City Council

CITY OF STERLING HEIGHTS MINUTES OF REGULAR MEETING OF CITY COUNCIL MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 15, 2025 IN CITY HALL 1. Mayor Taylor called the meeting to order at 7:00 p.m. 2. Mayor Taylor led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and Chelsea May, Deputy City Clerk, gave the Invocation. 3. Council Members present at roll call: Deanna Koski, Michael V. Radtke, Jr., Maria G. Schmidt, Liz Sierawski, Michael C. Taylor, Henry Yanez, Barbara A. Ziarko. Also Present: Mark Vanderpool, City Manager; Marc D. Kaszubski, City Attorney; Chelsea May, Deputy City Clerk; Carol Sobosky, Recording Secretary. 4. APPROVAL OF AGENDA Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the agenda as presented. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 5. REPORT FROM CITY MANAGER Mr. Vanderpool stated the City has a best-in-class internship program across the entire organization, and many of their interns stay on, with some rising to ranks of Director. It is a highly successful program for which the City is very proud, and they are especially proud of the internship program they have in their Parks and Recreation Department. He invited Recreation Specialist Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 2 Rebecca Lynn to talk about the next incoming class of their Recreation Internship Program. Rebecca Lynn, Adaptive Recreation Specialist for the City’s Parks and Recreation Department, and she is pleased to present on the partnership they launched last year called Project Search. She explained that Project Search is a school-to-work transition program designed for young people with disabilities. The program originated at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in 1996, and has since grown to 794 sites worldwide, while their location in Sterling Heights remains the only Project Search site in Macomb County, and one of two in the State of Michigan that involves local government. She informed that the mission of Project Search is to prepare the participants for success in competitive integrated employment, noting this is accomplished through workplace immersion and includes classroom-style instruction, career exploration, hands-on training in a real work setting, and continues to be backed from all parties. It is made possible through the collaboration between the host business, school district, vocational rehabilitation organizations, and other community partners. The City of Sterling Heights, as the host business, will welcome six young men and women to spend seven hours a day, five days a week, in the Parks and Recreation Department to work, learn, and develop their skills. She explained their day and the Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 3 instruction they receive, as well as the opportunities they have alongside the part-time and full-time staff of the Parks and Recreation Department, which this year include the Nature Center, the Senior Center, the Dodge Park Ice Rink, working with the Park Maintenance team to maintain the twenty-seven parks in Sterling Heights, and at the Community Center as a Program Assistant intern, Facility Site intern, Athletics intern, and assisting with the Early Childhood classes. This is an expansion of their internship placement opportunities from what they offered last year by blending a few positions they offered last year and adding four completely new sites. This growth allows them to maintain Project Search Model Fidelity and helps them better meet the needs, abilities, and desires of the interns coming to them, while taking full advantage of the hands they provide to support their daily operations. She stressed that these changes come with careful consideration and thoughtful implementation. A lot of learning took place last year, but they remained committed to growth. She believes the interns learn as much from the staff as the staff learns from the interns, citing the example of the interns teaching them to be patient and look at things from a different perspective. They also look at their practices to make sure they are being as efficient as possible. She introduced Christie Petras of Utica Community Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 4 Schools to share some feedback from last year, provide an update on how the interns did, and introduce the 2025/2026 Project Search class. Christie Petras, of Utica Community Schools, thanked the Mayor and City Council for having them back on behalf of Project Search. She provided an update on the five interns who graduated at the end of last year. Out of the five, four are currently working. One is employed at the Community Center, one is employed at the Senior Center, and two desired to pursue jobs in the restaurant industry, so one is working at First Watch, located at 23 Mile and Hayes, and another is working at McDonald’s at 23 Mile and Van Dyke. They have been working all summer and are all learning so many new skills. The fifth intern is working on transportation through the SMART system to get to and from his place of employment when hired, so they are working with him on filling out applications and going on interviews. Ms. Petras explained they currently have six new interns for the 2025/2026 school year, with three males and three females from the Uconnect program in the Utica Community Schools. All six of these interns have graduated from either Stevenson or Eisenhower High Schools. They applied and went through the process and were accepted into the internship with Project Search and the City of Sterling Heights. The interns each introduced themselves. Ms. Petras thanked the City for their support, noting they work with Michigan Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 5 Rehabilitation Services and always care to give the training they need to be successful as these young men and women enter into the workforce. Ms. Lynn thanked Ms. Petras and the interns. She stressed this program is so significant as a host business, and they are confident the experiences and lessons learned from last year will help them make an even greater impact moving forward. She serves as the point person for the City, but she emphasized that this program is built on collaboration, so she highlighted their community partners. She thanked the Utica Community Schools, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, and Always Care Services for providing such dedicated individuals. She thanked the entire Parks and Recreation team, noting their guidance, patience, and willingness to adopt that is shown to these interns is what makes this program work. She clarified that Project Search is not just about job training, but it is about inclusion, pointing out that this is one thing the City of Sterling Heights has prioritized for a long time. She thanked everyone for their time and continued support of this program, and she offered to answer any questions. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski thanked everyone involved. She emphasized to the interns that this is a great step for them, it is a great collaboration, and she is so glad to have them in the program. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 6 Mayor Taylor thanked everyone involved, noting they appreciate the program and had a tremendous class last year. They did incredible work, and he is anticipating they will expect a lot of this year’s interns as well, adding they will have a great time here with the City of Sterling Heights. The employees will help them to better understand the organization and to be prepared to go out and take on the world. Mr. Vanderpool thanked the Mayor and City Council members for supporting this program, adding that without their support, they would not have these classes and the success stories that result. He emphasized the word that struck him this evening was the word “inclusion,” which is what this program is all about. Mr. Vanderpool stated they have another presentation from Dr. Jake Parcell, City Planner, who will talk about an exclusive club the City has joined in terms of the housing challenges going on nationwide. They were selected by the National League of Cities to participate in this program. He invited Dr. Parcell to talk about it. Dr. Jake Parcell, City Planner, explained the City’s participation in the Housing Supply Accelerator Challenge, which is a joint initiative between the National League of Cities and the American Planning Association. The City of Sterling Heights is one of sixteen communities selected nationwide to participate. It Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 7 is a network designed to accelerate the implementation of housing strategies, not necessarily numbers of units but rather the strategies they are putting in their toolbox to bring the City of Sterling Heights to the forefront in the nation for how they examine housing development. The Housing Supply Accelerator Playbook, based on a book drafted by these organizations in 2023, calls for improving housing supply by expanding the various types of housing, preserving and safeguarding existing neighborhoods and housing stock, and improving the livability of all structures to meet their residents’ needs. It looks at both new developments along with existing housing development and the seventy-six percent of single-family homes this community has. The City applied for this through an online application and interview process, they were chosen to be the second tier, which provides access to more benefits which he will talk about. This means they have a housing study done, goals moving towards with housing ideas, and policies they wish to adopt, and they hope to be a leader in the region on helping to overcome the challenges that so many communities across the nation are facing. He talked about two sentences that stuck out to him, one being the housing demand forecast of 1,400 to 2,100 units over the next eight to ten