Rockford City Hall building will reopen to the public on Monday, June 8 with visitor requirements such as, wearing a mask, if you're able, and maintaining social distancing to reduce the spread of COVID-19. We strongly encourage visitors to continue using online and drop box services when possible to limit contact points. City Hall’s hours remain Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. City Hall COVID-19 Guidelines
Convenience fees may apply to online payments
CITY OF ROCKFORD CITY COUNCIL PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Rockford City Council will conduct a public hearing on Monday, July 13, 2020, at or about 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 7 South Monroe Street, Rockford, Michigan, to solicit input, verbal or in writing, on a proposed amendment to the Promenade Planned Unit Development (PUD) Agreement and to the Amended and Restated Development Agreement, dated November 8, 2010, between the City of Rockford and DJT Properties, LLC and Nature View Properties, LLC., for the property located at 8 E. Bridge Street, in the City of Rockford amending the types of uses that are permitted on the ground floor of the building at that address.
A copy of the application can be found on the City’s website, under Recent News, at www.rockford.mi.us or by contacting the City Clerk to obtain a copy. Written comments can be submitted to the City Clerk at bedfordc@rockford.mi.us or through United States Mail, at 7 S. Monroe Street, Rockford MI 49341, prior to the public hearing.
PUD Amendment Request Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the City Clerk at 866-1537 or the Michigan Relay Center TDD 1-800-649-3777.
Christine M. Bedford City Clerk 616-866-1537
CITY OF ROCKFORD
NOTICE OF A WORK SESSION
VIRTUAL MEETING
JUNE 1, 2020 AT 5:30 P.M.
The Rockford City Council will meet in a virtual Work Session Monday, June 1, 2020, at 5:30 p.m., to continue discussing Council goals and objectives and any other items that may arise.
You are invited to a Zoom webinar.
When: Jun 1, 2020 05:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada)
Topic: June Council Work Session
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87826676650?pwd=eDlrY0p3SGhBeVhISTF0UXJnMXV5QT09
Password: 551557
Or iPhone one-tap:
US: +16465588656,87826676650# or +13017158592,87826676650#
Or Telephone:
Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location):
US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799
Webinar ID: 878 2667 6650
International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kcnsvBVjQo
Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the City Clerk at 866-1537 or the Michigan Relay Center TDD 1-800-649-3777 for accommodations.
Christine Bedford City Clerk 616-866-1537
CITY OF ROCKFORD PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the City of Rockford will conduct a public hearing regarding the single lot assessment roll of unpaid charges on Monday, June 8, 2020, on or about 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 7 South Monroe Street, Rockford, MI. The single lot assessment roll shall be open and available for public inspection seven days prior to the public hearing in the City Clerk's office during normal business hours. Christine M. Bedford City Clerk
CITY OF ROCKFORD CITY COUNCIL SPECIAL MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Rockford City Council will hold a Special Meeting Monday, May 18, 2020, at or about 5:30 p.m., and will be conducted virtually by using Zoom (online and/or by phone) due to health concerns surrounding Coronavirus/COVID-19, under the Governor of Michigan’s Executive Orders 2020-15 and 2020-21. The Rockford City Council will meet to consider the proposed 2020-21 Budget and General Appropriations Act. A copy of the proposed budget and fees are available for public review and inspection during normal business hours in the Office of the City Clerk.
The following information will assist you in joining the Rockford City Council meeting: You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: May 18, 2020 05:30 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Topic: May 18, 2020 Council Meeting
Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85066876678
Webinar ID: 850 6687 6678 Or iPhone one-tap: US: +1-646-558-8656, 85066876678# or +1-301-715-8592, 85066876678# Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799 Webinar ID: 850 6687 6678
International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kb3nMrlO7L
Christine Bedford City Clerk
CITY OF ROCKFORD CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2020
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the meeting of the City Council of the City of Rockford, 7 S. Monroe Street, Rockford, MI 49341, is scheduled for May 11, 2020 starting at 7:00 p.m., and will be conducted virtually by using Zoom (online and/or by phone) due to; health concerns surrounding Coronavirus/COVID-19, under the Governor of Michigan’s Executive Orders 2020-15 and 2020-21. The following information will assist you in joining the Rockford City Council meeting:
Topic: City Council Meeting. Time: May 11, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Join Zoom Meeting Information on attending the meeting online through Zoom is as follows: Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84534761827 Webinar ID: 845 3476 1827
Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device: Please click this URL to join. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84534761827 Description: May City Council Meeting
Or join by phone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 Webinar ID: 845 3476 1827
International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kwV0dtzJg This information will also be posted on the City’s website at www.rockford.mi.us under Recent News or you may contact City Hall to receive the Webinar ID for access.
