SECTION I

BACKGROUND INFORMATION

1-1

Chapter 1 INTRODUCTION

1.1 PLANNING PROCESS

The County of Marquette worked with staff at the CUPPAD Regional Commission in the development of this plan. CUPPAD received a grant to identify hazards in its six-county region, which includes Marquette County. Numerous meetings were scheduled with CUPPAD to facilitate joint attendance.

The planning process commenced with review of EMD-PUB 207, Local Hazard Mitigation Planning Workbook, attendance at a Hazard Mitigation/Comprehensive Plan Interface Workshop in Lansing on September 5, 6, & 7 of 2001 and a review of several County Plans. Staff then addressed representatives of local units at a Marquette County Township Association meeting on September 26, 2001 requesting their cooperation in the planning process. Letters were also sent to Township Supervisors and City Managers. Questionnaires and base maps were distributed to the Townships requesting they identify areas of concern.

Information was collected regarding various hazards from the following sources: Internet Emergency Service Division files Marquette County Planning Commission Files Local Plans Newspaper Articles Interviews

Meetings were held throughout the planning process, each addressing different hazards. Individuals with experience or knowledge of the hazards were invited to attend. Topics discussed included past incidents, land use issues, local response capabilities, needs, and prevention.

Meetings were also held with officials of township and city governments. Officials verified map quality, provided information about hazards in their jurisdictions, and offered lists of capital projects for hazard mitigation.

Date Government Officials Present November 22, 2004 Ely Township Ted Pepin, Supervisor November 22, 2004 Champion Township Berle LaPin, Supervisor November 23, 2004 Republic Townshp Gary Johnson, Supervisor Vickie Skogman, Clerk November 23, 2004 Humboldt Township Marvin Ruspakka, Supervisor November 23, 2004 Tilden Township Dennis Tonge, Supervisor Fred Vanleuven, Public Works November 24, 2004 Ewing Township Arnold Sirtola, Supervisor November 24, 2004 Turin Township Michael Connors, Supervisor

1-2

Scott Connors, Trustee December 8, 2004 City of Ishpeming John Korhonen, City Mgr. January 7, 2005 Michigamme Township John Olson, Supervisor January 10, 2005 Powell Township Vincent Bevins, Supervisor March 11, 2005 Sands Township Earl Yelle, Supervisor Rick Wilson, Trustee March 15, 2005 Skandia Township Art Lauren, Supervisor April 20, 2005 City of Negaunee Paul Waters, City Mgr. April 20, 2005 Ishpeming Township James Nankervis, Supervisor April 25, 2005 Forsyth Township Chris Adams, Supervisor April 25, 2005 Wells Township Henry DeGroot, Supervisor July 8, 2005 West Branch Township Barry Bahrman, Supervisor Jack Heidtman, Trustee July 20, 2005 Chocolay Township Greg Seppanen, Supervisor Dennis Stachewicz, Planner July 28, 2005 City of Marquette Pat Gruber, Planner July 29, 2005 Negaunee Township Wayne Johnson, Supervisor Gary Veale, Zoning Adm. August 30, 2005 Marquette Township Dennis Girard, Twp. Mgr. Mark Woolard, Planner Ron DeMarse, Fire Chief Dan Pompo, Asst. Fire Chief Tim Haydon, Twp. Assessor Kirk Page, Public Works September 16, 2005 Richmond Township William Luetzow, Supervisor

Additional exchange of information occurred at meetings and training sessions: Marquette County Planning Commission, quarterly 2001 and 2002. Marquette County Local Emergency Planning Committee, monthly 2001, 2002. Marquette County Health Care Providers Group, Michigan Health and Hospital Association (UP Region) 2002 Michigan Homeland Security Conference Michigan FireWise Community Workshop Hazard Mitigation Plan Work Session on Public Events, Civil Disturbances, and Terrorism (Held on 4-18-02 at KI Sawyer) List of attendees include: Robert Eslinger (Rotary West/Seafood Fest), Jay Johnston (FBI MQT), Anne Giroux (Ishpeming 4th of July Committee), David LeMire (Marquette County Sheriff Dept.), Pat Gruber (Marquette County Resource Management and Development), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD) Hazard Mitigation Work Session on Unstable Grounds and Mines (Held on 3-23-02) List of attendees include: John “Yogi” Carlson (Mine Inspector), William Carlson (Negaunee Township Supervisor), Mark Dryer (CCI Land Manger), Judy Allen (Representing the Sierra Club and the Upper Peninsula Environmental Coalition) Pat Gruber (Development

1-3

Coordinator with Marquette County), John Elofson (U.S. Steel), Mike Farrell (J.M. Longyear Heirs, LLC) Fire Hazards: Industrial, Commercial, and Institutional Issues (Held on 2-7-02) List of attendees include: William Carter and Mike Harrington (Jacobetti Veterans Home), Donna Day (Bell Memorial Hospital), Opal Giroux (Ishpeming Housing Committee), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD), Pat Gruber (County of Marquette Resource Management), Mike Kirkwood, Jerry Elmblad, Dan Thomas (Marquette Branch Prison), Philip Creech (Louisiana Pacific), Bill Hetrick (Insurance Industry) Fire Hazard: Residential and Rural Issues (Held on 2-5-02) o List of attendees include: William Kapeller (Sands Township Fire Dept.), Tom Belt (City of Marquette Fire Dept.), Terry Popour, Robert Ziel, Gilbert Joy (Michigan Dept. of Natural Resource), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD), Pat Gruber (County of Marquette Resource Management), Bill Hetrick (Insurance Industry) • Hazard Mitigation Plan for Dams and Impoundments (Held on 1-9-02) o List of attendees include: Denny Magadanz (Chocolay Township), Tom St. John (Marquette Board of Light and Power), Gary Goodman, Dean Korri (Cliff’s Mining Service Co.), Robert Meyers (UPPCO), Sheila Meier, Jim Pawloski (Michigan Dept. of Environmental Quality), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD), Pat Gruber (Marquette County Resource Management), Carl Lindquist (Marquette County Conservation), Steve Lawry, Jim Compton (City of Marquette) • Hazard Mitigation Plan for Shoreline Flooding and Wave Erosion (Held on 1-4- 02) o List of attendees include: Denny Magadanz, Doug Riley (Chocolay Township), Sheila Meier, Joan Duncan (MDEQ), Mark Woolard (Marquette Township), Steve Lawry (City of Marquette), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD), Pat Gruber (Marquette County Resource Management) • Hazard Mitigation Plan for Urban Flooding Issues (Held on 1-15-02) o List of attendees include: Mike Farrell (Drain Commissioner), Pat Gruber (Marquette County Resource Management), Jim Compton (City of Marquette), Sheila Meier (MDEQ), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD), Joan Duncan (MDEQ,LWM) • Hazard Mitigation Plan for Riverine Flooding (Held on 1-18-02) o List of attendees include: Denny Magadanz (Chocolay Township), Mike Farrell (Drain Commissioner), Joan Duncan (MDEQ-LWMD), Pat Gruber (Marquette County Resource Management), Bill Wickham (CUPPAD), Jim Compton (City of Marquette), Mark Woolard (Marquette Township)

Funds for technical assistance were used to hire an intern to develop maps. Another intern was hired to assist the County Equalization Department to complete the parcel layer for the County’s GIS, scan existing floodplain maps and dam inundation area maps for creation of those GIS layers. A consultant was also hired to create a probable floodplain GIS layer for unmapped areas of the County.