years. He stressed that meeting this demand requires a balanced approach to help maintain the City’s seventy-six percent of single-family homes while finding new and different Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 8 types of units that people can move into the City as they look for a permanent home to purchase. Dr. Parcell explained the second sentence is that in looking at the age of housing, 57.8 percent of the City’s housing units were built before 1980, so they may be nearing time of critical repairs to help people stay in their homes and keep the structure itself together. Dr. Parcell explained they want to use this goal to ensure that City staff, commissions, and elected officials have the tools in the toolbox to help people in the community stay in their houses long-term, maintain structures to a livable standard, and manage the challenges that come with supporting the neighborhoods while meeting their housing goals in the coming years. Dr. Parcell explained that, as an Accelerator, they get access to coaching from experts at the National League of Cities and from the American Planning Association as they have strategies as they go through their Master Plan Use Goals and Objectives as they move forward with their zoning ordinance rewrite. He noted they receive free training and webinars for staff and commissioners, and he explained the Planning Commission recently amended their bylaws so that every Planning Commission must complete a mandatory four hours of training each year, and this will provide webinars and free training to send them through this program. They are organized into the Peer Exchange to connect with partner organizations, who will connect them with Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 9 other organizations locally and nationally that provide this type of support. They also have technical assistance and grant opportunities available exclusively to the communities selected for this challenge. Dr. Parcell explained that, since he has been with the City for almost three years, the Master Land Use Plan came in forty percent under budget from what their service improvement request was, and the zoning ordinance rewrite is anticipated to come in about twenty-five percent under budget. He emphasized that technical assistance opportunities are very successful for what the Office of Planning has done, and it provides them with the ability to do as much work as they possibly can with as few dollars as possible to help advance the policies and the zoning ordinance they have in place. He commented that they look forward to being a part of this challenge to help their staff, boards, and commissions step up to the challenge and bring the best housing opportunities in the nation to Sterling Heights. Mr. Vanderpool highlighted the importance of recognizing the housing need in the City, and he added they are fortunate to be one of the largest cities in the state that is still growing in population. To accommodate the growth, they have to have thoughtful, smart growth development as it relates to housing. Their guiding light is to continue to do all they can to make sure they remain a community that has at least seventy-six percent owner- Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 10 occupied units, whether they are homes or condominiums. He indicated that it is well above the average for the metropolitan area. Mr. Vanderpool explained this evening they had a very noteworthy celebration with their Aspiring Green Program. He showed “before” pictures of 18-1/2 Mile Road, which was a rather barren median that was not appealing and not environmentally friendly. The City started the Aspiring Green program a couple of years ago, where they offer a top tier for corporations across the City, providing them an opportunity in which to participate. For $30,000, businesses can adopt a section of medians across the City, and it does not have to be across from their business. That money pays to plant trees and draws attention to sustainability efforts in the City. In this case, AGS, which is a great corporate partner in the City, paid $30,000 to plant one hundred trees in this section of the median, and tonight that was celebrated. He pointed out how great it looks now and emphasized how nice it will look in ten to twenty years. He apologized to the Mayor and Council that they had scheduled this ribbon-cutting during the peak rush hour, so safely getting the stakeholders out to the median and back was quite a challenge for their Police Department. He thanked AGS, and he noted another automotive company that has indicated they are also interested in this program and will likely be signing the contract very soon. He explained they have vast medians in the Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 11 City, and they have worked hard to make them aesthetically pleasing, adding that this is a great example of that. Mr. Vanderpool noted a recent article that talked about poverty in the metro Detroit area and the challenges related to it. He explained that they have some poverty challenges and are doing everything they can to address residents at risk and the Community Development Block Grant Program, but it is important to highlight where the City of Sterling Heights ranks in the spectrum of community wealth. He informed that one of those metrics involves average median household income. The highlighted data in the report comes from the U.S. Census Bureau, and it ranks Sterling Heights very favorably when it comes to median household income, noting they are in the top tier. Community wealth building is all of the things that the Mayor, City Council, and Administration are focused on by reinvesting in the community, maintaining infrastructure, having a good housing plan, addressing at-risk areas of the community, and sustainability. Collectively, these efforts are helping with the return on investment. He explained the FBI statistics just came out to reflect that Sterling Heights is the safest big city in Michigan, and this is among the cities that are over 100,000 in population. In this group, Sterling Heights is at the top in median household income, and slightly edges Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 12 out Ann Arbor, as well as Grand Rapids, and other communities. He assured they will continue to report on this every year. Mr. Vanderpool stated the last item in his report is to announce the City’s second E-Recycling event this year, to be held on Saturday, October 4th, from 9 am to 2 pm at the DPW facility. This event held in the spring was so successful, the Council requested they add a second event this year, and he is certain it will be very popular and highly successful. Mr. Vanderpool stated that this concludes his report. 6. PRESENTATIONS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to adopt a resolution recognizing and congratulating the Sterling Stamping Plant on the occasion of its 60th anniversary of operations in the City of Sterling Heights. He invited Mr. Vanderpool to give the presentation. Mr. Vanderpool stated he cherishes the time they have to brag about their corporations and businesses in the City, adding they have a very vibrant business sector in Sterling Heights. They have some major corporate partners that have not only put the City on the map but have led them down the path of prosperity over many decades, and tonight they are talking about Stellantis and the Sterling Heights Stamping Plant, the world’s largest stamping plant. He highlighted some important statistics, noting that over twenty years, this Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 13 one corporate partner in their City paid taxes equating to nearly $100 million. He explained that they often talk about incentivizing investments of some of the major corporations, but he emphasized that the return on investment in this case is $100 million, helping to keep residents’ property taxes lower. He pointed out that they employ thousands of people, with over 2,000 employed at this facility. The Sterling Heights Assembly Plant employs over 6,000 people, so the economic impact to the region is huge when considering these people buy houses, cars, go to restaurants, and spend money. The City does not take these facilities for granted, and he thanked Stellantis for being a great partner. He informed that they contribute $10,000 to the City’s Sterlingfest every year, they serve on the Community Foundation Board, and help in so many ways in giving back to the community. He introduced Valerie Knol, Manager of State and Local Government Relations with Stellantis, who will introduce the General Manager of the facility and talk about this momentous occasion. Valerie Knol, Manager, State and Local Government Relations with Stellantis, stated it is an honor to be here tonight to celebrate this event. She assured that Stellantis is very proud to be contributing economically to this community for the past sixty years. She introduced Greg Bauer, Jr., Plant Manager of this facility, who will talk about the plant, its history, and what is Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 14 happening at the plant. She added that he has a very interesting history with the plant. Greg Bauer, Jr. (“Butch”), Plant Manager for the Stellantis Stamping Plant (SSP) at 15 Mile Road and Van Dyke Avenue, has been with the company for twenty- one years and the Plant Manager for nearly five years. He started in 2004 at the Sterling Stamping Plant directly out of college as a supervisor. He grew up in Detroit and south Warren, and he stated he is a fourth generation Stellantis (former Chrysler) employee, where his dad, grandpa, and great- grandfather were all UAW members with the company and retired from the company. His grandfather was the first Local president of the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant, and that Local was founded in the 1970s. He emphasized