ROSCOMMON- Mornings With the Manager gatherings have been growing. Ten village/township residents were on hand June 15 for the informational session and coffee and donuts.
Formerly empty buildings are now occupied, and businesses are thriving. Perialas noted that Roscommon has utilized over $150,000 in local grants in the past few years to help with signage, additions, and other improvements. He stated that hundreds of communities apply for grants in Michigan, which is then reduced to a more comprehensive list of fifty or sixty. The state of Michigan has also taken note regarding grants and resulting growth in the village.
Several attendees mentioned how nice it was to see visitors and locals shopping, especially on Saturdays when the Farmer’s Market is open.
Regarding the Farmer’s Market, Ron Alden noted that Depot Drive has been paved and it is cleaner for vendors and easier access for people, especially handicapped shoppers. Tisdale and Ester Court will also be ground down and repaved later this year.
Chase Bank has been purchased, and space is available to be rented. The idea is to have it be a mini mall, perhaps enticing small startup businesses.
While not in the village, the TeePee Motel will be open soon as a short term stay for visitors to the area. Former Roscommon graduate, Steve Ball has been working on the remodel. The restaurant is available for lease, or perhaps another type of business use.
Up North Candles has been interviewed by 9 & 10 News for their production. Tracy Smith of the Chamber will post on Facebook when is to air.
Village Clock repairs…NOT a rumor, will begin mid-July.
The Hiawatha Project is still going forward this year. Due to grant requirements, river impact, 100-year flood plain, working with EGLE, DNR and state issues, patience is key. Similarly, Uncommonly Good would like to re-open soon, but “rumor has it” they are waiting on the contractor, and others involved.
State Senator Mark Huizenga and Representative Ken Borton met with Perialis and Dan Scow regarding local housing shortages and how to alleviate the lack of long term rentals. More in August.
Sequel to Sesquicentennial, perhaps “Rosctober” Fest in October with live bands, food trucks, and more…watch this space!
A PLACE FOR TODAY. TOMORROW. THE FUTURE. public opinion survey is available online at: www.surveymonkey.com/r/VillageofRoscommon, roscommonvillage.com, or by picking up a flyer at the village office and scanning the QR code. The survey is open to anyone and will be used as a guide for the Village of Roscommon Master Plan Update. Do you have ideas or suggestions for improvements to the community? Survey deadline is July 30.
Ideas, plans, or wish lists? Come to the next Mornings With the Manager for updates and to share your ideas for ways to help the village grow and entice visitors to the area.
The next “Mornings With the Manager” will be July 20 at 9:00 a.m.
