Residents complain about inconsistent sidewalk repairs and safety concerns at Shadyside Park

Several Mount Clemens residents used the public comment period to raise concerns about the city's limited sidewalk repair program and Shadyside Park maintenance.

Monica Baker (Speaker 13) told the commission she received a letter in August about the city's sidewalk repair program and said four sections on her Huntington Street property were tagged; she said two sections were flat yet were replaced and that she could not get an appeal or satisfactory response from staff. Baker said contractors damaged a gas line during work, leaving her home without heat for several hours, and asked staff to investigate and respond to her written and telephone inquiries. "I received absolutely no response from either of them," Baker said.

Laura Fournier (Speaker 15) relayed similar complaints, saying the work was inconsistent and raised ADA concerns and possible landscape and erosion problems where sidewalks were removed. Commissioners and staff acknowledged the complaints and suggested the city research an appeals process used by another municipality and arrange follow-up meetings with affected residents.

Ruthie Stevenson (Speaker 16) described Shadyside Park vegetation encroaching into yards and visibility zones, reported late-night disruptive activity in the park and asked for volunteers and city assistance to trim brush and improve safety. Multiple commissioners said they would pursue expedited meetings with staff to address sidewalk and park concerns and asked staff to notify residents about planned follow-up meetings.

The commission did not take immediate policy action on the sidewalk program during the meeting but several commissioners urged a prompt administrative response and a meeting with the complainants.