that he is very passionate about the company and the future of SSP and Stellantis. They are celebrating their sixtieth anniversary this year. He talked about a huge celebration they had two weeks ago for all of their employees, allowing their employees to invite family, friends, and neighbors to the plant to celebrate this major milestone. It was the first time in over twenty years that they opened up the facility doors to family and friends so they could go inside to see what they do. Their Executive Leadership team, their Global Stamping team, and the General Manager of all Stamping Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 15 Operations for North America all came and spent the afternoon with the workforce to celebrate this milestone. Mr. Bauer explained that Sterling Stamping Plant opened their doors in 1965, and they are the largest stamping plant in the world. It is on 254 acres, with a 2.7 million square foot operating facility, and they have 23 press lines and 800 robots. He explained they essentially touch every vehicle Stellantis makes in North America with the exception of one, so they are the main producer of all assemblies and stampings in North America, right here in Sterling Heights. The company continues to reinvest in SSP, and in the last fifteen years, they have reinvested about one-half billion dollars into upgrading the facility, equipment, plant, and making them more competitive against their competitors. These investments continue to reinforce Stellantis’ commitment to their future in Sterling Heights. They have close to 2,000 UAW and salary employees working at SSP, and in the last six years, they have employed tens of thousands of people coming here from local communities. He emphasized that Sterling Heights is not only their location, but it has been their home for the last sixty years. As Plant Manager, he is extremely proud of their involvement with the local community, donations, and participation in charitable events. On behalf of SSP employees, they thank the City for this recognition celebrating their 60th anniversary and look forward to a continued Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 16 partnership with the City of Sterling Heights and continuing to build on the legacy they have. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution recognizing and congratulating the Sterling Stamping Plant on the occasion of its 60th anniversary of operations in the City of Sterling Heights. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski thanked the representatives from Stellantis for being here. She stated she drives a Jeep, one of her sons is driving his third Jeep, another son is driving a Dodge Dart, and she is working on her husband to switch over from Ford. She loves their product, loves that they are located in Sterling Heights, and she has many neighbors and friends who work at SSP and SHAP. She congratulated them for helping to build this community. Councilman Radtke stated his aunt and grandfather both worked for Chrysler. He stressed they are proud to have them in Sterling Heights, they are a great partner, and they have helped the City to build a great tax base. He congratulated them, and he is confident they will be here for another sixty years. Councilwoman Ziarko noted that Ms. Knol, in addition to her position at Stellantis, is also a council member for the City of Farmington Hills. She explained that her husband retired from Chrysler after thirty-five years, starting in Highland Park, so they have been a big part of her family. She remembered when they were building CTC, and for every tree they cut down, Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 17 they had to replace it with three trees. She commented that some of those trees are on 15 Mile Road on the south side of the building, and they are now huge trees. She is grateful that Stellantis is still here, and grateful that “Chrysler” is still on the signs. She stated she drives a Pacifica, and her daughter drives a Jeep. She congratulated them, and she thanked them for being here tonight. Councilwoman Schmidt recalled that her first car was a Chrysler. She congratulated them, adding it has been an amazing partnership that the City has established with both plants. She emphasized this community would not be what it is today without their contribution to it. She stated that, although she loves it, she questioned why the signs still reflect “Chrysler.” Mr. Bauer replied to inquiry that they have chosen not to invest in that signage at this time, but rather to invest that money inside the building. Councilwoman Schmidt congratulated and thanked them, adding she is confident they will be around for many more decades. Councilwoman Koski congratulated them on their 60th anniversary, adding that she has been part of their legacy for thirty-six years. She remembered the trees being planted along 15 Mile Road. She explained that her husband was a “Ford man” so she drove a Ford. She complimented them on their plant, Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 18 adding they have done a fantastic job on both facilities. She urged them to continue so they can work toward another sixty years. Councilman Yanez congratulated them on sixty years. He recalled that, at the last meeting, they celebrated the 50th anniversary of another company in Sterling Heights that sells shirts and apparel. He felt the theme is constantly repeated in Sterling Heights where residents and companies settle and stay for many years. He thanked the Sterling Stamping Plant family and all they have done, adding that it exemplifies the economy that Mr. Vanderpool talked about, with the annual median family income in Sterling Heights of $81,000. A lot of that is from union workers who work in the auto plants and their Tier I suppliers and associated industries. It is because of the investment they made that they have had a tremendous impact on the local economy. He explained that he is a retired City firefighter, and his salary was paid with property taxes. The fact that Stellantis not only planted roots here but paid their taxes and created all those jobs demonstrates the commitment their company has made to this community, but also to the State of Michigan and the entire country. He congratulated every worker who goes through that gate every morning and afternoon. Mayor Taylor appreciated the representatives being present tonight, and he emphasized the City truly appreciates this company’s commitment to Sterling Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 19 Heights. It is a point of pride for many people in the community to have major automotive plants here, and to have the largest stamping plant in the world located in this City. He stated he drives a Ram 1500, which is assembled here in the City of Sterling Heights. He questioned which vehicle is not handled at the Sterling Heights locations. Mr. Bauer replied to inquiry that it is the Ram ProMaster. Mayor Taylor stated his fifteen-year-old daughter completed driver’s training and when he asked her what type of car she thought she would like, she replied to him that she wanted his truck. He stated he does not blame her because it is a great product. He expressed his pride in the partnership the City has had with Stellantis (and different company names in the past). When he was elected to City Council in 2009, the Mayor, City Council, and City Administration spent a great deal of time trying to save the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant. Fortunately, they were successful. He pointed out the billions of dollars invested since that time by their company has been impactful to countless numbers of people, adding that everyone who lives and/or works in Sterling Heights has benefited from this investment. He can see they are very proud of the work they do, and when he talks with anyone who works at those plants and they find out he drives a Ram, they always ask him how he likes it and what he thinks of the quality. He can tell these men and women Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 20 are putting their heart and soul into these vehicles and want to make something they are proud of. He commended them and thanked them. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). The Resolution was presented to the representatives from the Sterling Stamping Plant, and a photo was taken. 7. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider the application from 12555 14 Mile, LLC for an outdoor self-storage facility Planned Unit Development (PUD) on approximately six (6) acres of land situated on the north side of 14 Mile Road, east of Maple Lane Drive; PPUD25-0002. He invited Ryan Fox, Planner II, to give the presentation. Ryan Fox, Planner II, showed an aerial map depicting the location of the two subject parcels. He pointed out that the ITC Corridor is located east of the property, the intersection of the Red Run Drain and the Macomb County Interceptor Drain is located to the north, and the property to the west contains a small office building with two uses inside. The property to the south, across 14 Mile Road, is in the City of Warren, where there are some single-family residences with the continuation of the ITC Corridor. The site is currently zoned O-2 Planned Office District, and both pieces are vacant, with the portion of the Red Run Drain running through the northwestern corner of Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 21 the site. He talked about the Master Land Use Plan, pointing out the entire area between Maple Lane and the Red Run Drain, along 14 Mile Road, is designated as “Multi-Household Residential” use; however, this site was formerly used as a dumping site and, because of that, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy (EGLE) pervades the establishment of residential uses on this site unless the applicants come forward with a different type of use, which is a