Hello and welcome to the website
of the City of St. Johns!

Also, more importantly, welcome to our city and all it has to offer.  Comfortably nestled in the heart of mid-Michigan, it’s the people that make the difference in our community.

St. Johns is a welcoming community that’s blessed with people who invest their time and energy to help one another and make our community a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family. It may have a small-town atmosphere but it’s rich with ideas and energy and the sense of a greater community.

In town you’ll find many tree-lined streets, well-planned subdivisions, and a revitalizing downtown.  You’ll also find lots of recreational activities, including a segment of the Fred Meijer Clinton-Ionia-Shiawassee Trail, parks with playgrounds, and a recently added splash pad.  Residents benefit from great schools, a seasonal farmers’ market featuring local vendors, parks with playgrounds, and several festivals held throughout the year.  We’re pleased to host a district library, a hospital, and countywide transit system…and you get the picture.

Strategically located between Lansing/East Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Flint, residents have the best of both worlds because of easy access to their museums, hospitals, arenas, ballparks and other attractions as well.

But being a “small town” has its distinct benefits.  St. Johns is a low-crime community with safe neighborhoods.  We operate a well-trained and dependable volunteer fire department, have a dedicated police force, and are also home to a countywide ambulance authority.

If you’re an entrepreneur, we host many features that may be of appeal, including a Michigan-certified industrial park, a welcoming and helpful community development staff, and lots of opportunities for commercial and retail development.

We enjoy this quality of life while having one of the lowest tax rates of communities of comparable size in mid-Michigan.  As a community we’ve also been proactive in ensuring good roads through an annual “streets millage” which has been overwhelmingly supported and has provided tremendous dividends. I’m also proud to say that our government is efficient, effective, and fiscally sound – our City Commission and city employees are good stewards of taxpayer funds.

If you’re already a part of our community, thank you. If you’re considering relocating your home or business to St. Johns -- or simply thinking about a visit -- please do. You won’t be disappointed.

While most everything you’ll need or want to know about St. Johns is right here on this website, our job at City Hall is to help make you successful, so don’t hesitate to contact us if we can be of service.

City Commission

The City of St Johns practices what is known as the "Commission - Manager" form of city government.

The Commission-Manager form is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a Commission, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government Manager. The form establishes a representative system where all power is concentrated in the elected Commission and where the Commission hires a professionally trained Manager to oversee the delivery of public services.

In Commission-Manager government, Commission members are the leaders and policy makers elected to represent the community and to concentrate on policy issues that are responsive to citizens' needs and wishes. The Manager is appointed by the Commission to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is being served.

The City is treated as a unit for election and general administration purposes.

Pictured from left to right: Commissioner Chris Hyzer, Commissioner Eric Hufnagel, Mayor Scott Dzurka, Commissioner Jean Ruestman, Vice Mayor Brad Gurski.

Commissioners and terms

Commissioner Eric Hufnagel
Term as commissioner expires November of 2024

Vice Mayor Brad Gurski
Term as commissioner expires November of 2024

Commissioner Jean Ruestman
Term as commissioner expires November of 2024

Commissioner Chris Hyzer
Term as commissioner expires November of 2026

Mayor Scott Dzurka
Term as commissioner expires November of 2026

Commission Meetings are held the 4th Monday of the month (except in March (3rd Monday) and December (2nd Monday) at 6:00 p.m. in the Clinton County Courthouse, 2nd Floor, Suite 2200.

YouTube Channel with City Commission Meeting Recordings: YouTube-City Commission Meetings 

Advantages of a City Charter

• It secures Home Rule for St. Johns. It establishes a simple, direct and businesslike form of government.
• It creates a single-headed administrative establishment and this administrative unity makes for harmony between departments, since all are subject to a common head.
• It insures expertness in administration at the point where it is most valuable, namely, at the head.
• Regular municipal elections will be held every two years.
• It makes elective officers responsive to public opinion by means of the initiative and referendum. It furnishes through the recall a simple method of removing inefficient or corrupt officials.
• It permits public work to be done by direct labor as well as by contract.
• It centralizes purchasing, which will effect greater saving in the purchase of supplies.
• It recognizes the people as the sole sources of governmental power and imposes upon each member of the community the duty and responsibility of actively interesting himself in the affairs of the city.

