Public Meetings - Sterling Heights, Michigan

The City Council of Sterling Heights, Michigan, held a regular meeting on October 8, 2025. The agenda included reports from the City Manager, updates from Utica Community Schools and the Velocity Center, presentations on new fire department initiatives, swearing-in ceremonies for new police officers and firefighter EMTs, and the annual Beautification Awards. The council also approved the consent agenda and heard public comments. Consent Calendar - The council approved the consent agenda as presented, which included funding for a new zoning ordinance update. A resident spoke in favor of the update, emphasizing sustainability and walkability. Public Comments & Testimony - Sarah Fisher (resident) expressed support for the zoning ordinance update and the bond for public parks, specifically mentioning progress on Red Run Park. She also opposed an outdoor storage facility on former landfill land, advocating for brownfield redevelopment funding. She invited the council and public to Macomb Defenders Rising meetings. - Elizabeth Capolo (Sterling Heights Drug Free Coalition) promoted upcoming events, including the Bear Cup Book Club fall series (October 22, November 19, December 17) and the coalition's October 23 meeting during Red Ribbon Week. City Manager's Report – Mark Vanderpool - State Budget Impact: The recently passed state budget results in an 8% reduction in constitutional revenue sharing (approximately $1 million loss for Sterling Heights), offset by $200,000 in new public safety revenue sharing and $40 million in additional road funding over five years. The city will no longer need to contribute about $1 million from its general fund to roads. The budget also includes $2.1 million for a new ladder truck and $1 million to renovate the former jail facility into training space. - Utica Community Schools Update: John Graham, Assistant Superintendent for Auxiliary Services, presented an overview of capital projects funded by the 2018 and 2023 bonds. Highlights include: new athletic complex at 16 Mile and Dodge Park (scheduled to open spring 2026), major renovations to Runkel Stadium, new elementary school reconstructions at DeKaiser (completed), Grebner (opening August 2026), and Havel (opening fall 2027), and safety improvements such as dedicated bus loops and rapid-flash crosswalks. - Velocity Center Update: Director Paula McPherson announced that Velocity is hosting two international fellows from Morocco and Algeria through Global Ties Detroit and Legacy International, working on an international landing zone program. Velocity is also pursuing an International Soft Landings designation. Additionally, accelerator client Fundraiser Blankets will appear on Shark Tank. - Fire Department Initiatives: Chief Kevin Edmonds and Captain Ryan Kirchhofer presented the new Medical Priority Dispatch system (implemented October 1, 2025) and the Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) program. The dispatch system uses five response levels (blue, red, orange, yellow, green) to allocate resources based on call severity. The MIH program has connected residents with mental health services, rehab facilities, veteran benefits, and other resources, reducing reliance on 911. The Peak Staff Ambulance program (started September 23, 2025) has already handled 8% of call volume. Swearing-In Ceremonies - Police Officers: Four new officers were sworn in: Tyler Sacluna (8 years experience), Miranda Daoud (5 years, bilingual in Chaldean), Adam Mays (8 years), and Andy Kafrites (9 years, bilingual in Greek). Council members welcomed them and emphasized community support. - Firefighter EMTs: Four new Peak Staff Ambulance EMTs were sworn in: Aiden (from MedStar), Nick Prantera, Nick Wilson, and Christopher Bex. They will work 10-hour shifts, four days a week, as part of a new initiative to reduce stress on the fire department. Beautification Awards - The Beautification Commission, chaired by Gary Isom, presented awards to residential, business, and place-of-worship winners for outstanding landscaping. The council unanimously passed a resolution recognizing the 2025 winners and encouraging participation in upcoming Halloween and Christmas decoration contests. Key Outcomes - The consent agenda was approved unanimously. - The council passed a resolution recognizing the 2025 Beautification Award winners. - No other votes were taken; the meeting adjourned without further business.

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.

