Residents raise safety and parking concerns; city announces markets, demolition schedule and community programs

Several residents and community representatives used the public‑comment period to highlight neighborhood concerns and upcoming events.

Jimmy Dixon thanked the city for the recent street dedication honoring Pastor James E. Thompson and invited residents to a gospel meeting. John Emerson addressed crime and parking issues in his neighborhood — including home break‑ins and long‑term parking on Bain and Glen River Drive — and said residents asked law enforcement to do more; staff and the chair asked the group to provide specific addresses so community development and the sheriff’s department could follow up.

Mickey Weiss, speaking on behalf of the Downtown Development Authority, announced the Wednesday farmers market (2–6 p.m., beginning July 19), Friday uptown concerts, a Cars and Stripes car show on July 29 tied to Selfridge Air National Guard Base’s centennial and several special exhibits downtown.

In the city manager’s report staff confirmed the farmers market schedule (Wednesdays 2–6 p.m., July 19 through Sept. 20), noted rolling street closures for the Daughters of Macomb parade on Aug. 3 and welcomed Kiara Davison as the new human resources assistant. When asked about demolition of properties on Court, Park, Gibbs and Murdock, staff said demolition is scheduled to begin July 27 and that the fire department will conduct training in the structures between now and then.

Commissioners also used their time to note community programs: one commissioner described scholarships to the Anton Art Center for Mount Clemens students and an Optimist Club project to install eight small free libraries in local parks. The commission was reminded that the Mount Clemens Community Schools are running a summer meal program called “Meet Up and Eat Up” with multiple site and time openings; staff provided a contact name and phone number in the meeting for families seeking details.

The public comment and report items were received and short follow‑up directions were provided — staff asked for location lists from residents for enforcement follow up and will collect vendor maps and bond information from contractors when projects begin.