A field of pumpkins at the Hack House. Photo credit: Jessica Meingasner
A Message from Mayor Kolar: I love it when plans come together
Seasonal Reminders
Branch Chipping
Loose Leaf Pickup
Yard Waste
Snow Removal
A Message from Jim Lancaster: $954,500 grant brings community vision for Wilson Park to life
Exploring Wilson Park: A summer of construction leads to exciting new additions
News & Info from Lavonna Wenzel, City Clerk
November General Election
Ballot Information
Make a Difference
Important Dates
Beware of Holiday Phishing Scams by Hanna
Snow Place Like Downtown Milan by Jessica Meingasner, DDA Director “Summer” in Milan by Jill Tewsley, Community Engagement Director
In the Spotlight: The 4 0 of Summer
Alyssa Fitch
Ava Swaney
Alden Tewsley
Casino Bus Trip
News & Info from Milan Police Department
Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over
The Effects of Alcohol on Driving
Drive High Get a DUI
Cannabis and Driving
Michigan Traffic Crash Facts: Drugs & Alcohol
News & Info from Milan Area Fire Department
Brierly Retires
Snyder Promoted
Stats
Milan Alumni News: The Jillian Edition
Jillian Smith
Jillian Goodin
Jillian Rhoney
Milan Seniors for Healthy Living: Meals on Wheels
A Message from Jodi Griffor, Meals on Wheels Director
Norma Maupin
Isabelle Schultz
Ron Hasselbring
Milan Beautification Commission
Mums the Word
Beautifully Generous
Beautification Awards
Volunteer Call
About Us
Events & Happenings
Mayor & Council
Tools & Resources
A MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ED KOLAR
I LOVE IT WHEN PLANS COME TOGETHER
TheTransformationofDowntownMilan
The downtown area of Milan has experienced remarkable growth over the past twenty years What once consisted of vacant buildings and minimal foot traffic is now a vibrant hub where visitors flock from near and far to enjoy shopping, dining, and entertainment. This shift in both attitude and execution can be credited to dedicated property owners and a proactive Downtown Development Authority (DDA).
Downtown Milan has become a vibrant hub where visitors flock.
The Role of the Milan DDA
The Milan Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is comprised of one director and a dedicated group of volunteers These volunteers include city council members, local business owners, and residents who share a passion for community service. Together, the DDA has successfully enhanced foot traffic in the downtown area, attracting more businesses while simultaneously elevating the style and character of the space.
Milan's DDA has dedicated many years to organizing events that encourage people to spend time in the downtown area. These events have been transformative in enhancing the appeal of our city center. By incorporating music and food trucks into these events, we have successfully boosted foot traffic. Increased foot traffic translates into higher sales, which in turn attracts more potential businesses to Milan Creating excitement around Milan benefits the entire city
DDA EVENTS & PROMOTIONS
Wine Walk
Beer Walk
Girls Night Out
Galentine’s Day
Pop on Main
Win the Window
Moonlight Madness
Holiday Parade
Sidewalk Sale
Milan in Motion: Downtown Fit
Besides organizing and executing events, the DDA plays a crucial role in enhancing downtown development. Successful Downtown Developent Authorities in larger cities often engage in various activities such as purchasing land for development, creating parking spaces, establishing parks, improving signage and seating, and occasionally adding public art for the community. While Milan may not reach that level by 2025, the DDA is poised to announce a significant contribution to the downtown area's improvement this year
Wabash Parking Lot Renovation Announcement
The Wabash parking lot, commonly known as Roy's lot, has undergone numerous patches and repairs over the past decade Starting in late September 2025, this area will be ground down and repaved
The project will be completely funded by the Downtown Development Authority.
Supporting DDA events not only provides great entertainment but also plays a significant role in enhancing the downtown infrastructure We extend our gratitude to every resident and visitor who takes the time to participate in our events Your support contributes to the DDA's ability to implement improvements that benefit our entire community.
The mission of Milan Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is to restore vitality to our downtown through community efforts including volunteers, business and property owners, and public and private partnerships.
STAFF
Jessica Meingasner
Executive Director
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Shannon Dare Wayne Chairperson
Carrie Ritchie
Vice chairperson
Annie Baldwin Secretary
Chris Baker
Treasurer
Ed Kolar
Mayor and Board Member
Dr. Rita Gordon
Board Member
Jesse Nie
Board Member
Joe Pusta
Board Member
Patrick Shannon
Board Member
Debbie Splitt
Board Member
Tony Thompson
Board Member
-Mayor Ed Kolar
BEFORE photos. We can’t wait to show you the AFTER photos.