self-storage facility. He showed a rendering of the site, which consists of 167 units split between ten total buildings from east to west, forming a unique shape. Mr. Fox showed renderings of the proposed façade, with the front of the site, facing south towards 14 Mile Road, having a masonry façade as required by ordinance. The eastern façade of the easternmost building will also be one hundred percent masonry as it is still visible from 14 Mile Road. They are adding additional masonry, but the remainder of the facades will be primarily metal sliding doors for the units. He showed the proposed landscaping along 14 Mile Road, which includes a number of native trees, and he assured they will work with the applicant on the tree species. He showed images of the proposed fencing that would surround the site, with one type of fencing facing 14 Mile Road and another type of fencing around the remainder of the perimeter of the site. He showed the easements that create a unique Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 22 triangular shape on the site, including the Red Run Drain, and the underground Macomb County Interceptor Drain. As a result, development on the site is limited to the forward triangle and excludes about one-third of the site. All trees that will be removed will have to go through the Tree Removal ordinance, and they will be required to make a certain number of replantings on the site or pay the tree funds. There are some instances of invasive species on the site, and those will be removed. He invited Assistant City Planner Shawn Keegan to continue the presentation. Assistant City Planner Shawn Keenan explained that Mr. Fox mentioned the circle highlighted area is the location of the outdoor storage facility, and he pointed out the proximity of the former landfill on this site, as well as two others located on the Clinton River. He explained that the applicant is going through the Planned Unit Development (PUD) because of the site being a former landfill. They are recommending the use of the storage facility, but there are a number of easements on the site that further constrain the site. The Macomb County Red Run Drain easement is extremely wide and cannot be built within, as well as the Macomb County Drain Easement, running along the northeast corner of the site, further constraining the site. There are a number of modifications, including allowing for a storage facility in the O-2 Planned Office District, which is not permitted. They are also requesting a Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 23 reduction of the front yard setback from the required 95 feet to 85 feet as measured from the centerline of 14 Mile Road. They are requesting a reduction in the building setback when abutting residential zoned property from 50 feet to 10 feet along the eastern property line. He clarified that it is the ITC Corridor, and there will not be any residential homes being built on that property. The closest residential property to the east would be 340 feet on the opposite site of the ITC Corridor. Mr. Keenan explained another modification is to allow for a self-storage facility on a parcel that is 6.2 acres in size, which is smaller than the 7.0 acre minimum, and allowing for self- storage on a parcel that abuts parcels not zoned C-3 General Business District, instead allowing it on parcels zoned O-2 on two sides. They are requesting a reduction of setbacks from the abutting residential property to the east, reducing the setback from 150 feet to 10 feet for the same reason related to the ITC Corridor. Modifications to allow for reduction of major impact screening by replacing the required masonry wall with a decorative fence, which the Office of Planning feels is more aesthetically pleasing and much easier to maintain. They are proposing the decorative fence to be located in the required front-yard setback on the site to allow for the elimination of the foundation planting requirements around eight of the proposed buildings on site. He pointed out that the applicant is proposing a robust landscaping plan Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 24 along 14 Mile Road. They are requesting the elimination of two enhanced landscape treatments on site, although he emphasized the landscaping along 14 Mile Road will improve the 14 Mile Road Corridor. The last modification would be to allow for reduction in the durable material requirements from fifty percent to zero of the total remaining façades that do not face the right- of-way. He noted that much of that is due to great deal of metal doors that are necessary for this type of facility. They are providing some masonry walls on the easternmost building as well as on the front of the office and the fronts of the building. He noted there are some Special Land Use approval standards. He stated they are open to answer any questions. Mayor Taylor opened the public hearing and invited comments from the general public. Tony Saco, owner of the subject property, stated the presentation covered everything, but he is available to answer questions. • Unidentified female – resident of Warren, a teacher for thirty years, and licensed professional counselor for fifteen years; opposed to this facility being located across the street from her house; her mother also lives in this area, and they are heartbroken that this greenspace will be destroyed; questioned the safety of this project, and urged City Council to deny this request; stated she will be putting her house on the market tomorrow if this is approved, and will be moving far away from communities she feels disrespect their environment. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 25 Mr. Saco, owner and general contractor, stated the report done a couple of years ago does not state anything about methane on this site. He explained this is not a site where regular trash was dumped. He pointed out they are adding more trees than they are removing, so he was confused by the resident’s statement that the environment is being destroyed. Mayor Taylor closed the public hearing. Moved by Sierawski, seconded by Taylor, RESOLVED, to approve the application by 12555 14 Mile, LLC for an outdoor self-storage facility Planned Unit Development (PUD) on approximately six (6) acres of land situated on the north side of 14 Mile Road, east of Maple Lane Drive, PPUD25-0002, subject to the terms and conditions set forth in the Planned Unit Development Agreement, and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned whether this site has been vented for methane. Mr. Fox replied to inquiry that there have been tests done on this site, but they understand the type of landfill previously on this property did not include food waste or other waste that would have created methane issues. If there was a situation where they go on site and methane is discovered, EGLE regulates that to make sure this property is vented, and that process goes through the State. The applicant has indicated they plan to follow that process to the letter, so the City does not have any concerns at this time. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned what was dumped on this site. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 26 Mr. Saco replied to inquiry it appears as though it was petroleum-based products. There is no food or any other type of waste dumped there to create methane gas. It was most likely industrial waste or machinery, but they do not know exactly until they conduct soil boring tests. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski understands that only decomposing organic material creates methane gas, and there has been none discovered on this property, so that is helpful. She questioned whether there are any other possible uses for this land. Mr. Fox explained the property is master planned for multiple family residential, but because it was a landfill, that use is precluded as an option. As currently zoned, it can be used as a medical office; however, since the covid pandemic, there is not much need for medical offices. He pointed out that another interesting limitation for this site is that there is a utility parcel that blocks part of the frontage on 14 Mile Road, so if it were to become a commercial or office use, they could not access the frontage, resulting in an additional space constrictor along with the easements on the north portion of this parcel. It is a challenging parcel for which a PUD is recommended in order to give the developers some creativity in their designs. He concluded that this seems like a very reasonable proposal for this site. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 27 Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski understands that these buildings are poured on cement pads, with the structures placed on those pads. Mr. Fox confirmed that is correct, and he added that the cement almost serves to cap the pollution underneath, so there is not as much concern about water infiltration getting in and leaching into the Red Run Drain. The addition of pavement that often creates issues can actually serve as a benefit in this instance. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned whether these units are single level, and she further questioned as to the height. Mr. Saco confirmed they are single level and approximately ten feet in height. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski noted that this will not require deep digging for the construction of these units. Mr. Fox stated that is correct, and he added it will not involve running plumbing pipes into these units. There will be electricity in each building, but installation is less of a disturbance. