it. >> That is what we tell people. Children are welcome. >> Yes. >> Parent discussion. >> Now, sorry if it's been
052maybe brought up before, but in I know the nostalgia and the cuteness of a solid trolley is a great idea. Has it ever been considered to have maybe like a mini bus or shuttle bus decorated like a trolley to get through to grow the program? >> Yes. >> I think that I thought I remember somebody saying that they won't wrap it. They won't wrap it to look like a trolley and having a bus is >> I think that was Scott >> takes away from I mean it's not we're not >> the current program is not intended to be a transportation >> right >> program and so it's it is the vibe of a trolley and so we can't wrap a bus >> to make it look like a trolley and it's just a bus going
053back and forth no one's going to use it. That was kind of the conversation for me. That's pretty much all right. But right, >> so what is the board's pleasure at this point to move on to say we're going to take care of the next events through November or are December, I mean, or what are you doing? >> Well, I think for from my side, I need to thoughts from Lorian on if their interest in continuing to partner. Not to say that we have to move forward with them, but if they're not interested whatsoever, that ends that conversation, right? That option is no longer on the table. So getting that information, I also do need to look in with not to see what happened this past weekend and see how feasible it will be to
054have drivers on the weekends if we have somebody specifically saying I'm not going to do it. Um what I would like to see is we you know just kind of more structure around a plan if we're going to sunset it this portion phase one of trolley out communication so people aren't expecting it to come back in March um having that information from the EV committee maybe a little more structure around how to move forward solid numbers locations to go and then I think grants for me I love the idea of like having having a grant. If we could get a grant to subsidize or even in part of what we're looking to try and do, I think that changes the conversation here. So, >> that was Marie's suggestion on >> Okay. >> What kind of
055I know you just asked, but like what kind of motion are we looking for? Do we want to kick or are we looking for action? I mean, I think we have to have some kind of action plan going forward at this point because again, a speaking to not to find out exactly what happened and, you know, are they are they going to be able to provide drivers to get us through November or excuse me, October, which would be like our regular agreement was carry out, you know, the couple of things like that. Um, and I think at this point, you know, notice basically has that opinion already that, you know, St. package day is off the table no matter what at this point for next year. So I mean that's in essence and I think
056a good hard conversation then with Orian and everybody back and forth and explaining you know and I mean have not you know not come to that meeting between Oxford and Orian the three of them sit down together and laying it out there explaining to them because again you know if you're telling telling us then tell or say like no we can't do it you know because they will not drive for that kind of an event. I think it's very helpful to have Lynn there. She can explain it so much more eloquently than I can in terms of what's going on and all the changes coming up. >> So I can schedule time with like and >> yes >> um I have a question slash potentially a motion eventually if we're going to continue on kind
057of status quo with what we had originally planned. I do think that we should look at the math and re reimburse the sponsors that are going to be missing out on four weeks. >> I don't know how to say gave but there's a way we can >> Yeah, we can map it out for sure. >> And I think we had talked about um I know one in particular, you know, could we do like some sort of, you know, you know in kind. So like would you want because some of them are part of most of our events. So could we do you know okay you didn't get a month the trolley could you you can get a free sponsorship at this event or you could be a sponsor here. Do you think that would be
058reasonable or do you are you indicating like a financial like let's cut and check? I would give them the option of going and tell them what the value is of their sponsorship because if I'm a business owner, you promised me however many weeks and I know I've been shorted four weeks. I'm going to have a very different answer. >> I think luckily the two businesses are pretty easy going. Yeah. >> From Orian's standpoint, as far as their money is coming forward, as far as sponsors or anything, we don't have anything directly from a sponsor down. Do we? >> No. >> Okay. >> What about a potentially photo op during soup and suite? >> I mean, yeah, we can definitely work with them >> like the trolley sort of thing that I mean, that could be
