CCTV INSPECTIONS

SANITARY SEWER EVALUATION STUDY

The City has moved into the next major phase of its Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Study (SSES) with the launch of closed-circuit television (CCTV) inspections across the sanitary sewer system. The SSES, which began in May 2025, is a proactive, citywide effort to identify pipe defects for repairs to ultimately reduce inflow and infiltration (I&I)—the unintended entry of stormwater or groundwater into the sanitary sewer system. This work is especially focused on the west side of the City, where initial field assessments such as manhole inspections and smoke testing have already taken place.  Early findings from smoke testing have already revealed infiltration points, which are being prioritized for repair.

CCTV inspections will provide a detailed internal view of approximately 54,000 feet (10 miles), out of the nearly 90 miles of sewer pipe, supplementing smoke testing, dye testing, and other field evaluations. A similar effort was completed in 2018 under the SAW grant program; the current study will reassess critical portions of those previously inspected areas and also evaluate a portion of the remaining half of the system that was not evaluated during the SAW grant. This allows the City to understand how system conditions have changed over time and help pinpoint where deterioration, leaks, and improper connections may now exist.

The data gathered through the CCTV work is crucial for identifying structural defects, root intrusion, cracking, and other infiltration pathways that allow infiltration and place stress on sewer pipes and treatment facilities. The CCTV videos will be run through an Artificial Intelligence (AI) software called Dragonfly that will rate the pipe condition to NASSCO standards. This will produce more uniform pipe ratings, as previously, a person would need to review the videos and manually rate the pipes.  

As the SSES progresses, the City intends to make targeted infrastructure improvements based on the study’s results. These investments will help extend the life of critical underground assets, reduce unnecessary treatment costs, and improve overall system reliability. By reducing I&I, the sewer collection system's capacity can be more effectively preserved for wastewater flow, not unwanted groundwater or stormwater runoff.  

Funding was provided by ARPA funds in the amount of $250,000, and $97,500 from the Sewer Fund. Future improvements will be funded through a variety of sources including the Sewer Fund, grants, and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund.

COMPLETE STREETS POLICY

ADOPTED DECEMBER 15TH

At their December 15, 2025 meeting, the City Commission adopted the Complete Streets Policy. The policy outlines the City’s plan to create a safe, connected, and equitable transportation network that serves all users. It replaces the 2011 Resolution of Support for Complete Streets and aligns with the City’s current Master Plan and Mobility Action Plan. Complete Streets are defined as a design framework that enables safe and convenient access for all users, including pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and drivers of all ages and abilities.

Through collaboration among City staff, members of the public, and the Complete Streets Ad Hoc Committee, the policy was developed by reflecting the community's shared goals for safer, more accessible streets. The policy emphasizes safety, accessibility, and sustainability. It prioritizes improvements in historically underserved neighborhoods and promotes non-motorized and public transportation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Under the proposal, Complete Streets principles will apply to all transportation projects, including new construction, reconstruction, resurfacing, and maintenance. The City Commission intends to dedicate one percent of the annual budget to Complete Streets projects.

Design standards will follow guidance from the Federal Highway Administration, the National Association of City Transportation Officials, and other recognized sources. Staff will follow the Transportation Projects Flow Chart. Additionally, land use and transportation planning will be coordinated, and the City’s Tree Ordinance will be incorporated into street design to support environmental and safety goals.

Complete Streets Advisory Committee

The policy establishes a Complete Streets Advisory Committee consisting of one City Commissioner (Lance Boehmer), the City Manager or designee, and five residents. The committee will meet quarterly to set measurable goals, review projects for policy compliance, and advise on priorities for the Complete Streets fund. Performance measures will track progress, including miles of sidewalks and bikeways added, accessibility improvements, transit ridership, and winter maintenance levels.

Are you a resident interested in serving on the Complete Streets Advisory Committee? Complete the Application to Become Involved.

GINGERBREAD SHOWDOWN

PUBLIC VOTING CONTINUES THROUGH DECEMBER 22ND

Get ready for some sweet seasonal fun as the Gingerbread Showdown launches this year with creativity, laughter, and a little friendly rivalry. Departments from Grand Traverse County and the City of Traverse City are going head-to-head, crafting gingerbread structures in the name of holiday cheer and bragging rights…and the public chooses the winner!

The gingerbread buildings are on display for the public to view and vote on at the Governmental Center, Monday through Friday, 8:00 am–5:00 pm, through December 22, 2025. Be sure to stop by, cast your vote, and help crown this year’s Gingerbread Showdown champion. May the best build win!

Giving Back

This season, the Governmental Center is proud to host a Giving Tree through December 23, 2025, to support members of our community in need. Community members are invited to donate new or gently used mittens, scarves, and hats to help keep neighbors warm throughout the winter months.

The City and Grand Traverse County will have a Father Fred Foundation food donation box at the Governmental Center. Suggested items include: 5 oz. canned chicken or tuna, oatmeal, peanut butter, rice, dried beans (1 lb. bag), spaghetti or pasta, pasta sauce, soups, canned fruits in juice/pie filling, canned vegetables, boxed potatoes/boxed stuffing.