Public Comment Policy

The City of St Johns practices what is known as the "Commission - Manager" form of city government.

The Commission-Manager form is the system of local government that combines the strong political leadership of elected officials in the form of a Commission, with the strong managerial experience of an appointed local government Manager. The form establishes a representative system where all power is concentrated in the elected Commission and where the Commission hires a professionally trained Manager to oversee the delivery of public services.

In Commission-Manager government, Commission members are the leaders and policy makers elected to represent the community and to concentrate on policy issues that are responsive to citizens' needs and wishes. The Manager is appointed by the Commission to carry out policy and ensure that the entire community is being served.

The City is treated as a unit for election and general administration purposes.

Advantages of a City Charter

• It secures Home Rule for St. Johns. It establishes a simple, direct and businesslike form of government.
• It creates a single-headed administrative establishment and this administrative unity makes for harmony between departments, since all are subject to a common head.
• It insures expertness in administration at the point where it is most valuable, namely, at the head.
• Regular municipal elections will be held every two years.
• It makes elective officers responsive to public opinion by means of the initiative and referendum. It furnishes through the recall a simple method of removing inefficient or corrupt officials.
• It permits public work to be done by direct labor as well as by contract.
• It centralizes purchasing, which will effect greater saving in the purchase of supplies.
• It recognizes the people as the sole sources of governmental power and imposes upon each member of the community the duty and responsibility of actively interesting himself in the affairs of the city.

Public Comment Policy

The City Manager is appointed by the City Commission and is the chief administrator for the City of St. Johns.

The manager is responsible for the executive management of the highly diverse operations of the city. The city manager provides leadership, vision and direction to city service areas, implements city commission policy and works with the commission and administrative staff in strategic and financial planning objectives.

The manager also serves in a highly visible capacity as an ambassador for the community and to other governmental agencies.

Duties include:

• General Administration
• Organizational Development
• Community Relations
• Intergovernmental Relations
• Commission Support and Relations
• City Budget and Financial Planning
• Human Resources 
• Labor Relations

The Finance Department is responsible for all revenue collections including taxes, utility billing, special assessments and all other fees.

The department is also responsible for the payroll, accounts payable and accounts receivable for the City.

The department maintains all financial records and oversees the yearly audit by a contracted CPA firm.

The Treasurer coordinates the development and administration of the City's annual budget.

The City of St Johns Treasurer's Office accepts Credit/Debit Cards and Electronic Checks for the payment of Property Taxes, Personal Property Taxes, Water/Sewer Bills and Park/Rec Fees

As part of our commitment to provide citizens with efficient, convenient service, The City of St Johns Treasurer has partnered with Official Payments to offer payment of Property Taxes, Personal Property Taxes, Water/Sewer Bills and Park/Rec Fees over the internet.

American Express, Discover, Master Card, and Visa credit and debit cards, as well as Electronic Checks are accepted.

InvoiceCloud, the service provider, charges a convenience fee for payment processing.

https://bsaonline.com/OnlinePayment/OnlinePaymentSearch/?PaymentApplicationType=4&uid=409

The Clerk is the custodian of the City seal and of all documents pertaining to the City including meeting minutes, ordinances, resolutions, contracts and agreements.

The City Clerk also administers oaths of office and publishes notices of public hearings, meetings, etc. The Clerk's office maintains voter registration files and conducts elections. The clerk also prepares and maintains city commission minutes and agendas. Administering elections is an ongoing responsibility, which includes conducting voter registrations, maintaining the Michigan Qualified Voter File, issuing absentee ballots and providing other voter assistance as necessary. 

Other responsibilities of the Clerk include acting as the city’s Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) coordinator; overseeing HR benefits and IT responsibilities for the city.