059utilized as a if it's not driving, >> it could be something where people for the nostalgia, it could be a photo op. and in kind. Well, not in kind, they already sponsored, but then it could be them tagged all over the place for the trolley like parked in the square. Yeah, >> you could do Yeah. And like Christmas photos. >> Have have Christmas music playing in there. Have you know >> little >> It could It could be used as Yeah. I mean, you know, think about like the truck events and things like that where people walk through a fire truck. Woo! You know, same thing with a trolley. You know, the whole student is in it. I mean, it goes with like the Christmas theme and such. >> So, one other thing really quickly because
060I know we're about to move on, but for those that have maybe have not heard, another thing. Um, there was a police report filed um last week because there was evidence of a small fire inside of the trolley, but that a person intentionally built a small fire to keep warm in the back of the trolley. >> Uhhuh. So, we are relocating it. It's no longer safe for it or safe for us to have it sitting in the lot that it's currently sitting in. So, I've worked with Joe. He's been agreeable to have it moved to this lot um temporarily because there is an oil leak on the trolley as well. Um so, the oil he doesn't want the oil kind of ruining the new parking lot. Again, rightfully so. So, Um, we're still looking for
061a landing spot. >> Okay, here we go. >> Um, I will make a motion for us to continue through the current contract as previously stated um, St. Patrick's Day event. >> First motion >> support. Okay. >> Support moved by Ross, supported by >> Canelis. >> Again, that's to keep it running to honor the current contract that we have through April without St. Patrick's Day. >> Yes. >> Any questions? That's not financial, is it? No. All in favor? >> Opposed? Same thing. >> All right. >> I will make another motion. This would be to reimburse our current trolley sponsors four weeks or equivalent through sponsorships and other um opportunities. >> Support by Ross support to reimburse or honor or do whatever with our current sponsors to make them make them whole. Any questions? All in favor?
062>> I opposed. Same thing. Okay. I will make one more motion. I will make a motion to sunset the current trolley program as we search for something different. But that April would be the end of this current program as presented. >> Support been moved by Ross, supported by Nicaria to sunset it as of at the end of the current contract, whatever that date is in April. >> All right. Any questions? Uh, I would like to say something. I've heard quite a bit. Um, a lot of what I've heard concerns me, you know, this whole discussion. I think obviously it's bringing a lot to the community um, in terms of nostalgia and stuff like that, but I think also, man, the risk and everything that we're a small fighter, that's that's crazy. Um, I think it
063needs to be better thought out and I think we need to come back with if we've lost credibility and people don't know when it's running, I think we need to come back with a better plan and then also um it's a depreciating asset at the end of the day, right? And so we're always going to be shelling money out for it. So we need to be looking out over top of that instead of kind of in like this reactionary um position that we're in right now. Um, so I think, you know, whatever that looks like, I think it's it's valuable for the businesses, but I think that we need to we need to readjust, you know, a little bit here at all possible. >> Good plan going forward. >> So, we need to vote on
064that motion. So, so all in favor, >> I >> post same thing. All right. >> Moving on to nine. New business resolution for parka. Have that in front of us. What this does is basically having them reconsider or amending our original grant request because we are not able to provide the crosswalks which were part of the original request. And so that's what this request is to go down to before the commissioners. >> Yes. And so this packet that this is the reason why it wasn't included in our packet is because it has not been formally approved at the open level. So I didn't want it to be part of the public um information just yet. Um but that just would be what we were what the new agreement looks like and it kind of walks
065through the changes of what we originally submitted back in 204 and what were what has been changed. Um, we had a call last week with all of the communities that have received this grant. Excuse me. We are not the only one that's in this boat. A lot of communities are experiencing the same increase in costs. Excuse me. Um, so there's a lot of communities that have to do this. I will make a motion to approve the resolution of the Oxford. Oh my gosh. Resolution approval to the ARPA projects as presented. >> Been moved by Ross supported by Nicaria on the agreement for the MSOC placemaking and public space program between Oakland County and the Oxford DDA. Any questions or thoughts? Roll call on this, please. >> Roll call. Jay Choy, >> yes. >> Melissa Cornell,
