During a recent government meeting, St. Clair Shores officials discussed several key topics, including updates on the Parks and Recreation fee structure, the status of various city projects, and concerns regarding communication and planning processes.
The council approved the 2025 Parks and Recreation fee structure, which included a discussion on the need for a baseline for non-resident fees. Council members emphasized the importance of maintaining a balance between raising prices and customer satisfaction to avoid \"sticker shock\" for residents. The golf course's financial performance was also reviewed, highlighting its capital needs and fluctuating revenue.
In another segment, council members addressed the delayed review of the Hazelwood Alley vacation, which had been inadvertently removed from the agenda. This led to questions about the council's procedural efficiency and the importance of clear communication in agenda management.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the review of a multimodal transportation plan submitted to SEMCOG (Southeast Michigan Council of Governments). Council members expressed frustration over the lack of input from the council in the final report, which included controversial proposals such as road diets. The discussion revealed concerns about the planning process, particularly regarding projects that extend beyond the DDA (Downtown Development Authority) jurisdiction. Council members stressed the need for better communication and involvement in future planning efforts, especially for projects that impact the broader community.
Additionally, the council addressed issues with the city's waste management service, particularly regarding missed pickups and the need for better notification systems for residents. The meeting concluded with updates on local businesses, including the status of Amazon Fresh and Gabe's, with the latter expected to open in spring 2025.
Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to transparency, effective communication, and community engagement in local governance.