After careful review by the Northville City Council, the City of Northville will appeal a July 9 Wayne County Court decision requiring seasonally closed downtown streets to reopen. The decision came from a combination of factors including the outpour of community support for seasonal street closure through letters, phone calls, and comments by residents at the July 15 and July 29 council meetings.
The City believes the trial court’s interpretation of its authority to manage and utilize public streets for community and economic development warrants further judicial review.
The City also believes that seasonal, spring-summer street closure has supported community engagement, enhanced public safety within the downtown social district, and contributed to the vitality and economic growth of Northville’s downtown.
The Wayne County Court ruling establishes a precedent that may significantly limit the City’s authority to manage public assets in the future and sets permanent limitations affecting decision making and community planning for years to come.
Northville’s City Council is elected by residents of Northville to represent their interests and make decisions on their behalf. Upholding the ability of elected officials to set public policy, rather than delegating those decisions to legal actions from an individual or group of individuals is essential to effective local governance. Preserving the ability of elected officials to respond to community needs is critical to maintaining a healthy and functional representative government at the local level.
As the appeal process moves forward, the City will continue to fully comply with the court’s order, which included reopening Main and Center Streets, effective July 14.
The City’s legal expenses related to this case are largely covered by its municipal liability pooled coverage. The City met its obligations related to the legal expense early in the case, and any future costs associated with the appeal will continue to be handled through that coverage. As a result, this appeal is not being funded by the City’s general fund.
City officials and Downtown Development Authority (DDA) officials have been actively communicating with downtown businesses affected by the court’s order to provide guidance and support, as some have invested in outdoor infrastructure and staffing based on seasonal street closure.
The DDA will continue to evaluate the scheduled summer events and will adjust plans where necessary. The court’s order allows for temporary closures of downtown streets for festivals, parades and special events.
Updates on the appeal will be communicated as they become available.
Downtown Northville remains a thriving, walkable destination, and the City and DDA remain committed to supporting its businesses, promoting economic development, and maintaining the historic character and vibrancy of the community.