Public Meetings - Ferndale, Michigan

The Ferndale City Council held a public hearing on Monday, February 2, 2026, at 6:07 PM to discuss a proposed ordinance titled "Community Input Over Government Surveillance" (CIOGS). The meeting included a Call to Audience period from 6:09 to 6:44 PM, followed by the public hearing from 6:49 PM onward. Council adopted alternative rules for the public hearing, allowing five minutes per speaker. No vote was taken; a second reading with proposed changes is scheduled for February 9, 2026. Call to Audience (General Comments) - Andrea Popovich (1445 Pinecrest Drive) urged the council to ensure the ordinance has "teeth" and is applied before surveillance technology is approved, not after. She stressed that cameras capture images of people and children, and that safety comes from trust, not more cameras. - Simon (no last name given) asked several questions: what constitutes an exigent circumstance, who decides it, why a 30-day data retention period (calling it too long), how enforcement works, and what happens if a surveillance report is not submitted. He referenced past violations of civil liberties with Flock cameras and a lack of follow-through on racial impact assessments. - Dan Masolia (851 Selman) echoed concerns about vague language in the ordinance's civil rights impacts section, the lack of specificity on how assessments will be conducted, and distrust due to past failures to deliver promised ACLU involvement. - Angela LePard (East Brecken Ridge) spoke about process: she asked why there is a rush, urged accessibility in communications, and noted that trust in government is low, especially given experiences with the police and current federal government actions. - An unnamed speaker (no name given) argued the ordinance reads like a "permission slip" not oversight, citing examples from Oakland, Berkeley, Seattle, and Nashville where similar ordinances failed to stop mass surveillance. He pointed out that the ordinance bans facial recognition but authorizes license plate readers, social media monitoring, gunshot detection, and drones. He highlighted the Robert Williams case in Detroit where faulty facial recognition led to a wrongful arrest. He urged council to reject the current ordinance and instead pass a ban. - De Knoxall (954 West Marshall Street) questioned exigent circumstances, the 30-day retention period (noting ACLU calls it a worst practice), data sharing via hot lists, and due diligence before adding plates to hot lists. He recommended not collecting data at all. - Prasad Venegopau (Ferndale resident for 20+ years) thanked council members Laura and Donnie for their work but argued the ordinance should not be voted on in its current form. He listed concerns: cell phones omitted from surveillance technology list, no enforcement penalties for abuse, lack of transparency in technology specification reports, and vague exigent circumstances. He urged postponing until a stronger ordinance can be developed, especially in the context of federal actions. - Jonathan (Chevlin Street) argued that ALPR technology by its nature requires mass surveillance of movement, contradicting the ordinance's stated goal of protecting privacy. He opposed the technology, linking it to the rise of fascist violence. - Another speaker (no name given) noted connections between ICE/DHS and Axon, criticized the lack of a clear cost-benefit analysis, and called language about not discriminating "weasel language" without a prior racial impact assessment. - Savannah Camplin (2147 Chevlin Street) reiterated nervousness about ALPRs given recent events and asked council to vote no on the ordinance. - Mike Williams (Nine Mile Road) raised several points: the decision on ALPRs will set the tone for future surveillance technologies; there should be penalties for ignored audits or reports; neighboring cities already have ALPRs covering entrances to Ferndale; and the crime solve rate before and after ALPRs should be known. He also questioned how many police interactions resulted from bad data. - Alectra Petrucci (Nine Mile Road) asked who will decide potential adverse impacts on civil rights, calling the language "weasel language" that leaves room for interpretation. Discussion Items - City Manager Overview: The city manager explained the ordinance's purpose: to formalize procedures for future surveillance technology procurement, balancing civil liberties with operational needs. The draft was modeled on Detroit's ordinance. Key elements include defining surveillance technology, conditions for procurement, required reports (annual procurement and use reports, exigent circumstance reports), data retention limits, access/sharing limits, and prohibitions on certain technologies. A public comment period is open until noon on February 9, 2026. The second reading and possible vote is set for February 9. - Council Discussion on Exigent Circumstances: During the public hearing, a council member (likely Councilperson Laura) responded to Simon's question, defining exigent circumstances as imminent threats to life or property (e.g., hostage situations, structure fires). She noted that the chief of police or fire chief would determine exigency in real time. Another council member proposed adding specific definitions and a requirement for written documentation within 40 hours, with review by an oversight board. The city manager cautioned against overly granular language that could dictate moment-to-moment actions, emphasizing that accountability lies with the chief. The council member also clarified that the ordinance already states exigent circumstances are limited to immediate threats to public welfare, health, and safety. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was held and closed at an unspecified time. - No amendments or votes were taken on the ordinance itself. - Council adopted alternative rules (motion and second) to allow five-minute speaking times during the public hearing. - A second reading of the ordinance, incorporating proposed changes, is scheduled for the February 9, 2026, council meeting. - The public comment period remains open until noon on February 9, 2026.

