Livonia residents call for November vote on proposed city project millage

The Livonia City Council meeting on April 28, 2025, was dominated by discussions surrounding a proposed millage for significant city infrastructure projects, including a new library and city hall. Residents expressed strong opinions about the timing and necessity of the vote, with many advocating for a postponement until the November election to ensure greater public engagement.

Julie McAvoy, a precinct delegate, highlighted concerns about the proposed timeline, arguing that summer vacations would hinder voter turnout and understanding of the project. "I think we have a much better chance of getting the voters engaged and understanding what you're trying to move forward," she stated, urging the council to prioritize education over haste.

Several residents echoed her sentiments, questioning the rationale behind demolishing relatively new buildings and expressing skepticism about the project's costs and benefits. Janet Hartliff, a long-time Livonia resident, noted that while change is necessary, the financial implications of the millage remain unclear. "I don't know what this is going to cost, but I know it's going to cost a lot," she remarked.

Concerns about the project’s communication strategy were also raised. Laura Janica questioned why details about the library's integration with city hall were only recently disclosed, expressing discomfort with the idea of combining civic and community spaces. "It just doesn't feel safe to take my little kiddos in a place city hall's for business," she said.

The council faced pressure to clarify the specifics of the millage proposal, including its financial implications and the overall vision for the city’s future. Residents like Jake Cooper sought transparency regarding the budget allocated for promoting the project, while others, like Denny Berenson, called for a more representative voting process, suggesting that a November ballot would yield a more informed electorate.

As the meeting concluded, the council was left to weigh the community's feedback against the urgency of the proposed projects. The discussions underscored a critical moment for Livonia, as residents grappled with the balance between progress and fiscal responsibility, all while seeking to ensure that their voices are heard in shaping the city's future.