1-4

Use of the County’s GIS facilitated analysis of hazards. Data collected in development of this plan will be used to improve existing layers or create new ones.

Pursuant to Michigan Public Act 282 of 1945 as amended, (being the County Planning Act, M.C.L. 125-101) Marquette County notified all local units of government in Marquette County, all neighboring units of government, the servicing railroad company, utility, telephone and cable companies about their opportunity to review the draft Marquette County Hazard Mitigation Plan on February 26, 2003. The notification list included over 40 addresses and requested the receiver respond back stating they had received the plan. As of July 30, 2003, Marquette County Resource Management received only 9 responses stating they received the draft plan and no comments on the plan’s content.

The general public had opportunities to comment upon the plan during meetings of the Marquette County Planning Commission. Presentations about the plan were made at the April, June, and September meetings in 2005. The public was given the opportunity to review the plan on the County’s web site, www.co.marquette.mi.us, with the additional opportunity to e-mail comments to planning staff. A discussion of hazard mitigation strategies and the need for hazard mitigation was the main topic of an “Idea Exchange” meeting, designed to bring local concerns to the attention of County staff, in August, 2005. Finally, the public had the opportunity to comment during the Marquette County Board of Commissioners consideration of the plan. Sadly, no usable input was obtained from the public input process.

1.2 PLAN MAINTENANCE AND REVISION

The Act also requires that the Marquette County Planning Commission review each plan at least every five years after adoption and determine whether to commence the procedure to amend the plan or adopt a new plan. Before the 5th anniversary of its adoption, the Marquette County Local Emergency Planning Committee should review the plan and make recommendations to the Planning Commission regarding outdated information and recommendations. Amendment of the plan or development of a new plan should follow the requirements of Act 282. As part of the planning procedure, a public hearing will be held at the Marquette County Planning Commission meeting, with further opportunity for public comment when the Marquette County Board of Commissioners considers adoption of the plan.

Reviewing and evaluating the hazard mitigation plan is crucial since changes in the type, extent, and numbers of hazards are likely to occur over time. For instance, the plans identified risks and hazards may increase or decrease, new hazards may be brought forward due to new development patterns, or strategies may be implemented and new ones proposed. The Hazard Mitigation Plan will be treated as part of the County’s comprehensive plan, thus requiring an update every five years. Public input will be critical to the continued maintenance of the plan, as the risk of various hazards changes

1-5

with changing conditions, budgets, and technology. A new set of hearings and public meetings will be incorporated into the plan update process.

It is recommended that the mitigating actions described in the County Hazard Mitigation Plan be incorporated into planning documents prepared and adopted by either Marquette County or local units of government within the county. Information contained in the mitigation plan would be useful to communities as they prepare or develop various planning documents. One recommended planning document is the comprehensive or master plan; the procedures for amending or adopting a plan are outlined in the in the respective County, Township and Municipal Planning Acts. The planning acts require communities with an adopted plan to review the plan every five years to determine if any necessary changes should be made to the plan. At this five-year review stage, the community should consult the Mitigation Plan to determine what findings and actions included in the Hazard Mitigation Plan are appropriate for inclusion into the local plan. It is recommended that the community not wait for the five-year interval, but undertake an amendment to the plan with actions or other findings from the plan. The mitigating actions could be incorporated into the goals and objectives section of the comprehensive plan.

Since work has begun on the plan, elements of it have been incorporated into Marquette County Planning Commission review of local zoning variances and township master plans. Hazard mitigation concerns have also been worked into other parts of the comprehensive plan.

Another plan that may be prepared is a “Community Development Plan”, a required plan when a community applies for a federal Community Development Block Grant. The Community Development Plan includes an assessment of problems and needs of the community, a brief community profile and possible short term and long term activities to address identified needs and problems of the area. The Hazard Mitigation Plan can be utilized in presenting the community profile, identification of community needs and problems, along with activities to address the identified hazard needs and problems.

The Marquette County Planning Commission may of its own accord, or upon recommendation of another public body or citizens group, elect to amend this plan at any time.

Insert hearing comments here.

The Plan was adopted by the MCPC on on the following motion: insert motion here

The Plan was discussed by the Committee of the Whole of the Marquette County Board on and adopted by the County Board on.

1-6

Official copies of the plan will be on file in the Resource Management Development Department of the County of Marquette.

1.3 IMPLEMENTATION AND MONITORING OF PROJECTS

Many of the recommended mitigation strategies are outside of the County’s jurisdiction. However, the County should, through its Planning Commission and Local Emergency Planning Committee, promote responsible decisions and projects by the local units of Government. Under amendments to the City and Township Planning Acts that were signed into law in 2001, the County Planning Commission must review local plans. The review should consider: • Consistency with county plans • Validity of comments received at local public hearings on the plan and the unit of government’s response to those comments. • Degree of consistency with the plans of adjoining units of government. If inconsistencies exist, are they due to outdated plans of the adjoining unit? Is there some way to resolve the conflict? Which has the highest consistency with the County Plan? • Does it avoid inconsistency with other governmental agency plans?

The County Planning Commission should also substantiate its comments with facts. While its comments are only advisory, the County Planning Commission has an important role in coordinating planning among its local units, adjoining units, and other government agencies. The County Planning Commission should be proactive and initiate coordination opportunities such as initiating meetings between groups and units of government.

The County Planning Commission also reviews local zoning amendments. This is an ideal time to consider the compatibility of land uses and current and future populations that may be placed at risk by existing or future activity.

The County Planning Commission also reviews the capital budget requests by County Departments. This is an ideal way to promote mitigation projects and/or point out areas where hazard mitigation features should be incorporated into structural design.

The Local Emergency Planning Committee should also work with local agencies and units of government to encourage them to undertake mitigation projects as well as those that prepare for response and recovery. On an ongoing basis, the Emergency Services Director should monitor available grants and inform appropriate parties of potential matches with mitigation strategies and projects identified in the plan.

Progress will be documented in the Annual Reports filed by the Marquette County Planning Commission and the Local Emergency Planning Committee. The LEPC also files quarterly reports with the Michigan State Police-Emergency Management Division.

1-7

1.4 EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

Emergency Management consists of four elements: preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation. This plan will identify and analyze a variety of hazards with focus on mitigation since mitigation lessens the need to respond to succeeding hazard events. The goal of mitigation is to reduce the impact of hazards on people and property. To be effective mitigation efforts must be coordinated. It is a joint effort of individuals and agencies, programs and initiatives. It requires a pooling of resources, knowledge, and purpose to reduce the risks from natural, human-related, and technological hazards.

