Highland Park City Council

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit You can find all of the information to attend tonight’s meeting here.👇https://highlandparkmi.gov/getattachment/4489d7d8-3318-4df7-afbd-76ed2f9d4e2b/230417.aspx

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit ‼️ IMPORTANT: If you believe anything in the coverage tonight is inaccurate, please email us at documenters@outliermedia.org with “Correction Request” in the subject line.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Back with #DETdocumenters!

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Getting ready! https://t.co/34bYg99Hy1

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The meeting has been called to order.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit An amendment was proposed to an ordinance. Council President Thomas says that they are not following the correct procedure and that it needs to be reviewed by legal first.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit This amendment will not be walked on to tonight’s agenda. The legal department will need to review the proposed changes - need to follow the “correct” process.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Council Member Ash-Shafii would like to push forward with the process right now in order to get the amendment in front of the citizens. Asks for a time frame, should be reviewed by legal “within a week.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Council Member Manica moves to add Chapter 9 to the agenda. Council Member Ash-Shafii was hesitant to vote, but did vote “yes” with Thomas and Manica. Will be added as item 5 on the agenda.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Mayor McDonald speaks to the public.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit McDonald says GLWA took their case to the Court of Appeals to have the decision overturned.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit “GLWA has tried to turn off the water 3 times. Today we are asking this honorable body to ask the governor to expedite her decision,” McDonald says.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit “We will not allow the citizen’s houses to be lost to a levy. We will not allow our water to shut off…we have no other water to turn on. We can’t go back to our water, it is inhumane to turn off our water to our citizens without an alternative,” she continues.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Council President Thomas wants to discuss the Chapter 9 item now, before public comment as he says “it’s the biggest priority item that has come in front of us all year.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Says he wants the public to hear the entire resolution before they have an opportunity to speak on it.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Highland Park collects about $9.6M in property taxes, primary source of income for the city. Property taxes would become uncollectable as they would be tripled due to the increased water prices, eliminating their main source of income.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The tax increase would be $24M.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit A representative from the city/GLWA is present for questions.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Ash-Shafii asks what conditions would be placed on the city should they file for Chapter 9.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit “GLWA doesn’t have a body watching them. They can levy however much they want to up to what we owe, without regulation,” says Mayor McDonald.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit “Don’t want to risk having the citizens having to pay that, if we have the opportunity to wipe it out…we’ve been battling this for 15 years, since emergency management happened.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit “We have to do this to stop GLWA,” says McDonald.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit McDonald pleads City Council to approve this so that the citizens don’t have to deal with it later.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The public will be given the opportunity to address council before the vote will take place.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #1: No on is going to save Highland Park, and pay our debt. This could go on indefinitely unless you try to stop it. A judge will put conditions on it, but we’re at a point where we have no choice.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #2: Speaks about retrenchment and restructuring, and says that Highland Park did everything they were supposed to do years ago. “Impacted our capacity to do things, like keep the water plant open.” It’s been a long time coming for justice in Highland Park. https://t.co/xtT01JNyCk

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #3: Says this situation is David vs. Goliath. Begs council to think about those on fixed incomes, specifically senior citizens.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #4: 44 year resident in Highland Park. “This is not our debt, this is the State of Michigan’s debt.” They have stripped our city to the bones, and we do not owe this debt. Not ready to file for bankruptcy.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #5: 30 year retiree of Highland Park. Opposed to Chapter 9. When the emergency management came in they took the pensions and benefits of city employees.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #6: Tough decision, but if we pursue the resolution, and decide Chapter 9 isn’t in the best decision, can we withdraw? We have to have some leverage in order to restructure, and we don’t have it.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit A lawyer tries to answer the question, but says he thinks it would be permissible to withdraw.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #7: Encourages those in the room to use Detroit as an example, saying it’s been able bounce back and flourish. Says they need to make the decision that is best for the whole city. Says “HP forever!”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #8: Retirees will not their money if we do this. Water is a human need, if FEMA can step in a pay for other situations, why can’t they cover this? Says we are underrepresented in court.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit City Council will now vote on the resolution. Votes are as follow:
Thomas - Yes
Robinson - No
Manica - Yes
Martin - No
Ash-Shafii - Yes

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Motion carries.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Before voting, Ash-Shafii says “I wish I had the solutions for your HP in my back pocket, and I don’t have it.”