Birth, Death, Marriage and Court Records 

Are under the custody of the Clinton County Clerk, (989) 224-5140.

Passports 

Available at the Clinton County Register of Deeds Office, (989) 224-5270.

The Assessor values all real and personal property subject to taxation under the Michigan General Property Tax Act.

The Assessor is required under Michigan law to discover, list and value all property within the City and to assess the property at 50% of its current market value. The Assessor does not make the laws which affect property owners. The tax laws are made by the Michigan Legislature. Tax rates are determined by the individual local taxing authorities (City, County, State, Schools).

2024 Sales Studies

What is a Capital Improvement Planning (CIP)?

A capital Improvement Plan is a six-year schedule of public physical improvements which identifies the needs for major public infrastructure improvements, and the sources of funding to make those improvements. It provides a schedule of expenditures for constructing, maintaining, upgrading, and/or replacing a community's physical inventory. The CIP, therefore, is a tool to assess the long-term capital project requirements (the "big jobs") of St. Johns. Since capital improvement projects are spread across multiple community needs (fire protection, police, water and sewer, parks and recreation, municipal administration, etc.) the CIP prioritizes these projects across the entire community and over time, providing an "apples-to-apples" comparison of the community's various needs and wants.

What are the benefits of preparing a CIP?

The CIP is more than just a State requirement; it is an essential planning tool in addition to a statement of budgetary policy. It informs the taxpayers of City of St. Johns how the City plans to prioritize, schedule, and coordinate capital improvement projects over the next six years.

The benefits of creating and annually updating the CIP include:

• Prudent use of taxpayer dollars
• Focusing city expenditures on the needs of the community
• Prioritizing projects across the needs of the community
• Generating community support by inviting public input
• Promoting economic development
• Improving the city's eligibility for State and Federal grants
• Providing an implementation tool for the goals and objectives of the City's Master Plan
• Transparency in identification of high-priority projects
• Coordination/cost-sharing between projects

Getting Involved

For more information about the capital improvement planning process, contact Chad Gamble, P.E., 989-224-8944 Ext. 231

New Virtual Zoning Map

The City of St. Johns has created a virtual zoning map to allow residents, business owners, developers, and other interested parties to easily access up-to-date zoning related information. This platform can be used to view the map as a whole, look at a specific zoning district, or verify the zoning of a certain parcel. Properties can be searched using a parcel number or street address and dimensional requirements have been included for each zoning district.

Virtual Zoning Map Link

Guide to Developing in St. Johns

The City of St. Johns welcomes development.  This page serves as a hub for all development related information aiming to provide a transparent and streamlined process for those interested in joining the St. Johns community.  The Zoning Code in Chapter 155 of the Code of Ordinances may be referenced for additional information.

Applications for planning, zoning, rezoning, or other engineering processes are completed online through BS&A.  Permits are submitted using this same system.  Interested developers or those in need of the mentioned applications should create a BS&A account and contact the Community Development Department with any questions that may arise.  The link below will take you to the BS&A portal.

Online Permit Application Step-by-Step Guide

Online Permit Application Link 

Zoning Permits

A zoning permit is required prior to constructing a building, fence, pool, deck, patio, driveway, shed, or sidewalk.  Please apply on-line at the City’s website (permit tab on main page).

In addition to a zoning permit, a building permit is required for all commercial, industrial, and residential buildings.  Please contact the Clinton County Building Department at 989-224-5181 to obtain a building permit application.

Business Registration Requirements

Building, Electrical, Mechanical, and Plumbing Permits can be obtained at:

Clinton County Building Department

Home Remodeling or Replacement Projects (permits):

If you’re completing home remodeling or replacement/upgrade projects for your home, please make sure to obtain necessary permits and inspections from the Clinton County Building Department. This includes required plumbing, mechanical or electrical permits for items such as replacing a water heater, furnace, air conditioning or adding electrical circuits/service upgrades. If you are hiring a contractor to complete this work, make sure they obtain the appropriate permits and inspections. These permits and subsequent inspections are critical to make sure all work meets code requirements for your family’s safety and to protect your investment.

