Downtown Development Authority

2021 Regular Meeting Dates

  • January 12, 2021
  • March 2, 2021
  • April 13, 2021 
  • August 10, 2021 (Follows Informational Meeting)
  • November 9, 2021 (Follows Informational Meeting)
All meeting are held at 8:00am in the Executive Conference room of City Hall, located at 300 W Thirteen Mile Road Madison Heights, MI 48071 unless otherwise noted.

Informational Meeting Dates 2021

  • September 15, 2021
  • November 9, 2021
All meeting are held at 8:00am in the Executive Conference room of City Hall, located at 300 W Thirteen Mile Road Madison Heights, MI 48071 unless otherwise noted.

Agendas & Minutes


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


MHDDA Area Grants & Programs


Visit the Grants & Programs tab to learn more about local resources to DDA area businesses. 


Madison Heights Business Newsletter


The Economic Development Division prepares an e-newsletter quarterly providing business and commercial property owners with news, programs and opportunities that impact the Madison Heights business community. Madison Heights Business Newsletter Sign-up

Current Roster

Name Term Expires Position
Roslyn Grafstein 11-08-21 Mayor
Melissa Marsh   Member-at-Large (City Manager)
*Joseph Keys 02-28-24 Member-at-Large
*Ruth Charlebois 02-28-24 Member-at-Large (Secretary)
*Michael Sheppard 02-28-24 Member-at-Large
*Lenea Renshaw 02-28-25 Member-at-Large 
Rickey Busler 02-28-22 Member-at-Large (Treasurer)
*Michael Van Buren 02-28-23 Member-at-Large (Chair)
*Yousif Jarbo 02-28-22 Member-at-Large (Vice-Chair)
*Gordon Davignon 02-28-22 Member-at-Large
Vacant 02-28-23 Member-at-Large
Vacant 02-28-25 Member-at-Large
Jennifer Zmarzlik 02-28-25 Member-at-Large
Giles Tucker   Staff Liaison

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 Supervisor, Giles Tucker, by phone at (248) 837-2650 or by email for more information.

Apply to Serve


Apply for a Board or Commission (PDF)
Online Application