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski appreciates that this is a triangular development, and it is difficult to build on flood plain, so she is glad he is preserving it. She commented that this is a good use for this property, and she reminded that when people own property, they have the right to do something with it. Part of being in a democratic country is that people are allowed to use their Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 28 property in a way that fits the ordinances and works well. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski loves that they are adding a lot of landscaping and screening it well. Councilman Radtke explained that he has not been a huge fan of storage buildings in the past; however, he commented that this is a unique parcel, and he appreciates that the property owner has been working with the Office of Planning. This property is listed as a former landfill, and because of that, it is protected by EGLE, so he questioned whether they are required to get all of their approvals through EGLE before they start construction. Mr. Fox replied to inquiry that is correct, and they will be working closely with the State, as well as the City’s Engineering Department, to make sure they are all aware of what is going on with this property. Councilman Radtke questioned whether pouring a concrete slab may protect future leeching of chemicals in the soil. Mr. Fox stated that is correct, noting it also creates a separate stormwater system for when the water hits the pavement. The water is separated from that pollution and flows into the Red Run drain in a cleaner form. Councilman Radtke stated that, while he would prefer to see the property developed as residential or office, he sees the limitations on the site and understands the issue. There is a demand for self-storage, and it sounds like Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 29 this former landfill is a good location for this development. He questioned whether it is a capped landfill. Mr. Fox replied to inquiry that the property is now completely vacant. Councilman Radtke noted that is worse, and they are aware that property owners in that are having issues. He commented that the plan looks great, especially the fence, but he stated he would be very appreciative if the owner would consider placing a few trees in front of his building in the City right-of- way. Mr. Saco assured they move the trees around if that is the request of City Council. Councilman Radtke questioned whether they would be willing to add a couple of trees. Mr. Saco stated they can add a couple of trees. Councilman Radtke asked Mr. Kaszubski if that could be included as part of the agreement. Mr. Kaszubski stated he would like to know how many trees they are willing to add. Councilman Radtke questioned whether they would be willing to add six trees to the City’s right-of-way. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 30 Mr. Saco confirmed they are willing to add six trees. He explained that their initial proposal was for an apartment complex, but when they approached the City with their plans, they found out it was a former landfill, so they had to change their plans. Councilman Radtke expressed his appreciation at the property owner’s willingness to work with the City. He is confident that this development will look very nice. He was sad to see the resident who was in opposition to this site leave, because he pointed out that the vacant property as it sits now is not attractive, and this will be an improvement. Councilman Radtke cited a similar site on 18-1/2 Mile Road that was contaminated, and it is now US Auto, and they did a tremendous job with their development, adding that no one would ever know it was a former junkyard. He wished the property owner the best of luck. Councilwoman Koski stated they have three known landfills in this area. The bridge at Maple Lane, along the Red Run drain, dealt with landfill issues, and that occurred prior to her being on Council. She noted this project is considered part One, which means it would not be approved by EGLE for any type of residential use. She inquired whether it is correct that what they are proposing to do on this site will be sealing off any type of contamination that might go into the Red Run drain. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 31 Mr. Fox replied to inquiry that is correct because the cap will prevent rainwater from infiltrating into the soil, which would then carry pollutants into the ground. Councilwoman Koski questioned whether what they are proposing will improve the quality of that property as opposed to leaving the property vacant. Mr. Fox confirmed that there are trees currently on the site that are doing their best to absorb the pollutants, but there are also invasive species that they are concerned about. They believe this is a move in the right direction. Councilwoman Koski questioned whether Mr. Fox could think of a better use for the way that property could be used than what is being proposed this evening. Mr. Fox reiterated his opinion that this is a move in the right direction, especially when taking into consideration the economic realities of the market they are in. He added that office use is not in high demand and it would be difficult as a viable use on this site, and residential use is out of the question. Councilwoman Koski noted that the Family Storage, located to the north, has a methane vent. She questioned whether there is any possible connection, with methane being discovered on this property at a later date. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 32 Mr. Fox explained that there are no signs at that time that there is methane gas on site, but if methane is discovered at a later date, the State has a process for going through the mitigation process. The developer takes that risk if there is something found there. He reminded that the Red Run drain splits those two parcels, it is possible that both sides were used as landfills, and they may have had two different owners, with different types of garbage dumped on each side. If it does occur and there is methane found on the site, the property owner will go through the process to mitigate the methane in a safe way that does not bother nearby properties. Councilwoman Koski understood that they have to get final approval from EGLE before they can proceed. Councilwoman Schmidt questioned why this is a PUD application rather than a conditional rezoning application. Mr. Fox explained that the PUD allows certain flexibility and more of a back- and-forth discussion between the City, whereas in a conditional rezoning, all conditions have to be proposed by the applicant. The City cannot mandate certain conditions on the site. PUDs allow collaboration and can also afford more flexibility that conditional rezonings, which is why they are opting for this process. He replied to further inquiry that a conventional rezoning of these parcels to C-3 creates a little island of commercial, surrounded by office Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 33 and residential, which is not best practice when looking at zoning. There are a lot of modifications to the dimensions of this site due to the presence of the easements, as well as the small sliver of property that divides them from 14 Mile Road. He cautioned that variances would be involved in a conventional rezoning, where they would have to go to the Zoning Board of Appeals. The PUD process allows this to go through City Council and reviewed as a collaborative project rather than a multi-step project, which could be drawn out. Mr. Keenan explained that if they rezoned this property as a conventional rezoning to C-3, the applicant would be able to build any type of use that would be permitted in the C-3 district. Going through the PUD process limits it to this specific use, which generates much less traffic onto 14 Mile Road than a lot of the other C-3 uses. Councilwoman Schmidt questioned whether there are special requirements in place for drainage on this site. It is in close proximity to the Red Run drain. Mr. Keenan stated the drainage for the site will have to meet the City’s stormwater standards, so it will have to address not only quality but quantity as well with the release. It has the required storm management system on the site to manage the stormwater. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 34 Councilwoman Schmidt explained she lives near Freedom Hill, where there are methane vents, and she recalled those vents were very active when they first went in many years ago; however, there is zero methane coming out of them. She understands there is a safety reason for those vents, so if it is necessary, residents should be happy that those vents are put into place. She likes what the petitioner is proposing along 14 Mile to make it aesthetically pleasing, with trees, a brick façade, and fencing, instead of metal doors. She appreciated the property owner’s willingness to work with the City, adding that there is not much for which this property can be used. She appreciated the vision of what he has brought forward, and she has no issues. She pointed out there are dump sites all over Sterling Heights and they have had to deal with it. EGLE specifies what they can and cannot allow, and she thanked them for bringing this project forward. She addressed the comment made by the concerned resident from Warren and stated she is confident there have been projects approved by the City of Warren that residents of Sterling Heights did not want. She is not going to get involved with back-and-forth between two cities. Councilman Yanez questioned whether the City received any correspondence from the City of Warren regarding this property. