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Council approves 'Carl and Joanne' Christmas in July fundraiser and downtown road closure
Summary
The council granted event approval and authorized the city clerk to seek county permits for a road closure July 26–27, 2025, after discussion about impacts on downtown businesses and emergency access.
South Lyon — The South Lyon City Council voted May 27 to approve the Carl and Joanne Foundation’s "Christmas in July" fundraiser and to authorize City Clerk Lisa Deaton to apply to the Oakland County Road Commission for permits for a road closure on July 26–27, 2025.
Applicant Jeff Heineon presented the event plans on behalf of the Carl and Joanne Foundation. The requested closure covers South Lafayette between McCatty Street and Liberty Street, including Elm Place, from 9 a.m. July 26 to 1:30 a.m. July 27. The packet included the event application, hold-harmless agreement and road-closure resolution; proof of insurance was noted as forthcoming.
Business owners raised concerns during public comment and during council discussion. Sean Merza, owner of the Shell station at 302 South Lafayette, asked the council to limit road closures where possible and requested more trash receptacles during events; he said his business is affected by closures. Councilmembers and event organizers said they had spoken with business owners along the corridor and that event planners would try to include and mitigate impacts on affected businesses. Fire and public works staff discussed emergency access to Elm Place and said access can be maintained while the closure is in effect.
Councilmember Bogart moved to approve the event and authorize the clerk to apply for the county permits; the motion was seconded and carried on roll call. The city’s motion includes an indemnification clause that requires the event sponsor to hold the city harmless for claims arising from the permitted operations.
