Wakefield council hears presentation from Charter representative

WAKEFIELD -– The Wakefield City Council heard a presentation from the Charter Communications Manager of Government Affairs Don Gladwell Monday evening.

At a previous meeting, the council approved pole rental rate increases for Charter and Ameritech.

Gladwell suggested an amendment to the agreement, which confirmed the owner and Charter agree to an increase in rates, and the amendment was approved by the council.

Gladwell was present to address questions on Charter services. He also announced, "We are getting rid of analog. It's a technology that has outlived its usefulness. We'll be all digital."

For the new changes to take place, all customers must purchase a Charter digital box, he added.

The council approved a grant agreement with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources following the city's Trust Fund application.

It also approved a $2,000 donation to the Wakefield Fourth of July Committee and the Wakefield Fireworks Committee, which will be charged to the city's general fund.

The council approved attendance of city representatives to the Michigan Municipal League Region 7 meeting in St. Ignace on June 12-13.

"It has always been a good meeting," said city manager John Siira.

It also approved the Wakefield-Marensico graduating class's request for use of the Sunday Lake pavilion for an Operation Graduation 5-kilometer and 10K "Run for Fun" fundraiser May 17.

The council heard an update on the city's attempt to obtain a release from Service Master Speciality Restoration Services and Mike Cornelius.

The city's payments have been accepted and both releases have been executed so the city can close its file on the issue, said Siira.

The next meeting will be May 12.