Sterling Heights City Council Meeting – February 4, 2026

The Sterling Heights City Council met on February 4, 2026, to discuss a range of topics including a proposed 12-month moratorium on data centers, operational policies for the new pickleball complex, and public comments on immigration enforcement. The meeting also included routine approvals, a city manager's report on positive economic indicators, and an appointment to the Community Alliance.

Consent Calendar

• The council approved the consent agenda unanimously, which included routine items not requiring separate discussion.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Manning Gonzalez (on behalf of over 75 senior center pickleball players): Delivered a letter requesting dedicated playing times for seniors, grouping by ability (beginner, intermediate, advanced), and expressed concerns that the planned open-play model at the new pickleball complex would not meet their needs. They also noted non-resident concerns about fee schedules and requested transparency on operational planning.
• Jennifer Tuttle (owner of Kona Ice and Traveling Toms of Utica): Thanked the city for its support, explained her businesses are local and community-oriented, and highlighted that they have donated over $40,000 to the local community over three years, including $4,200 to Sterling Heights organizations. She asked for consideration in selecting local food trucks for city events.
• Robin Ritchie (resident): Supported the senior pickleball concerns, emphasizing safety risks when seniors play against younger, more athletic players.
• Unnamed speaker (pickleball player): Stated that many seniors would not have supported the new pickleball complex had they known it would lead to reduced pickleball availability at the senior center.
• Unnamed speaker (resident): Questioned the impact of moving pickleball from the senior center to the new facility, noting that seniors also use other amenities at the senior center and may not travel to the new location. She also asked about rumors of hiring a new facility director.
• Bob Moffa (longtime resident): Expressed support for the Sterling Heights Police Department and criticized Mayor Taylor's previous comments about ICE, urging the mayor to reconsider his stance.
• Alicia (mother and aunt of victims of a kidnapping incident): Criticized Mayor Taylor's proposal to reduce cooperation with ICE, arguing that such cooperation is essential for public safety and that the mayor's rhetoric fails to protect vulnerable children. She called for unity and accountability.
• Another resident (private citizen with family roots in Sterling Heights): Expressed support for ICE cooperation, stating that immigration enforcement is a federal responsibility, and criticized the mayor for undermining lawful federal actions. He cited the murder of a nursing student by an illegal immigrant as an example of the need for coordination.
• Mr. Brown (representing Macomb County Public Works Commissioner Candice Miller): Thanked the council for continued partnership.

Discussion Items

• Data Center Moratorium: City Planner Dr. Jake Parcel presented a proposal for a 12-month moratorium on accepting or approving applications for data centers. He explained that current zoning (dating from 1978) allows data centers by right in several districts, which is outdated given the rapid evolution of hyperscale facilities and their potential impacts (noise, water, energy, jobs). The moratorium would allow time to study and draft new regulations as part of the city's overall zoning ordinance rewrite. Council members spoke in favor, noting that this is a proactive measure to prepare for future applications, not a ban. The moratorium aligns with the ongoing zoning update and protects residents' interests.
• Pickleball Operational Policies: City Manager Mark Vanderpool addressed concerns raised by senior pickleball players. He confirmed that the senior center will continue to offer pickleball in a more limited fashion, the new facility will have nine courts (one dedicated for senior play), and staff will work out skill-level grouping and scheduling. He emphasized that pickleball will also remain at other city facilities (outdoor courts, community center). Several council members expressed support for accommodating seniors and ensuring safety.
• Food Truck Participation: Councilwoman Zarko asked about limits on food trucks at city events and the possibility of expanding space for more trucks. City Manager Vanderpool said there is no ordinance limiting numbers but noted a balance to avoid diluting demand. He indicated there will be additional opportunities at Sterling Fest and other events.
• Immigration Enforcement and ICE Cooperation: During public comments and council remarks, Mayor Taylor and several council members debated the role of ICE in the community. Mayor Taylor defended his previous criticism of ICE, citing numerous constitutional violations, and stated he will not apologize. Councilman Radke also expressed strong opposition to ICE cooperation, referencing incidents of misconduct and the need to protect foreign-born residents. Councilwoman Sarowski urged de-escalation and supported partnerships with federal agencies while acknowledging the need for accountability and de-escalation training.

Key Outcomes

• Data Center Moratorium: The council unanimously passed a resolution establishing a 12-month moratorium on the establishment, erection, or construction of data centers within the city. The moratorium may be lifted earlier if the overall zoning ordinance rewrite is completed.
• Appointment: Jennifer Rizk was appointed to the City of Sterling Heights Community Alliance, with a term ending June 30, 2026, subject to qualifications and oath of office.
• City Manager's Report Noted: The council acknowledged the report on Black History Month events, the Parks and Rec hiring fair, the upcoming joint meeting on zoning ordinance updates, and positive economic statistics (Sterling Heights ranked in the top 10 statewide for median household income and first in Macomb County for property values).
• Pickleball Operations: The city manager committed to continued dialogue and a phased approach to operational planning for the new pickleball complex, including dedicated senior times and skill-based grouping. Specific timelines were not provided.
• Next Steps: The council will continue to monitor the zoning ordinance rewrite and the pickleball facility operations. No further votes were taken on immigration policy, but the mayor reiterated his position.