Mitigation can be accomplished in a number of ways. People and at-risk infrastructure can be kept away from hazards or hazards can be kept away from people and vulnerable resources. If neither of those alternatives can be easily accomplished, safety measures can be implemented or response capabilities can be improved to reduce the impact of the hazard.

The creation or mitigation of a hazard is often tied directly to development decisions, many of which are controlled at the local level of government. At other times hazard potential is the direct result of operational decisions made by individuals or businesses.

The development of this plan is funded through a grant from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The grant was awarded to the Marquette County Sheriff’s Department Emergency Management Division, by the Federal Emergency Management Division, which administers the grant.

The MSP-EMD assists local units of government in preparation, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts. The Michigan Hazard Mitigation Plan identifies the following goals:

Promote Life Safety: Minimized disaster-related injuries and loss of life through public education, hazard analysis, and early warning.

Reduce property Damage: Incorporate hazard mitigation considerations into land use planning and management, land development processes, and disaster resistant structures.

Build Alliances: Forge partnerships with other public safety agencies and organizations to enhance and improve the safety and well being of all Michigan communities.

Provide Leadership: provide leadership, direction coordination, guidance, and advocacy for hazard mitigation in Michigan.

These goals are appropriate goals for the County of Marquette to adopt and strive for, as elected officials and county employees make decisions regarding development within its

1-8

boundaries. To make wise decisions however, it is important to understand the physical characteristics of the county, who its inhabitants are, and the influence prior development is exerting. The next section of the plan will address these physical characteristics and influences. A section will follow it on hazards and general mitigation strategies to lessen their impact. Individual hazards will then be analyzed as to relative risk to life and property within Marquette County. Once hazards have been prioritized, specific goals, mitigation projects and tools will be recommended.

1.5 THE PLANNING AREA

Michigan acquired its Upper Peninsula on the south shore of Lake Superior in 1837 when the United States Congress recognized the state. In 1843, the boundaries of the County of Marquette were established to facilitate surveying the peninsula. It was at that time one of six counties in the Upper Peninsula. Marquette County was not formally organized however until 1848. Although there are now 15 counties, Marquette County’s boundaries were not changed. Encompassing 1873 square miles (1,198,484 acres) of land area, it remains the largest county in Michigan and one of the largest counties east of the Mississippi River (Figure 1-1, Location of Marquette County, Michigan). Marquette County is approximately 390 miles from the State Capital in Lansing. It is 450 miles from Detroit, and 370 miles from Chicago. Its position on the Great Lakes and its latitude offer possibilities for world cargo (Figure 1-2, Marquette County’s Relative Location). The County contains 19 townships and three cities (Figure 1-3, Political Subdivisions in Marquette County).

1.5.1 GEOGRAPHY AND GEOLOGY

The County currently shares boundaries with Dickinson, Iron, Alger, Delta, Menominee, and Baraga Counties. On the north and eastern side are 55 miles of Lake Superior shoreline. There are approximately 1800 lakes and 4000 miles of rivers and streams in Marquette County.

The Laurentian Shield, a mass of bedrock covering much of Canada and dipping into the United States, cuts diagonally across the County. The edge of the shield creates a boundary between distinct natural features (Figure 1-4, Marquette County Topography). In keeping with topography, early settlers in the south and eastern portions of the County farmed and harvested timber. In the north and northwest, mining and forestry predominated. There were numerous small settlements, which tended to grow and decline with the productivity of nearby mines and farms, along with their associated needs for transportation and services. Many of these communities remain as residential centers and rural service areas. Three cities emerged – Ishpeming and Negaunee, which were heavily tied to mining, and Marquette, which originated as a port for smelting and shipping of ore and timber. Marquette served as the governmental seat and center of commerce. Today governmental services remain concentrated in Marquette. Offices of County, Federal and State Agencies as well as Northern Michigan University and

1-9

Marquette Branch Prison are located within Marquette and/or the urbanized area of adjoining townships.

Sand plains are located along the edge of the shield. This porous soil has rapid permeability. While flooding is not usually a problem, the underlying aquifer is vulnerable to contamination. In addition, the loose soil makes excavation projects in this area difficult. The soils are vulnerable to wind and water erosion (Figure 1-5, Aquifers).

The northwestern portion of the county has significant elevation changes, bedrock close to the surface and many rugged rock outcrops. Lakes tend to be deeper and are often spring fed. They also tend to be colder than those in the southern portion of the County. Shallow soils, perched water tables, and rock can cause difficulties in locating septic systems. Reliable water sources can be difficult to locate and costly to develop. This area has “young” drainage systems with numerous waterfalls cutting through narrow gorges. Due to narrow channels and bedrock close to the surface, flash flooding can occur during periods of excessive rain, rapid snowmelt, or blockage by ice or debris. There are 22 major drainage basins and numerous sub-basins, with drainage either into Lake Superior or Lake Michigan (Figure 1-6, Marquette County Watersheds).

The south and eastern portion of the county is level-to-gently rolling, with glacial landforms. Surface water consists of small lakes and “older” drainage systems with meandering rivers in wider valleys, which generally flow southward to drain into Lake Michigan. This portion of the county also has higher water tables resulting in extensive wetlands. These wetlands serve as aquifer recharge areas and holding areas or buffers for rapid run-off. Lakes tend to be shallower and warmer. Because of high water tables, construction of basements, septic systems, and roadways can be a problem.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has completed a soil survey of Marquette County. It is available in both paper and digital format. Information on slopes and soil suitability is an important tool in evaluating development potential and assessing hazard risks. In addition, the County of Marquette’s Resource Management/Development Department has completed a land cover map, which inventories existing vegetation and the suitability of land for forestry (Figure 1-7, Soil Erosion Potential, and Figure 1-8, Land Use). The County currently has approximately 295,000 acres of publicly owned forests and 330,000 acres of commercial forest, which are accessible to the public for hunting and fishing purposes. Corporations hold much of the commercial forest in large tracts. In recent years, however, more recreational parcels have been created. Camps constructed within the forested areas increase fire risks through introduction of a variety of activities and by decreasing professional management and the harvesting of mature trees. Providing governmental services, such a police and fire protection can be difficult because of the increasing network of private roads. These roads are frequently substandard and receive infrequent maintenance. Roads and structures are often poorly identified. USGS maps of the area are woefully out of date and response of emergency personnel can be impeded by unfamiliarity with recently created logging roads.

1-10

Figure 1-1

1-11

Figure 1-2

1-12

Figure 1-3

1-13

Figure 1-4

1-14

Figure 1-5

1-15

Figure 1-6

1-16

The middle Precambrian rocks within the shield contain iron ores. Since their discovery, there have been numerous efforts to extract those ores, the majority of which were uneconomical. Mining, however, remains a major component in the local economy. Only two open pit mines remain active—the Tilden and the Empire.

