Sterling Heights City Council Meeting – September 16, 2025

The Sterling Heights City Council met on September 16, 2025, at 12:24 PM. The agenda included a city manager’s report covering the Project Search internship program, selection for the National League of Cities Housing Supply Accelerator Challenge, the Inspiring Green program, community wealth metrics, and an e‑recycling event. Council also celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Stellantis Sterling Heights Stamping Plant, held a public hearing on a planned unit development (PUD) for a self‑storage facility, approved a liquor license transfer, and discussed code enforcement practices for senior residents.

Consent Calendar

• The agenda and consent agenda were approved unanimously.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Public Hearing – PUD for Red Run Mini Storage: A Warren resident spoke against the proposed self‑storage facility on 14 Mile Road, citing concerns about environmental impacts (methane, tree removal, ozone) and arguing the project would degrade the green space and increase light pollution. The applicant later responded that no methane is present and that more trees will be added than removed.
• Communications from Citizens: Horace Johns (14468 Cooley Drive) addressed the council on behalf of an elderly neighbor who received a code violation notice for landscape maintenance. He criticized the city’s process, saying the notice felt hostile and that the city should contact homeowners before sending formal violations. He also noted the neighbor had been hospitalized. City Manager Vanderpool apologized for any inconvenience and offered to review the case.

Discussion Items

• Project Search (Internship for People with Disabilities): Recreation Specialist Becca Lynn and instructor Christy Petris (Utica Community Schools) updated council on the program. Six new interns were introduced. The program has expanded placement opportunities; last year five interns graduated, four of whom are employed (two with the city). Council praised the program’s focus on inclusion.
• Housing Supply Accelerator Challenge: City Planner Dr. Jake Parcell announced Sterling Heights was one of 16 communities selected nationwide (second‑tier) for the National League of Cities / American Planning Association initiative. The city will receive coaching, training, and technical assistance to implement housing strategies while preserving its 76% owner‑occupied housing stock. The master plan projects demand for 1,400–2,100 units over the next 8–10 years, and nearly 60% of homes were built before 1980.
• Inspiring Green Program & Community Wealth: City Manager Mark Vanderpool highlighted a $30,000 contribution from AGS to plant 100 trees on 18½ Mile Road, and noted median household income in Sterling Heights ($81,000) ranks top among Michigan cities over 100,000 population. An e‑recycling event is scheduled for October 4, 2025, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
• Stellantis Sterling Heights Stamping Plant 60th Anniversary: Plant Manager Greg “Butch” Bauer described the facility (largest stamping plant in the world, 254 acres, 2.7 million sq ft, 800 robots). Over the past 20 years, Stellantis paid nearly $100 million in property taxes and employs about 2,000 UAW and salary workers. Council members shared personal stories and expressed pride in the partnership.
• PUD – Red Run Mini Storage (PPUD 25‑0002): Planner Fox and Assistant Planner Keenan presented a proposal for 167 self‑storage units on a 6.2‑acre former landfill site at 1255 & 12339 14 Mile Road, east of Maple Lane. The site has constraints: the Red Run Drain easement, a Macomb County interceptor drain, and contamination from a former dump that prevents residential use. The PUD requests multiple modifications (setback reductions, fence instead of masonry wall, reduced durable materials). The concrete slab would cap pollution, reducing leachate. Council discussed methane testing, environmental benefits, and alternative uses. The applicant agreed to add six trees in the city right‑of‑way.
• Liquor License Transfer – Moments Restaurant and Bar: Applicant Leith Fatori requested transfer of a Class C license (with dance/entertainment permits) from Huron Clinton Metropolitan Authority to his new restaurant at 37864 Van Dyke. He described a Mediterranean‑American menu, family background in the restaurant industry, and a two‑year process to obtain approvals. Council asked about cuisine and experience; he noted the state had already approved the transfer.

Key Outcomes

• Project Search: No formal vote; council expressed strong support for the program.
• Housing Supply Accelerator: No action required; council acknowledged the achievement.
• Inspiring Green / Community Wealth: Informational report; council praised the program.
• Stellantis 60th Anniversary Resolution: Adopted unanimously by voice vote. Council presented a certificate to the plant manager.
• PUD – Red Run Mini Storage: Approved unanimously by voice vote (motion by Councilor Sarowski, seconded). The approval is subject to terms in the PUD agreement, including the applicant’s commitment to add six trees along 14 Mile Road.
• Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously.
• Liquor License Transfer: Approved unanimously (motion by Councilor Radke, seconded). The transfer includes Sunday sales, catering, dance, and entertainment permits.
• Code Enforcement / Senior Citizen Concerns: Council discussed improving communication with seniors before sending violation notices. City Manager Vanderpool outlined existing senior programs (SHINE, home chore, Safe Homes Task Force). Councilor Koskey suggested forming a senior monitoring committee. The mayor directed staff to follow up on the specific case raised by Mr. Johns.
• Adjournment: Meeting adjourned by unanimous consent.