The Ferndale City Council met on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 7:01 PM at City Hall. The meeting covered multiple agenda items including two public hearings, approval of a Payment in Lieu of Taxes (PILOT) resolution for the Nine West workforce housing project, the first reading of a Community Input Over Government Surveillance ordinance, and a deficit elimination plan for the auto parking fund. The meeting also included public comments, a mayoral statement on immigration enforcement, and updates from city departments on winter operations. Consent Calendar - Items 7A–7Q (except 7C) were approved unanimously without discussion. These included: - Approval of January 12, 2026 meeting minutes. - Resolution celebrating Black History Month (February 2026) and display of the Pan‑African Flag. - Charitable gaming license for Good Treble Chorus. - Interlocal agreements with Oakland County (P25 radio system) and Oakland Community Health Network (mental health co‑responder services). - Backfill of Parks and Recreation Deputy Director. - Software amendment with Passport Labs Inc. ($17,150 credit). - Permitted parking agreement with Ferndale Area District Library. - Council chamber AV system upgrade ($26,937). - City facilities Meraki replacement ($63,753.51). - HVAC maintenance and upgrade agreements with Siemens ($7,324 and $41,795). - Professional services agreements with Plante Moran ($25,000), OHM Advisors for water service line verification ($23,500), and sidewalk inspection GIS ($19,500). - Approval of bills and payrolls. - Item 7C (deficit elimination plan) was pulled for separate discussion and later approved under regular agenda as item 8C. Public Comments & Testimony - Simon Cohen (954 West Marshall) opposed the Axon AOPR contract, arguing that surveillance systems enable state violence. He proposed redirecting funds to FernCare and rethinking police budgets. - Cat Latash (715 West Breckenridge), representing Ferndale Inclusion Network, thanked the council for the opening statement on immigration enforcement but requested more specific, practical details on what residents can expect from the city if approached by ICE. - Doug Gillespie (1841 Pinecrest), director of Renaissance Vineyard Food Pantry, expressed support for the Nine West PILOT, citing the need for affordable housing and praising developer Mike Ferlito’s community engagement. - Carmen Garcia (1850 Central Street), member of Metropolitan Community Church of Detroit (potential buyer of Renaissance Vineyard Church), also supported the Nine West project. - Angela LePard (East Breckenridge) supported workforce housing but urged the council to distinguish “attainable” from “affordable,” ensure accountability and significant penalties for non‑compliance, and consider parking and unit size for families. - Dickie Lang (board member, Renaissance Vineyard Church) endorsed the PILOT, noting the developer’s commitment to help repave the church’s parking lot, which serves the food pantry. - Reggie Sutherland (Raymond E. Shepherd House resident and longtime food pantry volunteer) supported Nine West, noting the need for housing at multiple price points. - Mia Peroni (408 East Camborne Street) also supported the project, praising the city‑developer partnership. - Ryan Rainbow (1961 East Troy Street) criticized the snow emergency enforcement, stating that the text alert system was down and the city issued 300+ tickets despite residents not being properly notified. He asked for a written plan to fix alert systems and a policy of warnings when systems fail. - Xavier Ivoy (230 La Prairie) spoke briefly to celebrate Michigan’s 189th birthday and promote youth civic engagement. Discussion Items - Public Hearing: Class C Liquor License for City Smoke Ferndale LLC (345 E. Nine Mile Road) – The license was recommended by the Liquor License Review Committee. A public speaker questioned parking, noting the nearby lot is private. The applicant (Chris Towers) clarified that the parking structure mention was a typo; employees will park in municipal lots 9, 10, and 11, and the business owns 32 spots. The council approved the license unanimously (5–0). The hearing opened at 7:24 PM and closed at 7:29 PM; the vote occurred at 7:30 PM. - Public Hearing: Conditional Rezoning at 660 E. 10 Mile Road (former Walker Wire site) – The request was to rezone from I‑1 Industrial to MXD‑1 Neighborhood Mixed Use to allow a full‑service restaurant, Paper Suns BBQ (Chinese‑American barbecue). Planning commission approved the conditions in December 2025. The applicant (Dennis Cowan) outlined five conditions (fencing, setbacks, parking in adjacent lot, landscaping, and waiver of certain landscaping provisions). Councilmember Sabatini asked about ADA compliance; the applicant confirmed. The hearing