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Shipman: DPW logged 518 man‑hours during storms; city seeks $565,000 grant for downtown revitalization
Summary
City Manager Shipman reported that DPW logged 518 man‑hours responding to back‑to‑back snow events, described equipment breakdowns and water main breaks, announced a $1.13 million downtown revitalization project (seeking a $565,000 grant with a $565,000 match), and recognized longtime staff and community volunteers.
City Manager Mister Shipman reported to the Mount Clemens City Commission that the Department of Public Works logged 518 man‑hours on snow and ice removal during a multi‑day weather event in mid‑February, describing extended shifts, equipment failures and two water main breaks that stretched crews’ capacity.
"Since the snow started on Wednesday, 02/12/2025, at approximately 3PM through Monday, 02/17/2025 at 9AM, the DPS had accumulated 518 man hours dedicated to just snow and ice removal," Shipman said. He described radiator leaks, overheating on a plow/salt truck, an inoperable hydraulic motor, and a broken hydraulic cylinder that required borrowing a part to keep sidewalks and streets cleared.
Shipman also thanked DPW employees and other staff who worked long shifts and noted staffing strains due to expected and unexpected leave during the storm. Commissioners publicly thanked DPW crews and singled out Josh Houston, a DPW employee who stopped on Feb. 8 to help a resident with hip pain, called 911 and stayed with the person until EMS arrived; the commission said it planned to present him with a certificate though Houston declined a public appearance.
The city manager announced a downtown revitalization project with a total cost of $1,130,000. The city has applied for a $565,000 grant and is planning for a $565,000 local match; Shipman described the application as a Wrap2 revitalization and placemaking grant to support downtown improvements.
Shipman also reviewed routine calendar items and public services: refuse pickup will run on schedule in February, spring yard waste pickup begins March 23 (options for disposal were described), recreation classes begin March 26, the 'Superheroes and Sweethearts' Mother/Son dance is March 29, property taxes are due Friday, Feb. 28 (after which unpaid balances transfer to the Macomb County Treasurer), and candidate packets for the November election will be available in the City Clerk’s Office on Monday, March 3.
Commissioners welcomed Becky Phillips on her retirement after more than 24 years at DPW and congratulated Haley Dumas on promotion from the treasurer's office to fill the vacated position. Commissioners also praised community volunteers and encouraged residents to use available resources.