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 35 Mr. Keenan replied to inquiry that they received nothing from the City of Warren. Councilman Yanez questioned whether they have done a Phase I and a Phase II yet. Mr. Saco replied they have not completed Phase II. They are working with a company named PSI for Phase II and for the soil boring. Councilman Yanez questioned whether they are testing for not only methane but also organic compounds. Mr. Saco understands that they are testing for everything that is in the soil. Councilman Yanez questioned whether this landfill is capped with clay. Mr. Saco stated they do not see any evidence of it being capped, and there is no report indicating that, but it is dirt and grass. He recalled hearing that they found some material at the 7-foot or 8-foot mark. Councilman Yanez questioned the current zoning of this parcel. Mr. Fox replied to inquiry that it is currently zone O-2 Planned Comparison District, but the Master Plan designated it as RM-2. Councilman Yanez questioned how long they knew that EGLE will not allow them to construct houses or residential structures at this location. Mr. Fox believed the applicant was the first one to formally receive this information, and that was about a year ago. When they were going through Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 36 the Master Planning process, they were not sure as to the extent of the pollution in the area, so it was designated as RM-2. Councilman Yanez questioned whether there was a plan a couple of years ago to build apartments. Mr. Fox confirmed that plan was originally submitted by this applicant, and they then discovered it was not going to be permitted. Councilman Yanez appreciated the PUD, although he would have preferred that it matched the zoning, and he considered the PUD as “open zoning.” He anticipated they may see a request for a PUD at 16 Mile Road and Mound. He agreed with his colleagues, recalling a store built on Van Dyke in Utica where there was pollution detected on the property, and EGLE made them blacktop the parking lot to seal it. Councilman Yanez stated he is satisfied that the State will review this and determine whether or not it is safe to develop this property. There is not a lot of traffic in and out of storage facilities, so that is good. It is vacant land, and unless the State of Michigan has a problem with this, he does not have any objections. Councilwoman Ziarko stated that a lot of her questions have been answered, and she agreed with her colleagues that this is a good use for this parcel. She questioned the setback from 14 Mile, going from 95 feet to 85 feet, and the reason for the reduction. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 37 Mr. Saco believed they have the reduction because they have the reduction because they have drainage in the back, and it allows for more units. In order to build a mini-storage facility at this location, they needed the extra frontage. Councilwoman Ziarko noted it would have been a reduction in units. Mr. Fox clarified that this site is unique because it has very wide drive aisles as well, pointing out that when trucks are maneuvering the site, the Fire Department, as well as the developer, felt it was in the best interest to make sure the turn rate is preserved. The additional ten feet allows for wider drive aisles. Councilwoman Ziarko commented that this is a good project and a good use for this parcel. She knows over the years there have been temporary suggested uses for this property such as parking for a festival or something similar, but it has not had anything permanent. She is aware that tonight is the approval of a concept, and it will have to go through the State prior to his concept being implemented. She is comfortable moving forward, and she wishes the property owner a lot of luck. Mayor Taylor commented that this is a very unique project that looks great. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 8. CONSENT AGENDA Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 38 Mayor Taylor stated this item is consideration of the Consent Agenda as presented. He opened the floor for comments from the public, but no one spoke. Moved by Koski, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, to approve the Consent Agenda as presented: A. To approve the minutes of the September 2, 2025 Regular Meeting. B. To approve payment of the bills as presented: General Fund - $844,158.47, Water & Sewer Fund - $4,057,087.88, Other Funds - $6,327,278.41, Total Checks - $11,228,524.76. C. RESOLVED, to approve final payment to Asphalt Specialists, LLC, 1780 E. Highwood, Pontiac, MI 48340, in the amount of $199,482.80, plus interest on retainage, for Maple Lane Drive Improvements, City Project #23-412. D. RESOLVED, to purchase computer hardware, software, printers and peripherals, and accessories from the following vendors and at the competitive pricing available through the cooperative purchasing contracts specified below through June 30, 2029, provided the respective contractual terms are extended: 1. CDW Government, Inc., 230 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Vernon Hills, IL 60061, at competitive pricing available through State of Michigan MiDeal cooperative purchasing contract no. 071B6600110; and, 2. People Driven Technology, Inc., 6300 Venture Hills Boulevard SW, Byron Center, MI 49315, at competitive pricing available through Midwest Higher Education Compact (MHEC) cooperative purchasing contract no. MHEC-04152022. E. RESOLVED, to: 1. Approve the Agreement for Services between the City of Sterling Heights and Clinton River Watershed Council and authorize the Mayor and City Clerk to execute the Agreement on behalf of the City; and, 2. Approve a budget amendment from general fund reserves in the amount of $27,120 to the Public Works Center – other contracted services account #101-441.440-826.000. F. RESOLVED, to: 1. Approve the Galleri® Onsite Testing Event Agreement between the City of Sterling Heights and GRAIL, Inc., 1525 O’Brien Drive, Menlo Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 39 Park, CA 94025 and authorize the City Manager to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City; and, 2. Approve a budget amendment to the General Fund in the amount of $32,450 for firefighter cancer screening, 90% offset with grant proceeds. G. RESOLVED, to approve the Structure Modification Agreement, inclusive of indemnification, between the International Transmission Company, d/b/a ITC Transmission, and the City of Sterling Heights and authorize the City Manager to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City. H. RESOLVED, to approve final payment to J. Ranck Electric, Inc., 1993 Gover Parkway, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858, in the amount of $11,170, inclusive of Change Order No. 1, plus interest on retainage, for the 2024 Push-Button Flashing Beacon Crosswalk Improvements, City Project #24-435. I. RESOLVED, to approve the Michigan State - Subdivision Agreement for Allocation of Opioid Settlement Agreements and authorize the City Manager to execute the Agreement on behalf of the City of Sterling Heights. J. RESOLVED, to approve the Independent Contractor Services Agreement between the City of Sterling Heights and Alpha Psychological Services, P.C., 41820 Six Mile Road, Suite 104, Northville, Michigan 48168, and authorize the City Manager to sign the Agreement on behalf of the City and extend the term one additional year from October 1, 2026 to September 30, 2027. K. RESOLVED, to purchase the following equipment from Stryker Sales, LLC, 21343 Network Place, Chicago, IL 60673, at competitive pricing available through Sourcewell cooperative purchasing contract no. 041823-STY: 1. Eight (8) LifePak CR2 automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and accessories at a net cumulative cost of $16,105.92; and 2. One (1) Lucas 3 v3.1 chest compression system and accessories at a net cumulative cost of $16,418.75. L. RESOLVED, to purchase athletic equipment and supplies from BSN Sports, LLC, 14460 Varsity Brands Way, Farmers Branch, TX 75244, at pricing available through OMNIA Partners cooperative purchasing contract no. R250101 through May 31, 2028, and the two one-year extensions through May 31, 2030 should cooperative contract term be extended by OMNIA Partners. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 40 M. RESOLVED, to adopt the resolution approving the temporary relocation of the polling place for Precinct No. 31 for the November 4, 2025 Local General Election, as recommended by the City Clerk. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 9. CONSIDERATION A. Mayor Taylor stated this is to consider a request to transfer ownership of an escrowed 2025 Class C liquor license, with dance permit and new entertainment permit, from Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority to Al Malak LLC, d/b/a Moments Restaurant and Bar, and transfer location from 31300 Metropolitan Parkway, Mt. Clemens, Michigan to 37864 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, Michigan. He asked if the petitioner had anything to add to the documentation. Layth Fatoohi, applicant, introduced himself to the Mayor and City Council. He explained he is opening a new bar/restaurant, and he and his family want this project to be unique with regard to food and drinks. It will be classy, and they will have classic soft music. He announced that they will have their grand opening next weekend, and he invited them all to that event. Mayor Taylor opened the floor for public comments, but no one spoke. Moved by Radtke, seconded by Ziarko, RESOLVED, that the request to transfer ownership of an escrowed 2025 Class C liquor license, SDM license, Sunday Sales Permit (AM & PM), Specific Purpose Permit (food), Catering Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 41 Permit, Dance Permit and 2 Bars, from Huron-Clinton Metropolitan Authority to Al Malak LLC, d/b/a Moments Restaurant and Bar, with new Entertainment Permit, and transfer location from 31300 Metropolitan Parkway, Mt. Clemens, Michigan to 37864 Van Dyke, Sterling Heights, Michigan, be considered for approval. Councilman Radtke stated he would love to hear about the cuisine they will be serving and what brought him to the restaurant business. Mr. Fatoohi explained he and his family are United States citizens, originally from Iraq. They serve a combination of Mediterranean and American foods. He stated that he puts a flag on each dish, representing the country of origin. He cited the examples of Hummus from Lebanon and Syria, Mediterranean Shrimp from Greece, Italy, and France, Shawarma from Lebanon and Iraq, and different chicken dishes from Italy and Iraq. He emphasized the ingredients, and the family recipes are what will attract people to this restaurant. Councilman Radtke questioned what brought Mr. Fatoohi to the restaurant industry. He questioned whether Mr. Fatoohi has owned other restaurants. Mr. Fatoohi stated he has a restaurant in Iraq, and his father was from Korea. They lost that business, and he worked in community clubs, where drink and food were served. He has worked many jobs, but he does this for his children. