Madison Heights Mayor Touts Business Success and Community Spaces in Annual Speech

Madison Heights Mayor Touts Business Success and Community Spaces in Annual Speech

(City of Madison Heights, April 1, 2025)

Madison Heights, MI – Madison Heights Mayor Roslyn Grafstein recently presented her State of the City Address to an audience of Madison Heights Hazel Park Chamber of Commerce members and the public.  Hazel Park Mayor Mike Webb presented his speech as well.  Here is what Grafstein had to say about Madison Heights:

Good morning, I am Roslyn Grafstein, Mayor of Madison Heights. Thank you for joining us for the 2025 State of the City address. It is an honor to stand before you to share our community’s progress, aspirations, and commitment to excellence.

Before we begin, I would like to recognize our City Council and staff. If you’re in attendance, please stand to be acknowledged. This year, our theme is Loving Our Businesses, and I can’t think of a better focus. Businesses are the backbone of our city, they fuel our economy, create jobs, shape vibrant spaces, and define our community’s character.

Today, I want to highlight how we are supporting businesses and share insights from some of our outstanding city departments that make it all possible.

In recent years, a big priority has been fostering a business-friendly environment across all our processes and practices while balancing the needs and requirements of both residents and businesses. Over the past year, we have concentrated on refining processes and policies in our Community and Economic Development Department, with a particular focus on modernizing our zoning ordinance. These updates are a critical step in creating an environment where both businesses and residents can thrive. While ultimately voted on and adopted by council, our Planning Commission has played a key role working with our city Planner, hosting extra meetings and going line by line through the changes. A tedious process with results that will benefit both our residents and business communities.

So Why Were These Updates Necessary? Zoning ordinances shape everything from where businesses can operate to what types of buildings can be constructed. Over time, our previous ordinance became increasingly difficult to navigate—for business owners, developers, and even residents trying to understand its impact on their neighborhoods.

Our goal with these updates was simple: streamline the process to make it easier for businesses to grow and succeed in Madison Heights while maintaining the quality of life that makes our Madison Heights community so special. A few of the major changes in the new ordinance include:

• showing clear tables, pictures, and graphics to make it easy to find what land uses are allowed where

• And, how a site can be developed upon,

• And what design regulations need to be met The ordinance now includes hyperlinks which allows you to easily jump between relevant sections. After all, property owners shouldn’t need to hire an attorney just to find out how they can use their property!

We have built in flexibility, allowing for quicker development approvals and a more efficient administrative process. Where for certain requests, the previous ordinance required a more formal, expensive, and lengthy variance process involving public hearings, now, certain standards can now be addressed administratively behind the counter in just a matter of days.

Contrary to popular belief, council does not need to approve every new business that wants to set up in the city.

As much as we are moving forward, we are also looking at historical successes to help shape our future. The new ordinance reintroduces land uses that were once common in the early 20th century but had been prohibited – housing options such as apartments above shops, townhomes, accessory dwelling units (granny flats), and duplexes.

In a city with rising home prices comprised mainly of single family homes, these options create a healthier mix of residential and commercial spaces.

We have also expanded permitted uses to include businesses like tattoo artist studios and licensed massage therapy offices, enhancing the vibrancy of our city.

Most importantly, the updated zoning ordinance aligns with the goals of our Master Plan, promoting development that serves not only drivers but also those who walk, bike, or roll through our city. It includes improved standards for accessibility, site design, landscaping, building materials, and architecture, all with some flexibility, to ensure high-quality, sustainable development that will shape Madison Heights for the better in the years to come.  Taking notice of how we have prioritized efficiency, clarity, and accessibility for businesses, 2024 marked the sixth time that the University of Michigan’s eCities program recognized Madison Heights as a 5-Star community -the highest rating, for fostering a thriving business environment.

And if you are wondering how much development took place, during the past year, CED issued 758 permits and approved over $10 million in new commercial construction, contributing to an ongoing total project value of almost $30 million.

