Mount Clemens commission approves bond application step, RFPs to advance downtown farmers market shed

The Mount Clemens City Commission on April 17 authorized the city’s bond counsel to begin a USDA bond application and approved staff to issue requests for proposals from contractors to determine the actual construction cost of a proposed downtown Farmers Market shed.

The vote, described by commissioners as a nonbinding second step in a three-step process, followed more than an hour of public comment from farmers, business owners and residents who urged the commission to move the market into downtown to boost foot traffic and economic activity. ‘‘We need people — our businesses are hanging on by the skin of their teeth,’’ said Dave Schneider, a downtown business owner who urged the commission to proceed.

Downtown Development Authority Chairman Steven Saf Jr. told the commission the DDA and market vendors had worked on the proposal and that the move would be iterative: ‘‘We are not finished; this is another step,’’ he said. Commissioners stressed that the authorization would not commit the city to construction or debt repayment tonight but would allow the city to obtain definitive bids and financing figures.

Several commissioners expressed fiscal caution. Commissioner (recorded as) Maner said the city carries substantial long-term liabilities and wanted clarity about how a bond would affect other infrastructure priorities and whether voters should have a voice on long-term debt. Public commenter Rick Block said earlier estimates shown to residents varied from ‘‘zero’’ to higher figures and asked what the true city cost would be.

Supporters pointed to examples from other communities and anticipated multiple revenue sources, rental opportunities for events, and DDA backing. Commissioner Bunton and others argued downtown economic revitalization required upfront investment: ‘‘Nothing ventured, nothing gained,’’ Bunton said.

The motion passed by roll call with all commissioners voting yes. The item’s presentation materials described a three-step process: (1) publish intent and a public comment period (completed), (2) commence bond application and solicit bids (approved April 17), and (3) return with final figures for commission consideration before any binding action.

Next steps: city bond counsel will begin the USDA application process, and the purchasing agent will advertise RFPs for qualified contractors. Final construction costs and financing terms will be returned to the commission for approval before construction or bond issuance.