The Sterling Heights City Council met on September 3, 2025, at 10:21 AM (EDT) to consider a range of items including a new indoor pickleball facility, updates to transit stop amenities, several ordinance adoptions, and recognition of a local business. The meeting featured public comments, council discussion, and multiple votes. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting agenda unanimously. - Approved the consent agenda (items A through O) unanimously, which included various routine approvals, contracts, and grants. Public Comments & Testimony - Ken Nelson spoke on consent agenda item I (MEDC grant), expressing concern about the city's relationship with the MEDC and asking Mayor Taylor to explain his role on the MEDC executive committee. He also criticized the lack of transparency in the pickleball facility process, noting the property was listed at $1.9M for one parcel but the city is paying $2.5M for three parcels. - Paul Smith criticized the city for not displaying consent agenda items on screen and argued the Pathways to Preservation and Prosperity (PPP) millage was oversold, claiming the pickleball facility serves only a small number of users. He accused the city of using the project to benefit a crony property owner. - Jerry Shea expressed support for the sobriety treatment program (consent agenda G) and asked for details about a shared-use path project (consent agenda J), including total cost and easement acquisition. - Jerry Shea (second appearance) announced that a Sheetz development is proposed at 16 Mile and Mound, noting it has been a controversial issue in other communities and urging residents to attend the Planning Commission meeting (originally September 10 but postponed to October 8). - Ken Nelson (during communications from citizens) argued the meeting order should be changed to allow citizens to speak after council discussion and before a vote, stating the current process limits the ability to critique elected officials. City Manager Report - City Manager Mark Vanderpool highlighted infrastructure investments, including storm drain cleaning in partnership with Macomb County Public Works (specifically the Gibson drain). - Public Works Director presented upcoming events: Pet Day at the Dodge Park Farmers Market (September 4) and a Doggy Splash Pad party for dog park pass holders (September 4, two sessions). - Assistant City Manager Haley Bradley introduced a pilot program to enhance SMART bus stops in partnership with Creative Outdoor Advertisements. The program will provide benches, trash/recycling bins, and concrete pads at 35–40 stops at no cost to the city. The city will receive 5% of recycling bin revenue and 15% of bench advertising revenue. Sponsorships cost $100–$150 per month. The program is expected to be completed by spring 2026. Council members raised questions about sidewalk connections, shade, and winter maintenance. The city manager confirmed that trees will be planted at stops and that the city will clear snow. Recognition & Presentations - EA Graphics 50th Anniversary: Marketing Manager Marissa Russo presented a resolution recognizing EA Graphics for 50 years of business in Sterling Heights. The company, owned by the Artemovich family, prints apparel for major events and has supported the community. Council members shared personal stories and unanimously adopted the resolution. A photo was taken with the family. Discussion Items & Ordinance Adoptions - Solar Energy Systems Ordinance: An ordinance amending zoning regulations for ground-mounted, roof-mounted, carport, and building-integrated solar energy systems was adopted unanimously after no public comment. - Bidding Requirements Ordinance: An ordinance amending Article 6 of Chapter 2 of the City Code to update and enhance bidding requirements for public improvement projects was adopted unanimously. - Pickleball Sports Facility (35630 Van Dyke): Parks and Recreation Director Kyle Langloy presented a proposal to purchase and renovate a 37,000 sq. ft. building for an indoor pickleball and table tennis facility. The total project cost is $10 million ($2.5M purchase, $7.2M design-build, $300K for furniture/fixtures). The facility will include 9 pickleball courts, 6 table tennis tables, a cafe, meeting room, locker rooms, and a nursing mother room. The project is voter-approved through the PPP millage. Public comment included opposition (Smith, Nelson, Shea) citing cost, location, and lack of transparency regarding property owner Tony Gallo. Council discussion: Mrs. Zarko, Mrs. Sarowski, Mrs. Koske, Mr. Schmidt, and Mr. Radke supported the project, citing cost savings, existing building reuse, and voter approval. Mr. Yanis opposed, citing lack of transparency and the process of working through an LLC. The council voted 6–1 to approve the purchase agreement, AIA design-build agreement, and authorization for the city manager to sign documents. - Cable TV Election Coverage Policy: An amendment to update the policy for broadcasting "Meet the Candidates" events was approved unanimously. The policy changes the date to the fourth Thursday of September (from first Thursday in October) to better align with early voting and absentee ballot deadlines. Council members discussed the specific day and agreed on the fourth Thursday. - Appointment to Sustainability Commission: The council unanimously appointed Jennifer Fleming to the Sustainability Commission for a term ending June 30, 2026. Key Outcomes - SMART bus stop enhancement pilot approved for implementation (no formal vote required). - EA Graphics 50th Anniversary resolution adopted unanimously. - Solar energy system zoning ordinance adopted unanimously. - Bidding requirements ordinance adopted unanimously. - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Pickleball sports facility approved (6–1 vote). - Cable TV election coverage policy amended and approved unanimously. - Jennifer Fleming appointed to Sustainability Commission unanimously. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 10:00 PM.