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HARBOR SPRINGS

We Love Harbor Springs

3 days ago

When community members take the time to research issues, gather information, and reach out in good faith, there is a shared expectation that these efforts are acknowledged, tracked, and thoughtfully addressed. We hope that concerns raised are placed into a clear process—reviewed, considered as action items where appropriate, and ultimately brought to resolution—so that the community can see progress and have confidence in the system.

Citizen Comment – Ashley O’Reilly
(Submitted for April 20, 2026 City Council Meeting)

Dear Members of the City Council,
I am writing to raise concerns regarding sidewalk conditions in our community and to request clarity on how funds designated for their repair and replacement are being used.

While the City is currently in a period of administrative transition and will soon welcome a new City Manager, it is important to remember that City Council retains responsibility for carrying out the will of the community. Policies, ordinances, and funding commitments adopted by Council remain in effect regardless of staffing changes. It is the responsibility of the City Manager to administer those directives in accordance with the law—specifically, in this case, the 2017 Street Millage and Act 51 (MDOT distributions).

In August 2019, Council discussions indicated that approximately 10% of Act 51 funds and 10% of the Street and Sidewalk Millage would be allocated annually toward sidewalk improvements. At that time, these allocations were presented as sufficient to meet estimated repair needs, with the expectation that this level of funding would continue throughout the life of the millage (through 2037). Additionally, Council approved assuming full financial responsibility for sidewalk replacement.

These actions represented a clear commitment to residents.
However, the current condition of sidewalks across the city raises serious concerns. In my neighborhood—specifically along Spring Street from the High School to the Bluff—sidewalks have deteriorated significantly. In some areas, they are uneven, broken, or reduced to rubble, creating safety hazards for pedestrians. This is not an isolated issue; similar conditions can be observed in multiple parts of the city.

Given the funding commitments that were outlined, this visible decline is difficult to reconcile.
As a taxpayer contributing through both Act 51 (state funding) and a dedicated local millage, I believe it is reasonable to ask:
• Have the funding allocations described in 2019 been consistently applied?
• Has annual spending on sidewalks met or exceeded anticipated levels?
• If so, how does the City account for the current condition of sidewalks?
• If not, what changes have been made to those commitments?

This is not a question of staff capacity, but of transparency, accountability, and adherence to the policies and funding priorities established by Council. Residents supported the millage with the understanding that it would meaningfully improve infrastructure, including sidewalks. When that infrastructure appears to be failing, it is appropriate for the community to seek answers.

I respectfully ask Council to provide clear information on this matter and, if necessary, to review current funding allocations to ensure that pedestrian safety and infrastructure maintenance are being adequately addressed—across the entire city, including within the TIF catchment area, which also carries responsibility for infrastructure (see Emmet County TIF contribution stipulations).

Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Ashley O’Reilly ... See MoreSee Less