PUBLIC HEARING NOTICE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Rockford City Council has scheduled a Public Hearing for Monday, May 11, 2020, at approximately 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers of City Hall, 7 S. Monroe Street, Rockford, MI 49341, for the purpose of discussing adoption of the 2020-21 Budget and millage rate. The proposed millage rate is 12.9 mils. Council will also adopt the 2020-21 water and sewer rates. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public inspection on the City’s website and can be found at www.rockford.mi.us and located under Recent News.
THE PROPERTY TAX MILLAGE RATE PROPOSED TO BE LEVIED TO SUPPORT THE PROPOSED BUDGET WILL BE A SUBJECT OF THIS HEARING.
Information on attending the meeting online through Zoom is as follows:
Where: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84534761827
Webinar ID: 845 3476 1827
Join from a PC, Mac, iPad, iPhone or Android device:
Please click this URL to join. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84534761827
Description: May City Council Meeting
Or join by phone:
US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782
International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kwV0dtzJg
This information will also be posted on the City’s website at www.rockford.mi.us under Recent News or you may contact City Hall to receive the Webinar ID for access.
Public comments, either oral or written, are welcome at the Public Hearing and can also be sent to the City via email at bedfordc@rockford.mi.us
Handicapped persons needing assistance or aid should contact the Office of the City Clerk during regular working hours forty-eight hours prior to the meeting.
Christine M. Bedford
City Clerk
7 S Monroe St
Rockford MI 49341
616-866-1537
CITY OF ROCKFORD CITY COUNCIL MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Rockford City Council will hold a Work Session Meeting Monday, May 4, 2020, at or about 5:30 p.m., via Zoom (online and/or by phone) due to health concerns surrounding Coronavirus/COVID-19, under the Governor of Michigan’s Executive Orders 2020-15 and 2020-21.
The virtual meeting will be held to consider the proposed 2020-21 City Budget. A copy of the proposed budget is available for public review on the front page of the City’s website, under Recent News at www.rockford.mi.us or you may contact City Hall to request a copy.
Information on attending the meeting online will be posted on the City’s website at www.rockford.mi.us and is as follows: Please click the link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85270382629 Webinar ID: 852 7038 2629 Or iPhone one-tap: US: +16465588656, 5270382629# or +13126266799, 85270382629#
Or Telephone: Dial (for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 346 248 7799 International numbers available: https://us02web.zoom.us/u/kwV0dtzJg Or you may contact City Hall to receive the meeting ID for access. Persons with special needs, as defined in the Americans with Disabilities Act, should contact the City Clerk at 866-1537 or the Michigan Relay Center TDD 1-800-649-3777 for accommodations. Christine M. Bedford City Clerk 7 S Monroe St Rockford MI 49341 616-866-1537
Water Main Flushing
Water main flushing or hydrant flushing is a controlled procedure that is vital to the general maintenance of the City’s water distribution system. Distribution main pipes convey water to homes, businesses, and hydrants in your neighborhood. The water entering distribution mains is of very high quality; however, water quality can deteriorate in areas of the distribution mains over time. Water main flushing is the process of cleaning the interior of water distribution mains by sending a rapid flow of water through the mains.
Flushing maintains water quality in several ways. For example, flushing removes sediments like iron and manganese. Although iron and manganese do not pose health concerns, they can affect the taste, clarity, and color of the water. Additionally, sediments can shield microorganisms from the disinfecting power of chlorine, contributing to the growth of microorganisms within distribution mains. Flushing helps remove stale water and ensures the presence of fresh water with sufficient dissolved oxygen, disinfectant levels, and an acceptable taste and smell.
