Taylor City Council Meeting - October 7, 2025

The Taylor City Council met on October 7, 2025, at 11:30 AM. The meeting opened with prayer, the Pledge of Allegiance, and roll call, with all members present. The council approved the agenda with amendments to separate appointment items and correct an address, and approved the minutes from September 16, 2025. The meeting covered appointments to city boards, approval of grants and purchases, a rezoning, a property sale, a proclamation, and public comments. The meeting adjourned at 7:35 PM.

Public Comments & Testimony

• A speaker expressed opposition to the city's 287(g) agreement, arguing it allows warrantless detention and urged the council to follow Chicago's leadership. The police chief responded that the city has arrested zero individuals under the agreement since July, and all prior arrests were tied to criminal activity. The chief stated he will always assist other law enforcement agencies regardless of the agreement.
• Mary Susa, a resident, raised concerns about increased truck traffic on Beach Daly Road from the upcoming Ashley Capitol development, asking if restrictions could be considered. The police chief noted that trucks would likely use Inkster Road and that weightmasters patrol the area; construction is not expected until 2026.

Discussion Items

• Mayor's Communications (6.1A & 6.1B): The council considered two appointments of Stephen Polone to the Compensation Commission and the Local Officers Pension Commission to fill the unexpired term of Ben Clayton, who became a city employee. Councilwoman Daniels questioned the timing of the appointments, citing state law deadlines. The mayor defended the appointments as fulfilling a vacancy. The council voted 4-2 to approve the Compensation Commission appointment and unanimously approved the Pension Commission appointment.
• 6.2 – TIFA Appointment: Eric Chopgian was appointed to the Tax Increment Finance Authority for a four-year term. Discussion noted his business is within the TIFA district.
• 6.3 – Early Voting Grant: The council approved participation in an early voting grant from the Michigan Department of State Bureau of Elections for the 2025 election cycle.
• 7.3 – Mass Notification System: The council approved a three-year subscription to a new mass notification system for $13,725, replacing the more expensive Code Red system. The police chief explained the system will be used for weather alerts, road closures, and civic events.
• 7.4 – Electric Vehicles: The council approved the purchase of three EV Blazers for $134,202, funded through grants and forfeiture funds. The police chief stated officers tested the vehicles and found them roomier.
• 7.5 – Industrial Development District: The council approved the establishment of an industrial development district for Hearn Industrial Services, which plans a 100,000-square-foot expansion with a $13 million capital investment and 30-40 new jobs. The Aerotropolis Development Corporation will negotiate a community benefit agreement including local hiring preferences and a 50% property tax abatement for five years.
• 7.6 – Rezoning: The council approved a city-initiated rezoning of a portion of 26655 North Line Road from office to light industrial to correct a zoning map discrepancy. A 300-foot notification was sent to neighbors.
• 7.7 – Property Sale: The council approved the sale of a vacant parcel for $8,500 plus closing costs. The buyer owns adjacent rental homes and will demolish them; the tenants are employees of the buyer and will be assisted with relocation. The vote was 4-2.
• 7.9 – Intergovernmental Agreement with Wayne County: The council approved a $30,000 agreement for pickleball court funding. The recreation director noted this brings total grant funding to $145,574, covering 41% of project costs. The mayor also announced $1 million in state funding for an inclusive playscape at Heritage Park.
• 7.11 – Greenwald House Renovation: The council approved a $394,003 renovation of the historic Greenwald House at Heritage Park. Councilwoman Daniels expressed sticker shock but voted yes after discussion about the building's condition and the availability of funds. The vote was 5-1.
• 7.16 – Proclamation: The council proclaimed October as Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. Councilwoman Witten read the proclamation and shared her personal experience with infant loss, founding a local support group.
• 7.17 – Vacant Council Seat: No nominations were made to fill the vacant seat on the Taylor City Council.

Key Outcomes

• Appointments: Stephen Polone approved to the Compensation Commission (4-2) and Local Officers Pension Commission (unanimous). Eric Chopgian approved to the TIFA (unanimous).
• Grants & Contracts: Early voting grant participation approved (unanimous); SMART contract ($186,699) approved (unanimous); Wayne County intergovernmental agreement ($30,000) approved (unanimous); SEMCOG membership ($10,061) approved (unanimous); pipeline management contract extension ($1 million) approved (unanimous).
• Purchases: Mass notification subscription ($13,725) approved (unanimous); three EV Blazers ($134,202) approved (unanimous); Elgin sweeper ($311,810) approved (unanimous); emergency sewer repair ($4,200) approved (unanimous).
• Land Use: Industrial development district established (7.5, unanimous); rezoning approved (7.6, unanimous); property sale approved (7.7, 4-2).
• Renovation: Greenwald House renovation ($394,003) approved (5-1).
• Proclamation: October declared Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month (unanimous).
• No Action: No nominations for vacant council seat.