Ferndale · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ferndale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Storage facility at 1640/1700 E. 9 Mile
A Special Land Use and Site Plan request for an indoor self-storage facility was scheduled for public hearing, including a proposed waiver for curb cut locations along Wanda Street.
Building height and downtown character
The proposal needs a 44-foot height deviation over the 55-foot zoning limit — the first eight-story building downtown. Opponents say it doesn't fit Ferndale; supporters say public benefits justify it.
Grants for accessibility renovations
The commission was set to discuss grant funding that could pay for accessibility upgrades around Ferndale. If pursued, that money could make city buildings and public spaces easier to navigate for residents with disabilities.
Proposed mixed-use development at Bermuda and E. 9 Mile
Cypress Partners is floating a PUD with a 7-story building, 250-space public parking deck, 86 market-rate apartments and retail on the city-owned lot behind Como's plus an adjacent private lot. Residents are worried about traffic near Woodward, the city's $12–15 million bond, building scale, and losing the open corner used for festivals.
Stalled 2024-approved development projects
Of the projects the Commission approved in 2024, several have seen no activity — one is for sale, one for lease, and one's building permits expired — raising questions about how to move approved development from paper to construction.
Kulick Community Center reopening
Reopening the Kulick Center is estimated at $6-7.6 million due to failed major systems from flooding and vacancy. Purchase negotiations are ongoing with no FY27 cost impact yet; more analysis is due before FY27 starts.
2025 Planning and Building Activity Recap
Staff reported 14 new builds (mostly single-family), one ADU, and a shift toward administrative approvals under the new zoning ordinance. Commissioners asked for heat maps, extension data, and more detail on larger projects.
LifeLab Kids expansion at 3178 Hilton Road
LifeLab Kids will replace its greenhouse at 3178 Hilton Road with a two-story classroom building, adding therapy rooms and helping the youth services organization serve kids from six weeks old up to age 26.