Residents press commission on bridge tolls and appointment process; one speaker calls for mayor’s resignation

During public comment Jan. 5, residents raised two distinct concerns: the expense of tolls on the Bay City bridges and questions about the commission’s midterm appointment process.

A resident identified as Jeffrey of 409 Filmore presented a cost estimate for bridge tolls, telling commissioners that a family of four could face as much as $600 per month (about $7,200 per year) in routine trips and urging a boycott of Bay City Bridge Partners. ‘‘Bridges are supposed to be built to bring people together, not price them apart,’’ the speaker said.

Separately, Andy Sosnowski (2781 Sportsman Court) presented a score sheet and argued that Mayor Gerard’s participation in informal rankings affected the recommendation for a midterm commissioner appointment; Sosnowski cited City Charter Section 4.2, which he said limits the mayor’s vote to breaking ties, and called for the mayor’s resignation.

The commission did not take immediate action on either matter during the meeting; the appointment process allegation was recorded in the public record and may prompt follow‑up with the clerk and legal counsel.