City holds second public hearing on Shadyside Park CDBG project in floodplain

The Mount Clemens City Commission opened and closed the required second public hearing under federal floodplain rules for proposed activity at Shadyside Park, a package of work that includes demolition of a restroom facility, playground and amenity updates, and replacement or improvements to skate-park facilities.

City staff explained the Department’s determination under Executive Order 11988 that, because the proposed improvements lie within the Clinton River floodplain, the federal eight-step review process applies and the seventh step is a second public hearing and notification. Staff noted the City of Mount Clemens, in partnership with Macomb County and Macomb Community Action, had determined there was no practicable alternative site outside the floodplain for the work, citing access to recreation and economic feasibility.

Why it mattered: Residents raised concerns about flooding history and asked that the City consider returning a tennis court where a skateboard facility now stands. Resident Ruthie Stevenson said she would like community input and to see the tennis court returned rather than keeping a skate feature, noting that the spillway reduced historic flooding in the area.

Scope and limits: Staff clarified that the CDBG funds identified will be used to remove a gutted restroom and perform limited site work; they emphasized these funds do not represent a larger capital improvement allocation for Shadyside Park and that additional improvements would require separate grant funding. The Mount Clemens Foundation was identified as a likely partner to lead broader future park planning and community engagement should additional funds become available.

Procedure: The commission recorded a motion to open the hearing (moved by S4, supported) and, after public comment and staff explanation, a motion to close the hearing (moved by S7). No formal vote on park improvements or funding beyond the hearing steps occurred at the meeting.