During flushing operations in your neighborhood the water is safe to use and consume, however, some short-term discoloration may occur, though uncommon, is possible. You should avoid tap water for household uses at that time. If you experience discoloration or cloudiness, allow your cold water to run for a few minutes at full velocity before use and it should clear up.
Final restoration work will be starting back up at the Wolverine Tannery site beginning 4/20. During this time the White Pine Trail will follow a temporary detour until the trail can be finished with asphalt. The tentative schedule for completion will be 3-4 weeks (weather dependent).
In accordance with the Michigan Executive Order 2020-21, the restoration work falls under necessary work in support of hazardous materials response and cleanup. All workers will follow necessary health and safety guidelines and precautions specific to the current pandemic.
CITY OF ROCKFORD CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 13, 2020
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the meeting of the City Council of the City of Rockford scheduled for April 13, 2020 starting at 7:00 p.m., will be conducted virtually by using Zoom (online and/or by phone) due to; health concerns surrounding Coronavirus/COVID-19, under the Governor of Michigan’s Executive Orders 2020-15 and 2020-21.
The following information will assist you in joining the Rockford City Council meeting:
Topic: City Council Meeting. Time: Apr 13, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) You are invited to a Zoom webinar. When: Apr 13, 2020 07:00 PM Eastern Time (US and Canada) Please Click on the Link below to join the webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84534761827
Or iPhone one-tap : US: +16465588656,,84534761827# or +13126266799,,84534761827#
Or Telephone: Dial(for higher quality, dial a number based on your current location): US: +1 646 558 8656 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 346 248 7799 or +1 669 900 9128 or +1 253 215 8782
Many business owners and employees are confused about whether their organization is considered “essential” – in which case they should remain open – or “non-essential” and therefore must comply with Governor Whitmer’s Stay Home, Stay Safe Executive Order 2020-21.
Visit the Attorney General's website for detailed information on what categories of companies are considered essential or critical to our infastructure and know your rights.
CITY OF ROCKFORD DURING COVID-19
As we all learn to adjust to our Governor’s recent Executive Order, suspending activities that are not necessary to sustain or protect life, I want to share with you how the City of Rockford is working to maintain your essential services. During this time, first and foremost, we are doing all we can to ensure public safety. All steps taken, to adjust the way we provide services, are done to protect the public and the employees. With that said, all essential services, such as police, fire and emergency medical responses will continue as they have. The water will still turn on when you turn the faucet handle. Frankly, most of the services we provide will continue without any noticeable change to the public. The primary change is the fact that all employees who are able to, will work from home.
The most obvious, visible change, is that City Hall is closed. Public Safety Officers, will be in the building and other City Hall employees will access their computers from home. During this time we encourage you to use our website (www.rockford.mi.us) to pay bills, view property and tax information or conduct all city business. We also encourage you to follow our social media updates. We attempt to push the most time sensitive information on the City Facebook page. Most notices on social media are brief and will have links to more detailed information. If you need to speak with someone directly, please try email first, rather than calling. If you simply need to call, your call will be answered by an officer, during regular business hours, and you will be transferred to someone who may assist you.
Another visible change is the number of public service employees you will see working in town. During this time, our public services will be greatly reduced. There are certain activities we deem as critical which will continue, with limited staff. For example, the Water Plant will continue to operate and employees will be in to assure so. Any given day, we will generally only have three employees taking care of other essential services. Due to the reduction in staff, you find that the leaf and yard waste removal and other non-essential services will be greatly delayed.
These really are unprecedented times. I do hope you are taking time to protect yourself and think of others before you venture out. I am thankful to our restaurants in town, who have remained open and are actively enforcing social distancing and providing hand sanitizing prior to any patron interaction. Please support them, but in a safe manner (abiding by their distance guidelines and hand sanitizing).
Perhaps one benefit to this health scare, is the ability to be outside. I see many out walking any given day. Rockford is a beautiful, walkable community, with several scenic trails. I encourage you to take advantage of this time and our beautiful community to get outside and enjoy it.
