The council unanimously approved a motion to engage the Jackson Public Arts Commission with a redesign of the official City Seal. Some community members have expressed concern about the seal referencing a controversial statue of President Andrew Jackson in Washington, D.C. The council expressed the need for a seal that is more specific to the City of Jackson, Michigan.
The council unanimously approved a resolution to create the MLK Corridor Improvement Authority. The improvement authority will use tax dollars to improve business opportunities and quality of life along the S. MLK Drive corridor. The next step is a public hearing for the August meeting before final approval is considered.
The council approved an ordinance to prohibit the use of tobacco products, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes, in public parks and cemeteries. A person who violates the ordinance will first be asked to stop using the tobacco products, the second step is asking the person to the leave area if they don’t stop using the products. If the person does not comply with the first two attempts, they could receive a civil infraction and subject to fines.
The council voted to put two charter amendments before voters in the Nov. election. They involve allowing special elections to fill City Council vacancies, and changing the requirements for how nominating petitions for elective office are submitted.
The council approved special assessments for new street lighting on two City streets. New lighting will be installed along Adrian/Merriman streets from Morrell Street to the MLK Trail and Morrell Street from Orchard Place to Cooper Street.
The council approved the first reading of an ordinance that states special assessments should not be approved without six of seven City Council members voting yes, if more than 50 percent of the residents who are being assessed object in writing. Another vote is needed to make the ordinance official.
The council approved a resolution that authorizes the City Manager to waive individual fees of up to $500 for City-related fees during the City’s COVID-19 State of Emergency. This is intended to help out local businesses and residents to reduce economic strains during the emergency.
The meterless parking system in the downtown area was extended for another year.