SEASONAL REMINDERS
BRANCH CHIPPING
The last day of branch chipping is October 1, 2025. After this date, branches will no longer be collected.
YARD WASTE
Thefinal day foryardwastepickedup by Steven’s(baggedorincans) is November25,2025
LOOSE LEAF PICK UP
October20throughNovember
Thefinal dateforleaf pick up isTBD basedonweatherconditions.
$954,500 GRANT BRINGS COMMUNITY VISION FOR WILSON PARK TO
LIFE
In the fall of 2022, a total of $65 million in coronavirus state and local fiscal recovery funds was allocated through Public Act 53 of 2022 These funds were to be distributed based on a scoring criterion established by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) The monies were released in multiple waves, with the first occurring in February 2023 and a second wave in October 2023
More than 300 communities applied for this funding from the DNR The application process was completed by city staff, who gathered information from community members and local government leaders This collaborative effort resulted in our selection as one of the 52 communities selected to receive funding, transforming our dream for Wilson Park into reality. We were awarded $954,500 to install permanent restrooms, a fully accessible playscape, pickleball courts, a new basketball court, and a walking path featuring a fitness circuit
Navigating the state's procurement process has been both time-consuming and somewhat challenging, but construction finally kicked off following the 76th annual Milan Community Fair at Wilson Park This nearly million-dollar project has taken the majority of the summer, but should be complete in late September.
We sincerely appreciate the residents and groups who have continued to enjoy the park during this construction phase, understanding that this shortterm inconvenience will lead to a beautiful new space for everyone to enjoy.
If you haven't been to the park lately to see the all the exciting new features, we invite you to come and explore before the snow starts to fly. Join us on Saturday, October 11 at 2 PM for the official ribbon cutting and grand opening celebration
uld like to thank the members of Milan City Council our Parks and Recreation Commission for all their d work bringing this project to Milan. This initiative expected to be completed without utilizing any ct tax dollars from residents of the City of Milan
Jim Lancaster, City Administrator
EXPLORING WILSON PARK
A summer of construction in the park has led to some exciting new additions
ACCESSIBLE & INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUND
A PLAY STRUCTURE that soars with fun for everyone. This ADA compliant play structure invites kids of all abilities to explore and create their own style of play with multiple layers of fun.
ZIP LINE
Children of all abilities can experience the thrill of soaring on the two-bay Zip Line One bay includes a bucket seat equipped with a secure harness that ensures stability for kids with limited core strength. This truly inclusive play experience allows children of all abilities to engage and play together side-by-side
THE WE-SAW reimagines the conventional seesaw by making it wheelchair accessible. It includes walk-in seating for effortless transfers, along with hand and foot holds for better grip The gentle, controlled motion provided by its bumper and spring mechanism ensures that children of all abilities can enjoy this inclusive experience.
THE COZY DOME® offers kids a place to escape the hustle and bustle of a busy playground, take time by themselves or socialize together
OTHER AMENITIES
Pickleball courts
Basketball court
Permanent restrooms
Shaded picnic area
Fitness Circuit with 9 stations
Walking / Biking pathway
Sidewalk from Wabash Street
Drinking fountain
ALSO INCLUDED in the new play area are a variety of musical instruments that invite kids and adults of all ages to join the band Bang on a drum Play the chimes Compose a song or even a symphony. Move to the music.
photo credit: Mary Kerkes
LAVONNA WENZEL
lavonnaw@milanmi.gov
OCTOBER 7
OCTOBER 8
NOVEMBER GENERAL ELECTION
ELECTION DAY: TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4
POLLING PLACE: The Riverbank Center | 45 Neckel Court
All City of Milan residents from Washtenaw and Monroe counties.