opened at 7:31 PM and closed at 7:42 PM; the rezoning was approved unanimously (5–0). - Regular Agenda 8A: PILOT Resolution and Community Benefits Agreement for 1200 W. Nine Mile Road (Nine West) – Ross (community development) presented the 15‑year PILOT to build workforce housing (56 units at 80%–120% AMI). The city receives $36,401 from 3% of shelter rents plus $25,000 municipal service fee, totaling $61,401 annually. Community benefits include $300,000+ (Geary Park improvements, public art, bike share, ADA units, repaving church parking lot, etc.). Council extensively debated the term length (15 years), definitions of attainability, alternative housing models (land trusts, co‑ops), compliance verification, parking (1 space per unit), and union labor. Councilmember Johnson proposed two amendments: (1) adding $60,000 for landscaping in the public right‑of‑way, and (2) making approval contingent on the city manager adopting a written administrative policy for flex‑unit conversions (80%→100% AMI when units remain vacant 90–120 days). The motion passed 3–2 (Johnson, Mikolski, Leaks May in favor; Kelly, Sabatini opposed). - Regular Agenda 8B: First Reading of Community Input Over Government Surveillance Ordinance – City Manager introduced the draft ordinance. The council approved the first reading and scheduled a dedicated public hearing for Monday, February 2, 2026 at 6 PM, with a second reading at the regular meeting on February 9, 2026. The vote was unanimous (5–0). Council also discussed holding the public hearing in an open‑dialogue format. - Item 8C (formerly 7C): Deficit Elimination Plan for Auto Parking Fund – The resolution was pulled for discussion. The plan outlines three strategies: reducing expenditures (already passing transaction fees to users), increasing revenues (continuing fee increases every other year), and forgiving a portion of the $1.5 million interfund loan from the general fund. Council expressed interest in revisiting the public‑private parking agreement (Versa) and requested a memo from the city attorney on remedies. The plan was approved unanimously (5–0). Key Outcomes - Class C Liquor License for City Smoke Ferndale LLC (345 E. Nine Mile Rd) – Approved (5–0). - Conditional Rezoning at 660 E. 10 Mile Rd – Approved (5–0). - PILOT / Community Benefits for Nine West (1200 W. Nine Mile Rd) – Approved with two amendments: (1) add $60,000 for public right‑of‑way landscaping; (2) flexibility for AMI unit conversions contingent on city manager’s adoption of a written policy. Vote: 3–2 (Johnson, Mikolski, Leaks May yes; Kelly, Sabatini no). - First Reading of Surveillance Ordinance – Approved (5–0); public hearing set for February 2, 2026 at 6 PM; second reading February 9, 2026. - Deficit Elimination Plan for Auto Parking Fund – Approved (5–0). Council will receive a summary of legal remedies regarding the Versa public‑private agreement. - Snow Emergency Response: Over 300 tickets were issued; the city manager will discuss relief for those not properly notified (text system was down). DPW missed six blocks (Symes, Romeo, Leech, Rensson, Martin, Almont) and will address them the following day. - Mayoral Statement: The mayor reaffirmed that Ferndale Police do not have a 287(g) agreement with ICE, do not enforce immigration law, and the council has no intent to enter such agreements. Councilmember Kelly announced she is drafting a sanctuary city resolution for the next meeting.

The Ferndale Planning Commission met on Wednesday, January 21, 2026, from 6:31 PM to 7:10 PM at City Hall. The primary focus was a public hearing and deliberation on a Planned Unit Development (PUD) amendment and associated site plan for 3178 Hilton Road (Life Lab Kids). The commission recommended approval of the PUD amendment to the City Council and approved the site plan with conditions. Consent Calendar - Roll Call: Seven members present (Commissioners Sherwalder, McCulski, Subakatani, Azar, Foster, Brazen, and Michelle). Commissioners O'Shelle and Hall were excused; Commissioner Newman resigned. Motions to excuse absent members and approve the agenda and minutes from December 17, 2025, passed unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Joshua Smithy, a neighbor, expressed concern about construction disruption based on previous experience: loss of garage access for three months and his driveway used for storage during earlier Life Lab construction. He requested that access be maintained and that his property not be used for storage. - Chris Michaels, another neighbor, echoed similar concerns about alley access, early-morning construction noise, and potential light spill from the proposed two-story building. He stated support for the project but asked for assurances on construction processes and nighttime lighting. Discussion