Mount Clemens approves 2026 CDBG allocations, adopts county hazard plan and notes $9.34M bridge funding recommendation

The Mount Clemens City Commission approved recommended allocations of 2026 Community Development Block Grant funds, including $150,000 for Lawndale Park playground equipment, $150,000 for a fire engine and related equipment, and $12,800 for the City of Mount Clemens senior recreation program. City administration said the allocations followed a Jan. 20 public hearing. Commissioner Callum and others singled out senior recreation as important for combating isolation and supporting long-term health in older residents.

A motion to approve the allocations was moved, seconded and adopted by roll-call vote. Commissioners who spoke during the discussion emphasized the value of local nonprofit services but noted limited city resources and the importance of investing in the recreation department’s programs that serve residents and neighboring communities.

Separately, the commission voted to approve and adopt the Macomb County Hazard Mitigation Plan 2025–2030. City staff explained that FEMA requires participating counties to update a hazard mitigation plan every five years and that an approved plan is required for municipalities within the county to be eligible for FEMA disaster funding assistance. Staff said FEMA reviewed the plan and found it met the criteria in 44 CFR part 201 as authorized by the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.

In an administrative report, staff announced the issuance of a building permit for redevelopment of the former Victory Inn into a 116-unit, four-story apartment complex and reminded residents of Presidents' Day closures and snow-emergency procedures. The assistant city manager also announced that the local bridge advisory board recommended the Cochran Boulevard (Crocker) Bridge for inclusion in the Neighborhood Roads Fund; the application estimate for the Crocker Bridge replacement was $9,337,000, with an anticipated state share of 95% of eligible costs and NRF funds expected to be available in 2027.

Other routine items the commission approved included purchases and payment of invoices and the consent agenda. The meeting adjourned with a moment of silence earlier in the session for longtime volunteer Sheila Beaman and for a recently deceased team member, Anthony Arnold.

Next steps: Staff said the approved county hazard plan preserves eligibility for FEMA funding; city administration will proceed with CDBG-funded planning and project implementation and follow posting/scheduling for the Victory Inn redevelopment and NRF-related processes.