Sterling Heights Council appoints new members to Community Foundation Board

The Sterling Heights City Council meeting on March 4, 2025, focused on appointing new members to the Sterling Heights Area Community Foundation Board of Directors and other city boards and commissions. The council discussed the importance of these appointments in ensuring local representation and effective governance within the community foundation.

During the meeting, three appointments to the Community Foundation Board were made. Dr. Mary Thomas, currently the president of the Utica Community Schools Board of Education, was appointed for a term ending December 31, 2025. Council members expressed confidence in her ability to contribute positively to the foundation. Christina Taylor, the mayor's wife and an active community member, was appointed for a term ending December 31, 2026. Her involvement in local initiatives was highlighted as a valuable asset. Lastly, Melanie Davis, the community relations director, was appointed for a term ending December 31, 2027, with council members noting her previous experience with the foundation.

The council also addressed appointments to other city boards, including the Arts Commission and the Historical Commission. Leonard Sandro Jr. was appointed to the Arts Commission for a partial term ending June 30, 2025, while Ben Arjada was appointed to the Historical Commission for a term ending June 30, 2027. Both appointments received support from council members who recognized their qualifications and community involvement.

Additionally, the council discussed several appointments to the Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), with multiple terms ending in the coming years. Notable appointments included Sameer Mansour and Ted Chudzik, both recognized for their business backgrounds and community ties. The council also appointed Stacy Zarko, the mayor's daughter, to the LDFA, emphasizing her role as the president and CEO of Connect Macomb, which is seen as beneficial for local development.

The meeting concluded with a motion to postpone one final appointment to the LDFA until the next council meeting, scheduled for March 17, 2025, coinciding with St. Patrick's Day. The council expressed anticipation for the upcoming meeting and the continued development of the community through these appointments.