Mount Clemens commission confirms HR director, approves audits, parking hike and union contracts; denies two special-event permits

The Mount Clemens City Commission approved a package of administrative resolutions and labor agreements at its meeting and rejected two requests for special-event permits after commissioners raised concerns about traffic, security and use of public assets.

Resolutions and approvals - Charitable gaming recognitions: The commission adopted local governing body resolutions recognizing Green Michigan and the Macomb County Sheriff Reserve Officers Association so each nonprofit can apply to the state for charitable gaming licenses to raise funds for tree-planting and safety equipment. The motions passed by roll call.

- Audit engagement: The commission approved an engagement letter with the selected audit firm to conduct the fiscal 2022–23 audit. Staff said the engagement letter had been reviewed by the city attorney and noted that a multiyear bid included 2024 and 2025 but the vote covered 2022–23 specifically.

- Parking sticker rates: Commissioners approved increasing quarterly parking-sticker prices effective Jan. 1, 2024 — raising red and blue lot stickers to $100 per quarter and green/yellow/orange/purple lots to $75 per quarter. Staff said sticker prices had not changed since 2005 and the increase accounts for higher enforcement and maintenance costs.

- Personnel appointment: The commission confirmed the city manager's appointment of Kevin Donaldson as Human Resources Director. City staff presented Donaldson's background as more than 20 years in HR and a master's degree; the payroll/salary figure stated on the record was $775,000 as presented during the meeting.

- Labor contracts: Following a short recess and closed session on collective bargaining, the commission approved multiple labor contracts covering July 1, 2023 through June 30, 2026, including agreements for crew leaders and municipal employees (DPW). The contracts were approved by roll call.

Denied permits and public-safety concerns Two special-event requests that had been pulled for discussion were not approved: - Faith Christian Center 'Rock the Block' at Kirkham Memorial Park (Oct. 31): Commissioners discussed neighborhood parking shortages and Halloween traffic safety and declined to approve the request.

- Wedding reception on Momo Place (Aug. 5): The commission debated the proposed street closure from noon to 1 a.m., potential impacts on nearby businesses, security arrangements and liability. Commissioners voted against the permit.

Public comment and next steps A parade committee member, Mickey Weiss, used the public-comment portion to promote a 'Christmas in July' raffle on July 27 to support the Santa parade; she detailed ticketing and prize information for prospective donors. City staff and commissioners said they will follow up on implementation steps for the approved items, and staff noted administrative deadlines for tax bills and forthcoming community events.