Items - Staff Presentation (Melissa, City Planner): The proposal converts an existing greenhouse on the east side of the property into a two-story classroom building within the same footprint. No setback changes were proposed. Staff noted that the PUD agreement originally included 25 parking spaces (one EV) and bicycle parking, but the drawing set omitted these; the applicant later confirmed they remain. Lighting must comply with zero-foot-candle ordinance at property lines. Staff indicated no major issues but requested clarification on parking and lighting. - Applicant Presentation (Steve Schimke, Schaefer Construction; Kate Peterson, Life Lab Kids): The project is funded by a grant to create dedicated space for teens and young adults, with no increase in student population or staff. The greenhouse is impractical and used as overflow. The new space will house independent living and pre-vocational training. Applicant confirmed all parking and bicycle amenities are unchanged; the omission from drawings was an oversight. They committed to working with the building department and communicating with neighbors to minimize disruption. - Commission Deliberation: - Exterior Materials: The commission noted that the proposed concrete masonry unit (CMU) facade is a deviation from the ordinance (which allows CMU only as secondary material). Since the PUD process permits deviations, this will be included in the PUD agreement. - Roof Material: The applicant clarified the roof will be asphalt shingles to match the existing building. - Fire Suppression: Concerns raised by the former fire marshal are being coordinated with the new fire marshal and will be addressed during building permit review. - Lighting and Construction: The commission emphasized that lighting plans must demonstrate no spillover onto residential properties. The applicant agreed to a communication plan with neighbors. Key Outcomes - PUD Amendment (Recommended to City Council): - Motion by Commissioner Foster, seconded by Commissioner Subakatani. - Approved unanimously (7-0) with conditions: 1. Satisfy all outstanding items from the January 12, 2026 staff report. 2. Clarify that roofing material is asphalt. 3. Confirm 25 parking spaces (including one EV spot) and bicycle parking remain as per previously approved plans. 4. Add CMU as a primary facade material deviation to the PUD agreement. - Site Plan Approval: - Motion by Commissioner Azar, seconded by Commissioner Brazen. - Approved unanimously (7-0), contingent on addressing staff comments and consistent with the PUD motion conditions. - Administrative Items: - Training for commissioners scheduled for the February meeting. - Vacancies announced: Commissioner Newman resigned; Commissioner Subakatani will be leaving after April. - Councilmember McCulski welcomed as a new member. - Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and annual report to be presented at the next meeting. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 7:10 PM.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary can be generated.

The Ferndale City Council held its first meeting of 2026 on Monday, January 12, 2026 at 7:00 PM at City Hall. The meeting began with the inauguration of the 50th Ferndale City Council, including the swearing-in of Mayor Raylon Leeks-May (re-elected) and new Councilmember Eddie Sabatini, along with returning Councilmembers Rolanda Kelly, Laura McColsky (renamed McCulski during meeting), and Donnie Johnson. The oath was administered by Judge Joseph Longo. After a brief recess for photos, the council conducted business including approval of the consent agenda, appointment of council liaisons to boards and commissions, election of the Mayor Pro Tem, and a presentation of holiday light awards. Public comment included strong opposition to proposed ALPR cameras. The meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM. Consent Calendar - Approved as a block: Minutes of December 15, 2025; FYE26 Second Quarter Budget Amendment; FY25 Retirement System Annual Report; Passport contract amendment for ParkFerndale credit card processing; network switch replacement ($7,409.16); strategic planning services with Bridgeport Consulting ($13,250); fence privacy screens for southwest storage yard (up to $13,000); Nearmap aerial imagery subscription ($7,055); 2026 pavement joint and crack sealing program ($70,990); Watson & Yates finance project services (not to exceed $91,120); downtown maintenance service agreement between DPW and DDA; open purchase order with Madison Electric for decorative streetlight poles (up to $35,000); ClearPath weather software for winter maintenance ($10,307.30); annual payment to Envisio Solutions ($5,788.13); glass cleaning services at city facilities ($9,234.50); agreement with Liturgical