066>> yes. >> Pete Schulz, >> yes. >> Ashley Ross, >> yes. >> Jacob Nosia, >> yes. >> And Holly Piper, yes. and we'll wait for she calls back unless Jess has the information on the committee member recommendation. >> Yes, it has two people um one of them is Jake O'Brien who's the husband of my war um for the EV. >> Yes. So, we have him in that and Sam, another one that recommended um I tried to get in contact with him. He hasn't answered me back. So, I don't know if there's a process that has to come and then I think the chair presents it or makes recommendation. We have Jake. >> Jay, question for you. Did one of these guys attend the evening committee already? >> Jake did. Jake this past week. J does
067seem pretty interested in >> Yeah, seems like he has some kind of experience with >> I don't know some kind of downtown experience. I don't know if it was Texas or what >> the own of business down in Texas and they've both been very involved since they got here. >> Yeah, >> I think he'd be they'd both be an asset to any committee. >> Yeah, but great personality. I thought he was a good addition. I don't know who Sam is, but J pretty big history buff, too. So, >> I'll make a motion to um appoint Jake O'Brien to the EV committee pending all appropriate work is turned in. Okay. >> Then moved by Ross, supported by Jay, that Jake be appointed to the EV committee. All in favor? >> I post. Same thing. And you
068guys can get his paperwork followed up and hook me up with him so I can talk to him then. >> All right. Very good. Oh yeah, we have. >> All right, next uh new business would be 9C the skylight. >> We can actually skip that one because I did not receive a quote as >> I was supposed to. >> Okay, >> I do have a question on that. Um, what are you in terms of a quote? What are you looking for? Are you looking for a m more of a maintenance contract or just a repair? >> So, the way that it was explained to me is the lights that were put off are not intended to be exterior lights, >> permanent lights. Yeah, >> permanent lights. And that the lifespan of those lights were only
069guaranteed for two years. So, um, we're at that point where we need to look at another solution. And um Excel Brothers has another solution for us, but it is incredibly costly. >> Excellent. >> Um a question to ask when you're talking to them before the quote comes. Will they be using if we move forward with it the same clips that attached the lights currently? No. Okay. So, that is part of the problem. >> I know. I know. Nothing's easy, right? And so the question that um we had talked through is the current lights go out now when there's an option for them to go down. We have so I will tell you this we had a discussion previously they can't go down. It will not um the museum building. >> Oh okay. So, I mean
070I where they are and the materials that they use and then um sending them just you be a part of the conversation. >> Yeah, please. >> Yeah, absolutely. Um he was supposed to put quotes together for all of the options and then I figured once we had a conversation he could come back and talk and answer questions. Um because he did ask if we wanted to have them just at the tops of the buildings or if we wanted to go down in a vertical manner as well and I said we did. Um because I remember the conversation from both boards that I think we originally started. >> We've already voted on it. >> Yeah. [Music] Fair. So um yeah, we'll plan to to do that next month, but I will engage you in those. I
071just so how it how it was attached was very specific so that it could be removed from the museum and so we'll have to have those conversations and if they can't do it >> there need to be more conversations and more expense to that's the things the expense around the um what do you call things that attach the library >> yes thank you >> in speaking with him did he throw a ballpark number out there kind of like I mean I'm not gonna hold you to it on that. >> This was months ago when we were first talking because there were so many issues last year especially in the northeast quad. the water was getting in the breakers and popping the breaker like every other day and that was because the the wires are not
072intended to be out exterior light out any >> um so we were having conversations then and at that point it was 80 to85,000 for a full replacement >> buying a trolley [Laughter] Yeah, >> now a question. Are they currently on a photo cell or are they on a timer? >> They are on a timer. >> Okay. Because I noticed now earlier in the morning, like six o'clock in the morning, they're off already and it's like it's dark out here. >> so we usually switch it twice a year right around when we do the time change. >> Okay. Um, but we can always we can request it to change it at any point. Some of the timers are harder to get to um and require like getting up on a roof or something, but some of
