The Community Development Department was created in 2024 to coordinate growth and guide development and redevelopment in the city, and manage the built environment. The department provides services in a multitude of functions.
Building Division
The Building Division performs residential and commercial building inspections and interprets, administers and enforces the provisions of the adopted Michigan Building Code and Michigan Residential Code. It oversees the issuance of electrical, mechanical, and plumbing permits. Inspections are performed by independent contractors under the supervision of the building official. The division also reviews and stores construction documentation.
Planning and Zoning Division
The division is responsible for providing staff support to the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Historic District Commission, and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority. Additionally, the division is responsible for processing and reviewing all rezoning requests, site plan applications, special use permits, and variance applications. Staff implement and oversee the Master Plan and Zoning Ordinance.
Code Enforcement Division
The division enforces provisions of the International Property Maintenance Code, Code of Ordinances, and Zoning Ordinance. The staff seeks to work collaboratively with residents and business owners to resolve ordinance violations. Staff is also available to meet with residential and business groups in an effort to increase awareness and understanding of ordinance requirements.
Economic Development Division
The division coordinates the city’s economic development activities, including business attraction and development that conforms with the Master Plan. Staff strives to build and maintain productive relationships with the business community, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Development Authority (DDA), and governmental entities related to business support and development.