Council approves Studio GWA agreement to guide Randolph House redevelopment over one dissent

The Macomb City Council on a 6–1 vote authorized an agreement with design and planning firm Studio GWA to assist the city with redevelopment planning for the historic Randolph House and to prepare materials for a developer request for proposals.

City staff described the contract as a step to prepare the building for private redevelopment — including an economic assessment and marketing materials — so the city can issue an RFP and pursue developer-led rehabilitation. Staff member Scott said the work is intended to bring the project to a point where incentives (TIF dollars or BID funds) and historic tax credits can be packaged to attract a developer.

"The goal in this project the entire time has been to encourage a development here in this building," Scott said, adding that the consultant work will support an RFP and that some advertising and modest upfront costs are expected. He also said state and federal historic tax credits would be important to the project.

Alderman Justin Shu voted against the measure, saying he remained concerned about timing and potential additional costs to the city. "Whether it's a needed project or not, we have enough other stuff happening right now on the docket and this is not a good time for it," Shu said during debate.

Council members who supported the contract said the work is largely preparatory and that financing and incentive decisions would follow later steps; they also noted the project has been discussed publicly in previous committee meetings. The motion carried with six votes in favor and one opposed; the council directed staff to proceed with the agreement and the follow-up developer solicitation once preparatory work is complete.

Next steps: staff will complete the planning work with Studio GWA, prepare an RFP or developer solicitation, and outline potential incentive options; council will consider any incentive packages or agreements at future meetings.