ABSENTEE VOTING INFORMATION
Absentee ballots for the November General Election were mailed on September 25, 2025
Absentee ballots are available now for pick-up at Milan City Hall | 147 Wabash Street
Absentee voters are welcome to tabulate their own ballots on Election Day You must present your photo ID and complete an application to vote as usual
OCTOBER 21
City Council Meeting; 7 PM
OCTOBER 23
General Election Public Accurary Test, 11 AM Candidate Forum; 7 PM
NOVEMBER 4
City Council Meeting; 7 PM Election Day
NOVEMBER 10*
City Council Meeting; 7 PM
NOVEMBER 18
City Council Meeting; 7 PM
DECEMBER 2
City Council Meeting; 7 PM
DECEMBER 16
City Council Meeting; 7 PM
*moved due to Election Day
GENERAL ELECTION BALLOT INFO
MAYOR Vote for not more than ONE
Edward Kolar
Laura Russeau
COUNCIL MEMBER Vote for not more than THREE
Marie Gress
Connie Harrison
Jesse Nie
Christian Thompson
Dr Shannon Dare Wayne
LIBRARY BOARD Vote for not more than TWO
Rod HIll
Peter Kentes
Michelle Walters
Kelsey Winter
MONROE CO. COMMISSIONER 2ND DISTRICT Vote for not more than ONE
Dale Biniecki (Republican) Mark Brant (No Party Affiliation) Danielle Hoover (Democrat)
MONROE CO. MILLAGES Monroe County has three millage proposals on the ballot that will impact community services and/or taxes.
WASHTENAW CO. MILLAGES Washtenaw County has two millage proposals on the ballot that will impact community services and/or taxes
MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE CITY OF MILAN
Would you like to contribute to the City of Milan by joining a board or commission?
The City of Milan offers various volunteer boards and commissions dedicated to serving our community, with appointments made by the mayor
If you’re a registered voter and have resided in the City of Milan for at least 60 days, you can apply to be part of one of our boards, commissions, or committees by completing a brief application. Scan QR to apply.
hannam@milanmi.gov
BEWARE OF HOLIDAY PHISHING SCAMS
This holiday season, safeguard yourself and your information. As we head into the holiday season, it's important to be on high alert for phishing scams. This is a time when online activity increases from shopping and travel bookings, to donation drives, and unfortunately cybercriminals take full advantage of that.
It’s important to be on high alert for phishing scams.
WHAT IS PHISHING
Phishing is when scammers try to trick you into sharing sensitive information like passwords, credit card numbers, or personal details, by pretending to be someone you trust These scams usually come in the form of emails, text messages, or even phone calls that look legitimate, but are designed to steal your information or install harmful software on your device
COMMON HOLIDAY PHISHING TACTICS
Common holiday phishing tactics include: Fake shipping notifications (e g “Your package is delayed click here to reschedule”)
Too-good-to-be-true deals or coupons that ask you to click a link
Spoofed emails that look like they’re from major retailers, banks, or even government offices
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF
DON’T click suspicious links – If you’re not expecting a message, especially with a link or attachment, be cautious. Hover over the link to check where it really goes.
VERIFY the source If something seems off, contact the organization directly using their official website or phone number. Don’t reply to the message.
LOOK for red flags. Watch for poor spelling, urgent or threatening language, or unusual requests
KEEP your devices updated. Make sure your phone, computer, and apps have the latest security updates installed.
USE strong, unique passwords. Consider enabling multi-factor authentication for your important accounts.
REPORT IT. Most email services have a "Report phishing" option.
This holiday season, take an extra moment to think before you click A little caution goes a long way in keeping your personal information and our community safe
JESSICA MEINGASNER
SNOW PLACE LIKE DOWNTOWN MILAN
A Season of Community, Collaboration, and Celebration
Downtown Milan is gearing up for a festive and unforgettable winter season filled with events that showcase the power of community and the joy of coming together The Milan Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is proud to highlight not only the incredible events happening in the heart of ourcity,butalsothespiritofcollaborationthatmakesthempossible.
It takes energy, teamwork, and vision.
A thriving downtown doesn’t just happen by chance—it takes energy, teamwork, and vision. When our streets come alive with activity, whether it’s a cozy fall evening or a sparkling winter night, the excitement ripples through the whole community More visitors to downtown means more visibility for our businesses, more connections between neighbors, and a stronger sense of prideinourhometown.
These events are also a driving force for supporting our small businesses Shopping locally doesn’t just feel good—it keeps our shops thriving and our community strong. In fact, for every dollar spent at a local business, about 67 cents stays right here in the community, helping create jobs, support services, and sustain a vibrantlocaleconomy.