Publications for senior newsletter sponsorship; and approval of bills and payrolls. Public Comments & Testimony - Otto Massey (281 West Maplehurst): Resolutely opposed to any ALPR camera usage, citing Fourth Amendment concerns, reasonable expectation of privacy, and the risk of future mission creep. Asked that ALPR cameras be removed. - Linda Brinkett (Good Trouble Chorus): Requested council sign a charitable license for a performance at Zion Lutheran Church in February; referred to city clerk for review. - Unnamed speaker (resident): Criticized Mayor Leeks-May for a previous quote in the Oakland Press about being "voice of the black people," urging the mayor to be voice of all residents regardless of color. Expressed support for ALPR cameras for police effectiveness. - Christopher Hall (1845 Sime Street): Congratulated all elected officials, particularly the mayor as an African American woman, and stated no man should tell a woman what to say or do. - Nicole Massey (281 West Maplehurst): Opposed ALPR cameras, comparing to Orwellian surveillance, expressing concerns about chilling effects on residents and businesses (e.g., dispensary customers), and noting potential for abuse without warrants. - Jim McLucky (903 ML Street): Congratulated new council members and registered opposition to ALPR technology and the L Carwash project. Discussion Items - Holiday Light Awards Presentation: Arts & Beautification Commission presented winners of the 2025 Holiday Light Awards. 56 houses nominated in four quadrants. Winners: 1955 Catalpa (Northwest), 1801 Annabelle and 2145 Manatee (Northeast tie), 407 St. Louis (Southwest), 1510 Jewel (Southeast). Signs delivered. - Appointment of Councilmembers to Boards and Commissions: Mayor Leeks-May presented recommendations for council liaisons to various boards. Assignments approved unanimously via roll call: Sabatini to Accessibility & Inclusion Advisory Commission, Arts & Beautification, Parks & Rec, Sidewalk Hardship, Police/Fire Pension Board; Kelly to Arts & Beautification, Board of Zoning Appeals, Downtown Development Authority/Brownfield Redevelopment Authority; Johnson to Downtown Development Authority/Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, Agenda Review, CIP Policy Team, Incentives, Ordinance; McCulski to Planning Commission, CIP Policy Team, Ordinance; Leeks-May to Employee Pension Board, Liquor License Review, Police/Fire Pension Board, Agenda Review, Incentives. Alternates: Sabatini/Kelly pair, Johnson/McCulski pair, with mayor as overall alternate. - Appointment of Mayor Pro Tem: Mayor nominated Councilmember Donnie Johnson, citing tradition of rotating the position. Johnson gave a speech outlining priorities (RX Kids program, trash bins, human services partnerships). Councilmember Kelly nominated Laura McCulski, arguing the council needed stronger communication and collaboration, and that she had difficulty communicating with the mayor. After discussion, Mayor Leeks-May called for a unanimous vote. All five council members voted yes, making McCulski Mayor Pro Tem for her second term. - PILOT Resolution for 1200 W. Nine Mile Road: Item postponed to January 26, 2026 meeting. City Planner gave update: proposed 56-unit 100% attainable housing development (17 units at 80% AMI, 18 at 100% AMI, 21 at 120% AMI). Community benefits include $160,000 in Nine Mile Road improvements, three ADA units, public art mural, bike share station, $30,000 to Gary Park, $25,000 to Renaissance Vineyard Church, $25,000/year +3% annual increase municipal service agreement, clawback provision, $10,000 admin fee (total $300,000). Council unanimously voted to table to January 26. - Department Updates: DPW announced bag leaf dumpsters at Martin Road Park (similar to holiday heave) and a salt bucket program for seniors/low-income residents. Communications Director announced phone tree update targeting Friday, January 16 or following Friday. Parks and Rec announced Little Princess Dance (Feb 7), youth soccer registration (opens Jan 19), Grand Experience trip to Mackinac Island (May 12-15), and summer camp registration opening end of January. Also noted 2026 Parks & Recreation survey is now available. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Council liaison assignments approved by roll call (5-0). - Laura McCulski appointed Mayor Pro Tem for a second term (unanimous 5-0). - PILOT resolution for 1200 W. Nine Mile postponed to January 26, 2026 meeting (unanimous). - Public comments on ALPR cameras were heard; no council action taken on that topic at this meeting. - Holiday light awards presented; winners recognized. - Phone tree update scheduled for January 16 or next Friday. - New DPW programs (leaf dumpsters, salt buckets for seniors) to be rolled out in coming weeks. - Meeting adjourned at 8:14 PM.