073them are a little easier. >> Okay. Um, as long as we're talking lights, then the next item, the Christmas lights. >> Yes. So, we met with Mickey to talk through the Christmas lights. The proposal is the last page in your packet. Um there is a new feature this year then that we discussed about because we have fewer trees in the park which would then have fewer lights than what we have historically. We came up with an idea to have like a photo opportunity with lights would be like a screen different color lights. We can change the colors have them move around and people can take pictures of those. That is not a mandatory feature but it would just be something extra to add. So financially we're looking right around the same amount that we spent
074last year minus this um additional piece of 1265. There was an increase in costs for the the lights on the poles and the installation just because they're spending more time and they do have to um put new lights on the poles because the ones that we've had historically haven't been weathered. I'm assuming that they're not >> putting them on the uh flag pole this year. The lights on the flag pole. >> No, >> I think I was there like permanently for a little while and then they were removed. >> Last question. lighted photo area says it comes with remotes to control lights. So we would be responsible for turning on and off every day. >> I think that would just be so we could change the lights. We would not have to control. We could
075have a timer to turn them on and off. But if we wanted to change the >> color or whatever and the color. Yeah. >> I I do have a question on that. the boxwoods that we did. Is that something we could do where we put lights inside those instead of paying for a screen or are you just thinking just to get more light? >> So, yes, we could do that ourselves in Washington Square. Absolutely. We did discuss the idea of using the boxwoods as the background for these lights. His idea was requiring addition some um reconstruction of the boxwood planters. And I said that's not an option after everything that we've been through with those, we're not gonna take them apart. But um the other consideration was once we move those planters, if we were
076to do that and move those into the park with the lights, um they're not going anywhere for the remainder of the season because they start to sink into the ground. >> Um and do we want to have that there all winter? The answer is yes. So yes, we do not have to do that piece. That's not piece. >> Can I ask a question? How does this uh how does this compared to last last year's price? Is it a little bit more a lot more? >> So um the Christmas the light poles is $465 more than last year. The bows is $130 more than last year. The Christmas tree itself is the same amount as last year. The difference is we had um they're going to be wrapping the trunk of the tree, the larger tree
077on the north side of the park just to add some sparkle on that side when in the past they've hung these like spritzer things to the trees that were cut down. So, you know, it's the 465 plus the 130 and then plus the 1265. That's 1455. >> I'll make a motion to approve the entire holiday package um in the amount of $10,291. >> A second or support. >> Okay. It's been moved by us to approve the entire package of $10,291 and supported by Quicker. Any questions? Roll call, please. >> Melissa Clellis, >> yes. >> Jay Choy, >> yes. >> Holly Piper, yes. Jacob Nosia, >> yes. >> Ashley Ross, >> yes. >> Pete Schultz, >> yes. Um 9E the Detroit Institute of Arts Inside Out. >> Yes. So this is offer um on the record
078off the record. Uh we have been selected community for the 2026 Inside Out program which is very exciting. So we've been um allowed 10 pieces that will be be um installed in our community in May. We are not able to communicate formally at this time because the 2025 program is still going on. So, they need to close that program out and make sure all all applicants have been communicated to before we can officially um tell our community um formally. So, Joseph, you didn't hear any of those. Um, but we have a meeting scheduled in mid October where they're going to come to this uh the city and take a look at our community and help us decide where the pieces should go and talk about the vibe of the pieces. So, if you have any
079recommendations on where they should go or any specific pieces of art you would like to see, we can definitely pass it along. >> A question on them. How are they display or a fixed or >> Yes. So, they can be either attached to the building or they can be on a stand. So, if they're on a stand, it's typically a smaller piece of art. If it's larger, it can be attached to a building. And they were talking about how they it was very high level, but they do it in the ground so that when I don't know if that's the right term, but um so that once they're gone, they can fill it and it would look like it was never there. I will tell you the DA can color match like no other subsc.