That spirit of togetherness shines brightly in Milan this season, as the DDA works hand-in-hand with organizations across the city From Moving Milan Forward and the Milan Area Historical Society, to the Garden Club and Milan Seniors for Healthy Living, these partnerships prove that when we support one another, our whole community thrives
These events celebrate Milan, connect businesses, families, and neighbors, and highlight the magic that occurs when organizations collaborate rather than work in isolation
This winter, come experience the difference a vibrant downtown makes. Join the celebration there’s truly "SnowPlaceLikeMilan."
DOWNTOWN EVENTS
Bringing smiles, laughter, and lasting memories to Milan’s downtown district
OCTOBER: Scarecrows on Main
This whimsical display of creativity is hosted by the Milan Area Historical Society
OCTOBER 4: Milan Coffee Off
Sip, savor, and support local coffee flavors with Moving Milan Forward.
OCTOBER 16: Practically Magical
A Girls Night Out featuring giveaways and sales, 90's nostalgia, food trucks, lots of fun, and a little magic! By DDA
OCTOBER 25: Haunted Trolley Tour
Step aboard for a haunted journey featuring chilling ghost tales interlaced with spine-tingling Milan history. By Moving Milan Forward
NOV. 28 - DEC. 17: Win the Window
The DDA and Milan Area Chamber presents this shop local tradition that kicks off the holiday season.
NOVEMBER 29: Pop on Main
A Small Business Saturday celebration by the DDA featuring a Holiday Greenery Market with the Milan Garden Club and Flurries and Finds vendor market with MSHL.
DECEMBER 6: Cookies and Cocoa
A family-friendly event presented by the DDA, MSHL, and the Milan Area Historical Society.
DECEMBER 6: Holiday Parade
The DDA presents the annual holiday parade: Snow Place like Milan.
DECEMBER 13: Moonlight Madness
A magical night of holiday shopping with deals, music, food trucks, vendors, and more! By the DDA.
jillt@milanmi.gov
“SUMMER” IN MILAN
It was an eventful summer in our parks and across the town
To clarify, when I mention "summer," I am actually referring to the period from April to October The months of June, July and August simply do not provide enough time for all the fun we deserve from the season And this “summer” there sure was a lot of fun going on in our little town of 6,000 people; including 86 events and 5 parades.
It’s wonderful to live in a vibrant and exciting community.
Milan Parks and Recreation, along with the Milan DDA, organized 49 of the events Meanwhile, the remaining 37 events and five parades were made possible through the efforts of community groups and organizations, such as the Backstreet Cruizers, Moving Milan Forward, the Milan Public Library, the American Legion, the Milan Fair Board, and the Milan Farm and Flea Market, to name just a few
FACILITY RENTALS
Pavilions: 61 Riverbank Center: 51 Horse Arena: 8
SPECIAL EVENTS Permits Issued: 26
Parades: 5
Event Occurrences: 86
Our parks and our community center were also incredibly busy, hosting over 100 private event rentals for weddings, receptions, graduation parties, picnics, birthday celebrations, reunions, and more
It’s truly wonderful to be part of a community where so many people volunteer their time and effort to make the place where we live more vibrant and exciting
Field trips and regular visits to the parks have contributed to an unprecedented amount of foot traffic. The Splash Pad offered a fantastic way to cool off during a particularly hot summer Popular summer activities also included fishing along the riverbanks, strolling on footpaths, visiting the playground, and checking on the ongoing construction in Wilson Park
Speaking of construction, thank you for your patience and care during the construction at Wilson Park this summer While some work is still ongoing, we are nearing completion and planning a Grand Opening event for Saturday, October 11
I hope you enjoyed your “summer” and were able to partake in some of the great community events around town and spend some time in our parks. Here’s to a beatiful autumn and a fast and not-too-cold winter
Tolan Square during 3rd Thursdays in June
IN THE THE 4.0 OF SUMMER
If you spent time at Wilson Park this summer, you might have crossed paths with the A-Team: Alyssa, Ava, and Alden. This trio of recent high school graduates dedicated their Wednesdays to leading the Milan in Motion: In the Park event series. They organized fun activities such as games of Duck, Duck, Goose!, crafting paper airplanes, marching to music, and distributing an array of fun and educational items like yo-yos, sketchbooks, journals, frisbees, and jump ropes They even hosted a lively dance party complete with bubbles, and braved a torrential downpour Most importantly, they created memorable moments for the kids and families who joined the Milan in Motionevents
Theirfinal gradeforthesummer?AllA’s!
