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Residents ask Ferndale leaders for open public process on potential Coolick property transfer
Summary
A coalition of residents and environmental groups urged the city to disclose timelines and host public forums if it pursues a land swap or purchase with the school district for the Coolick property at 1201 Livernois.
A coalition of Ferndale residents, businesses and environmental groups urged the City Council during public comment on June 10 to ensure an open, community-led process if the district and city pursue a land swap or sale for the Coolick property at 1201 Livernois.
Eddie Sabatini, speaking for the coalition, said the group has been in ongoing conversations with the Ferndale Board of Education and that the site offers an opportunity for public use and ecological protection. "We are here to advocate for a community led process that prioritizes public use, ecological preservation, and equitable access to green space," Sabatini said.
Sabatini asked the city to publicly disclose negotiation timelines and host a dedicated public forum (not just a council meeting) so residents can engage meaningfully. He also requested commitments to protect and expand green space and noted that the Detroit Bird Alliance had joined the coalition and emphasized the site's value as migratory-bird habitat.
Council took no formal action; the speaker said he accepted an invitation to serve on the Ferndale Schools Facilities Committee and said the coalition is prepared for a long-term, collaborative process.
