Sturgis moves to renew 30-Year franchise agreement with Michigan Gas Utilities

The Sturgis City Commission has taken the first step toward renewing a 30-year franchise agreement with Michigan Gas Utilities, extending a relationship with the gas provider that dates back to the 1950s.

“Going back, we found two ordinances with Michigan Gas and their predecessors dating back to 1954,” said City Clerk Kenneth Rhodes. “This one would renew that relationship from 2024 to 2054.”

The new ordinance is based on the city’s 1994 version, with updates reflecting current legal and operational standards. Rhodes described the renewal as routine. “There’s nothing too exciting in here — it just lets them continue to do business in the city,” he said.

Michigan Gas Utilities provides natural gas infrastructure and service throughout Sturgis and other parts of the region. The franchise agreement allows the company to operate within public rights-of-way under terms established by the city.

In related discussion, Rhodes also noted that Michigan Gas has also been working with the city on utility safety and sewer line monitoring. The company has been inspecting sanitary sewer lines in cooperation with the city to identify potential crossbores, which occur when gas lines accidentally intersect sewer lines.

The Michigan Gas franchise ordinance is expected to return for a second reading and final approval at an upcoming commission meeting.

In other business, the commission approved several infrastructure-related measures:

• Sidewalk assessments: Special assessment rolls were approved for sidewalk repairs and new sidewalk construction on Vinewood Avenue and East Congress Street. Property owners will be assessed $7.19 per square foot for repairs and $7.21 per square foot for new sidewalks. Costs may be paid over five years with a 5% interest rate, though no interest will be charged during the first year.
• Electric department expansion: Commissioners approved adding a technical project manager to the electric department to support major initiatives, including the Stateline Substation, battery storage, and voltage upgrades. The new position is budgeted with a salary range of $100,000 to $115,000.
• Wastewater camera purchase: A $99,976 purchase was approved for a new sewer inspection camera system from Fredrickson Supply. The equipment will replace the city’s outdated 2017 model and includes upgraded features like laser measuring, a motorized reel, and a rear-facing camera.

Najifa Farhat is a staff reporter with Watershed Voice.