On top of that, over $27 million in total construction was completed in 2024. Strengthening Business Support & Partnerships

We understand that behind every business is a dream, and often a risk. That’s why we are invested in programs to support local entrepreneurs. We have a strong partnership with the Chamber of Commerce and partner with them to provide workshops, networking events, and direct consultation to help businesses grow.

Moreover, our Clerk’s office has streamlined the process for business licensing in the City. We pride ourselves on providing a welcoming environment for new and established businesses and guiding them as they become stakeholders in the community. This commitment to efficiency and accessibility ensures that businesses can focus on growth while feeling supported from day one.

In addition to supporting businesses through licensing, we regularly partner with organizations to expand opportunities. One example is Project DIAMOnD (Distributed, Independent, Agile Manufacturing On Demand), it is an initiative accelerating manufacturers’ digital transformation through the world’s largest 3D printing network.

Project DIAMOnD exemplifies a digital-first mindset in manufacturing, redefining traditional supply chains and business models while fostering innovation and sustainability.

Another way we show love to our businesses is through infrastructure investment and public- private partnerships. An example of this is our recent collaboration with McNaughton McKay to improve Pinehurst Drive, making business operations more efficient citywide.

Meanwhile, our Department of Public Services ensures reliable infrastructure; clean water, well-maintained streets, and functional drainage systems. This last year alone, DPS has overseen the replacement of 3,850 feet of water main, the complete reconstruction of 3,250 feet of residential streets, and sectional concrete repair on 4,200 feet of major roads.

We have also managed 22 snow events and two snow emergencies this winter, from mid-November to date. Our water and sewer crews have also been busy, with the prompt repair of 29 water main breaks, over half of which have happened since the first of the year.

Between I-75, I696 and the Oakland county portion of John R, our residents and businesses have to deal with a lot of traffic backups and road construction. But, our DPS and City administrative staff are in frequent communication with the County road commissions and MDOT, doing everything they can to mitigate the effects of these major construction projects. This co-ordination allows local businesses to focus on what they do best. Whether it’s ensuring customers can safely access storefronts after a storm or maintaining the roads that connect people to their favorite shops and restaurants, DPS plays a vital role in keeping our local economy moving.

Revitalizing Downtown &Creating a Thriving City

Madison Heights has had a “downtown” since 1997. Hands up if you know where it is. I always tell people it’s about a mile east of the Royal Oak Farmers Market, with Telway at the center at 11 Mile and John R. And now, we are reshaping its future.

With the help of the Madison Heights Downtown Development Authority and an Oakland County Placemaking Grant of $313,000, we are launching Phase 1 of our 11 Mile Streetscaping Plan between John R and Lorenz, right by the high school.

This transformation will improve traffic safety, enhance pedestrian access, and create an inviting, vibrant atmosphere for businesses and visitors.

A thriving downtown is a place where people want to gather, shop, and spend time. Businesses like Woodpile BBQ, with its outdoor seating and community-driven atmosphere, are already setting the tone. Investing in a re-imagined downtown is an investment in our businesses and success.

And, for any developers looking to build in our downtown, keep an eye out because we will soon be seeking proposals to develop a key parcel at John R and 11 Mile, right in the heart of our downtown.

Recognizing Business Contributions

Showing love to businesses also means celebrating their contributions to our community. Madison Heights businesses do more than serve customers, they give back. This year, we are spotlighting businesses that prioritize sustainability and community involvement.

