Sterling Heights City Council Meeting - March 4, 2026

The Sterling Heights City Council met on March 4, 2026, to consider a range of items including a major traffic safety grant, a controversial gas station development, a resolution opposing state housing preemption bills, and various recognitions and appointments. The meeting featured detailed presentations, public testimony, and council deliberation on several key issues.

Consent Calendar

• Approved the consent agenda as amended (item M removed for separate discussion), including routine approvals.

Public Comments & Testimony

• Sheets Gas Station PUD Public Hearing: Multiple residents and business owners testified in opposition. Robin McGregor stated she had gathered 6,734 signatures against the project, citing concerns about traffic congestion, impact on local businesses, and community character. Local gas station operators raised fears that the high-volume chain (selling 600,000-900,000 gallons/month vs. 60,000-75,000 for local stations) would drive them out of business. One Uber driver, Sean Weber, spoke in favor, noting the need for 24-hour facilities for gig economy workers, but acknowledged the proposed location on M1 industrial corridor might not be ideal. The applicant requested indefinite postponement, which council approved.
• Communications from Citizens: Ken Nelson requested an agenda slot at the March 17 meeting for a presentation on free speech in public meetings. Another resident criticized the mayor's past statement about immigration enforcement, arguing local police should cooperate with ICE.

Discussion Items

• City Manager Report: Mark Vanderpool announced SEMCOG awarded a $634,560 federal grant for traffic calming on Saul and Statler Roads near schools, with a 20% local match ($126,912). Construction is planned for summer 2027. The project includes raised crosswalks, pedestrian refuge islands, and curb extensions at Grebner Elementary School and other locations. The grant was presented by SEMCOG representative Amy Leary, who praised Sterling Heights as a regional model.
• Community Alliance Annual Report: President Tatrika Griffin Reed presented the 2025-2027 work plan, including a "Join Us" card with QR code for volunteer sign-ups and an "All Our Welcome" window cling campaign to recruit 25 businesses promoting inclusivity. Councilwoman Sarowski commended the efforts, particularly the "Sterling Neighbor Network."
• Nice Neighbor Award: Presented to BAPS (a Hindu organization) for contributions including 2,500+ pounds of food donated and a $1,000 check to Heat for Heroes. Councilman Majak read the resolution; BAPS representative thanked the city.
• Chief John Childs Training Center Naming: Fire Chief Kevin Edmond presented a resolution to name the training room at Fire Station 5 after former chief John Childs (1971-2007). Councilman Yannis proposed naming Fire Station 1 instead, but withdrew after discussion about process. The original resolution passed unanimously. Council discussed future consideration of greater honors.
• CDBG Fiscal Year 2026-27 Action Plan: HUD Program Coordinator Sydney Aller presented the plan based on an estimated $802,000 allocation. The Citizens Advisory Committee recommended $120,000 for public services, including Macomb Community Action, Carehouse, library internet access, McCrest shelter, and Macomb Community College tuition. Capital projects include $200,000 for mobile home repairs, $80,000 for senior center ceiling replacement, $17,000 for atrium painting, $20,000 for billiard room, $35,000 for interior wall replacement, $70,000 for exterior masonry, and $60,000 for Chainer Towers community room upgrades. Approved unanimously.
• Appointment to Board of Code Appeals: George Musa was appointed to a term ending June 30, 2028.
• Planning Commission Nomination: Postponed to the March 17, 2026 meeting.
• Resolution Opposing Michigan House Bills 5529-5532: City planner Jake Parcel presented a detailed analysis of the state bills that would preempt local zoning—including minimum lot sizes of 1,500 sq ft, dwelling sizes of 500 sq ft, 15-ft front setbacks, and 60-day site plan review limits. He contrasted these with Sterling Heights' proactive housing reforms and the alternative "My Home" program. Council members strongly opposed the preemption, with Councilwoman Zarko noting the bills were developer-driven and that cities were not consulted. The resolution passed unanimously, directing the city clerk to transmit copies to the state delegation.

Key Outcomes

• Approved consent agenda as amended (unanimous).
• Approved naming of Chief John Childs Training Center at Fire Station 5 (unanimous).
• Indefinitely postponed the Sheetz PUD application (unanimous); the project will not return unless revised plans are submitted and re-noticed.
• Approved the FY 2026-27 CDBG Action Plan (unanimous).
• Appointed George Musa to the Board of Code Appeals (unanimous).
• Postponed Planning Commission nomination to March 17, 2026 (unanimous).
• Adopted resolution opposing HB 5529-5532 (unanimous).
• Meeting adjourned after additional reports and comments.