Westland council extends downtown development authority plan to 2055, says no new tax capture

The Westland City Council voted to amend the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) plan, extending its life through 2055 and continuing targeted improvements along Ford Road and the Ford Road overpass.

Director Garza told the council the amendment “simply extends the plan, to 2055” and emphasized that the proposal does not add new tax capture: “It continues to capture as it has been since 1996,” he said. Garza said copies of the proposed plan are available at the planning counter and will be posted online if the council passed it.

Council members praised the DDA staff and commissioners for the work leading up to the proposal. Councilwoman Rakowski said she looked forward to supporting the plan and highlighted improvements already visible in Central City Park. Pro Tem Melissa Sampey also praised the plan’s forward-looking elements and noted the package did not raise taxes for local businesses.

After discussion the council voted to approve the amendment with no dissent. Council members said the plan prioritizes façade improvements, parks and public areas, and marketing for the district; staff were directed to make the final plan available online following the council’s approval.

The amendment will take effect according to the city’s administrative process for DDA plan amendments; no additional ordinances or tax increases were announced at the meeting.