Alyssa Fitch
Alyssa graduated from Dundee Community High School in 2023
She’s currently a student at Monroe County Community College, pursuing an associate degree in science with a focus on Biology. She aims to earn a bachelor’s degree in environmental science at EMU.
Alyssa owns Creations by Lu, a small business that sells handmade jewelry and plants.
A true green thumb, Alyssa tends to more than 50 plants from various species, taking cuttings from healthy plants and propagating them in water to encourage root growth All the containers she uses for her cuttings are either thrifted or sourced from an old glass dumping ground
Ava Swaney
Ava is a newly licensed cosmetologist who is a stylist and nail technician at Van Buren’s Salon in Ann Arbor. She has a passion for helping people feel confident and beautiful
A 2025 Milan High School and cosmetology school grad, she’s already sharing her creativity with her community by running a booth at 3rd Thursday h h adds hair tinsel for event-goers
When she’s not behind the chair, Ava enjoys spending time with her friends and playing golf.
AldenTewsley
Aldengraduatedfrom MilanHigh School in2023 Heiscurrently a junioratOaklandUniversity where heispursuing aBFA inMusic Theater
VISIT: SCAN QR CODE Milan City Hall (147 Wabash) Mon - Thu , 7:30 AM - 5 PM
GO TO: https://square link/u/702gGKpA
The City of Milan and Milan Parks and Recreation are pleased to present a Casino Bus Trip to Firekeepers Casino in Battle Creek on Friday, October 17, 2025
MILAN POLICE DEPARTMENT
(734) 439-1551
DONALD TILLERY
Chief
of Police donaldt@milanmi.gov
JEREMY NIEMAN Deputy Chief of Police
jeremyn@milanmi.gov
MILANPOLICEDEPARTMENT
35 Neckel Court
Milan,Michigan48160
Emergency:911
Phone:(734) 439-1551
Fax:(734) 439-1565
TipLine: (734) 439-4311
911 EMERGENCY SERVICES
Call 911 if you have a Police, Fire or Medical Emergency in the City of Milan
NON-EMERGENCY
Call (734) 439-1551 if you need a Police Officer to stop by your residence or business to report a crime, incident or concern. You can also stop by the station, our lobby is open 24/7
VACATION/PROPERTY CHECKS
Call (734) 439-1551 to let us know your property will be vacant. We can take necessary contact information and provide extra patrols in the area during your time away
TIP LINE INFORMATION
Call (734) 439-4311 if you have confidential information about a crime or if you want to report information to the Police Department and remain anonymous. This dedicated phone number will provide that service to you as a concerned citizen.
Just one drink before driving can put you and others in danger, because alcohol impairs thinking, reasoning and muscle coordination.
CANNABIS AND DRIVING
A guide for medical and recreational users
Where is cannabis legal?
The use of cannabis is legal in Michigan as long as it takes place in private, such as at the home of the user
Where is cannabis NOT legal?
The use of cannabis is NOT legal:
In public places
In areas frequented by children, such as schools or school buses
.02 Decline in visual functions, decline in ability to perform two tasks at the same time
.05 Reduced coordination, reduced ability to track moving objects, difficulty steering, reduced response to emergency driving situations
.08 Reduced concentration, short-term memory loss, lack of speed control, reduced information processing capability, impaired perception
.10 Reduced ability to maintain lane position and brake appropriately
.15 substantial impairment in vehicle control, attention to driving task, and in necessary visual and auditory processing
DRIVE HIGH GET A DUI
Did you know that you can also get a DUI for driving under the influence of drugs? Driving while impaired by any substance — legal or illegal — puts you and others in harm’s way.
In areas that fall under federal jurisdiction rather than state law, such as airports or government buildings
While driving a motor vehicle
Driving under the influence of cannabis
1 2
Drivers may not operate, navigate, or be in physical control of any motor vehicle, aircraft, snowmobile, offroad recreational vehicle, or motorboat while under the influence of cannabis.
Drivers may not consume cannabis while operating, navigating, or being in physical control of any motor vehicle, aircraft, snowmobile, off-road recreational vehicle, or motorboat
3
Passengers are not allowed to smoke in the passenger area of a vehicle upon a public way
Other facts drivers should know
Police officers will be looking for cannabis impairment based on:
1.Driving behavior
2 Officer’s observations of the driver
3 How a driver performs on field sobriery tests
Based on these three stages of an investigation, a police office may request a chemical test. If a driver refuses to submit to a chemical test, their license will be suspended pursuant to Michigan’s implied consent law. Under this law, all drivers are considered to have given consent to the test when they apply for and renew their driver’s license.
