Mount Clemens adopts downtown maintenance assessment, sets second hearing

The Mount Clemens City Commission voted to adopt the recommended downtown maintenance assessment rates that will generate $99,059.37 for the 12/01/2024–11/30/2025 period and scheduled a second public hearing for Sept. 16, 2024.

City manager Shipman presented the assessment package and the underlying estimate, saying the proposed primary rate of 16.67 and a secondary rate of 7.63 would produce the $99,059.37 total. Shipman said the cost breakout includes 40 street sweeps from March through November at $54,000, snow plowing and maintenance supplies at $17,135, other maintenance at $19,500 and a contingency of $8,424; any unspent funds would offset future increases.

The assessment represents a 41% increase from rates imposed in fiscal year 2024. During public comment, residents raised concerns and support: Ruthie Stevenson said a camp in front of a downtown building and congregating in the area were damaging the community’s appearance and asked the city to act, while Ruby Stevenson said better downtown maintenance encourages pedestrians, restaurants and events.

Commissioners discussed potential refunds or credits for businesses disrupted by the coming downtown revitalization and construction; Shipman said unspent balances can be carried forward to offset future assessments and the maintenance vendor is paid per sweep under contract. The commission voted to instruct the assessor to prepare a special assessment roll and set a second public hearing on 09/16/2024.

The decision moves the assessment process forward; property owners eligible for the assessment roll will receive additional notice and will have an opportunity to be heard at the next hearing.