IRON MOUNTAIN — Iron Mountain’s application for grant and loan assistance through the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund gained a “competitive” score, but it’s hard to say if the city will get an offer, City Manager Jordan Stanchina said.

A notice of whether the proposed $13.2 million project is funded should come in the next month or so, he said Monday.

Communities also have until Nov. 1 to notify the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy of their intention to apply for funds next year.

In addition to the water plan, Iron Mountain submitted an application for a $16.5 million sewer project through the Clean Water State Revolving Fund. That proposal, however, received a relatively low score.

The water and sewer programs are funded at much higher levels than in the past because of federal aid. Previous funding of about $500 million statewide will be closer to $2.1 billion in this application cycle, according to Scott Nowack, project manager for Coleman Engineering of Iron Mountain.

Coleman was hired in February at a cost of up to $14,000 to prepare a package so the city could seek a share.

Among the proposed areas are parts of South Kimberly Avenue and West Hughitt, Lake, Forest, Adams, West A, East E, East B, East C, Norway, Sixth and Seventh streets.

In other action, the city council:

— Received an update on the conversion to automated trash collection, which is scheduled to start Monday. Cart deliveries should be wrapped up by now, Stanchina said. The city has fielded a number of calls regarding can sizes and other issues, with information forwarded to contractor GFL. Stanchina said he anticipates “a learning curve” for both residents and GFL.

— Adopted an ordinance amendment that allows garbage trucks to go the wrong way on one-way streets

to facilitate collections. The exemption requires flashing lights and warning devices, speeds of no more than 15 mph and stops at every intersection.

— Presented a resolution of appreciation to Joe Dumais, a police officer who has retired after 25 years. Dumais, who since 2019 has served as deputy director of police services, was praised by Ed Mattson, director of police and fire services, as “a top-notch” city employee.

— Agreed to participate in an opiate lawsuit settlement involving Walgreens, anticipating an approximate payout of $7,184 that must be used for programs, services or equipment approved by the courts.

— Set a public hearing for 6 p.m. Sept. 6 on a request to vacate an undeveloped section of Michigan Avenue between East F and East G streets. The request is from neighboring property owners Scott and Lynn McClure, Gilbert LaFave and Larry Roell.

Jim Anderson can be reached at 906-774-2772, ext. 226, or janderson@ironmountaindailynews.com.