Penalties for operating under the influence of cannabis
The penalties are the same as those imposed for operating under the influence of alcohol These penalties can include:
Up to 93 days in jail
Up to a $500 fine License suspension
Six points on a person’s driving record There are heightened penalites if a driver has minors in the vehicle.
Carpus Fire Chief
MILAN AREA FIRE DEPARTMENT
djcarpusjr@milanareafire.com
BRIERLY RETIRES
After 34 years of devoted service, Firefighter Greg Brierley has retired from the Milan Area Fire Department
Throughout his career, Greg held positions such as Lieutenant, Captain, and Assistant Chief, consistently leading by example and establishing a high standard for those who followed in his footsteps.
Since 1887, the Milan Area Fire Department has proudly served our community
The Milan Area Fire Department responds to various types of incidents throughout the year We provide a wide range of specialized services including Emergency Medical Response, Motor Vehicle Response and extrication, Search and Rescue, Firefighting, Ice Rescue and Hazardous Materials
Our coverage area is just over 77 square miles, including the City of Milan, Milan Township, and parts of London and York Townships
We are staffed daily 7 am to 5 pm
Outside of staffed hours, we operate with paid on call staff using eight apparatuses out of one station
Along with responding to emergencies, we are active in our community during events and offering fire safety presentations
ABOUT STATS
MAFD responds to various types of incidents throughout the year. These runs range from fire, auto, and medical emergencies. Below are the emergency runs for each year.
Greg earned a reputation for his exceptional mentorship of new firefighters. His calm and patient teaching style created a positive learning environment, allowing others to thrive. Greg has played a crucial role in training many of the firefighters who now proudly serve our community.
Greg’s final shift was made even more special by working side by side with his son, Lt Cody Brierley Moments like this remind us that the fire service is more than a job, it’s a family
Greg’s legacy will continue both at home and in the department for generations to come.
Thank you, Greg, for your years of leadership, dedication, and guidance. You will forever be a cherished member of the MAFD family. Wishing you a happy and well-earned retirement.
SNYDER PROMOTED
Firefighter Kyle Snyder has recently been promotedtotherank of Lieutenant.
Snyder has been a valued member of our department since January 2019. Throughouttheyears,he’s demonstrated remarkable dedication, strong leadership, and an unwavering commitmenttothesafety of ourcommunity
This promotion is truly well-deserved, and we are thrilled to seehim embracethisnewrole
MILAN AREA SCHOOLS
ALUMNI NEWS ALUMNI NEWS
THE JILLIAN EDITION
JILLIAN SMITH
Jillian Smith graduated from Milan High School in 2020 She then pursued her nursing degree at the University of Toledo, earning her diploma in 2024.
Currently, Jillian resides in North Carolina with her long-time partner, Duane Bartnicki. She is employed as a Registered Nurse in the neonatal intensive care unit at N C Children’s Hospital
When she’s not working or spending quality time with Duane, Jillian is training for her second half marathon.
What Jillian Smith loves about Milan...
Jillian cherishes the closeness of Milan, recalling how it felt to grow up in a town where she could always expect a friendly face while out and about. She also treasures all the friends who became her family, many of whom sheisstill closewithtoday.
And the events! She enjoys the various events in Milan that celebrate community and the people who makeitsospecial.
JILLIAN RHONEY
JILLIAN GOO
Jillian Goodin graduat Milan High School in 20 earned her underg degree from Central M University in 2020, ma meteorology with mi mathematics and Spani
Jillian furthered her education at Northern Illinois University, where she obtained her Master’s degree in 2023
Currently residing in Green Bay, Wisconsin, Jillian serves as a meteorologist for the National Weather Service
In her free time, Jillian enjoys night sky watching, which includes photographing the Northern Lights and other celestial events
What Jillian Goodin loves about Milan...
Jillian says that the thing she loves the most about having grown up in Milan is the sense of community.
Jillian Rhoney graduated from Milan High School in 2021 She then went on to the University of Michigan, where she earned a dual degree in the History of Art and Film, Television, and Digital Media in May 2025
Currently, she serves as a Gallery Assistant at the Gutman Gallery in Ann Arbor and as an Art Director for various independent film projects
Jillian is constantly engaged in exciting endeavors! Whether she is acquiring a new skill or organizing an upcoming production, Jillian is immersed in work that fuels her passion and creativity.
