Local business owner honored; residents raise sewer and community issues at Mount Clemens meeting

The Mount Clemens City Commission presented the local treasurer award to Diane (owner of Max and Ollie Vintage Boutique) and heard a series of public comments including a request for help with recurring sewer backups at a downtown church.

Chair introduced Diane as the year's local treasurer award recipient and read nomination excerpts praising her volunteer work with the Anton Arts Center, the Mount Clemens Art Fair and downtown events. Diane (accepting the award) thanked volunteers and described the community effort that supports downtown events: “There are people who give time and money and energy…they're a part of what makes this town so vibrant,” she said.

During public participation Jimmy Dixon (94 Park) described a persistent sewer backup at his church on 260 North Broadway that intermittently prevents congregants from using the restroom. Dixon said the congregation spent "over $1,700" to dig up and repair plumbing and asked the city to investigate whether the problem is within the city's system or private lines. Chair asked whether Mr. Dixon had contacted city hall or the sewer department and encouraged him to follow up so staff could help.

Joe E. Harrington (152 Court Street) thanked the commission for responding to a blight complaint at Court and Park Street and welcomed Commissioner Ron Campbell to the neighborhood. Michelle Weiss (18200 Tara Drive, Clinton Township) announced that a programmable marquee sign at M-3 and Crocker will be replaced in spring and confirmed that the local theater has been sold, thanking Mayor Dempsey for facilitating a meeting with the buyer.

Commissioners used the comments period to recognize other local achievements: a student honored for a sock project for the homeless, a volunteer program at First United Methodist Church to assist homeowners with projects and small-business award recipients. The meeting closed after routine business and adjournment motions.

What happens next: Chair invited the sewer complainant to contact city staff so the sewer department can investigate the backup; no formal referral or vote was recorded on the issue during the meeting.