For additional information or questions regarding permits, please don’t hesitate to contact the County Building Department at 989-224-5181 or e-mail buildingdept@clinton-county.org

Downtown Master Plan

Master Plan

The Master Plan is a comprehensive planning document that outlines future community development.  This is a five-year plan covering 2021-2025.

2021-2025 Master Plan

Site Plan Review

The Site Plan Review process is completed by the Planning Commission following the recommended pre-application meeting and submittal of an application online through the BS&A portal. The pre-application checklist outline topics for discussion with the Community Development and Zoning Department and necessary information on the proposed development. These meetings are available to all prospective developers and are beneficial in outlining the processes in place while keeping the City informed of potential developments. Please reach out directly to schedule a meeting. A site plan must include all necessary information listed in the Site Plan Requirements Chart. 

A complete application with all required information included must be submitted to the Zoning Administrator 30 days prior to the Planning Commission meeting in which it is reviewed.  A public hearing must be held, and a notice will be published 15 days prior to the hearing.  Following the public hearing, the Planning Commission must make a decision within 45 days of receipt of any site plan application unless an extension is agreed upon by the applicant. The City is available as a resource throughout the entire process and welcomes any questions that may arise.

Pre-Application Checklist

Site Plan Requirements Chart

Community Development Fee Schedule

Community Development Fees & Rates 2020-2021

Flowcharts for Review Processes

These flowcharts outline the procedures and timelines for the development review processes.

Development Review Flowcharts

Site Plan Review Process Feedback

The City of St. Johns is always looking to improve our development processes and would encourage anyone who has recently participated in a site plan review to provide their feedback. This input will help the city learn from your experience and make necessary improvements. Please use the online survey below to easily submit this information or reach out directly to the Community Development and Zoning Department.

Click here to complete the Site Plan Review Process Survey.

The St. Johns Fire Department is a volunteer department

Fire Chief: Jordan Whitford

Deputy Chief: John Kochensparger

Assistant Chief: Mark Wineland

Captain: Matt Chapko

Lieutenant: Vince Towne

Lieutenant: Jody Snater

Lieutenant: Chad Moinet

Our office is not staffed during the day. For assistance with burn permits or to leave a message for the Fire Chief or Fire Marshal, please contact the St. Johns Police Department office during their regular business hours:

          St. Johns Police Department (Office Hours: Monday - Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Closed Saturday,
          Sunday and Holidays)

The City of St Johns Fire Department provides fire and emergency services to the residents and businesses within Bingham and Bengal Townships and the City of St. Johns.

The Fire Department is staffed by Paid-On-Call Firefighters. The Department actively trains two (2) times per month.

The Department provides response and assistance to accidents, hazardous materials, storm alerts and fires with up-to-date 'Jaws of Life' (2 sets), Auto Air Bags (to stabilize auto after accident), fire trucks (4) and firefighting equipment.

Disclaimer:

The City of St Johns Fire Department is providing this information on this Website as a public service. Although all information on this site is expected to be accurate, complete and timely, the City does not guarantee the accuracy of the information. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided on this Website, the City makes no warranties, expressed or implied, regarding the errors or omissions and assumes no liability or responsibility for improper or incorrect information or data described and/or contained within this Website. This data and information are not legal documents and are not intended to be used as such.

FANTASY FOREST WILL BE CLOSED EFFECTIVE DECEMBER 1, 2024 DUE TO RECONSTRUCTION. STAY TUNED FOR GRAND OPENING IN LATE 2025.

The Recreation Director and Programmer are responsible for the planning, organizing, and operation of the cultural, athletic, and recreational activities in the City.

They work in cooperation with other groups and individuals to carry out these activities throughout the year.

All program information and rates are subject to change. Please check back often on our Recreation Department website for updates prior to your final registration. All programs are subject to cancellation if the minimum registration is not met.

