In a recent government meeting, Livonia city officials outlined key priorities for the upcoming fiscal years, focusing on essential services such as water and sewer management, road maintenance, parks, and waste management. The city is transitioning to a priority-based budgeting process for fiscal years 2025 and 2026, which aims to enhance project management for large-scale construction and renovation initiatives.

Council members discussed the necessity of hiring a facilities manager to ensure compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and to maintain an inventory of city-owned properties. Additionally, there was a call for investment in Greenmead Historical Park and a commitment to city-wide inspections. These discussions will inform the creation of the city budget.

The meeting also featured a detailed report on the solid waste and recycling contract, which is set to expire on November 30, 2024. City officials reviewed bids from GFL and Priority Waste, with Priority Waste offering a lower per-stop cost of $17.50 compared to GFL's $19.55. The council considered three options for waste management, including a transition to 64-gallon recycling carts, which could lead to significant savings over time.

The administration emphasized that the transition to cart-based waste collection would not require additional funding from residents, as existing refuse millage and potential state grants could cover the costs. Communication strategies for informing residents about the changes were also discussed, ensuring a smooth rollout of the new waste management program.

The meeting concluded without any votes, as it served primarily as a preliminary discussion to gather feedback and set the stage for future decisions.