If you are or someone you know is in need of access to food, dial 2-1-1 from any phone to speak with a trained specialist who can connect you to local food banks, pantries, and other programs.

HICKORY HILLS SEASON UPDATES

OPENING DATE TO BE DETERMINED

Hours and Special Dates

Due to equipment failure in the snowmaking process, the target opening date of December 19, 2025 will not be met. However, as of Thursday, December 18th, the repair has been made and snowmaking is now fully operational. Snow and cooler weather are welcome. Stay tuned for updates.

During the season, early openings will continue on scheduled TCAPS days off at 11:00 am. New this season, Hickory will now open early at 1:00 pm on scheduled TCAPS half/early release days. Early openings will not take place on snow days.

Learn More

Hickory Lodge Early Days & Open House

Hickory Lodge Early Days for season pass purchases and pickup, and merchandise sales, will run Monday through Friday from 3:00 - 6:00 pm, until the opening day of the ski area.

Season Passes

Season passes for Hickory Hills are now on sale. Alpine season passholders may also use Nordic trails at no additional charge.

The City's software offers options to make your adventurous days at Hickory easier than ever. Waivers may be completed ahead of time, and money can be added to passholder accounts for use on anything at Hickory (think snacks and merch!).

Hickory Purchase Portal

When the season opens, day passes will continue to be purchased onsite at the ticket window. Reminder, a variety of rentals are available for both alpine and nordic.

Nordic Updates

Groomers cut back on operations this week due to the warmer weather. Please remember that skiing in soft conditions can leave deep tracks that are very difficult to remove once they freeze in place. Cold weather is on its way back! On the Hills side, snowmaking equipment is now staged, so please use caution.

Seasonal Positions

JOIN THE FUN! The City is now hiring for seasonal positions at Hickory Hills. 

Learn More

FAIR HOUSING UPDATES

KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

Fair housing is the right to choose where you live free from illegal discrimination. Federal, state, and local fair housing laws protect housing choice when you are looking for a place to live, either renting or buying a home or getting home insurance. These laws may also apply after you have housing. Fair housing protects you if you are being treated differently or denied housing based on these protected classes: race, skin color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status (the presence of children under 18 or pregnancy), disability (mental and physical), marital status, age, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, and, new this year, source of income within rental housing (see more below). If you or someone you know has experienced housing discrimination, the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan (FHCWM) is a free resource to reach out to get help or learn more. You can visit their website at fhcwm.org for more information on their services.  

In April of 2025, protection for source of income was added to Michigan law. This protection prohibits discrimination in rental housing based on someone’s source of income, which includes benefits or subsidy programs such as housing vouchers, veterans’ benefits, or Social Security. If a landlord has 5 or more units in Michigan, they cannot deny or treat a tenant differently because of their source of income. A landlord can still require a certain amount of income, but they need to consider all sources of income when reviewing an application. If you have any questions, contact the FHCWM at 616-451-2980. 

Fact Sheet

FHCWM is offering two free online trainings for housing professionals in January and community members/advocates in April:

Fair Housing & Source of Income Training for Rental Professionals

Tuesday, January 27, 2026 from 2:00 - 3:00 pm

Register

Fair Housing and Source of Income Training: Renters' Rights & Responsibilities

Tuesday, April 28, 2026 from 6:00 - 7:15 pm

Register

IT CERTIFICATE

INTERPERSONAL AND TEAM COMMUNICATION

The City proudly congratulates Technology Director Jerry Swanson on earning a professional certificate in IT Interpersonal and Team Communication from the IT Management and Leadership Institute.

The eight-week program provided IT professionals with essential skills to enhance communication, collaboration, and leadership within technical environments. Participants received training in communicating complex technology topics to non-technical stakeholders, including executive leadership and the City Commission, along with strategies for active listening, running effective meetings, delivering compelling presentations, and leveraging AI-based communication tools.

By completing this certificate, Jerry has gained valuable tools that will support clearer, more effective communication across departments and improve the City’s ability to plan and implement technology initiatives. Way to go, Jerry!

WELCOME TO THE TEAM

CITY OFFICE HOURS

HOLIDAY HOURS & ADJUSTMENTS

As the holiday season approaches, the City Offices will closures to accommodate employee training and observed holidays.

On December 19, 2025, City offices located in the Governmental Center will close at 1:00 pm for employee training.

Additionally, City Offices will be closed on December 24, 25, 31, and January 1.

Residents are encouraged to plan ahead for any in-person services during this period, pay for services on-line, or utilize the red drop box.

Office Hours Adjustment

City office hours at the Governmental Center have been adjusted to the following:

• Monday–Thursday: 8:00 am – 4:30 pm
• Friday: 8:00 am – 4:00 pm

Customer needs outside of these regular business hours will be available by appointment only. For after-hours services, customers may use the red drop box located at the Governmental Center, or make payments online.

Please note that Grand Traverse County Offices will continue to maintain their customer service hours at the Governmental Center, Monday–Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.