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Final Meeting of the 40th City Council

This particular meeting was split into two. At 7:00, the 40th Council held its final meeting, with two proclamations and a swearing-in of all re-elected and new Councilmembers. Councilmember Baker read a proclamation recognizing election inspectors for their critical role in maintaining the efficiency, accuracy, and success of the recent election. Mayor Dean read a proclamation thanking and recognizing Councilmember Vilani for her dedicated service to our community.

First Meeting of the 41st City Council

After Mayor Dean and Councilmembers Baker, Hennen, and Elrod received their oaths of office, a brief recess was held before the 41st Council convened to continue the meeting.

Finance and Audit Updates

Council received several updates from the Finance department, including the annual audit report, the budget-to-actual report for the quarter ended September 30, the investment report for the quarter ended September 30, and a budget amendment. The reports and amendments were accepted, and the audit presentation included information from both our Director of Finance and the third-party auditors.

Overall, the audit was favorable, confirming that the City is in good financial standing. One finding related to our internal controls was noted to be corrected for the future, involving a bank statement that was mistakenly left undated.

Community Development Block Grant Application

A public hearing was held regarding the City’s application for the 2026 Community Development Block Grant. The application, for $97,000, was signed by Mayor Dean and City Manager VanVleck to be submitted to Oakland County. If we receive this grant money, the majority of it will be used for projects that remove architectural barriers from our public facilities.   

Dispatch Union Extension Approved

Council voted to approve a contract extension (Letter of Understanding) with the Berkley Police Service Aide Association/Michigan Association of Police. This extension aligns the Dispatch union’s contract timeline with the rest of the collective bargaining agreements that were previously approved for staff members who belong to unions. 

Mayor Pro Tem Appointment and Closed Session

Ross Gavin was appointed as Mayor Pro Tem again from November 2025 through November 2027. At the end of the meeting, Council convened in a closed session to consider attorney/client privileged communication in accordance with the Open Meeting Act, MCL 15.268(1)(h).

Want to Learn More?

• Watch the meeting recording

• Review the agenda and minutes

• Join us at our next regular meeting on December 1 at 7 PM - we'd love to see you there!

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