The Ferndale Planning Commission met on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, at 6:30 PM at City Hall, 300 E 9 Mile. The primary item of business was a public hearing and votes on a conditional rezoning and site plan for 660 E. 10 Mile Road (Iron Ridge district). The commission also approved the agenda and October 15, 2025 minutes, heard public comments, introduced the new Community and Economic Development Director, and discussed the 2026 schedule and future agenda items. Consent Calendar - Agenda: Approved as presented (motion by Pollica, support by Sherwalter; unanimous). - Minutes: Approved as amended (minor correction to attendance wording) for the October 15, 2025 meeting (motion by Pollica, support by Newman; unanimous). Public Comments & Testimony - James Van Steele (Ferndale resident and member of the Ferndale Environmental Sustainability Commission, speaking as a resident): Expressed appreciation for the invitation to observe the planning commission and invited commissioners to strengthen partnership with the FESC. He later asked about potential hazardous waste mitigation from the former industrial use at the site. The applicant responded that the site was part of a $7 million brownfield remediation, including PCB removal, and that remaining sub-slab contamination is managed with state-of-the-art venting systems. Discussion Items - Conditional Rezoning and Site Plan for 660 E. 10 Mile Road (Iron Ridge Holdings LLC): The applicant seeks to rezone the parcel from I-1 Industrial to MXD-1 Neighborhood Mixed Use, with voluntarily offered conditions restricting uses to 33 commercial/retail/restaurant types (excluding residential and most public/quasi-public uses), and to approve a site plan for a restaurant (Paper Suns Barbecue) operated by chef Will Branch. The property is at the southwest corner of E. 10 Mile Road and Bermuda Street, part of the larger Iron Ridge redevelopment. Staff (Melissa) presented an overview, noting the existing zoning (I-1), future land use designation (light industrial), and the requested modifications (outdoor patio, fencing, landscaping in front yard, reduced setbacks, parking in adjacent lot, no dedicated loading zone). Applicant Dennis Cowan, along with Craig Strong (owner) and Will Branch, presented the project, highlighting the adaptive reuse of a former industrial building, completion of exterior improvements, and adequate parking in the adjacent lot. Discussion included: - Environmental remediation: extensive cleanup completed. - Parking and circulation: shared parking with adjacent lots, walkability improvements on Bermuda Street. - Noise mitigation: screen wall similar to that used at the apartment pool. - Outdoor dining: proposed five-foot fence for patio. - Lighting: dark-sky compliant, but commissioners suggested adding wall-mounted lighting on the north side (along 10 Mile) for safety. - Bicycle parking: located behind the small building; commissioners noted it may not be easily visible. - Dumpster and grease trap: shared with adjacent building; chef described use of sealed containers on casters. - Future plans for the smaller garage building: accessory café/coffee use to be submitted separately. - Commissioner Newman noted the need to verify that the accessory use is still permitted under the updated zoning ordinance. - Commissioner Pollica’s upcoming resignation: He announced that his term will end after the February 2026 meeting as he is moving out of Ferndale. Other commissioners thanked him for his service. - Food Truck Ordinance Update: Commissioner Hall requested that the stalled update to the food truck ordinance, previously worked on with former director Roger Caruso, be revived. New CED Director Ross acknowledged the item and said it is on the working list, with recommendations to come to the commission soon. Commissioner Subakatani requested an updated list of registered food trucks from the fire department, which Director Ross said he can provide. Key Outcomes - Conditional Rezoning (660 E. 10 Mile Road): The planning commission voted unanimously (5-0) to recommend approval to City Council of the conditional rezoning from I-1 to MXD-1 with the conditions as presented in the agreement dated December 1, 2025. (Motion by Pollica, support by Subakatani; roll call: Chair Foster yes, Subakatani yes, Newman yes, Hall yes, Pollica yes.) - Site Plan Approval: The planning commission voted unanimously (5-0) to conditionally approve the site plan dated December 1, 2025, with conditions as noted in the packet (conditions 1 and 2). (Motion by Pollica, support by Hall; roll call: Newman yes, Subakatani yes, Foster yes, Hall yes, Pollica yes.) - 2026 Planning Commission Schedule: Approved by City Council; informational item only. - Future Agenda Items: The commission will revisit the food truck ordinance update and bicycle parking waiver procedures under the new zoning code. - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 7:46 PM.

No agenda, minutes, or transcript were provided for this meeting. Therefore, no summary of discussions or decisions can be generated.

The Ferndale City Council met on Monday, December 15, 2025, for a regular meeting scheduled for 6:00 p.m.; the Mayor called the meeting to order at 6:05 p.m. after the Pledge of Allegiance and roll call. Council unanimously approved the agenda as presented. The meeting then featured two presentations: the annual audit presentation for fiscal year ended June 30, 2025, and a public information presentation about the Ferndale Downtown Development Authority (DDA). The provided transcript contains no public comment, public hearing, or consent-calendar action. Audit Presentation — FY Ended June 30, 2025 - Aaron Stevens, auditor, presented the city's audited financial statements and single audit. He reported an unmodified opinion on the financial statements, the highest level of assurance, and noted the audit would be filed the following day. - Government-wide highlights: strong liquidity with current assets covering current liabilities 3.25 times; unrestricted net position was negative due