What Jillian Rhoney loves about Milan...
Jillian feels fortunate to have grown up in a place where you are just one connection away from knowing everyone. And, that regardless of where you are on your journey in life, you value and appreciate your community.
MEALS ON WHEELS
by Jodi Griffor, Meals on Wheels Director
Milan Seniors for Healthy Living is proud to partner with Washtenaw and Monroe county to provide Meals on Wheels to Milan’s Seniors.
Catered by Jewish Family Services, a delicious meal only a fraction of important service Meals Wheels provides With a visit from a trained volun a ready-to-eat meal, and friendly well-being check Meals on Wheels ensur proper nutrition decreases isolation.
Meals on Wheels volun need to “see a face and a voice” in order to lea meal. If the recipient is home or isn’t answering phone, we will call a care to make sure you are oka
MILAN SENIORS FOR HEALTHY LIVING
NORMAMAUPIN
Normalikesreceiving MealsonWheels xxbecauseof theinteractionsshehaswith xx thevolunteers She hasbeengetting mealsdelivered toherdoor since2021
ISABELLESCHULTZ
A careerjournalistand lifetimecommunity volunteer, Isabellehasbeenreceiving Meals onWheelsforfouryears
RON HASSELBRING
Milan Seniors for Healthy Living’s Meals on Wheels program is supported by: Washtenaw County Office of Community and Economic Development (OCED), Monroe County Commission on Aging, City of Milan Senior Millage, and other generous donations.
Ron has been driving for Meals on Wheels for 14 years, starting with AID in Milan prior to MSHL taking on the program
rma because of pirit and he o Isabelle uch an icon in our
in Meals on Wheels for you or a loved one? Call 734 508 6229 to see if you qualify
to volunteer for Meals on Wheels? Call 734.508.6229
JESSICA STAFFORD
MUMS THE WORD MILAN BEAUTIFICATION COMMISSION
This fall, we are breaking a bit with tradition and not planting mums in the downtown. You may have noticed that the flowers we planted this spring are stunning, showcasing beautiful autumn hues. As a commission, we collectively decided to allow them to thrive and enhance our downtownuntil theendof fall.
However, there’s no need to fret mums will still be present! The hallmark plant of the season will grace all the entrance signs to thecity.
BEAUTIFICATION AWARDS
AUGUST
Rebecca and Alex Boyer (Poppy Lane)
Mary Kay Phillips (Lewis Avenue)
Anne and Bryan Gorbachev (Ann Marie)
Daniel Mackovjak (Dexter Street)
SEPTEMBER
Trish St Clair (Sarah Lane)
Bonnie Truhn (Ideal)
Vickie Gee (Silver Fox)
James Judd (County Street)
BEAUTIFULLY GENEROUS
This summer, the Milan Beautification Commission received a very generous donation from an anonymous donor.
Currently, we are investigating options to refresh and enhance our holiday and winter decorations. Additionally, our committee is brainstorming ideas to revitalize our spring floral displays.
VOLUNTEER CALL
Join the Beautification Commission on Sunday, October 5, to assist us in planting mums and tidying up flowerbeds. Meet at Tolan Square at 10 AM. Please remember to bring your own tools and gloves.
ABOUT US
The commission aims to enhance the aesthetics of Milan's streets, parks, and buildings by promoting the placement and preservation of trees, flowers, and decorative elements, while also recommending community projects.
OURMEMBERS:
Jessie Stafford, Chairperson
Denise Kolar, Vice Chairperson
Fred Wertz, Secretary
Barbara Gardinier, member
Kelsea Nie, member
Jay Sinclair, member
Shannon Dare Wayne, member
The Beautification Commission conducts meetings on the first Wednesday of every month at 6 PM at City Hall. Everyone is welcome to join!
MAYOR & COUNCIL
EDWARD KOLAR Mayor
DR. SHANNON DARE WAYNE Mayor Pro Tem
MARY KERKES Council Member
JOSH KOFFLIN Council Member
DAVID SNYDER Council Member
MATT STAFFORD Council Member
CHRISTIAN THOMPSON Council Member
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
Occur the first and third Tuesday of each month at 7 PM at City Hall (147 Wabash Street).