080>> Yes. So according to our bylaws, we say that we are having an annual meeting every September. I don't know if this is that annual meeting or if we want to have another annual meeting or if we want to push it into October. I don't know what the requirements are to post it. I don't think we have anything legally that we have to post. I don't know what you've done in the past for >> the >> I don't recall anything >> special >> separately. I mean it was part of the posted agenda to begin with everything this explanation part of it. >> Okay. So I mean if we hold it nove in October when everybody's aware of it and then put it as far as it should we need like a super quorum or anything
081should >> everybody >> is that everybody >> because we do need for legal purposes we have to have twoformational meetings per calendar year and we did one earlier this year I want to say January February I think it was January because I wanted to get our ait And then I had requested to do one at the village council meeting in either October or November. So that'll suffice that requirement. Um but yeah, we can just get that on the October. So I don't know if you need to make a motion that we're going to postpone it until October so that we're following your highs. >> So moved uh support. So, it's been moved by Ross, supported by Schulz, to postpone it until the annual meeting of the Oxford DDA until our October meeting. >> Any questions?
082All in favor? >> Oppos? Same thing. >> October 9G is a redevelopment liquor license. >> Yes. So, after additional information, we have any action at this time, but just as a heads up, Vinnie's brunch is going to be going through the application process for a DDA redevelopment liquor license. And so I've been talking with Joe about that. He's very aware of it. I'm working with um Vinnie's attorney. Um so we are all moving forward in that direction. Um but just as a heads up, >> once we get closer, I mean, do we have to do a motion here? I I assume that you would want to approve it before it goes to councel formally. >> Okay. >> Sure. >> Do you want to have the attorney come and speak on it or >> I personally
083I think forformational reasons I would want to hear their side of it or what you know why they want it, what are they going to do, that kind of a thing. >> Okay. rather than just saying we want to look at it, you know. >> Okay. >> I think everybody would feel comfortable knowing what it's going to be for and how it's, you know, what they're proposing to do. >> Okay. So, where we're at is they're pushing hard to move forward now. Joe, I believe, is interested in not moving forward at this time. He wants to get closer to when the business opens. So, I think there's a disconnect on timing. So, I know Joe's out this week. Once he gets hash, I'm going to schedule time with him and this attorney and myself to
084kind of talk through proceeding. >> I mean, I'm assuming they would want to know it upfront because if they have to put some kind of a bar or, you know, that kind of, you know, >> stuff or infrastructure inside of there specifically for that, they want to know that at the design phase. So, >> okay. and then 9H MSOC towns. >> Yep. So, I said this is just a heads up more of a conversation. Um, John Bry, who is like the head of Main Street Oakland County, um, wants to visit communities and kind of touch base, see how things are going, figure what's working, what's not, what can he help with. Um, so I sent out an email to provide any dates that just absolutely don't work for you in the next month and then
085I will try and schedule something so that a good selection of you a mini forum can be there. >> All right, very good. Um, 10 items removed from the consent agenda. There were none board member comments. I'll start with Holly. Oh, I was going to say um the takeover you girls did um the Main Street takeover. It was a lot of fun seeing the different videos and posts and stuff that you guys did. I thought you did a nice job. >> Thank you. >> Yeah. >> Very good. >> That was all job. >> Yes. Great job with that ladies and I'm very excited about Scarecrow Fest and all the fun things coming up. >> Oh my gosh. Yes. >> Very good. Jacob. >> Uh, good to see our Lions get back on here and score
086some points. Uh, and excited about scared throw fest. So, go lines. >> Ashley. >> No comments. >> Um, it's kind of an exciting time for the next month. We got quite a bit going on with the scarecrow and with the witches night, a family night >> family night >> coming up. Um, and again, they're both both draws to downtown. I mean, there's people that come from all over for for both days. I mean, a lot of out of town people and everything. So, it's exciting to get him in town and everything and show them around and everything. So, looking forward to to that and with the holidays coming forward. So, Jess and Kimberly, thank you. You guys are doing a great job. Appreciate it. So, keep up the good work. And at that point, any
087extended public comment? Seeing none, extended didn't come. And motion to adjourn. That's right. >> B26. All in favor? Egg apple soup.