to long-term debt, net pension liability, and net OPEB liability; OPEB is funded at 111%; total net position increased by about $20 million for governmental activities and $2.5 million for business-type activities. - General fund: total fund balance was just over $10 million at June 30, 2025. Available fund balance — committed ($879,000), assigned (about $9,800), and unassigned ($8.7 million) — totaled roughly $9.6 million, equal to about 33% of expenditures and other financing uses, or about four months of operations, well above the GFOA recommended minimum of 17%/two months. - General fund revenues were $27.8 million, up about $1.6 million (6%) from 2024; expenditures were $28.7 million, up about $4.2 million (17%). The city added about $1.3 million to fund balance during the year. Property taxes made up 49% of general fund revenue and public safety made up 52% of expenditures. - Water and sewer fund: total net position was about $30 million; unrestricted net position was $6.7 million, equal to about 94% of operating expenses less depreciation. The unrestricted position rose by $2.986 million, attributed mainly to rate increases and lower expenses. These rates are connected to a five-year lead service line replacement plan that runs through 2027. - Auto parking fund: total net position was $660,000, but unrestricted net position was negative by about $1.8 million, described as 18.6 months in the hole. Expenses exceeded revenues in each of the past five years. The fund owes $747,809 to the general fund and also has an advance from the general fund. The state's five-year deficit elimination planning period has been reached, so a new plan must be submitted. - Audit findings: one material weakness (auditor-proposed journal entries material to the statements), significant deficiencies (untimely bank reconciliations and missing supporting documentation), and non-compliance items (parking fund deficit and unfavorable budget variances). The single audit found no material weaknesses or significant deficiencies in federal programs; both CDBG and CSLFRF/ARPA were tested. Discussion Items - A councilmember asked whether the auto parking fund's payable to the general fund could be written off to ease its negative position. The auditor responded that enterprise funds are intended to operate on user charges rather than general fund subsidies, but a governing-body-approved transfer or write-off would be possible. - Council and staff discussed the parking fund's ongoing structural gap. Staff mentioned an internal proposal to shift credit-card processing fees to the end user, saving about $150,000 per year, with a presentation planned for January. - A councilmember expressed strong concern about overspending budgets, calling it a systemic issue seen for 12 years, and urged stricter encumbrance and budget monitoring. Staff said changes were already underway, including real-time council action for budget amendments and use of BSA Cloud to track encumbrances, and the finance committee would meet more regularly. - Council also asked what changed for parking revenue since before COVID, including enforcement hours and downtown activity; no definitive cause was identified in the transcript. DDA Public Information Presentation - The DDA director presented the first of two required PA 57 public information sessions; a second session was scheduled for the following morning at Sidecar. - The Ferndale DDA was established July 14, 1981. The district covers about four linear miles and includes more than 350 businesses. Funding comes from a tax increment financing (TIF) district, a roughly 2% DDA millage, Oakland County Main Street funding (nearly $300,000), technical support funding over $17,000 in 2025, and sponsorships. - The DDA is a Great American Main Street community, first accredited in 2001 and the first in Oakland County to win the Great American Main Street Award. - Recent activities highlighted included the first Art March, nine summer concerts, downtown trick-or-treating with more than 1,000 pounds of candy, holiday events, business grants, support for more than 20 new businesses, and a planned $700,000+ wayfinding and sidewalk repair project. - Upcoming priorities include annual accreditation, volunteer recruitment/vision committee, a 3–5 year strategic plan, wayfinding/sidewalk design expected in early spring and construction in early summer, a customer relationship management (CRM) system, and business retention/recruitment. Key Outcomes - Council unanimously approved the meeting agenda. - The audit presentation was informational; the formal "receive and file" action was listed on the consent agenda, but no consent agenda vote appears in the provided transcript. - No formal votes were taken during the audit or DDA presentations. - Next steps include a January presentation on parking credit-card fee changes, a new auto parking fund deficit elimination plan, continued finance committee oversight, and a second DDA PA 57 session the following morning.

On Monday, November 24, 2025, the Ferndale City Council met at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall, 300 E 9 Mile, Ferndale, MI. The meeting included the Parks and Recreation Commission annual report, a presentation on the proposed Axon automated license plate reader (ALPR) agreement, a CDBG public hearing, approval of the consent agenda, and a roll-call vote to table the Axon agreement to the December 15, 2025 meeting. Consent Calendar - The agenda was approved with an edit adding item 4B, a presentation on the proposed Axon ALPR system, before the call to audience. - The consent agenda was approved in a single motion: November 10, 2025 meeting minutes; appointments/reappointments to city boards and commissions; a 48-month Toshiba Business Solutions lease for $63,522.72; the ESO software platform annual payment of $9,739.01; purchase of two Blackline gas monitors for $13,553.00; purchase of RCX Sports MLS GO soccer uniform kits for $9,751.70; suspension of paid downtown parking enforcement on Small Business Saturday, November 29, 2025; and bills/payrolls as