The Berkley City Council on Jan. 5 authorized the city manager to enter a contract with Better City LLC to produce an economic development strategy, approving a plan staff said will take about six months and cost $24,500.

Director Kaplansky told the council the proposal includes socioeconomic and market analysis, development opportunity mapping, 7–10 stakeholder interviews, two focus groups and performance measurements to track progress. "The whole plan will take about 6 months to complete, and the total cost is $24,500," Kaplansky said. She said the packet shows a $20,000 base plan with optional add-ons, including an in-person final presentation to council.

Council members asked about the start date, outreach and how the plan fits with the city’s effort to become a Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) certified jurisdiction. Kaplansky said staff hoped to begin work as soon as the contract is signed and that a six-month timetable would put completion around June or July. She said the DDA (Downtown Development Authority) would be a key partner, Nate Mack (the DDA director) had agreed to help with outreach, and the city would recruit business owners from corridors such as 11 Mile to ensure broader participation.

Council member Elrod expressed support for the selection but urged staff to ensure the consultant understands the local economic dynamics in the Midwest Rust Belt. Kaplansky pointed out the selected firm has completed work in several Midwestern states and staff preferred the firm’s narrower list of three to four actionable goals rather than broader lists of many objectives.

The motion to authorize the contract was made by Council member Hennen and seconded by Council member Baker; the council approved the motion on roll call.