“City council has the authority to remove a housing commissioner upon the recommendation of the mayor, pursuant to ordinance Chapter 270 of the Michigan Housing Facilities Act at MCL 125.6543,” Sullivan said.
Both votes passed unanimously, 7-0.
“After a recent meeting with commissioner Priester, it is evident that he signed contract extensions on behalf of the housing commission dated Jan. 31, 2022 without an authorizing resolution from the commission,” Sullivan said. “As a result and concern that there is a lack of oversight by the commission, this action shall be effective immediately.”
The remainder of Priester’s term, which expires May 31, 2026, will be filled by an appointment to be confirmed by city council at a later date, according to Sullivan.
The housing commission is charged with overseeing senior and low-income housing. It has oversight of Century Terrace, Harborview Apartments and 48 units of scattered affordable housing.
Sullivan recommended Tomaszewski’s removal due to poor attendance.
“Commission Tomaszewski has been absent for five of the seven meetings held in 2022,” Sullivan said. “Although these were all excused absences by the commission, I am concerned that there is a lack of oversight by the commission.”
Council member Dave Bachman asked Sullivan if Tomaszewski had been given a warning.
“I know you met with Dale Priester and talked to him,” Bachman said. “Was (Tomaszewski) notified of our concern about her absences?”
Sullivan said Tomaszewski had been warned but continued to miss meetings.
“She was notified in a letter from Oct. 31 of the absences and then she was absent after those meetings,” Sullivan said.
The remainder of Tomaszewski’s term, which expires on May 31, 2023, will be filled by an appointment to be confirmed by city council at a later date.
According to Chapter 270 of the Codified Ordinances, the mayor of Manistee will appoint members of the housing commission with consent approval of the other members of city council. The housing commission consists of five members, with terms of five years. Members do no receive any compensation. Any vacancy is filled by the mayor for the remainder of the unexpired term.
The remaining commissioners are James Bond, Karen Goodman and Gini Pelton.
The housing commission’s next meeting is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Jan. 24 and will be held in the council chambers in city hall.