Sandstones formed during the Paleozoic era had economic significance in the early history of the county. There are no active quarries at this time. Abandoned quarries and mines shafts contribute to the hazards that are found in the County (Figure 1-10, Bedrock Geology).

1.5.2 CLIMATE

The topography of Marquette County affects its climate as well as its development patterns. The NOAA weather station is located between Marquette and Negaunee near the former County Airport, at Latitude 46.3N Longitude 887.3W. The elevation is 1414 feet above sea level (approximately 812 above Lake Superior). Because of the increase in elevation at that location, the effect of Lake Superior is somewhat reduced. Additional information is based upon observations at a weather station located at the Cleveland Cliffs Iron Company in Ishpeming. That station was closed on October 31, 1987. Lake effect was also minimized at that location. The lake effect continues to be minimized at higher elevations and further inland. In some years, early freezing of the near -shore areas reduces the lake effect. The Lake generally increases cloudiness and snowfall during the fall and winter. Lower elevations and areas along the shore are cooler during late spring and early summer and warmer during the late fall and early winter.

MONTHLY MEANS BASED UPON 28 YEARS OF RECORDS FROM 1961 TO 1996:

TEMPERATURE:

Jan. Maximum20.7°F July Maximum 76.8°F Jan. Minimum 3.5°F July Minimum 53.5°F

PRECIPITATION Jan. 2.3” July 2.9”

(1950-1980) Temperature extremes include

Maximum temp 102°F July 13, 1936 Warmest monthly mean 71.4°F July 1955 Highest aver. Monthly max 83.3°F. July 1966

Minimum temp -34°F Feb. 17, 1979 Lowest aver. Monthly min. –4.1°F January 1977 Coldest monthly mean 5.5°F Jan. 1977

1-17

Figure 1-7

1-18

Figure 1-8

1-19

Figure 1-9

1-20

Figure 1-10

1-21

MONTHLY MEANS BASED UPON 28 YEARS OF RECORDS FROM 1961 TO 1996:

TEMPERATURE:

Jan. Maximum20.7°F July Maximum 76.8°F Jan. Minimum 3.5°F July Minimum 53.5°F

PRECIPITATION Jan. 2.3” July 2.9”

(1950-1980) Temperature extremes include

Maximum temp 102°F July 13, 1936 Warmest monthly mean 71.4°F July 1955 Highest aver. Monthly max 83.3°F. July 1966

Minimum temp -34°F Feb. 17, 1979 Lowest aver. Monthly min. –4.1°F January 1977 Coldest monthly mean 5.5°F Jan. 1977

The average heating degree days for January is 1581 while in October is its 576. The average cooling degree-days for July is 106, while May was 16. The average date of the last freezing temperature was May 31 and the average date of first freezing temperature in the fall was September 7. The freeze-free period averages 109 days annually.

The prevailing wind is westerly, averaging 9 mph. The strongest one-minute wind speed, 59 mph was recorded in June 1958. The average relative humidity varies from 61% for April to 70% for November and December. The average percent of possible sunshine varies from 25% in December to 64% in July. The annual average is 44%. Summer precipitation is usually in the form of afternoon showers and thundershowers. Thunderstorms occur on an average of 26 days per year. Michigan is located on the northeast fringe of the Midwest tornado belt. Between 1950 and 1995, Michigan averaged 16 tornados per year. During the same period, Marquette County had a total of four. There have been three tornadoes in the seven years since 1995.

ANNUAL PRECIPITATION: (33 YEARS AVAILABLE; 1961 to 1996) Highest 51.59” 1985 Lowest 22.74” 1963 Median 35.03” Mean 35.52”

1-22

SNOWFALL: (34 YEARS AVAILABLE, 1961 TO 1996)* Highest 342.60” 1996 Lowest 2.40” 1965 Median 161.35” Mean 161.82”

ANNUAL MEAN TEMPERATURE” (33 YEARS AVAILABLE, 1961-1996) Highest 42.95°F 1987 Lowest 36.27°F 1972 Median 38.99°F Mean 39.14°F

ANNUAL MINIMUM TEMPERATURE (33 YEARS AVAILABLE, 1961-1996) Highest 32.81°F 1987 Lowest 26.29°F 1972 Median 29.53°F Mean 29.42°F

ANNUAL MAXIMUM TEMPERATURE (33 YEARS AVAILABLE, 1961-1996) Highest 53.09°F 1987 Lowest 46.25°F 1972 Median 48.71°F Mean 48.86°F

1.5.3 KEY COMMUNITY FACILITIES & ORGANIZATIONS

MEDICAL: As the largest city in the Upper Peninsula, Marquette also became the regional center for health services (Figure 1-11, Hospitals, and Clinics). Marquette General Hospital has 390 beds with care in more than 50 medical specialties. The hospital also serves as a community hospital for much of Marquette County. Marquette General is also affiliated with Michigan State University’s School of Medicine as a teaching hospital. In addition to the Family Practice Residency Program, the hospital provides training in radiography, physical and occupational therapy, medical technology, nursing and pharmacy. The hospital employs more than 2,400 and annually serves 11,000 inpatients, and more than 400,000 outpatients per year.

Bell Memorial Hospital serves the cities of Ishpeming, Negaunee, and western Marquette County. It has 69 beds. Services include obstetrics and an emergency room. Thirty physicians have privileges to use the facility.

The Peninsula Medical Center in Marquette has over 120 medical and dental practitioners. There are approximately 500 employees at that facility. Other medical centers are the Teal Lake Medical Center in Negaunee, the Sawyer Medical Center at K. I. Sawyer, and the Gwinn Medical Center in Gwinn.

1-23

Figure 1-11

1-24

EDUCATION:

Of the population over 25 years of age, 11.5% has not received a high school diploma. Thirty five percent hold a high school diploma. Nearly 30% have had some level of college less than a bachelor’s degree and 16% hold a bachelor’s degree. Nearly 8% hold a graduate or professional degree. In 2000, 18,785 individuals residing in Marquette County were actively enrolled in an educational program. Forty two percent were enrolled in programs for preschool through eighth grade. Twenty percent were in high school and 37% were enrolled in college or graduate school.

All or portions of ten school districts and one charter school are within Marquette County: (Figure 1-12, Marquette County School Districts-Boundaries and School Locations).

DISTRICT ENROLLMENT 2002-2003 SCHOOL YEAR

Marquette Area Public Schools 3790 Ishpeming Public Schools 1013 Negaunee Public Schools 1493 N. I. C. E. Community Schools 1288 Gwinn Area Community Schools 1428 Republic-Michigamme Schools 170 Wells Township Schools 22 Mid Peninsula Schools 316 Escanaba Area Schools 3221 Powell Township Schools 65 Northstar Academy 54

Northern Michigan University located in Marquette serves as both a university and a community college offering 1-, 2- and 4-year degrees and special certifications. The wide variety of technical and vocational programs includes cosmetology, restaurant management, construction trades, and airframe and power and business programs. In addition, custom training is available for area businesses. Additional educational opportunities are available in the Upper Peninsula at Bay de Noc Community College, Gogebic County Community College, Finlandia College, Lake Superior State University, and Michigan Technological University.