William S. Schafer - Recreation Director

St. Johns has a NEW Recreation Department website and registration system, myrec.com!

Adult Leagues & Programs, Youth Programs, and Pool Programs can be found
using the Register Now link below:

Mission & Master Plan:

Mission Statement

Promote a broad, year round range of quality indoor and outdoor recreational opportunities to City residents of all ages and physical and mental abilities and encourage intergenerational participation in activities.

Master Plan

Five Year Master Plan 2021 - 2025 - Final

Questions/comments regarding the Five Year Master Plan, please contact William Schafer, Recreation Director

Five Year Master Plan 2016 - 2020

Welcome to the City's Police Department 

Emergency - Contact 911

Non-Emergency number for central dispatch: (989) 224-6792

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A Message from the Chief of Police, David Kirk:

The St. Johns Police Department would like to thank you for taking the time to visit our website. As a department, we make it a practice to post items of interest on our site in hopes of enhancing communications and information sharing between our agency and the public we take pride in serving.

Whether you are a resident, employed somewhere in the city or simply here to patronize one of our great local businesses it becomes quickly apparent that St. Johns has a shared community wide commitment to make and keep our city a great place to be.

The efforts of the men and women of our department in partnership with our residents have established St. Johns as one of the safest communities in Michigan. It is one of our primary objectives to ensure that the time you spend here in our city, however extensive or brief, is safe and fully enjoyable.

As part of our commitment to be continually improving our services, we welcome any comments, suggestions or questions you may have regarding our agency.

Please remember that we as the St. Johns Police Department are here for you, our community whenever needed. As our motto indicates we are forever “Ready to Protect, Proud to Serve”.

Police Department Motto:

“Ready to Protect, Proud to Serve”

Mission Statement:

Commit to having each member of our department utilize the full potential of their knowledge, skills and abilities in order to provide protection, justice and service to all those entrusted to our care.

Disclaimer:

The City of St. Johns Police Department is providing the information on this Website as a public service. Although all information on this site is expected to be accurate, complete and timely, the City does not guarantee the accuracy of the information. While very effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided on this Website, the City makes no warranties, expressed or implied, regarding the errors or omissions and assumes no liability or responsibility for improper or incorrect information or data described and/or contained within this Website. This data and information are not legal documents and are not intended to be used as such.

The Director of Public Services is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the water, wastewater and public works departments.

He coordinates the three departments' workforce to accomplish major duties and/or emergency situations. The Director of Public Services assists with new street and utility projects, as far as utility location and sizing. Public education on current projects and/or city policies and programs are also the responsibility of the director.

Department of Public Works
Wastewater Department
Water Department

The City of St. Johns Public Works Department is responsible for maintaining the (44 miles of) street network within the City limits. 

Street sweeping, paving, snow removal and salting, and pothole repair fall under the DPW responsibilities. The Public Works Department is also responsible for the brush and leaf pickup in the City. 

EMERGENCY - After Hours Phone - (989) 224-9192

Annual Certification of Employee-Related Conditions

**The City Enforces Truck Traffic and Weight Limits**

Per Ordinance 565 the City is enforcing the truck traffic and weight limits on all city streets.

For further information regarding this ordinance:

• Weight Limits (Click to read Ord. 565 in its entirety)

Yard Waste & Brush Pick Up Request

Report a Pothole

Report a Hazardous Tree in the ROW

Report a Missing or Damaged Street Sign

The annual leaf collection program is nearing completion. The last day for loose leaf pick-up will be December 6th.

After this date, you may place your leaves in the brown biodegradable bags and place them by the curb and schedule a bag pick up at www.cityofstjohnsmi.com, click Yard Waste Pick-Up.  Yard waste can also be taken to the Department of Public Works, 1000 N. US-127 BR and placed the yard waste drop-off site.  Brown bag pick up and brush pick up will be suspended effective January 1 until April 1.  Please note if there is a significant snowfall, the brown bag pick up will be suspended until April 1. 

