Press Release

ISSUE UPDATE

CITY OF OWOSSO

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

When is my absent voter ballot counted?

All ballots cast for an election, whether by absent voter or in person at the polls, are counted on Election Day. All absent voter ballots must be received in the City Clerk’s office no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day. On Election Day, an Absent Voter Counting Board at City hall processes the absent voter ballots. The process is similar to the process at the polls. One inspector verifies that the voter was issued an absent voter ballot and the number on that ballot. Another inspector checks the signature on the absent voter ballot envelope against the signature on the application for the ballot. After this verification is complete and while the ballot is still in the secrecy sleeve, the number tab is removed. The next inspector removes the ballot from the secrecy sleeve and passes it to the inspector who places the ballot in the optical scanner. This process provides for a secret ballot. At no time can any one inspector identify whose ballot they are processing.

How is the city water treated?

The city groundwater (well) supply is extremely hard and is thus treated using a lime softening process for hardness reduction and iron removal. Additional treatment includes dual media filtration and chlorine disinfection. Fluoride is added as a dental health measure increasing the natural concentration from 0.4 to 1.0 parts per million. On the average we treat and deliver 2,000,000 gallons of water per day from the water plant that is operated around the clock.

How much is a typical city water/sewer monthly bill? How do rates in Owosso compare to other communities?

A typical monthly water and sewer bill for a family of four in the City of Owosso, using 6,000 gallons of water per month, is $36.40. Actual charges depend on the actual water use. Owosso’s charges are about average in comparison to other medium to large size Michigan municipalities offering a comparable level of service. Owosso’s charges are less than charges in other smaller communities in Shiawassee County.

How do I find out if my property is in the flood plain?

The Engineering Department has the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) approved flood plain maps for the City. Call City Engineer Ron Baker at 725-0551 and he will look up your address on the map and determine if that property is in the 100-year flood plain.

What are the rules for overnight parking on streets? What exceptions are allowed?

City code prohibits parking on any street between the hours of 3:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. City code also prohibits parking vehicles in front yard lawn areas. The Public Safety Department may grant permission to park overnight on the street for unusual circumstances such as during driveway repairs or when having a large number of overnight visitors.

How do I reserve a pavilion at the park?

Pavilion rental is available for Harmon Patridge, also known as Green Meadows, and Bentley Park. Reservations are accepted after January 1 of each year, for that year, by application with payment of a security deposit at the City of Owosso Information Desk. Please call (989) 725-0599 for more information.

When are dog licenses available?

Dog licenses are sold for Shiawassee County from December through February each year at the City Treasurer’s Office Information Desk.  They are also available from county veterinarians during this time.  Proof of rabies vaccination and neutering/spaying, if applicable, is required.  Dog licenses are available during the rest of the year at the Shiawassee County Treasurer’s Office.  They may be contacted at (989) 743-2224 for details

I didn’t receive a tax bill, what should I do?

Call the City Treasurer’s Office at (989) 725-0515.  Please note, it is the taxpayers responsibility to pay the taxes by the due date regardless of whether a bill was received or not.

How long do I have to clean snow from my sidewalk?

City ordinance requires that snow and ice be removed within 24 hours following a snowfall. Sidewalks must be kept clear of snow and ice throughout the season. If a property owner fails to clear sidewalks, this work may be done by City crews and the property owner will be billed the actual cost for the removal plus a $50.00 administration fee.

Where can I find answers to other questions I might have?

The City’s web site includes a section devoted to frequently asked questions. This section is found under the “Reference Desk” tab at www.ci.owosso.mi.us. For people without Internet access and for questions not addressed on the web site, questions can be posed to the appropriate City office. A complete listing of City office phone numbers is found in the Verizon telephone directory under the listing “Owosso city of.”

Hotel Owosso update.

The November water bill insert provided a status report regarding the vacant Hotel Owosso which stands on the corner of Main and Washington Streets. The costs of the redevelopment of the site were discussed and it was noted that grant funds, among other financing sources, would be required. On November 19, City officials were notified that the most recent request for grant funds had been approved and that the City would be receiving $750,000 from the state to assist with building demolition and parking facility construction.