Downtown Development Authority

Regular Meetings


  • 8 a.m.
  • 2nd Tuesday of January, April, August and November
  • City Hall
    300 W Thirteen Mile Road
    Madison Heights, MI 48071

Agendas & Minutes


Agendas are available prior to the meetings. Minutes are available following approval.
View Archived Meeting Minutes (PDF)

Current Roster

Name Term Expires Position
Brian Hartwell 11-13-17 Mayor
Benjamin Myers 11-13-17 City Manager
*Michael Van Buren 06-19-18 Member-at-Large (Chair)
*Johnny John 06-19-18 Member-at-Large
*Yousif Jarbo 06-19-18 Member-at-Large
*Joseph Keys 06-19-19 Member-at-Large
*Ruth Charlebois 06-19-19 Member-at-Large
*Michael Sheppard 06-19-19 Member-at-Large
Keri Valmassei 06-19-20 Member-at-Large
*Lenea Renshaw 06-19-20 Member-at-Large (Vice Chair)
*Daniel Johnson 06-19-20 Member-at-Large
Rickey Busler 06-19-21 Member-at-Large
Marlene Spreitzer 06-19-21 Member-at-Large

Purpose


The Downtown Development Authority works to halt and eliminate property value deterioration, increase property tax values, and promote economic growth within this business district of the City.

Membership Information


Composition


Members are appointed by the Mayor.

Terms


Members serve 4 year terms.

About the Authority


In June 1997, the Madison Heights City Council created the Downtown Development Authority or "DDA." under the authority of Public Act 197 of the State of Michigan. The 13-member board is comprised of local business owners and property owners who have volunteered for the mission of revitalizing the John R and Eleven Mile Road Business District. The Downtown Development Authority was established to correct and prevent stagnation and deterioration within the south end commercial business district.

The Authority established boundaries which include property abutting John R Road from Gardenia to Ten Mile Road and abutting Eleven Mile Road from I-75 to Lorenz. The properties are primarily zoned and used for commercial and industrial purposes. The Authority's main priorities include eliminating blight influences and undertaking projects that will encourage new businesses to locate, and existing businesses to remain in the area.

The DDA, with assistance from the Community Development Department, continues to assist business owners in improving their properties. These improvements will serve the public purpose by enhancing the district and increasing property values.

Mission


The DDA's mission includes:
  • Build interest in existing businesses
  • Create employment opportunities
  • Create visual appeal in the commercial and industrial frontage by enhancing building facades as well as street and landscape areas
  • Develop a positive image of the district which will improve retail and commercial activity
  • Eliminate blight
  • Encourage new businesses to locate in the district

About the Projects


All DDA projects are paid for through growth of the tax base, and do not impact city services or local schools. Tax revenues for all taxing jurisdictions will also grow once vacant properties are occupied by new businesses that replace existing blighted ones.

The key to success in the district is a cooperative effort between businesses, property owners, local residents, and the City. Support and patronize shops in the DDA. It's good business! Contact the Economic Development Coordinator, Linda Williams, by phone at 248-583-0831 or by email for more information.

Apply to Serve


Apply for a Board or Commission (PDF)