Additionally, through our Madison Heights Community Foundation, made possible by donations from our marihuana facilities, we have funded the Madison Heights Food Pantry, events like Trail Tunes and Revin’ in the Heights, the addition of a disc golf course at Rosie’s Park, the library makers space, and public art. In addition, Quality Roots has funded new Gateway signage throughout our community with installation taking place soon at:

• 14 Mile and John R

• both 12 and 14 Mile at Stephenson Hwy

• and soon on the Madison Heights Hazel Park border at 10 Mile and Progress Drive

Ensuring Safety & Accessibility

Our businesses thrive because they operate in a safe and accessible city. Our Police and Fire Departments work tirelessly to keep our community secure. Routine business property checks, emergency preparedness training, and safety audits provide businesses with the peace of mind they need to succeed. We also offer businesses the ability to participate in CPR training and discounted AED programs, thanks to our Fire Department’s partnership with Stryker, ensuring that safety is always a priority in our community spaces. After earning our first accreditation in 2022, our Police Department was recently reaccredited by the Michigan Law Enforcement Accreditation Commission. This rigorous process included interviews with myself and the City Manager, along with a comprehensive evaluation of the department’s policies, procedures, operations, and practices. Accreditation ensures that our police continue to meet established standards, promoting efficiency, effectiveness, and adherence to best practices in law enforcement.

When it comes to community safety, we have been proactive in supporting our firefighters and investing in their well-being and effectiveness. I am deeply grateful to our firefighters, paramedics, dispatchers, and command staff for their dedication and sacrifices in keeping Madison Heights residents and businesses safe. They consistently go above and beyond. Few professions require the level of teamwork, communication, and split-second decision- making that firefighting demands. In high-pressure emergencies, there is no room for error, and our entire firefighting team, is second to none. No matter the challenges, they show up every day, ready to put their lives on the line for our safety.

With the passage of GEMT by the Michigan legislature earlier this year, we established the Deputy Fire Chief position. Please join me in congratulating Ray Gilson on his promotion as our first Deputy Fire Chief.

Parks, Recreation, and Community Well-Being

Our Parks and Recreation Department continues to expand opportunities for residents, visitors, and businesses. Over the past six years, we have invested over $2 million into our parks, including new pickleball courts at Rosie’s Park and a bandshell at Civic Center.

In 2025, we will see even greater investment with multiple park projects citywide, focusing on Rosie’s Park and a $7 million transformation of Red Oaks Park (formerly Ambassador Park) on 13 Mile. Through our partnership with Oakland County Parks and Recreation over the last few years, we are now reimagining this seven-acre park with multi-generational features and improved accessibility. Many of these projects have been made possible through generous partnerships and grants.

Last year at Trail Tunes, we premiered our new bandshell at Civic Park, funded mainly by a $250,000 grant from the Consumers Energy Foundation. This summer, we will host our first summer concert series, with plans to use the fully accessible stage for school plays and other local performances.

This spring, thanks to a $20,000 grant from the Southeast Michigan Pickleball Association (SMPA), we will open our first pickleball courts at Rosies Park. In addition to funding, SMPA provided guidance during development and will host leagues, lessons, and tournaments on the new courts.

The Active Adult Center also enhances our community’s well-being and creates an unparalleled synergy among our residents. The center hosts numerous trips and events throughout the year, ranging from educational seminars to road trips. With the move to the new center, we have increased offerings and have seen a growth in attendance and usage. Partnering with our police and other public safety organizations, we have also been able to provide our seniors with a variety of safety seminars.

Looking Ahead As we look to 2025, we remain committed to supporting our businesses in innovative ways. We will continue working with the Chamber of Commerce, promoting sustainability, and ensuring Madison Heights remains a hub for entrepreneurs and economic growth.

To all our businesses, thank you for choosing Madison Heights. Your resilience, creativity, and commitment inspire us every day.

To our residents, thank you for supporting local businesses and contributing to the vibrant community we all cherish. And finally, I would like to thank City Manager Melissa Marsh, Executive Assistant Harley Mordarski and Chamber member Vision 1 Media president Tony Austin for their help preparing our presentation this morning. Together, let’s continue building a stronger, more prosperous Madison Heights. The future is bright. The city is strong. Thank you.

For more info on the City of Madison Heights, visit https://www.madison-heights.org/