The most pressing topic at the meeting was the proposed parking ordinance. The council’s discussion on this ordinance was a response to community concerns about parking in residential areas. The ordinance aims to introduce a residential on-street parking program, which some residents believe is overdue. During the public comment period, several citizens expressed their support for the initiative, citing similar successful programs in other towns. Questions were raised about the types of permits to be issued, such as whether they would be stickers or hangers, and how the number of permits would be determined based on the number of bedrooms in a home. Concerns were also voiced about the ordinance’s potential impact on areas like Woodstone, where parking around tight curves has been problematic.

The council assured residents that the ordinance would be fair and context-neutral, with plans for public workshops to ensure community engagement. While no immediate adoption was planned, the council outlined a timeline for public input and discussion, with a proposed adoption date of February 10, followed by further discussions on March 10. This approach was intended to provide ample opportunity for resident feedback and to enhance transparency in the decision-making process.

Another topic of discussion was the need for affordable housing for veterans. This issue has been a priority for some council members, though viable proposals from developers have been lacking. During the meeting, the council discussed outreach to organizations like Tunnels to Towers, which assists veterans, and acknowledged the challenges faced in securing support for Howell. A council member recounted experiences with a local veteran’s home, emphasizing the importance of community support for veterans and the emotional impact of initiatives to assist them. The council expressed a willingness to continue discussions with organizations to explore available resources for veteran housing.

Contract negotiations with the Howell First Aid Squad were also addressed, with a positive report on the conclusion of discussions that had been ongoing for several years. The council expressed gratitude toward the squad for their dedication and commitment to the community.

The meeting also covered public concerns regarding safety and the sharing of personal information during public comments. A resident questioned the policy requiring speakers to state their name and address before commenting, expressing discomfort with this practice. The council responded by affirming that residents have the right to refrain from disclosing personal information while still being able to participate in the discussion.

In addition to these discussions, the council addressed ongoing litigation involving the zoning board. While the town was dismissed from a lawsuit related to a cemetery project, the zoning board remains involved due to additional claims. The council’s strategy focuses on seeking dismissal when possible, though challenges persist.

The council also introduced two ordinances during the meeting. The first aimed to clarify and amend penalty provisions of the township code, while the second proposed the residential on-street permit parking program. Some council members abstained from voting on these ordinances, citing a need for further discussion in workshop sessions. Both ordinances were introduced and are scheduled for adoption on March 10.