Ferndale · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ferndale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Youth sports training facility concept at 1975 Hilton
A prospective developer pitched a concept for turning the vacant industrial site at 1975 Hilton into something new — early-stage conversation only, with no application or action required yet.
Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act application pending
The long-vacant former Eden Night Club will become a family wood-fired pizza restaurant thanks to a 9-year property tax freeze worth about $343,800 in forgone revenue. Once it expires, the city expects about $54,000 a year in new property taxes, plus 35 permanent jobs.
Business renovation trial program
A trial program to support business renovations was discussed, which could affect downtown accessibility standards. No action was taken.
Satellite restaurant liquor license at 505 Livernois
The council approved a Class C resort liquor license for Pretty Sharp, LLC's new Satellite restaurant in a converted Livernois warehouse. Neighbors largely support the project but worried about 2 a.m. closings, noise, and parking near Fielding and Stratford.
DDA Board Training & Strategy Update
With six of eight board members new since 2025, the DDA is bringing in a consultant for DDA 101 training and a refresh of its strategic workplan, covering open-meetings law, FOIA, and tax increment financing duties.
Northeast quadrant parking plan
Parking near Nine Mile and Woodward has been a persistent headache for businesses and visitors. The DDA is testing an employee parking pilot and has explored valet and permit options to manage the crunch.
PATIO Zone social district expansion
The board adopted a management and maintenance plan for the downtown social district, which now goes to city council — a step toward allowing drinks-to-go in a designated outdoor zone.
DIY Street Fair and Fall Festival events
Council approved the permit for the DIY Street Fair (Sept. 25-27) with downtown street closures, and a one-day liquor license for the Oct. 3 Fall Festival at Martin Road Park, with proceeds going back into park programming.
Livernois Corridor Improvement Authority feasibility study
The council approved a $15,000 study exploring a Corridor Improvement Authority for Livernois, which could capture rising property taxes to fund lighting, facades, infrastructure and a possible Main Street program. Residents would get a voice on the board, but TIF capture diverts some tax growth from the general fund — a concern one resident raised. Findings come back to council this fall.
Downtown valet pilot and Credit Union One lease
The city is leaving Comerica after years of fee hikes and clunky service. Huntington won an RFP among five banks, saving roughly $46,000 a year in fees. Residents' tax and water payments won't be disrupted — payments now come straight to City Hall.
CEO Transitional Employment Partnership
DPW and the DDA are partnering with the Center for Employment Opportunities: supervised work crews handle seasonal maintenance downtown and in parks while giving people transitional job experience.
Drive-through businesses downtown
The DDA director warned that drive-through proposals on Woodward hurt pedestrian safety and downtown dwell time, citing the Caribou Coffee closure. Commissioners discussed possibly a moratorium or joint meeting with the DDA, but noted drive-throughs aren't a novel use justifying one.