We would like to thank the residents for raking and bagging leaves. Also we would like to thank the City of St. Johns Public Works staff for their hard work during this annual leaf collection program.

Emergency After Hours Phone: (989)-224-9192

The City of Saint Johns owns and operates the Publicly-Owned Treatment Works (POTW), known as the Wastewater Treatment Plant (WWTP) and is responsible for treating all residential and commercial sanitary sewage generated in the City Limits as well as portions of Bingham Township.

Sewage is transported through the collection system, which is made up of over 45 miles of pipe and includes multiple lift stations. Lift station pumps raise the liquid to a level from which it can flow by gravity to the plant.

The WWTP is designed to effectively treat an average daily flow of 1.9 million gallons per day (1.9 MGD). Although the Plant can handle this “hydraulic” water load, including temporarily-higher flow spikes, continuous treatment is practical with typical daily flows of 1.4 to 1.5 MGD.

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What is Wastewater?

Wastewater or sewage is the byproduct of many uses of water. There are the household uses such as showering, dishwashing, laundry and, of course, flushing the toilet. Additionally, companies use water for many purposes including processes, products and cleaning/rinsing parts. After the water has been used, it enters the wastewater stream and flows to the wastewater facility for proper treatment.

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Permits

A utility/street permit must be completed prior to performing any work in the City right-of-way. Fees may apply depending on work. Contact City Offices at (989) 224-8944 for further information.

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Plant Process are as follows:

Phase I - Influent Treatment

Purpose:

To remove in-organics (grit) and large solids through screening devices. Metering and equalization of the influent flow combined with the introduction of ferrous chloride (FeCL2) and air.

Process:

Incoming or influent flows are introduced to the first stage of treatment, utilizing four large pumps. This is an automated process operated by a bubbler system.

Phase II - Primary Treatment

Purpose:

To remove sludge and reduce phosphorus as well as suspended solids levels.

Process:

In this stage, a polymer is introduced at the inlet of the primary tanks. Polymer combined with the ferrous chloride creates a ion exchange (positive/negative), which coagulates the solids, ultimately settling to the bottom of the tank. These solids are then pumped through a heat exchanger/boiler unit and into the digesters.

Phase III - Secondary Treatment

Purpose:

To remove biological oxygen demand (BOD), Ammonia Nitrogen and polish the small pin flock solids that is collected in the secondary clarifiers.

Process:

Using Rotating Biological Contactors (RBC), natural organisms that are present in domestic waste are used to remove both ammonia nitrogen as well as BOD. The first three stages in each train remove the BOD, while the remaining two stages are used for nitrogen removal. Any remaining solids are settled out in secondary clarifiers and are returned to the front of the plant.

Phase IV - Tertiary Treatment

Purpose:

By using sand filters, any remaining impurities left in the water leaving the facility is filtered out.

Process:

After secondary treatment, the water is introduced to the mixed media filters, which consists of sand, stone, and charcoal. The water is then disinfected with chlorine and de-chlorinated with sulfur dioxide and discharged to the St. Johns Big Ditch.

The Wastewater Department staff are responsible for repairs and maintenance to the equipment at the Plant, as well as the Lift Stations. Plant staff also monitor and perform laboratory analysis on the sewage as it undergoes treatment at the Wastewater Plant. The treated sewage must meet stringent State and Federal Standards before it can be discharged to the St. Johns Big Ditch.

All plant operators are required to hold a minimum of a Class D Wastewater Treatment license as issued by EAGLE. Combined, the Wastewater staff has exceeded State standards by obtaining Class B, and class C, Wastewater Treatment licenses. Operators attend many training courses throughout the year to stay updated on the industry and to increase job knowledge.

Did you know about the wastewater treatment plant video

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What is Inflow & Infiltration (I & I)?

Inflow is water from a sump pump or roof drain. This relatively clean water should be connected and discharged to a storm water system. In some cases, homeowners connect sump pumps (illegally) to the sanitary sewer because it is relatively easy and inexpensive.

Infiltration is groundwater that seeps directly into sanitary transmission systems, usually during the spring heavy rains and melting snow.

