Ferndale · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Ferndale public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Revised FY27 tax rate reflects Headlee rollback
The city-issued millage rate sits at 20.58053 mills, and staff confirmed the city kept its promise that the voter-approved override would be offset by cuts — the city share of the rate has stayed neutral since FY25. Ferndale's rate is among the lowest in the region, second only to Royal Oak.
IT cost savings — Macro Connect
The city renewed its IT services contract with incumbent Macro Connect for three years at $478,524 in year one. Councilmembers questioned the lack of an independent cybersecurity audit and worried about vendor lock-in before approving it.
State Revenue Sharing Trust Fund Resolution
The council backed state legislation to create a dedicated revenue sharing trust fund, which could mean more stable funding for services like police, parks, and road maintenance.
Adoption of BZA bylaws for state certification
The board had never had bylaws, and the state requires them for Ferndale to keep its Redevelopment Ready Communities certification — a designation that helps the city qualify for economic development support.
Boards and commissions consolidation
Voters will decide in August whether to delete the obsolete Civil Service Board from the city charter. The board has to meet monthly even with nothing on its agenda, and HR and union contracts now handle everything it once did.
Mayor Pro Tem selection and council dynamics
A live disagreement surfaced over who should be Mayor Pro Tem: the mayor first backed Donnie Johnson, but Kelley and Sabatini argued Laura Mikulski's communication and collaboration skills made her the better bridge for a divided council. Mikulski won unanimously, with the mayor joining to show unity.