VASSAR, MI — The City of Vassar is moving forward with plans to construct a new public safety building, following the approval of a bond sale at the latest city council meeting. The $2.5 million bond issuance will help match the $6 million in federal funds allocated to the project, which will house both the police and fire departments. The city is required to contribute 25% of the project costs, amounting to $2 million, with an additional $500,000 set aside as a buffer for potential overruns.

Village Manager Andrew Niedzinski reassured residents that the bond sale would not result in higher taxes, as the city plans to manage the debt within its current budget. “We want to stay within the $8 million total budget, but we’ve allowed for a cushion just in case of any unexpected costs,” Niedzinski said. The city is optimistic about securing a favorable interest rate, with projections hovering around 4%, according to financial advisors.

To facilitate the bond sale, the council hired Detroit-based Miller Canfield as bond counsel for $19,500 and Okemos-based Bendzinski and Co. to oversee the sale for $19,850. Both firms have been long-time partners with Vassar, guiding previous bond sales.

In other council actions, members voted to renew the city’s contract with the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) for maintenance along M-15 and approved the appointment of Kortney Peppler to the Downtown Development Authority.

A decision regarding a $47,200 odor study for Canapa Valley Farms’ marijuana facility was tabled until a full council, including Mayor Mike Damm, can weigh in. The council also greenlit road closures for the Oct. 12 Pumpkin Roll event and finalized a three-year contract with Vassar Area Ambulance Service, which includes incremental fee increases over the agreement’s duration.

For more updates on this and other local stories, stay tuned to the City of Vassar’s official website and community bulletins.