He shared how difficult it was to be the tie breaker. Said he risks alienating others on the board he deeply respects, but had to “play the cards at hand.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Manica says “this was an exceptionally difficult decision to make…100 days or not.” She encourages those listening to attend GLWA public meetings as well.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit She continues, “you have got to prove that you are not just throwaway…I know you may not agree with our decision.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit General public comment is now open.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #1: Family been in HP his whole life, but a citizen of Detroit. Founder of the largest Juneteenth organization in the city. Parade has been going on for 6 years, never a bad experience. Asking for permission for a parade permit.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #2: Wants kids to be encouraged to be a part of the community

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #3: Sympathetic to those who spoke up about their pensions. Bankruptcy would be an acknowledgement of debt, going to treat it like that, even if it’s not ours.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit #4: Says we have been fighting this for a long time…emergency managers haven’t really understood what is going on here, haven’t taken the time. “We should not march like sheep without any fight…”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Public comment is closed.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next up is the public hearing “to receive comments on proposed sewer distribution improvement project to rehabilitate sections of the sewer system.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Cost of proposed project is $3M for 2024, $1.2M per year after until 2028.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Correction: $1.1M NOT $1.2M.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Need to fix sewer system so that water doesn’t get in where it shouldn’t be, resulting in increased sewage bills.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The project will be the rehabilitation of the sewer system based on the assessments and third party studies that have been conducted over the past few years. https://t.co/yeMgDPwhqE

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit 2024 will be southern part of the city, phase 1. Phase 2 will be the middle section of the city. 2026 would begin phase 3, which would be the northern/west section of the city.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Bulk of the work is CIPP lining, a little over half of the cost (56%).

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Ash-Shafii asks if the lines are metered, because that’s a huge problem with GLWA. There have been some meters installed since 2018, but they data is not ready to be released.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Question has been asked why they are doing this work at all. City was under a consent order, in which they had to fix all of the infrastructure.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Q: What do you do for preventative maintenance?
A: Cleaned out all catch basins and sewer last year. Very experience to clean lines, but clean as many as they can. Limited by finances.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Q: Is it safe to drink our water? Can I take my filter off?
A: Yes, but don’t take your filter off just to be safe. Particles could come loose because of construction.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Q: If you clean the main lines, who is responsible for cleaning the alternate lines?
A: The service lines are the resident’s responsibility.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Discussion stemmed from this regarding trees that the city planted, that are now growing roots that are interfering with the service lines. Also, what happens when plants from vacant lots interfere with resident service lines?

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The answer is “inter-department communication…if resources allow.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit One resident said, “Highland Park is the ‘city of trees’ - 95% of the trees were planted by the city.”

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Council President Thomas asks the city to be focused, and efficient because HP is a business. Says people are watching and making assessments.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Public Hearing is closed. Next item to be discussed is the parade permit for Demond Petty for Juneteenth.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The part of the parade route in question is the two blocks of Woodward.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Topic has been tabled until Demond Petty is able to join a future meeting. It seems he left due to length of meeting.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The presentation from Wayne Metro has been received and filed.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next up, resolution to solicit contractor for sinkhole repairs.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Motion carries, 3-2.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next, submission of Monthly Financial March 2023. Motion carries, 4-1.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next, submission of propose FY 23-24 budget. This is merely to be received and filed. The budget hearing will take place at the May 15th council meeting.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Motion carries.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next is the resolution to approve the purchase of a Police K9 and Officer Handler Training from Oakland Community College.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Says this will be a huge help in dealing with narcotics complaints.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit OCC has offered to help identify the right handler. Trainer has 27 years of experience.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Currently, in the case of an event (i.e. home invasion),” officers are at the mercy of other surrounding departments.” While they have been helpful, it does cause a delay in trying to catch someone.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit The handler and the dog are a package deal - they train together for 6-7 weeks. Are required to be certified and tested.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Motion carries 5-0.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next, resolution to approve the purchase of 3 police vehicles from LaFontaine GMC. Motion carries, 4-1.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next, resolution to approve the purchase of Risk Management Services and an updated Police Policy Manual from Lexipol Solutions. Motion carries.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next up, resolution to accept FY2023 Economic Development Initiative/Community Project Grant Funding. Motion carries, 5-0.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next, resolution to enter into contract with the Charter County of Wayne to cooperatively fund the purchase and installation of a play structure at Midland Field.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Ash-Shafii has a concern about the “co-mingling of funds.” What is our liability?

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Question will have to be addressed at a later time. No one is online/present to answer. Motion carries, 5-0.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Next, resolution requesting submission of 2024 Clean Water State Revolving Fund Project Plan Application for the City of Highland park to the Dept of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy. Motion carries.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Last call for public comment!

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit A request for $706 was made for work being done on a park.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit A second individual came up who is partnering with the first gentleman who is volunteering his services. Submitted a request to “adopt” the park through the city’s Parks and Rec program.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit A third individual, who manages a public garden in the area speaks on his contributions to the park. Donates vegetables from the garden, volunteers time and efforts to clean up/mow the park, host concerts/events in the park, etc.

@DetDocumenters @BridgeDet313 @chalkbeatDET @freep @metrotimes @MichiganRadio @media_outlier @PlanetDetroit @wdet @wxyzdetroit Speaker shares the despite living in HP for majority of his life, he doesn’t like they haven’t replace signage, doesn’t like that his neighbor is operating an illegal car business, or that the city is facing a bankruptcy.