Council also received its annual independent audit from Bill Tucker of Maner Costerisan. Tucker reported no evidence of financial mismanagement and presented a clean audit opinion for the city’s financial statements.

The audit showed Albion’s pension system is approximately 83 percent funded, above the statewide average of about 75 percent. The city also maintains a healthy general fund balance while continuing to invest in infrastructure improvements.

Following the presentation, French thanked city staff, saying, “Clean audit. Well done.”

Council approved moving forward with the city’s comprehensive planning partnership with McKenna. A pending Michigan Economic Development Corporation grant is expected to provide $50,000 toward the project, with the city responsible for the remaining cost.

Members also approved a construction change order for ongoing improvements at the city’s wastewater treatment plant. City Treasurer David Clark noted that contingency funds are available for the project and that the city also has authority to borrow additional funds if necessary.

Economic Development Corporation CEO Debbie Kelly addressed audit comments regarding the EDC’s financial position, telling council the organization has developed a debt elimination plan in cooperation with Clark. Kelly said the EDC has reduced expenses by relocating to the Ludington Center, bringing marketing work in-house and utilizing Albion College interns while continuing its economic development efforts.

Council approved appointments to city boards and commissions, including Jamela Vincent to the Albion Arts Commission.

During public comments, residents discussed topics ranging from the proposed library millage and neighborhood security cameras to employee work schedules. Police Chief Aaron Phipps said a future public meeting will be held to discuss the city’s Flock Safety camera system and answer residents’ questions.

City Manager Dr. Sheryl Theriot updated council on several ongoing initiatives, including the upcoming Big Albion planning process, a new AI-assisted city phone system to help callers reach the appropriate department, redevelopment efforts involving the former Austin School property and several upcoming community events.

Before the meeting concluded, City Attorney Cullen Harkness recognized Chief Phipps for his leadership following the recent child endangerment investigation at the Super 9 Motel. Harkness told council that after officers found a six-month-old infant abandoned outside the motel, the chief cared for the child in his own home until Child Protective Services could complete the placement process. The incident later resulted in the condemnation of 18 motel rooms because of unsafe living conditions.

The meeting concluded on a lighter note when French recognized City Clerk Jill Domingo’s birthday, leading council members, staff and audience members in singing “Happy Birthday” before adjournment.