The City of St. Johns Wastewater Treatment Facility receives an average daily flow of 1.3 million gallons of wastewater from residents and businesses within the City and portions of Bingham Township. Our facility provides tertiary treatment utilizing biodisks and filtration technology.

We initiated many improvements with a construction project that began in July 2008 at the St. Johns facility. We implemented a very practical design to limit the cost for our community. At the same time, replacing old equipment, rerouting portions of the flow to gain wet-weather capacity further increased efficiencies throughout the processes.

We welcome the opportunity to explain the operation and regulations/requirements we must achieve at your public-owned wastewater treatment facility.

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Store It... Don't Pour It!

Please Help Save our Sewers from the Beast of Grease!

A common cause of sewer backups in St.Johns is pipes blocked by grease. Sewer backups and overflows can damage home interiors, cause health hazards, and threaten the environment. No one wants to experience a backup but everyone can help. For household cooking greases and oils remember: Store it... Don't Pour it!

Non-Domestic User Survey

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Service Request

We provide residential assistance in the event of a sewer back-up. During normal business hours (7:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.) residents can call (989) 224-8944, Ext 230. After hours, calls can be placed to the Emergency Answering Service at (989) 224-9192. City personnel will quickly respond to any/all calls and verify problems.

For Emergency sewer backups or water turn-offs please contact our on call system at (989) 224-9192 for after hours, weekends, and holidays.

The City's Water Department is dedicated to providing safe, clean drinking water to all of its customers. St. Johns Water is produced and distributed under full compliance with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE). Our dedicated professional staff of state licensed Water Operators adheres to our strict standards of operation for the three divisions within our department, Water Production, Water Distribution and our State Certified Drinking Water Lab.

The City's water production system consists of five (5) wells, a 400,000 gallon ground storage tank, and two (2) high service pumps. The production system is controlled with a SCADA system which allows monitoring of our wells and pumps 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

The City's distribution system consists of a 500,000 gallon elevated tower, 56 miles of watermain and 467 fire hydrants.

The City's state certified drinking water lab not only allows us to process our own required bacti samples but allows us to process samples for many smaller communities within Clinton and Gratiot counties as well as excavating companies, water well companies and real estate agents.

The water department distribution and lab staff ensure that all new construction water mains are installed, disinfected and sampled according to EGLE and City of St. Johns standards before they are put into operation. Ensuring that all customers will have safe drinking water.  

                                                                                                                              Water and Sewer Billing

The City of St. Johns will either mail or email your bill. A minimum bill is generated even if there is no usage.  Water/sewer bills are based by usage per 1,000 gallons, so therefore every 1,000 gallons of water used also generates 1,000 gallons of sewer. 

If you have purchased a residential or commercial property, please fill out this Name Change Form. By filling out & submitting this form, this will get the water/sewer account set up with your information.  Please note that there is an option to have your bill emailed (no paper copy is mailed), simply fill your email address where indicated & you will receive each bill via email.  

If you are renting a property, a rental affidavit is required to place your information on the account.  Please contact city offices at (989) 224-8944, ext. 282 for information.  With the affidavit, a copy of your lease agreement, a $250 rental deposit (which is applied to your final bill when you move out), and a copy of your driver's license are required to place your name onto the account.  

There are several options on how you can pay your water/sewer bill, click the underlined item to get started. You can search by account number (located on your bill), name, address or parcel number:

AutoPay (ACH) (free of charge from your checking or savings account)

Credit/Debit Card, PayPal, Venmo, & Google Pay (3% processing fee applies)

E-Check ($3.00 fee applies)

Sign-in or register your account.  You can find your account number on the water/sewer bill or contact city offices at (989) 224-8944, ext. 282.

Payments can also be made by calling (844) 623-1635. Several payment options are available including signing up for paperless bills and email/text reminders. This fee would be less the 10% penalty assessed if the bill is not paid on time. 