ORGANIZATIONS: There are numerous service organizations, such as Rotary, Zonta, Kiwanis and Lions, etc., throughout the County.

There are also active chapters of many special interest organizations, such as the American Red Cross, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, the Alzheimer’s Association, etc. Although most maintain offices in the City of Marquette, many of these organizations have membership and service areas beyond the County’s

1-25

boundaries. Most are located in Marquette because it is the largest city and the presence of Marquette General and Peninsula Medical Center.

Key organizations in disaster mitigation, response and recovery include the United Way, American Red Cross, Salvation Army and the St. Vincent DePaul Society.

1.5.4 CRITICAL SERVICES:

GAS (and other sources of heating fuels): Natural gas is provided by SEMCO Energy in the Cities of Marquette, Ishpeming and Negaunee and the urbanized areas of surrounding townships. MichCon Gas provides service in the Gwinn areas. There are at least four suppliers of liquid propane gas, which is used in rural areas. There are at least six fuel oil suppliers.

ELECTRICITY: There are two electrical generating plants in Marquette County. Both the Presque Isle Generating plant and the Shiras Steam Plant are located in the City of Marquette. Diesel plants within the City, operated by the Board of Light and Power also generate electricity. Dams on the Dead River operated by the Upper Peninsula Power Company also generate electricity. Four power companies distribute electricity to the consumer: The Marquette Board of Light and Power, the Upper Peninsula Power Company, the Alger Delta Cooperative Electric Association and the Wisconsin Electric Power Company (Figure 1-13, Electric Utility Service Areas).

TELEPHONE: Three telephone companies, SBC Ameritech, TDS Telecom and the Upper Peninsula Telephone Company serve Marquette County with landline telephone service (Figure 1-14, Telephone Service Areas).

SEWER & WATER: Marquette County has 25 Type I public water supply systems (Figure 1-15, Water and Sanitary Sewer Service Areas). Numerous type II and type III systems serve rural gas stations and restaurants. In most rural areas however, private wells are the source of potable water. Marquette County has had instances of ground water contamination and dry wells that have necessitated emergency response. There are nine public wastewater treatment systems in the County. They range from lagoons to plants with tertiary treatment.

CABLE: Four cable companies provide service within Marquette County; they range in size from 90 customers to approximately 18,000 customers. Charter Communications, which is the largest provider, also provides cable Internet access.

Critical services are discussed in more detail in Section IV, Technological Hazards, Subsection 3, and Infrastructure Failure.

1-26

Figure 1-12

1-27

1.5.5 CULTURAL

Mining and logging attracted settlers of Canadian, French, Cornish, Swedish, Finnish, and Irish stock. Hardworking and conservative, together they developed the County. Three early communities, Marquette, Ishpeming and Negaunee developed into cities. Other communities are integral parts of political townships, but have their own identities. Two townships, Chocolay and Marquette are classified as Charter Townships and have additional governmental rights and responsibilities (Figure 1-16, Major Communities). Profiles of the cities, townships, & census-designated places are in Appendix A. As the largest city in the Upper Peninsula, Marquette has attracted offices of a number of governmental agencies:

Federal U. S. District Court Internal Revenue Service U.S. Customs Agent Weather Bureau (NOAA) Social Security Administration United State Coast Guard Fish and Wildlife Service

State • Jobs Commission • Department of Corrections, Branch Prison • Northern Michigan University. • Department of Management and Budget - U. P. Central Warehouse • Bureaus of Commercial Services • Bureau of Regulatory Services • Department of Environmental Quality • Department of Natural Resources • Secretary of State • Department of Treasury • Michigan Welcome Center.

1-28

Figure 1-13

1-29

Figure 1-14

1-30

Figure 1-15

1-31

Figure 1-16

•

1-32

1.5.6 HOUSING

According to the 2000 U. S. Census, there are almost 32,900 housing units in the County of Marquette. Forty three percent of those units are in excess of 40 years old (Figure 1- 17, Percentage of Structures Built before 1960). Of the total units, approximately 25,800 (78.4%) are occupied. Roughly, 18,000 (69.8%) are owner occupied and 7,800 (30.2%) are renter occupied. The homeowner vacancy rate is 2.1% while the renter vacancy rate is 8.7%. Vacancy rates fluctuate significantly based on location within the county. For example, there are no vacant homes, rental or owned, in Ewing Township. Sands Township has a .4% homeowner vacancy rate but a 61.8% rental vacancy rate. Forsyth Township has a 9.5% vacancy rate for homeowners and 22% vacancy rate for rental units. Michigamme Township has a 2.8% homeowner vacancy rate and a 38.5% rental vacancy rate. It should be kept in mind that these figures were collected in April 2000 and do not reflect summer occupancies. In addition, the closing of the K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base has resulted in a shifting of the housing market, increasing available rental units in Sands, Forsyth, and West Branch Townships. Many units previously occupied by homeowners are now rental units. Due to the wider selection of available units, those that remain vacant tend to be older and in need of renovation and/or maintenance. (Additional information on housing can be found in the community profiles in Appendix A and Appendix E, Census Information).

The closure of K. I. Sawyer Air force Base also saw the closing of two 100-unit mobile home parks within the base boundaries. Other mobile home parks within the vicinity have significant vacancies. Many of the local units of government within the County discourage the use of “mobile homes”, except in parks, through zoning regulations which require widths that mandate double-wide styles, masonry skirting or permanent foundations.

There are 4,225 seasonal or occasional use units throughout the county. It is not known how many of these units have been constructed to year-round occupancy standards. Certainly some could be used as supplementary housing in case of a disaster. Many, however, are on seasonal roads and are inaccessible for several months each year. Use of seasonal dwellings as principal structures has resulted in demands for extension of road maintenance, school bus, and emergency services. On several occasions remote occupancies have resulted in tragedies, such as fires or carbon monoxide poisoning from heating systems pressed beyond their intended level of use (Figure 1-18, Distribution of Seasonal Homes).

Only the City of Marquette has an active property maintenance code with routine inspections. A number of other units do have regulations regarding maintenance or the removal of dilapidated buildings, but significant levels of disrepair can exist between the issuance of occupancy permits under the construction code and reaching mandatory demolition of hazardous buildings.

1-33

Lutheran Social Services operates Voices for Youth serving those between the ages of 10 and 21. They assist over 200 individuals, needing temporary or permanent shelter. They operate a transitional living house. Occupancy is usually between 4 to 6 months but could be as long as two years. Additional assistance includes training in life skills, surety deposits, and rent subsidies. In addition, they make numerous referrals of individuals over 21 to the Salvation Army, St. Vincent DePaul’s, or the Janzen House.

The Janzen House located in downtown Marquette can serve 32 clients. They never have a vacancy more than one or two days, and could fill 10 additional beds. They estimate that the City of Marquette could easily accommodate 32 more beds. Approximately, 10 times per month, they have to refer individuals to either the Marquette City Police or the Salvation Army for vouchers for temporary housing at local hotels. There are no shelters in Ishpeming or Negaunee.

