St. Clair Shores Council demands better communication amid controversial house moving project

During the recent St. Clair Shores City Council meeting on February 18, 2025, council members expressed concerns over communication lapses regarding a significant police and fire project. The discussion highlighted a lack of updates about a house that was unexpectedly moved rather than demolished, leaving council members in a difficult position when residents inquired about the situation.

Council members noted that they were unaware of the change until a resident spotted the house being relocated. This incident raised questions about the transparency of project updates, with members emphasizing the need for timely information to avoid confusion and maintain public trust. One council member remarked, “It’s not a good position for council to be in when it’s literally a house on stilts,” underscoring the importance of keeping elected officials informed about visible project changes.

In addition to the project concerns, the council discussed recent legislative efforts regarding environmental issues. State Representative Alicia St. Germain and others have been advocating for stricter regulations on discharges from a retention basin in Oakland County that affects local waterways. The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) is reopening discussions on permits for this basin, which could lead to improvements in water quality, including reductions in E. coli and chlorine levels.

The meeting also touched on animal control issues, particularly regarding cat overpopulation in certain residences. Council members are seeking data on how animal citations have been handled in the court system, aiming to address the challenges posed by these situations effectively.

As the council moves forward, the emphasis remains on improving communication and collaboration with state representatives to tackle both local and environmental issues, ensuring that residents are kept informed and engaged in community matters.