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 42 Councilman Radtke stated he stopped by to look at this location, he peered in the windows, and it is looking very nice. He commended him on the nice restaurant and bar, which appear modern. He likes the fact that Mr. Fatoohi is investing in the community, filling an empty space that used to be Subway with a very nice restaurant. He assured he is happy that Mr. Fatoohi is here. Councilwoman Ziarko questioned whether this transfer has already been approved by the State of Michigan. Mr. Fatoohi replied affirmatively. Councilwoman Ziarko recalled at one time, the Council would approve the liquor license and then it would go to the State for their approval. It has changed, and it is very rare that someone comes here and does not have it already be approved by the State. She wished him luck. Mr. Fatoohi emphasized that this project has taken him about two years and three months after facing many difficult situations. He applied and waited one year, only to find out they issued it for a new building. He stressed it is not a new building but a new project. He purchased a liquor license and is working on moving it to his location. Councilwoman Ziarko stated she is excited for Mr. Fatoohi, and she can tell he is excited about this project. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 43 Mr. Fatoohi again extended the invitation to City Council to attend the grand opening next weekend. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). 10. COMMUNICATIONS FROM CITIZENS Mayor Taylor opened the floor for communications from citizens for any item not on tonight’s agenda. • Horace Johns – homeowner at 14468 Cooley Drive, Sterling Heights; stated he is here tonight on behalf of his neighbor, who received a Notice of Violation; explained he came to City Hall and he was told Mr. Vanderpool only has hours on Thursdays; explained his elderly neighbor has a three-acre lot and has been in the hospital, but she is extremely upset at the notice she received; he suggested the someone from the City talk with the homeowner before sending out what he considered a hostile notice; questioned why the City is sending out violation notices to elderly women, when City and County property, such as the Red Run drain, is not being maintained, and a tree at 16 Mile and Schoenherr is dead and hanging over the sidewalk; commented that he never received a call back from the Ordinance Inspector, and suggested that Mr. Vanderpool should see people more than once a week. Mayor Taylor clarified that Mr. Vanderpool is the City Manager and is in his office all day, every day; however, he clarified that he is the Mayor and has office hours on Thursdays at 10 am. He apologized for not being available this Thursday but suggested that if Mr. Johns provides his contact information to the City Clerk, she can relay that to the City Manager so they can look into it and see if there is some accommodation to make to give his neighbor some extra time on the violation or whether there are resources available for her. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 44 • Mr. Johns thanked Mayor Taylor for his suggestion and stated he will leave his information with the City Clerk. 11. REPORTS FROM CITY ADMINISTRATION AND CITY COUNCIL Mr. Vanderpool stated he had nothing further to add. Councilman Radtke noted that they received in their packet a report about right of way trees and he thought it was very informative. Without objection, he would like to discuss this as one of the items at the Strategic Planning Session in January. There were no objections. Councilman Yanez commented on Mr. John’s concerns expressed during Communications from Citizens this evening. Councilman Yanez indicated that, when it comes to seniors in certain situations, there is a lack of empathy. He pointed out that senior citizens get to a point where they are concerned they will lose everything, and the City needs to do a better job at approaching any issues that affect their seniors. He pointed out if someone overdoses, a Quick Response Team is sent out immediately to get that person some help, yet if an eighty-year-old woman receives a notice of violation in the mail with no explanation other than the letter, and it will cost her hundreds of dollars, she will be scared as to what will happen to her. He reiterated they need to do a better job when it comes to seniors. He recalled bringing this up before, Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 45 but nothing happened. He is bringing it up again, although he does not expect anything to change. Councilwoman Koski agreed with Councilman Yanez, stating that is an issue she has been talking about for years. She questioned why the City cannot establish some type of Senior Citizen Committee, and whether there is a way they can determine if they have a senior citizen who is alone, trying to continue to live in their home. She pointed out they do not know their health issues, and they are not aware if they are running into a situation such as this woman who went into the hospital. She questioned whether such a Senior Committee could monitor these violations, whether the Ordinance Inspector could notify this committee to alert them to the fact that the person in violation may be an elderly person living by themselves, and do some follow- up so they do not forget that they have an aging population who may need assistance from the City. She questioned whether Mr. Vanderpool has any suggestions. Mr. Vanderpool highlighted all of the programs the City has to assist seniors, adding that there is a long list of them. He explained SHINE (Sterling Heights Initiative for Neighborhood Excellence) cleans up hundreds of homes through that program, and most of those residents are seniors, which is why they created that program. In addition, they have the Home Chore program run Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 46 through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, where almost all of those participants are seniors. The City heavily markets that program, and they meet with seniors all the time, explaining to them the resources available to them. Mr. Vanderpool pointed out that in the situation being discussed this evening, brought up by Mr. Johns, they do not know the circumstances surrounding the issue. He noted that Councilman Yanez brought up one other case, but he stressed the City deals with well over a thousand property maintenance issues every year, and in almost all cases, they contact the residents first and work with them. He stated it is very rare that they have to send out a notice of violation. He has heard two tonight, but he has not heard about the other couple of thousand property maintenance cases they have each year. There are over 40,000 properties in the City, and they communicate a lot with their senior population through their Senior Center. They also relay information through their Senior Newsletter. They help seniors wherever they possibly can, and deal with seniors almost every week on certain issues. Their Senior Center Coordinator at the Senior Center works with hundreds of seniors every day. Mr. Vanderpool talked about their Safe Homes Task Force, and every week, they deal with seniors who are having trouble staying in their homes. They have case managers working with senior citizens every week, addressing their Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 47 needs and making sure they are able to live in their homes. He pointed out that in some cases, they are hoarder situations, and they have to help these individuals clean up their homes. The City provides financial assistance, medical assistance, and he reminded that the City Council approved a Mobile Integrated Health Coordinator. Mr. Vanderpool stated he is not aware of another City that does this, and this individual’s primary function is to work with those in the community at risk, mostly seniors, address dealing with not only medical needs but other needs in the community. When they stumble on issues that involve property and property maintenance, they work with the appropriate City discipline, such as Code Enforcement. He emphasized the City has a robust outreach program for seniors, and although he has heard a couple of examples tonight where Council would like more information, and he is happy to provide that information, but unless directed by the rest of Council, he felt they should all take great pride in what the City does for their senior citizens. Councilwoman Koski clarified that she is asking what it takes to walk up to the front door and talk to the resident when there is a violation. Mayor Taylor questioned how they know that was not done. He stressed they do not know anything about that case, and if Mr. Johns leaves some information, they can review it and respond accordingly. