Ferndale · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ferndale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Ferndale centennial celebration and task force
Ferndale turns 100 in 2027, and the city is opening applications for a centennial task force starting November 10, with a December 1 deadline. Members will be announced December 14 and the group will plan community celebrations.
Martin Road Park construction and playground equipment
The city accepted a $1.63M construction bid for the Outdoor Recreation Support Facility, plus engineering and testing contracts, funded largely by $2.1 million in grant money. Construction is set for this summer.
Lennon Park improvements with county grant
Parks staff will seek DNR grants for new ADA-accessible playground equipment, a walking path, and a renovated basketball court at Lennon Park, which also serves the summer day camp. Council will vote on supporting resolutions at the next meeting.
Harding Park skating rink gets $10,000 more
The crowdfunding campaign for the Harding Inline Rink renovation didn't hit its goal, but raised about $30,000. The renovation's path forward remains open.
Accessibility and Disability Pride Month
The commission discussed Ferndale's parks and plans to schedule site visits to evaluate them firsthand. Those visits could shape future recommendations for making parks more usable for residents with disabilities.
Martin Road Park service building mural
The service building construction at Martin Road Park includes a mural project. Dana Erickson will lead the Mural Subcommittee and help with the RFP process, with a theme of community, activity, and nature under consideration.
Parks & Recreation 5-Year Master Plan update
The RFP for updating the five-year Parks & Rec Master Plan comes out in November, and PaRC and FAIAC representatives will help pick the consultant on a steering committee.
Proclamations: Autism Acceptance and Arab American Heritage Month
April was proclaimed Autism Acceptance Month (sponsored by Sabatini) and National Arab American Heritage Month (sponsored by Mikulski), both adopted via consent agenda and read aloud with personal remarks.
Ferndale Pride alcohol-free status
Council approved Pride's permit and suspended the patio zone, keeping the event alcohol-free this year. A heated debate erupted over a proposed petition-based objective process for future closures; the Pride organizer warned that requiring business signatures and short notice could jeopardize the event's finances and future.
Public art sculpture on Woodward
Local artist James Kaye will donate an abstract steel sculpture for the Woodward Avenue median south of Nine Mile, timed with Art March. The DDA covers about $1,500–$3,000 in permitting and installation; the city must apply to MDOT.