Citizens urge Alpena Council to rezone DPI property for waterfront development

The Alpena City Council meeting on December 16, 2024, spotlighted a significant push for rezoning a key parcel of land, with strong community backing. Residents, including a former mayor and the head of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), voiced their support for changing the zoning from heavy industry to light industrial and waterfront use.

Sarah Waters, a local resident, emphasized the importance of this decision in her public comment, linking it to the city’s commitment to environmental stewardship through the Lake Huron Forever Pledge adopted in 2023. She urged the council to prioritize the protection of Lake Huron in their planning and resource allocation, stating that rezoning aligns with the pledge's goals.

While the meeting did not address the ongoing concerns regarding PFAS contamination at the site, the overwhelming community support for the rezoning reflects a collective desire to enhance the area’s environmental integrity and promote sustainable development. The council's decision on this matter could have lasting implications for both the local economy and the health of Lake Huron.