The Women’s Center in Marquette operates several programs for victims of domestic violence. During 2000, the Women’s Center had 191 outreach clients. Services include a Children’s therapist, Families in Transition, and Families First. Harbor House in Marquette is their only shelter facility. It has an 11-bed capacity. Satellite offices are in Ishpeming and Alger County. Depending on the situation, they can offer shelter at Harbor House or provide hotel vouchers. During 2000-1 Harbor House sheltered 125 adults for a total of 1066 shelter-nights. There were 810 shelter-nights for children. Financial assistance in securing alternative housing is limited. Assistance primarily involves referral to other agencies.

Marquette County’s housing stock is relatively old. Maintenance often becomes an issue. The Marquette County Housing plan has identified a neighborhood in Negaunee and another in Gwinn as suitable for Michigan State Housing Development Authority programs.

Senior housing complexes are located in Marquette, Ishpeming, Negaunee, Republic, and Gwinn. Propylon and Sundara, located in the City of Marquette, are residential facilities for individuals with special needs. There are four nursing homes, and 20 licensed adult group homes and adult foster care facilities within the county (Figure 1-19, Nursing Homes and Licensed Adult Foster Care Facilities). A list of nursing homes and adult foster care facilities is in Appendix B.

Marquette County is home to Northern Michigan University and the Marquette Branch State Prison. Both of these institutions present concentrated populations, with related challenges for notification, and emergency response. The prison will relocate inmates to other cellblocks in an emergency, but has a policy of not evacuating. Similarly, Great Lakes Recovery (substance abuse treatment) Center, the Marquette County Youth Detention Facility and the Marquette County Jail present special notification and response needs. There are two senior citizen high-rise housing structures in Marquette and one in Ishpeming. Many additional communities host housing developments that are populated by senior citizens. The presence of handicapped units above the ground floor present challenges in evacuation and rescue operations.

1-34

Figure 1-17

1-35

Figure 1-18

1-36

1.6 AREAS OF MAJOR LAND USE CONFLICT

As with any communities that have existed and grown over period of years, the governmental units within Marquette County have several examples of conflict between land uses. The Presque Isle Generating Station is located near a popular park with natural areas and the Lake Superior shoreline. It is also near single-family housing and property zoned for high-density multi-family development. The power plant and adjoining areas are within the inundation footprint for dam-breaches on the Dead River.

Upstream, development in both the Chocolay and Carp River drainage basins is increasing the amount and speed of run-off, exacerbating problems for older development downstream.

Transportation of limestone from the Board of Light and Power dock in Marquette to the mines has created conflict with traffic and residents in the past, but construction of passing lanes and other route improvements have lessened complaints in recent years.

Most recently, a proposal to consolidate Teaching Family Homes operations at the Honor Camp in Sands Township has created controversy with neighboring single-family development.

A proposed relocation site for the ski jumps from Suicide Hill has resulted in controversy in the communities of Ishpeming and Negaunee.

Proposed expansion areas used for mine tailings have also resulted in environmental concerns.

1.7 HISTORIC RESOURCES

Just as time and growth can give rise to land use conflicts, they can also give birth and appreciation for places of historic significance. Marquette County has an appreciation of its past -- from the Courthouse to mining buildings and charcoal kilns. The Arch and Ridge Street Historic District in Marquette is well known. Residents of the district are working to become recognized as Certified Local Government to further protect this historic resource. Most recently, the planned community of Gwinn was placed on the register. There are 47 sites on the national and/or state lists of historic structures. (See APPENDIX B) Most of these sites were inventoried and mapped in the early 1990’s as part of the County’s Special & Unique Environments Inventory. Archaeological sites are also included in the inventory. (The map has not been updated since it was created. It is in digital format, but has not yet been rectified to be compatible with the GIS system.)

1-37

Figure 1-19

1-38

The following museums are available to the public: Marquette County Historical Museum Marquette Maritime Museum Forsyth Township Historical Museum Michigamme Historical Museum National Ski Hall of Fame U. P Sports Hall of Fame Michigan Iron Industry Museum Negaunee Historical Museum K. I. Sawyer Air Heritage Museum (under development) Republic Museum (under development) NMU Document Archives Cliffs Shaft Historic Park (Ishpeming)

1.8 TRANSPORTATION NETWORK

Transportation of goods and people within Marquette County is of primary importance. While transportation is predominantly by motor vehicle, rail, air, water and pipeline all play a role in moving goods or people within Marquette County. A discussion of the various modes of transportation follows. Additional information can be found in the Hazard Analysis section on Transportation.

1.8.1 HIGHWAY

There are no interstate highways within Marquette County. The backbone of surface transportation is highway US-41 and M-28. They provide access to and from the east, south, and west. There is a significant amount of local traffic and through traffic, particularly Canadian cross-continental trucking.

Other important highway routes are M-94, M-95, M-35, and M-553, which travel in a north-south direction (Figure 1-20, Major Highways, Marquette County, Michigan).

The Marquette County Road Commission and the public works departments of the three cities provide road maintenance. MCRC estimates that a third of the 300 miles in the primary system is in poor to failed condition. The township and local roads that the Road Commission maintains are in similar condition. Repair estimates total $86 million. There are 94 bridges under the Road Commission’s jurisdiction. 40 of these have weight restrictions.

On April 16, 2002, spring flooding washed out a double culvert at the Carp River in the City of Marquette, making a portion of M-553 unusable. One of the major north-south routes for the county, this event required a circuitous detour during repairs, which extended into July. Initial reports gave a damage estimate of $800,000. A similar washout occurred at the same location in 1985. Other roads closed because of the Spring 2002 flooding included County Roads, LE, 601, LG, and 607, Willow Street, Granite

1-39

Street and Brown Road. Total damage to the County’s road system totaled almost $1 million. The Count was included in a disaster declaration.

1.8.2 PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

Most individuals rely on private vehicles for transportation. All of the school districts provide bus service. Airport shuttle service is available. Taxi service is available in Marquette.

MarqTran, a publicly operated bus system, serves Marquette County. Marqtran has 32 buses. They range in size from 44-passengers to mini-vans. All but three are handicapped accessible. Marqtran has ten fixed routes: Marquette-K. I. Sawyer-Gwinn (via US-41 every other hour) Marquette-K. I. Sawyer-Gwinn (via CR-553 on alternate hours) Marquette-Negaunee-Ishpeming (hourly) Ishpeming Shoppers Shuttle (½ hr., Includes stops at Country Village & apartments) Negaunee Shuttle (hourly; includes Ishpeming business district, hospital & medical center) Marquette North-Mall (½ hour; to Mall hourly) Marquette South-Mall (½ hour; to Mall hourly) Marquette North-South (hourly) Trowbridge (2 routes, ½ hour)

Door to door service is available in Marquette, Ishpeming, Negaunee, Gwinn and K. I. Sawyer. Palmer, Eagle Mills, Champion, Republic, and Michigamme have merged fixed route/door-to-door service twice-weekly providing access to Ishpeming, Negaunee, and Marquette. Similar service to Big Bay was discontinued due to lack of riders. Marqtran also offers Charter services after all private chartered bus companies have been contacted.

