Ferndale, Michigan Development News
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City of Ferndale - City Council Meeting 07/13/2026
Published: Jul 13, 2026
Municipal Sound Study Approved to Update Noise Ordinance
The council approved a proposal for a municipal sound study by K&S Engineers for $9,850. This study, focusing on four specific locations, aims to evaluate and update residential district noise limits, particularly in R1 districts adjacent to commercial or mixed-use areas, as well as the R1 district adjacent to the downtown. The goal is not to be punitive but to ensure reasonable noise levels in quieter parts of the community. The study is expected to take a couple of months to complete, with recommendations presented to the ordinance committee. There was discussion about potentially including frequencies (hertz) in the study beyond decibel levels, which the firm indicated they could accommodate if they have experience with it. The study will focus on recommending noise limits, while enforcement strategies would be addressed by legal counsel.
Feasibility Study Approved for Liveroy Corridor Improvement Authority
The council considered approving an agreement with OM for a feasibility study to explore the creation of a Corridor Improvement Authority (CIA) for the Liveroy corridor. This initiative is driven by recent activity, including 11 new businesses since 2023, increased adaptive reuse of vacant sites, and organized business efforts. The study aims to define boundaries, evaluate parcels for tax increment financing (TIF) capture, project financial capacity, and identify potential for public and private improvements. A CIA is intended to support economic development and reinvestment by capturing incremental property taxes to fund improvements, and could also open doors to county, state, and federal grants. The community and business feedback has been overwhelmingly supportive.
Water Main Break on 8 Mile Road Leads to Temporary Pressure Adjustments
DPW addressed water pooling on West 8 Mile Road due to a 54-inch water main break from GLWA. Repairs were completed by Sunday, but full system testing is ongoing to bring the pipe back into service. Ferndale is receiving water from Southeastern Oakland County Water Association. The city is monitoring water pressure, which may experience temporary fluctuations during peak demand. Residents reporting brown water are asked to call so it can be tracked, as it's likely sediment from directional changes in pipes. The 54-inch GLWA pipe, which supplies Ferndale, runs under 8 Mile Road and is significantly larger than Ferndale's 12-inch main. The break occurred at 380 West 8 Mile Road, requiring deep excavation and temporary repairs. Ferndale's 20-inch main connected to GLWA is also out of service as it's within the repair zone.
City Approves Contract for Continued Lawn Cutting Services for Vulnerable Residents
The council approved a proposal from Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA) for lawn cutting services through October 31st, 2027, not to exceed $62,000. This partnership continues services for 54 households previously supported by an Oakland County grant, which is ending. The program provides lawn mowing, snow removal, and yard cleanup to older adults, low-income, and disabled residents. OLHSA will manage enrollment, serve as the community contact, contract with 'Lawn Clippers' for services, and monitor work. This administrative component allows the city planner to focus on planning initiatives. The program has impacted 62 households and 77 residents previously. This continuation is necessary due to federal budget decreases for CDBG funding and HUD caps on public services.
City Awards Contract for Racial Impact Assessment Services
The council approved awarding a contract for racial impact assessment services to Research to Practice Consulting LLC in conjunction with Maximum Communications for $40,825. The project aims to audit the city's existing policies and procedures against its 2020 anti-racism statement and develop actionable plans for continuous alignment. The selection process involved 19 bids, evaluated on criteria including cost, relevant experience, reliability, skill, qualifications, and references. Research to Practice Consulting LLC was chosen for its within-budget cost, extensive local government experience, Michigan-based status, strong background in developing action plans, balanced approach to data and policy, and communications expertise. The project is expected to be completed within a six to eight-month timeline.
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The Ferndale News archive
Planning Commission
City of Ferndale - Planning Commission 06/24/2026
City Council
City of Ferndale - City Council 06/22/2026
Board of Zoning Appeals - CANCELED
6/15/2026 Ferndale Public Schools Regular Board Meeting
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