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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)
Online Application