Cash, check or money order (payable to City of St. Johns) is also accepted. Payment can either be mailed, dropped off at city offices (1st floor, Suite 1100, Clinton County Courthouse) or placed in the white drop box (with green lettering) which is located in the courthouse parking lot near Cass Street. Please have your bill stub with your payment or your account number written on your check. 

A 10% penalty is added after the due date for any unpaid bill. There is a $30 fee for any returned checks. If a delinquent amount is owing from the previous year and is not paid the following year by May 22, the unpaid balance will go onto the property owner's taxes plus administration fee. Payments can be made at any time.

The mailing address for your water/sewer bill is: 

City of St. Johns Water Department

PO Box 477, St. Johns, MI 48879-0477

For questions, please call (989) 224-8944, ext. 282 or email twright@stjohnsmi.gov or click FAQ'S(questions and answers) for detailed information.  

The Code Enforcement Department is responsible for handling complaints and violations pertaining to the City of St. Johns Codified and Zoning Ordinances.

Some of the most commonly violated ordinances include those regarding tall grass and weeds, nuisance, not clearing sidewalks of snow, raking leaves into the street, commercial signs, improper parking or storage of recreational vehicles, and inoperable vehicle storage. The Code Enforcement Department shall use various techniques to achieve compliance with local laws relating to building and zoning requirements, health and safety concerns, property maintenance standards, and other land use laws and regulations. The goal is to obtain voluntary compliance from citizens. Each case may be unique and a “one size fits all” solution doesn’t always work. Residents in violation of City code are notified of the violation and instructed to take action in order to comply with the ordinance in question. Compliance is typically reached through promoting public awareness, communication, and collaboration. Uncorrected and repeated violations will result in tickets and/or fines.

The Code Enforcement Department does not engage in neighbor disputes over property lines or other matters that do not violate the city code.

Boards and Committees

The City of St. Johns has many different boards and committees for residents to become involved in their community and the important decisions being made with their local government. If you would like to join one of these bodies please consult the Boards and Committees Application Skillset Guide to determine the best fit, based on the experience you have. Afterwards, complete the Boards and Committees Application:

https://www.cognitoforms.com/SJForms/BoardsAndCommitteesApplication

Board of Ethics

The Board of Ethics are brought together to review complaints of ethics violations against elected or non-elected city officials. These complaints can come from the City Manager, a city employee, a non-elected official, or a member of the City Commission. The Board will issue its findings or recommendations to the proper authority.

Board of Review

The Board meets three times a year to handle valuation disputes, poverty exemptions, classification appeals, and Principal Residence Exemption (PRE) corrections.

For more information please click here 

Compensation Board

This Board, officially called the Local Officers Compensation Board, meets annually to review the compensation for the City Commission.

For more information please click here

Finance Advisory Group

The Finance Advisory Group meets on an as needed basis to provide financial oversight for the city.

Parking Committee

This Committee reviews requests and makes recommendations to the City Commission on parking when needed.

Parks and Recreation Board

This Board reviews and advises the City Commission on the operation of the city parks and recreation programs. Meetings are held every other month.

For more information please click here

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission meets monthly to review requests for site plans, special use permits, subdivisions, and rezoning.

For more information please click here

Principal Shopping District/Downtown Development Authority (PSD/DDA)

The PSD/DDA works directly with a collaborative of business owners, property owners, real estate developers, and local government to stimulate the economy and produce opportunities for enhancing the downtown. This group meets monthly to achieve its mission through advocacy, community and special events.

For more information please click here

Zoning Board of Appeals

The Zoning Board of Appeals meets when required to review requests for variances or for interpretations of the Zoning Ordinance.

For more information please click here

Training Opportunities for Boards and Committees

The City of St. Johns strives to have engaged members of their boards and committees who are trained in up-to-date knowledge of the areas they are serving the community. All upcoming training opportunities are posted here and available to the members of any boards and committees who would receive benefit.

City staff contact for training opportunities: Chad Gamble, City Manager, 989-224-8944 ext. 231, cgamble@stjohnsmich.com