Finally, remember that we are in this together and we all need to do our part. Please, do not put others at risk, with your actions. But do continue to reach out to your neighbors to ensure they are not in need. This time will pass, and I am looking forward to the sunnier days ahead when can meet downtown at the Rogue River Blues!
Due to the mandated stay-at-home order, the City will be closed for all non-essential services. All essential services (water, sewer, police and fire) will remain in place. If you do need to conduct business, please use our website www.rockford.mi.us or email when possible https://www.rockford.mi.us/Contact/tabid/10625 . City employees will be monitoring email from home. If you have a water or sewer emergency please call 616-866-9557. If you have a police or fire emergency, please call 911.
Previously scheduled yard waste pick-up and other non-essential services will be postponed until a later date. Please continue to monitor the City Facebook page for any updates. Please stay home and stay safe.
A message from Chief Robinson in response to Governor Whitmer's Stay at Home order.
Chief Robinson's Letter
Beginning Tuesday, March 17 at noon, all City of Rockford facilities will be closed to the general public through April 6. During this time, most City services will remain available through the City's website https://www.rockford.mi.us/ by email or by calling 616-866-1537. Residents may also conduct business through the U.S. mail or drop payments in the drop box located outside of City Hall. Essential services provided by our Public Safety Department will continue as normal, and residents should not expect any interruption in these essential services. The City will also postpone other non-emergency work that requires person-to-person contact or entering residents’ homes, including replacing water meters. The City of Rockford will continue to follow advice from health experts at the Kent County Health Department and the State of Michigan. As response to the outbreak of COVID-19 continues, further changes to public services may result. The City of Rockford will continue to inform residents of changes through our website, e-newsletter and Facebook page.
In an effort to assist our local food establishments, the City has assigned several parking spaces adjacent to the downtown restaurants as TAKE OUT PARKING only. Our hope is to make it easier for residents to safely continue to support our downtown during this time.
In an effort to keep everyone safe the Rockford Area Museum will be closed through April 6.
The Rockford Chamber of Commerce will be rescheduling the Rockford Community EXPO. We have not yet determined a date. Our Board of Directors and EXPO Committee will be meeting later today and will be communicating any updates to you as we figure them out. Thank you for your patience as we work through this.
In response to COVID-19, Kent District Library is taking several steps to protect staff and the general public – in particular the high-risk populations they serve and the high-risk populations who work and volunteer for the library.
In the interest of mitigating the impact of the virus – the library is closed to public access. Programs, outreach visits, bookmobile visits and book sales are cancelled until April 6.
In the meantime, the library continues to provide many digital services available to you remotely and for free, such as eBooks and eAudiobooks; streaming TV, movie and music services; and digital subscriptions to newspapers and magazines. These are all available online: - Audiobooks, Movies, Music and more at KDL.org/downloads - Magazines, databases and other online resources at KDL.org/research
In an effort to keep the community healthy and in accordance with the directives of the Governor, the Kent County Health Department, and the CDC, the City of Rockford are taking the following steps effective immediately to help mitigate the spread of COVID-19 and will remain in effect until April 6.
Our Volunteer Services Unit is being suspended and the downtown Welcome Center will be closed until April 6. The public restrooms downtown will remain open.
In the interest of public health, we are asking and encouraging residents to use online services or call City Hall rather than visit in person when possible. There is a secure drop box outside the front door for those who need to make payments with a check. If you would like a receipt, please leave a note and we will mail one to you. No City employees will be traveling to or attending non-essential meetings or training.
Starting Monday, March 16, the Rockford Community Cabin will be closed and all previously scheduled events will be cancelled until April 6.
We apologize for any inconvenience any of these precautions may cause, the health of our residents are our top priority.
The CDC recommendations these steps to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases:
Washing your hands is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of germs from one person to another and throughout the community. Follow these five steps:
If soap and water are not readily available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol. You can tell if the sanitizer contains at least 60 percent alcohol by looking at the product label.
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Click on any street below to see what type of improvements are planned for 2017, 2018 and 2019.
