GLADSTONE — After discussing different ways to celebrate the 4th of July, or even whether to allow any events, the Gladstone City Commission approved a watered-down version of Fourth activities to be held in Van Cleve Park — a band by the beach house from 7 to 9 p.m., and four food vendors spread throughout the park area. In a previous meeting, the fireworks display was approved and the parade was canceled.

The city decided against a beer tent, in fear of people gathering and not complying with the governor’s executive orders. The Firecracker Run will be held by the Kiwanis Club, with less than 500 people involved.

Parks and Recreation Director Nicole Sanderson told the commission she has tried every avenue to get an answer from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s office in response to her plan, and hasn’t received any information back.

“I would like to set the atmosphere in the park as just a casual day in the park,” said Sanderson. “…bill it not as a festival, but a day at the park — hometown, 4th of July festivities. We have 26 acres we can spread over.”

There’s a lot of “what ifs” and little time to organize, but Sanderson told the commissioners she could make what they want happen. Commissioner Darin Hunter said he made an about-face regarding celebrating the 4th of July.

“What irks me … there’s not enough gumption coming out of Lansing to at least have the decency to put a plan together to allow for these cities, or municipalities, to try and follow some type of a plan,” said Hunter. “If I can take a couple hours and draw up something a little simple … there’s a lot smarter people in Lansing than I am that might be able to come up with some type of a plan, or solution … that’s where I get a little irritated. I’m tired of Lansing not coming up with any answers.”

In other business the Commission:

— Reviewed and approved an Investment Management Services proposal presented by Robert Valentine from First Bank Investment Management Group. Gladstone’s previous investment group was located in Lower Michigan.

— Approved the Utility Billing Department to assess delinquent utilities, miscellaneous invoices and special assessment invoices to the Summer 2020 tax bills accordingly.

— Approved to extend the summer tax due date to Sept. 14.

— Approved to increase the capitalization threshold to $5,000. Currently the amount is $3,000. Auditors recommended a municipality the size of Gladstone should count property that is $5,000 and over an asset. Any items costing below $5,000 should be expensed in the City of Gladstone’s financial statements.

— Approved Special Assessment Resolution No. 2020-09-01 (4th Street Infrastructure Project). This is the first step in establishing a special assessment district with a public hearing planned for Monday, July 13 at 6 p.m. Affected parties for 49 parcels will be notified the special assessment applies to them.

The project will consist of street reconstruction including paving, repaving, curb and gutter replacement, sidewalk, sidewalk ramp reconstruction, storm sewer improvements, and all necessary attachments. The total special assessment cost is approximately $125,000.

— Approved a Fee Schedule for 2020-2021 that will be in effect Aug. 1. City Manager Eric Buckman started working on the schedule in December of 2019. After final review of the schedule, Commissioner Greg Styczynski asked if the Farmer’s Market could be available for the community to rent. Buckman said it could be added. Recreation Department programs were reviewed and approved previously at the Oct. 14, 2019 meeting. Public Works Department rates were reviewed an approved June 8.

Cemetery plot rates increased for all but plots for infants, and grave opening rates were also increased across the board. Buckman said the fees at Fernwood Cemetery hadn’t changed since October 2016, and before that October 2009.