Marqtran is part of the County’s Emergency Response System. Staff helps plan and participates in emergency simulations and actual emergencies. Exercises include moving casualties to area hospitals. Most recently Marqtran transported 204 passengers to lodging in Marquette when their aircraft diverted to K. I. Sawyer International Airport following the Sept. 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks. Transportation was provided to firefighters and support personnel during the Tower Lake Fire in May 1999. Relocation transportation is also provided during periods of jail overcrowding.

All of Marqtran’s fleet is diesel operated. They do not have their own fuel tanks. A concern is the small number of commercial sites for refueling. There is only one site each in Marquette, Ishpeming, Gwinn, Negaunee Township, and Marquette Township. There are a number of private fuel supplies, which might be made available in an emergency, but no formal agreements exist.

1-40

Figure 1-20

1-41

Marqtran also serves as a ticket agent for Greyhound Bus Service and R-Tran. The Greyhound route is south along US-41 to Green Bay and Milwaukee although transfers can be made in Stevenson to an east west route on US-2. R-Tran is an intercounty service, although because of lack of riders the only route remaining between Munising and Marquette.

Recently there have been attacks on bus drivers elsewhere in the United States. Marqtran has not had problems and does not anticipate any. Their drivers however have been trained to respond to such situations.

1.8.3 RAIL

Three railroad companies have track in Marquette County (Figure 1-21, Railroads in the Marquette County Area). The Lake Superior and Ishpeming (LS&I) Railroad is a short haul line that operates in the east-central portion of the county, between the Tilden and Empire Iron Mines and the LS&I Ore Dock in Marquette. Tracks belonging to the Escanaba and Lake Superior (EL&S) Railroad run through Wells Township. These tracks have been abandoned but have not been removed. They are in poor shape and unusable.

The Canadian National Railroad purchased the Wisconsin Central assets in Marquette County in October 2001. Trackage and yards include former Soo Line, DSS&A, and Chicago Northwestern Railroad properties. The consolidation and rationalization of tracks has resulted in greater efficiencies and abandonment of redundant trackage. (Refer to discussion of Railroads under Transportation Hazards for further information).

1.8.4 WATER

Great Lakes shipping use the two ports in the City of Marquette for commodities (Figure 1-22, Ports, and Harbor of Refuge). There is no water transportation of people other than occasional recreational boating. Docks in the Upper Harbor include the LS&I Ore Dock, the Wisconsin Electric Coal Dock, and the City’s Merchandise Dock. The Presque Isle Marina, operated by the City of Marquette, is also located in the harbor. A break wall protects the harbor. In the Lower Harbor, the Marquette Board of Light & Power maintains a dock at the Shiras Steam Plant. The abandoned Soo Line Ore Dock now belongs to the City of Marquette. The Fish Dock serves Thill’s Fisheries and is used by recreational vessels. An association of recreational boaters also maintains a dock. The City maintains docking facilities along the bulkhead of the Ellwood Mattson Park for large visiting vessels and operates the Cinder Pond Marina.

The Marquette City Chief of Police is the Harbor Master.

1-42

Figure 1-21

1-43

1.8.5 AIR

Sawyer International Airport located at K. I. Sawyer provides commercial passenger, charter and general aviation services. There is a general aviation terminal and a passenger terminal. The fixed base operator also operates an FAA certified repair station. Three commercial carriers provide flights: Mesaba (Northwest Airlines), American Eagle (American Airlines) and Skyway (Midwest Express). Service is provided to Detroit, Minneapolis, Houghton, Escanaba, Milwaukee, Detroit and Chicago. A customs agent is on call.

The runway is 12,300’ –the longest in the state. There is taxiway lighting and pilot controlled lighting of the runway as well as an instrument landing system. The control tower is manned between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.

There are at least eight unpaved, private landing fields (Figure 1-23, Unpaved Air Fields, and Sawyer International Airport). In addition, several area lakes are used. It would be helpful to have an inventory of lakes suitable for aircraft landing, particularly for fire fighting planes, which could utilize the lakes for replenishing their water supply.

1.8.6 PIPELINE

Marquette County has two major pipelines used for transporting crude oil and natural gas. They are located in Wells Township, which is sparsely populated (see Figure 1-24, Pipelines and Section V, Subsection 8.5 for more information).

1.9 ECONOMIC CHARACTERISTICS

Marquette County was founded on iron mining. Mining and later logging generated rugged individuals with strong work ethics. The early settlers were innovative. They valued quality workmanship and good education. Those values still exist in Marquette County’s population. The labor force is estimated at about 33,000, with slightly less than half being female. Over 80% of the workforce has a high school education and over 20% hold a college degree.

1-44

Figure 1-22

1-45

Figure 1-23

1-46

Service industries are now the major source of employment in the County.

Marquette General Hospital 2,700 Northern Michigan University 1,151 Tilden Magnetite Partnership 815 Marquette County Government 663 Michigan Department of Corrections 480 Marquette Public Schools 475 Bell Memorial Hospital 320 City of Marquette 318 Wells Fargo Bank 300 Wal-Mart 283

TOP EMPLOYERS: Marquette General Hospital 2,700 Northern Michigan University 1,151 Tilden Magnetite Partnership 815 Marquette County Government 663 Michigan Department of Corrections 480 Marquette Public Schools 475 Bell Memorial Hospital 320 City of Marquette 318 Wells Fargo Bank 300 Wal-Mart 283 AMR Regional Aircraft Maintenance Facility 247 Wisconsin Electric 211

The iron industry is currently being stressed by low-priced steel imports. Closing the Empire mine in 2001-2 had a serious impact on the families of laid-off steelworkers and the local businesses that support the mines. Miners are paid approximately double the County’s median income of $26,400 and contribute a significant amount to the local economy. Many of these workers have special skills that would be lost to the area if they seek employment elsewhere. Diversification of the County’s industrial base is needed to lessen the impact of such layoffs and to offer employment alternatives that will keep skilled workers in the area.

1-47

Figure 1-24

1-48

Closing the K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base in 1995 also affected the local economy, although it was not as bad as originally anticipated. Car dealerships, electronic equipment sales, and restaurants received the greatest impact as young adults with disposable income left the area. The strong national economy in the late 1990s and local business development efforts have resulted in a recovery for the area. The former Air Base has become a Renaissance Zone. As an incentive to attract new development and expansion of existing businesses, businesses and property within the zone are exempt from state and local taxes through 2015. Other incentives are also offered to prospective businesses. Now hosting approximately 60 businesses that employ over 1000 individuals K. I. Sawyer has become a strong industrial park. AMR Regional Aircraft Maintenance Facility relocated to the former base, and is now among the top employers in the County. In early 2001, AMR announced it was expanding its operations to include regional jet maintenance. However it, along with the entire airline industry has suffered reduced air travel following the September 11, 2001 Terrorist Attacks. Although local ridership rapidly returned to former levels, national reduction has resulted in fewer planes and miles traveled reducing maintenance needs. Layoffs have occurred, but the full extent of the impact is not known at this time.

