Residents urge downtown ideas and raise safety, transparency concerns during Mount Clemens public comment

Mount Clemens residents used the commission’s public‑comment periods to press for downtown changes and local safety fixes, offering a mix of development ideas and sharp criticism of existing downtown governance.

Michael Zubis (322 North Avenue) proposed converting the former Macomb Daily building into a new City Hall and mixed‑use anchor, saying the building could consolidate services, create revenue through offices or residences, and help revitalize downtown. "It used to have a movie theater. But now it could really use a city hall to have the anchor," Zubis said.

Gloria Haller (260 Cass) urged caution with downtown partnerships and criticized the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). She described the DDA as "nothing but a parasitic sponge" and said waterfront plans should be put to a public vote. Haller also warned that the building at 10 South Main had structural and pest problems when MetLife occupied it, and said the commission should reconsider moving staff into potentially compromised space.

During a second public comment period, a resident again suggested installing a one‑lane roundabout at Elizabeth and North Avenue to relieve congestion, especially after train traffic causes backups. Dave Taylor (225 North Gratiot / 61 Macomb Place) reported a visibility hazard where Gallup meets Southbound Gratiot caused by parked cars or a dumpster and noted an abandoned pickup truck he described as "rotting" on the sidewalk near Mosier.

Commissioners listened and encouraged residents to attend upcoming meetings: a downtown parking‑study public meeting was scheduled for Jan. 8 at 6 p.m. at 48 Cherry Street. Officials also directed residents to county resources for water‑bill assistance, noting a program that can cover up to $3,000 in utility bills for qualifying households.