Community and Economic Development

Mission

The City of Highland Park motto is "Return to Excellence". The optimistic motto of our city drives the vision and direction for the Community and Economic Development Department’s mission: bring excellence to Highland Park by showcasing the community for prospective developers in efforts of revitalizing the local economy and providing a better quality of life for our residents.

Economic Development is key focus for the City of Highland Park as it is essential to the growth & sustainability of the City which enhances the quality of life for our citizens.  The success of the City's goal to "Return to Excellence" is heavily dependent upon retaining and establishing a strong economic base.
 
In efforts to achieve this goal, The City of Highland Park is strongly committed soliciting, supporting and strengthening businesses in their efforts to grow, expand and locate within our boarders.  This is accomplished by the City working to partner with the business community to achieve the right incentives, programs and support needed to aid in the growth of businesses, both large and small.

Collaborations

The Community and Economic Development Department works closely with other governing entities such as the State of Michigan and Wayne County and also partners with the Highland Park Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA), which aims to prevent urban deterioration and encourage economic development. This department also works directly with the City’s Planning Commission on all development projects within the City.

Responsibilities

Community and Economic Development is accountable for the physical improvement of the community as well as the attraction and retention of business and development investment.

General responsibilities include:

• Coordinate Site Plan Review and Approval
• Planning And Building Permit Procedures, Certificates, and Approvals
• Real Estate Summary & Information
• Coordinate Fire Escrow Accounts
• Demolition of Unsafe Structures
• Manages Sale of City owned Residential/Commercial Properties
• Manage Rezoning Requests
• Brownfield Redevelopment
• Historic Districts Review
• Housing Rehabilitation Program
• All CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) Programs

The Restoration of the McGregor Library is also overseen by this department.

Click here for TURBO Program information.