Blogging from the Shores Council

7:40 p.m.

A standing room only audience has filled St. Clair Shores City Council chambers. Over the past 30 minutes a steady stream of residents speaking in favor of the Senior Activities Center, St. Clair Shores Country Club and skate park before board.

8:15 p.m.

After nearly one hour of resident commentary, Parks and Recreation begins their presentation on the five-year master plan.

8:55 p.m.

 Council passes 2011-2015 parks and rec master plan.

9:14 p.m.

Council considers rezoning of property at 21516 Maple.

9:23 p.m.

Rezoning removed from agenda.

9:35 p.m.

Council considered a quarterly budget amendment that would have drawn $47,000 from the city's fund balance. Motion failed, and Councilman Kip Walby proposed sending it back to administration to consider ways to have the budget amendment brought back to council without using fund balance.

"We can't continue going back to rainy day fund and fund balance," said Walby. "Sooner or later it has got to stop."

Motion to send it back to administration passes 6-1.

9:45 p.m.

City Manager Ben Hughes announces that EPA staff from Chicago will update residents on the PCB removal effort during two meeting Thursday, March 31, from 10 a.m. to noon and 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the library. The following week, crews are expected to take samples from the drainage system.

9:58 p.m.

Councilman Kip Walby stresses the importance of the city "living within its means" and urged administration to come up with "creative solutions" to address the financial issues facing the city.

Councilman Ron Fredrick joins financial discussion and supports efforts by the administration to work on the budget.

Councilman David Rubello states that structural changes are needed to address budget issues. Councilwoman Beverly McFadyen recognizes efforts in creating the Parks and Recreation Master Plan and thanks residents and council for their support as she recuperates.

Councilwoman Candice Rusie apologizes for length of comments at last meeting and thanks Marchiori Catering for donating time, food and location for the parade spaghetti fund-raiser.

Also mentions that volunteers are needed for the parade. To volunteer, call (586) 504-0493.

Councilman Peter Rubino states council's job to find creative ways to address current and future budget issues facing the city. Adds that closing the pool and senior center "is unacceptable" to balance the budget.

Mayor Robert Hison says the city needs to "re-size and re-strategize" as it works with the budget, and the Shores could be a model for shared services through the consolidated dispatch with Eastpointe and Roseville.

10:28 p.m.

Audience participation begins.

11:21

Meeting goes into closed session.