The State unemployment rate averages 4.65 and the Upper Peninsula’s averages 6.3%. In addition, during economic downturns, the younger members of the workforce have traditionally sought employment elsewhere. That could mean loss of skilled electricians, welders, machinists etc, and their spouses, who may also hold skilled jobs. It would “age” the population of the County, which is already about two years above the State’s median age. In reality, a substantial segment of Marquette’s population is older, since the median age reflects individuals enrolled at Northern Michigan University. Northern students are a significant segment of the population, whose composition changes annually.

The economy of Marquette County also was impacted by the growth in e-business. The County is within the top 90% of “wired” areas in the United States. The infrastructure and the quality of life make the County an attractive location for individuals involved in electronic business. Serious damage to telecommunications infrastructure or security breaches could have an adverse impact on the local economy.

Marquette General Hospital, in addition to being a regional medical center has begun to attract the biomedical industry. Community Bio-Resources is a for-profit blood pheresis center. Pioneer Laboratories produces medical implants and trauma devices. The offices of Planned Parenthood of Northern Michigan are in Marquette. These and other hi-tech firms have varying levels of risk because of hazardous materials used in their process or opposition to their operations.

The three cities have vacant commercial and retail buildings in their downtowns and neighborhood shopping areas resulting from newer commercial development along the highways. Several of the small outlying areas also have vacant commercial/industrial

1-49

properties. Sands Township and Gwinn have a number of vacant, dilapidated commercial buildings. The consensus is that there has been overbuilding of commercial structures, particularly those designed for office use. The number and condition of underutilized buildings has a negative effect on the tax base. (See tax millage and assessed valuation information in Appendix D). Marquette County’s taxable value for 2002 is $1.27 billion, an increase of almost $60 million over 2001. The 2002 total assessed/equalized value is $1.52 billion compared with $1.42 billion for 2001. This demonstrates that in spite of a poor economy and unemployment, Marquette County property is selling at higher prices.

1.10 POPULATION

The County’s population has historically been concentrated in a corridor that cuts east/west through the center of the County, following M-28/US-41. Over the past twenty years, there has been a decline in the population of the cities of Marquette, Negaunee, and Ishpeming and an increase in population in the adjoining townships. Outlying townships showed population decreases between 1980 and 1990 and in 2000. (See Appendix E and community profiles in Appendix A for census information).

The County as a whole experienced a significant population decline between 1993, when the closure of K. I. Sawyer Air Force Base was announced, and 1996 when civilian reuse of the base began to gain momentum. According to Air Force demographers between 8,000 and 10,000 individuals (military personnel, civilian employees and dependents) migrated out of the County. The impact was estimated to be a 12.5% drop in County Population. By 2000 however, there was only an 8.8% decrease from the 1990 total county population. In fact, the actual 2000 population of 64,634 was approximately 2,600 more than projected by the Office of the State Demographer.

When K. I. Sawyer statistics are removed from both the 1990 and 2000 census, the county shows a decline of only 1.7% over the previous census.) The 2000 census shows that more than 22% of K. I. Sawyer’s 1990 population has been regained. The current community at KIS is larger than Harvey, Republic, Michigamme, and Palmer. Excluding K. I. Sawyer, the Townships of Sands and West Branch actually grew -- probably due to the sprawl influence/out-migration from of the cities. The vicinity of K. I. Sawyer is expected to continue to grow, although the rate will be tied to the economy. A number of commercial and industrials enterprises at K. I. Sawyer have projected job growth. More enterprises are being recruited. Home ownership became available in the fall of 2001, attracting additional tenants. Initially that is expected to shift rather than increase population but could also attract workers and retirees from outside the county.

The 2000 Census also shows that the County’s median age is increasing, particularly in the outlying townships. This is a continuation of a trend, but was exacerbated by the loss of K. I. Sawyer’s young aviators and their dependents. As the population ages, there will be a smaller pool of individuals from which to recruit new and replacement volunteers for local fire departments, first responders and EMS services. In addition, there will be an increasing need for various services, such as home health, and home maintenance and

1-50

snow removal. Lower birthrates have resulted in decreased school populations, which have affected school budgets and stimulated school closings. The City of Marquette and adjoining townships have a high percentage of young adults due to Northern Michigan University. K. I. Sawyer has a high percentage of youth and young to middle-aged adults. It also has the highest % of female-headed households (19.6%) and highest average family size (3.27 persons). This is due, in part, to the availability of jobs and affordable housing.

The County has relatively small number of minority residents -- 2,647 individuals. Combined they comprise only 4.1 % of the County’s population. The largest groups are African Americans and Native Americans, with 984 and 964 respectively. Most live within the urban corridor, primarily in the City of Marquette and adjoining townships. There are no large concentrations of non-English speaking people (Figure 1-25, People Speaking English Less than “Very Well”).

The 2000 Census shows the highest median income is in Sands Township ($51948) and the lowest is in Ewing ($17813) (Figure 1-26, Median Income, 1999). Champion, West Branch, Forsyth, and Turin Townships all have more than 10% of their households below the poverty level (Figure 1-27, Percentages of Families in Poverty, 1999). A significant percent of the population relies on retirement income (Figure 1-28, Percentages of Households Receiving Retirement Income, 1999). The State of Michigan’s Family Independence Agency reports 8173 cases, with 11,208 recipients. (Some of the recipients of day care assistance, food supplements, or Medicaid may exceed the poverty limits).

The County has a significant “snow-bird” population that migrates to warmer areas beginning in late fall through February and who return between late April and early June. The student population in Marquette decreases dramatically during break periods and during the summer session. Another seasonal fluctuation is a migration to second homes or “camps” which occurs primarily in the summer and autumn. Major camp areas are along the Dead River, in Powell Township, and around the many lakes scattered throughout the County. The County has 4,225 dwelling units used for “seasonal, recreational or occasional use” according to the 2000 Census. Residents of the County use many of these units, but others are owned and used by individuals from outside the immediate vicinity.

Marquette County has a significant non-institutionalized handicapped population. There are 1,014 individuals between 5 and 20 years of age with a disability. That is just under 7% of that population. The number of individuals with disabilities increases to 5,141 for the population between 21 and 64 years of age (14% of that population). The number with disabilities in the over-65 population is 3,116 (38.5%). The census does not specify if these disabilities restrict mobility. However, as the population continues to age, the percent of handicaps affecting mobility can be expected to increase. This in turn will increase the need for assistance in the event of an evacuation (Figure 1-29, Individuals with Disabilities in Marquette County).

1-51

Figure 1-25

1-52

Figure 1-26

1-53

Figure 1-27

1-54

Figure 1-28

1-55

Figure 1-29

1-56