Mount Clemens adopts higher door-to-door solicitor fees effective July 1

The Mount Clemens City Commission voted to adopt a resolution establishing a new fee schedule for door-to-door solicitors effective July 1, 2017, replacing a fee the city said had been $25 since 2008.

City staff told commissioners the clerk’s office reviewed fees charged by surrounding communities and recommended an increase. The clerk noted examples cited during the presentation: Clinton Township charges $175 per company and $125 per solicitor for 90 days, and Sterling Heights charges $126 per solicitor. The presentation said the city’s prior fee was set in 2008 and that adjustments were appropriate to match regional practice and address complaints about aggressive door-to-door sales.

At least one commissioner questioned the size of the increase and asked which cities had been consulted; staff responded that neighboring jurisdictions’ fees and enforcement practices informed the recommendation. The item was positioned as both a public-safety and consumer-protection measure intended to curb aggressive solicitation.

The commission moved, seconded and approved the resolution on a roll-call vote. The clerk called the roll and the motion carried (recorded votes were affirmative in the roll call). The resolution takes effect July 1, 2017 and references section 20-303 of the city code.

The commission did not amend the ordinance language on the floor; the record indicates the city clerk’s office will implement the new fee schedule and make stickers available for homeowners who wish to discourage solicitors.