submitted. Public Comments & Testimony - The call to audience ran from approximately 7:36 to 8:32 p.m., with a three-minute limit per speaker. Many residents commented on the proposed Axon ALPR agreement. - Supporters, including Sharon Chess, Patrick Van Lynn, Mark McConnell, and a representative of Jewish Ferndale, expressed support for giving the police department the technology, citing public safety, crime-solving benefits, and the recent foiled attack planned against Ferndale. - Opponents and concerned residents, including Angela Lapard, Mara Livzy, Andrea Popovich, Eddie Sabatini, Chris McLonis, Kalitash, Chris Gilmer Hill, Deanne Oxal, and others, argued the timeline was rushed, community engagement was inadequate, and the contract raised privacy, civil-liberties, ICE/federal access, for-profit data incentive, and Axon ethics concerns. Several asked the council to delay the vote and include civil-liberties experts in a true public conversation. - Some speakers raised non-ALPR issues. Dennis August asked for better street-cleaning and snow-removal parking enforcement; council agreed to schedule a future presentation on enforcement policies. - The CDBG public hearing was opened at approximately 8:32 p.m. and closed at 8:41 p.m.; no residents offered public testimony. Parks and Recreation Commission Annual Report - Parks and Recreation Commission representatives reported 2025 achievements, including $100,000 raised in grant funding, summer camp registration selling out in three minutes, a design award for Wilson Park, and new youth and adult programming. - 2024 statistics included $2.4 million in grant funding, a 47% increase in youth sports participation, a new girls' basketball league, and more than 15 senior trips. - The commission's strategic priorities are empowering volunteers through the Amelia volunteer portal, strengthening communication through infographics and surveys, and connecting through collaboration, including a Martin Park mural subcommittee. - Martin Park and Wilson Park construction were completed in 2025; the Martin Park bathroom/concession facility is expected to go out to bid soon. CDBG Public Hearing - The Director of Community and Economic Development presented Ferndale's Project Year 2026 Community Development Block Grant application: $85,000 for code enforcement and $200,000 for a new ambulance. - CDBG funds flow from HUD to Oakland County to municipalities. Oakland County is emphasizing larger, high-impact projects, with formula-based funds for public services and proposal-based funds for public facilities. - Ferndale has approximately 50% eligible area-wide benefit block groups, and low-income household income limits were reviewed. The application is due December 5, 2025. - Council authorized the CDBG funding allocation and application as submitted. City staff noted the upper funding limit is likely around $300,000 and that an amended ask would require a new public noticing period. Axon ALPR Agreement Discussion - Police command presented a proposal to replace the terminated Flock Safety ALPR pilot with a five-year Axon ALPR agreement. The pilot began in March 2023 with 16 cameras, 15 of which completed the pilot; ALPR service ended November 13, 2025. - The department compared Axon, Genitech, Motorola, and Recor, and recommended Axon because it is law-enforcement-only, uses one-to-one data sharing, gives the city ownership of cameras and data, and had the strongest alignment with city policy. Proposed annual cost was approximately $2,465.95 per camera for nine cameras. The chief's presentation cited the five-year total as $110,967.60, while the motion stated an amount not to exceed $110,167.60. - Councilmembers raised questions about data hosting, vendor access, de-identified data, AI training, live video, facial recognition, retention, auditing, and contract-change protections. Councilmember McCulski proposed a contract addendum with strict data-ownership, no-third-party-access, no-facial-recognition, no-live-streaming, and 90-day notice provisions. - Councilmember Kelly said the process was too rushed and she was not comfortable approving ALPR at that time. Chief defended the timeline and vendor choice. Councilmember Polica voiced support for the technology, citing solved crimes and unsolved-crime victims. Councilmember Leaks May voted with the majority to postpone but emphasized the need for public education. - Axon representatives offered to provide written answers to unresolved questions and to work with the city manager and legal counsel on contract language. - A motion to table the Axon agreement to the December 15, 2025 regular council meeting passed by roll call 4-1: Johnson, McCulski, Kelly, and Leaks May voted yes; Polica voted no. Department Updates & Announcements - DPW: Leaf collection will be extended with one additional citywide pass on Monday and Wednesday of the following week; items must be at the curb by Monday, December 1, and bagged leaves will be collected through December 19. - Parks and Recreation: Santa will visit Ferndale on Saturday, December 6, with events at Wilson Park, Gary Park, and Shiffer Park, sponsored by Ferndale Elks Lodge, Corner Grill and Bar, Giorgio Conti Jewelers, and Western Market. - DDA: Paid downtown parking will be suspended for Small Business Saturday on November 29; a downtown wayfinding and signage project is beginning in early December. - CED: The next planning commission meeting will include three applications, and second-round senior chore bids were awarded. - The city will be closed Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving; the meeting adjourned at 10:22 p.m. Key Outcomes - Approved the amended agenda. - Authorized the CDBG Project Year 2026 application for $85,000 for code enforcement and $200,000 for a new ambulance. - Approved the consent agenda in full. - Tabled the Axon ALPR agreement to the December 15, 2025 council meeting by a 4-1 roll-call vote. - Directed staff to explore a neutral facilitator and community engagement session on the Axon ALPR proposal and contract guardrails before further action.