Development News for Lincoln Park, Michigan

City Council Holds Public Hearing on Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget

The city council held a public hearing for the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget, projecting balanced revenues and appropriations. Minor cuts were made, but capital items are included. The general fund budget projects revenues of $29,978,943 and appropriations of the same. The fund balance is projected at $5.7 million, just under the 20% policy. Major and local road funds show projected revenues exceeding expenditures, with an increase of two staff members for infrastructure. The water and sewer fund projects expenditures exceeding revenues under the current rate structure ($17.7 million vs $16.9 million), necessitating a future rate increase. The sanitation fund also shows projected expenditures exceeding revenues ($3.5 million vs $3.4 million), with proposed increases to rubbish and recycling fees. A study session on water and sewer rates is scheduled for June 22nd, and another on sanitation and recycling changes will also occur. [cite: 86-101, 116-120, 137-143, 166-170, 186-203]

Community Events and Police Anniversaries Announced

Councilman Eric Zoro shared upcoming anniversaries for Officers Cosmolski (5 years) and Ray (1 year). He also promoted the 'Touch a Truck' event sponsored by McDonald's on June 28th, where children can explore service vehicles and participate in free bike raffles. He sent prayers to former Mayor KS. [cite: 1119-1137]

City Manager Reports on Road Bonds, Utility Rates, Water Main Breaks, and Leak Detection

The city manager provided updates on several utility-related matters. The bond sale for road bonds is scheduled for the next day. A study session on the water and sewer rate study is set for June 22nd, with potential rate increases to be discussed for July. The city met with Gleewa for contract reopener, resulting in favorable volume rates that will partially help address rate issues. A water main break at Riverbank and Howard required a repair, and unfortunately, the line broke again, necessitating replacement of 18 feet of pipe. Leak detection efforts have identified a large leak whose impact is being estimated. It is believed that the replacement of water meters will significantly help reduce water loss, with progress being made on the meter replacement program. [cite: 595-699]

MGM Autos LLC Approved for New Used Vehicle Dealer License

The council approved a new Class B used vehicle dealer license for MGM Autos LLC at 533 Southfield Road. This approval was for a location that was in process before the moratorium on new used auto dealers was discussed, and therefore allowed to complete its application. Concerns were raised by a council member about the increasing number of used auto dealerships and the need for ordinance enforcement to ensure compliance. [cite: 524-591]