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 48 Mr. Vanderpool agreed with Mayor Taylor. Councilwoman Koski explained her point is to take a moment to find out if the person is okay, especially since they have talked about safe homes, hoarding issues, etc., and she suggested that possibly they are not doing enough. She suggested they may need to take extra ten minutes to address the person who has the issue and put a little more effort into enhancing the programs already in place in order to keep seniors in their homes. Councilwoman Ziarko takes pride in the City helping seniors stay and age in place, which is something they have been doing for years. She pointed out that part of that involves their neighbors, like Mr. Johns and his other neighbors helping their elderly neighbor in the situation he brought up this evening. She explained the City receives information from the state and also the county for services they provide for senior citizens, over and above the services that the City provides. A lot of organizations, departments, and their phone numbers are included on a list, many times mailed to them by state senators or representatives, but the problem is that the people who need help the most do not ask for it. She added that cannot fall on the City to know who these individuals are, but possibly these individuals do not have anyone to talk to. She questioned whether they could provide information and phone numbers at the Senior Center for visitors to pick up, and although they have Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 49 provided information on these programs before, possibly another publication would help. She suggested they could hold a workshop to let people know there is help available if they let the City know what kind of help they need. She felt the City is doing a good job, but some of these fall through the cracks, and they will find out how they can fix it. Councilwoman Schmidt stated she felt it is an honor for Sterling Heights to be chosen to be a participant in the Housing Supply Accelerator Challenge, which is a joint initiative between the National League of Cities and the American Planning Association. She questioned what other communities were selected for this challenge. Dr. Parcell stated that Michigan is dominating the conversation on this, and Marquette County, through a partnership with the city, county, and county landbank, and Romulus were two of those selected. There will be others, but Sterling Heights happens to be among the first. He explained he does not have the full list with him, but he assured he will forward it to Council. Councilwoman Schmidt commented that this is a big deal when coming from the National League of Cities. She pointed out that in Michigan Municipal League (MML), Sterling Heights is one of the biggest cities, but in the National League of Cities, Sterling Heights is considered a medium-sized city in the country. For this City to be selected is an awesome honor, and she is excited Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 50 they are involved. She is pleased that he mentioned this is not just about building apartments, but it is about looking at all different types of housing. She also talked about the ribbon-cutting for AGS and the Green Initiative, and she noticed that the executives present were thankful and grateful for working with the City of Sterling Heights. They had indicated they never worked with another community so eager to have them be involved in a community project. She talked to a woman from Canada who had mentioned to her they are used to having so many hoops to jump through, so it was a pleasure for them to have such a positive experience with their local government. She congratulated Administration on the good job they do working with these companies. Councilwoman Schmidt addressed the code enforcement issue brought up during comments from citizens, and she pointed out there is no way a Code Enforcement Officer would know the age of anyone living in a particular house. She stressed it is not a matter of the City targeting seniors and not helping them, and within reason, the City will work with anyone, including all seniors. She is thankful for all of the programs they have in place now. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski questioned the process the City goes through when they come across a property that has a code violation. She understands that the letter is the last of a multi-layer process. Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 51 Mr. Vanderpool stated Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski is correct that the Notice of Violation is typically the last resort. When there is a violation, such as grass in excess of six inches, a warning notice is left on the door. Many times, a homeowner may not be home or may not answer the door. When there are more significant violations, such as the home being in disrepair, shrubbery that is overgrown, vehicles parked in the driveway blocking sidewalks, unlicensed vehicles, etc., an inspector will typically try to contact the property owner by knocking on the door, leaving a door hanger, or leaving a warning notice. When there is no response, a Notice of Violation is issued; however, he clarified that it is a “notice” and does not fine the individual, nor does it mean the City is taking action, but it is only a notification to alert them to violations on their property and the fact that they need to be resolved. The notice informs them to contact the City to discuss it further. Mr. Vanderpool stated that, in almost all cases, when a property owner contacts the City, they are afforded extra time if needed. He cited the example of being notified of peeling paint, and if it is in the springtime, they may not be able to paint it until summer. In those cases, the property owner will be afforded additional time. The City has thousands of property maintenance inspections every year, which is one of the things that keeps Sterling Heights looking nice and keeps their property values strong. The vast majority of residents who have Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 52 violations comply voluntarily, although a small fraction does not, and they have to go to the Ordinance Board of Appeals (OBA). Those meetings are televised every month, and those not complying have to go for an abatement from OBA, which is a judicial body appointed by the Mayor and City Council to hear property maintenance violations across the City. He estimated they get about six hundred of those annually, which is a small fraction of the overall violations. Mr. Vanderpool emphasized that there are a lot of touch points when there is a violation before formal notice goes out and before it goes to the Ordinance Board of Appeals for a formal hearing. They try to work with residents, and he stated Councilwoman Schmidt is correct in that they do not try to determine the age of the head of the household. If there is a violation, they try to make contact and ultimately send a notice to the property owner, often having no idea of their age. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski stated she works with seniors and advocates for them on a daily basis. She emphasized there is a lot of fear on the part of seniors and others who cannot keep up their property, because they are concerned that they will be found unable to live alone. They are not asking for help because they do not want anyone to see how difficult it is for them at times. She stated that people still have their own right to live where they want to live and how they want to live until it is unsafe for them. The City Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 53 does not have the right to go in and dig into their age, their abilities, and their history unless they reach out for help, and that right has to be respected. She cited the example of an elderly mother who may have deeded the house to her son, but she still lives there. They have to convey to the City that they need help, and she wants to protect peoples’ rights to have their own privacy. Mayor Pro-Tem Sierawski is very happy to see this year’s participants in Project Search. She is confident they will learn so many good things, and the ability to assist all who have needs is a great opportunity. This program provides them not only the education but the opportunities in the City to work. She is very proud of this, and she thanked the residents, colleagues and others in City government, urging them to make sure this project continues. Mayor Taylor noted that the two top complaints he receives as Mayor are that we are not doing enough code enforcement, and that we are doing too much code enforcement. It is a difficult balance, and he commented that the City does a tremendous job trying to keep their neighborhoods looking clean, appropriate, and making sure that when people invest in their homes and take good care of them, their neighbors will do the same. He understands there are a handful of people who think the City is a little too heavy-handed with it. He recalled in the fifteen-plus years he has served on Council, he cannot say that they target seniors or are non-responsive to the needs of the Regular City Council Meeting Monday, September 15, 2025 Page 54 senior community. He suggested they need to understand this particular case that was brought up tonight, and they can work on a good resolution. He acknowledged that three acres of property is a lot to maintain, and if a property owner finds that it becomes an issue in being able to maintain property, that is something that individual may need to take into consideration. He assured they will look into it and make sure it is addressed. 12. UNFINISHED BUSINESS There was no unfinished business. 13. NEW BUSINESS There was no new business. 14. CLOSED SESSION PERMITTED UNDER ACT 267 OF 1976 Mr. Kaszubski stated there are no items for closed session this evening. 15. ADJOURN Moved by Ziarko, seconded by Sierawski, RESOLVED, to adjourn the meeting. Yes: All. The motion carried (7/0). The meeting adjourned at 9:06 p.m. MELANIE D. RYSKA, City Clerk