Police drone approved for Imlay City

IMLAY CITY — After originally authorizing the Imlay City Police Department to seek a grant for a drone, the Imlay City Commission has given final approval to purchase the unit using funds from a Federal Emergency Management Agency grant.

Police Chief Charles Rushton told the commission that while there were delays in finalizing the project, the department is ready to move forward. Although the commission previously approved a drone, Rushton said a more advanced model was eventually recommended, which adjusted the overall cost. The commission unanimously approved purchasing the drone for $24,885, which will be fully reimbursed by FEMA.

Rushton also announced that the department worked with the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning to secure funding for a portable radar trailer. The mobile radar unit can be set up on any street in town to assist with speed enforcement. The department was awarded $25,000, which covers the $12,400 cost of the unit; the remaining balance will fund officer overtime for targeted traffic enforcement throughout the city.

Other business:

• Early voting: City Clerk Dawn Sawicki-Franzel updated the commission on upcoming election preparations. Imlay City will once again partner with Imlay Township and Goodland Township to offer early voting at the Imlay Township Hall. Early voting will run daily from Oct. 24 through Nov. 1, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Community center updates: Downtown Development Authority Executive Director Chuck Bennett reported meeting with the Community Center committee to prioritize upcoming projects. The group identified tables and chairs as the primary need for the newly renovated facility. “We are in contact with the Lapeer County Community Foundation regarding our request for assistance in funding to buy 150 chairs, 20 tables and two rolling chair racks,” Bennett said. “The building has been well received, used quite a bit since we opened it up, and is a great asset for our community.”
• Driveway contract awarded: Department of Public Works Supervisor Ed Priehs reported in writing that his crew has prepared the base for a new driveway. The commission awarded the paving contract to Bennett Asphalt for $18,250. Priehs noted he has worked with the company previously and was pleased with its work.
• Trick-or-treat hours: The commission set Halloween trick-or-treat hours for 6-8 p.m. The fire department will blow its whistle at 6 p.m. to mark the start of trick-or-treating and again at 8 p.m. to signal the end.