Macomb County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Macomb County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Planning and Economic Development budget
Planning & Economic Development landed a $500,000 EPA brownfield grant and is pushing business attraction around the new Selfridge fighter jets — but state MEDC support for its strategy has fallen to zero, leaving the county competing with other states for jobs.
Support for Macomb County nonprofits
The proposed 2027 budget raises Care House funding from $25,000 to $125,000 and Turning Point from $100,000 to $200,000 — a combined $200,000 more for domestic violence and child advocacy services.
Romeo Downtown Revitalization After Ford Plant Closure
A $100,000 state Economic Transition Fund grant (no local match) will fund wayfinding signage and placemaking in Romeo, aiming to attract a replacement for the closed Ford engine plant and the jobs it provided.
Shelby Township industrial development district
Shelby Township is holding a public hearing on an industrial development district application from C&D Building, LLC; the committee simply received and filed the notice.
Lakeside Mall corridor redevelopment pace
Sterling Heights is holding an open house on the Lakeside Corridor Improvement Authority's TIF plan. Commissioner Perna, who attended, says the redevelopment is crawling — maybe step four of ten — with only JCPenney and Macy's still open.
MSU Extension services and new instructor position
A budget-neutral shift converts a retired county position into an MSU-contracted financial and homeownership instructor; more than half of program attendees go on to buy their first home.
Short-term vocational workforce training
The founder of Skilltrade urged the county to champion affordable, fast-track allied health and trades training — under $5,000 in 12-18 weeks — aimed at high schoolers and career changers, to help fill local staffing shortages.