Eric Bartkus Lowell City Council

-Sworn in by City Clerk Sue Ullery to uphold the best interests of the citizens and city to the best of my ability.

-Re-elected Mike DeVore as Mayor and Marty Chambers as Mayor ProTem.

-Approved moving forward with West Michigan Dog Sports and the KCYF Dog Project renting the Reath building at the downtown fairgrounds. This hopefully will become a multi-year lease that will provide training areas for area dog competitions and bring shows/people to Lowell.

-Appointed John Barnett to the planning commission. John and family have lived in Lowell since the summer of 2019 and he is currently a teacher at the West Michigan Aviation Academy. He previously served 28 years in the US Marine Corps and was second in command to 15000 Marines. He has led multi-year military construction projects. His last rank was Chief of Staff for the 2nd Marine Division. A quote from John, “I am interested in the planning commission because I believe I can provide positive input while also remaining an active listener and learner”. Thank you John for your years serving our country and your willingness to serve again in Lowell!

-Beryl Bartkus was appointed to the DDA. Beryl is the owner of Ability Weavers and a board member of the Chamber of Commerce. A quote from Beryl, “I have a heart for the city of Lowell and the residents. Our thriving downtown is fantastic and has huge potential for future growth. I want to be an active participant in making the city the best it can be”. Welcome Beryl!

-There are multiple additional vacancies including the DDA and arbor board. Please check the most recent council minutes.

-Michigan’s EGLE PFAS team will hold a meeting about the Ware Road contamination site at 6pm on Jan. 23, 2024 at City Hall. Lowell has a very good PFAS info page here https://www.lowellmi.gov/how_do_i/get_information_about/ware_rd_landfill.php