LOCAL FOOTBALL TEAMS PREPARE TO KICK OFF THE SEASON 14A
The Farmington Community Library is seeking a millage renewal. Pictured is Sarah Zitter Masindi, the library’s community
Farmington Community Library places tax renewal proposal on ballots
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON/FARMINGTON HILLS — Residents of Farmington and Farmington Hills will decide whether to approve a Farmington Community Library 20-year tax renewal of just under 1 mill on the Nov. 5 general election ballot.
According to ballot language, the estimate of the revenue that would be collected in 2025 if the proposal passes is approximately $4.75 million.
The Farmington Community Library has a location in Farmington, at 23500 Liberty St., and in Farmington Hills, 32737 W. 12 Mile Road.
See LIBRARY on page 8A
NOVEMBER PREVIEW
ALSO ON THE BALLOT, RESIDENTS WILL DECIDE ON:
• A 2-mill tax renewal for Farmington Hills roads
Court’s ruling on wages, sick time reverberates across region
WORKERS, BUSINESSES AND ASSOCIATIONS REACT TO DIVIDED MICHIGAN SUPREME COURT DECISION
BY NICK POWERS AND MARK VEST npowers@candgnews.com, mvest@candgnews.com
METRO DETROIT — A recent 4-3 ruling by the Michigan Supreme Court affecting the state’s laws governing minimum wage and sick time is sending shockwaves through many businesses, including the restaurant industry.
All workers will receive a pay bump to more than $12 an hour in 2025 with tipped workers gradually reaching $12 in 2029. The final amounts will be determined by the state’s treasurer. The current minimum wage is $10.33 and $3.93 for tipped workers.
— See an upcoming issue of the Press for more on this.
• A renewal of the Farmington Public Schools district’s ability to levy up to a 12.5955-mill tax on principal residences
— See an upcoming issue of the Press for more on this.
• A county parks tax renewal of the current 0.35-mill levy set to expire in 2029 with a new tax rate of 0.65 mills
— See page 4A.
All employees, including part-time and temporary workers, are entitled to paid sick leave. Every 30 hours an employee works generates one hour of paid sick leave. Employees get 72 hours paid sick time a year at large companies. However, employers with fewer than 10 employees need to only pay for 40 hours of sick leave a year.
These sweeping changes will go into effect Feb. 21, 2025. For some, it’s a step toward a living wage for workers. For others, it’s a hit to businesses across the state and possibly tipped workers.
See RULING on page 10A
relations director.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
Wood Creek Elementary to partially open after roof fire caused by fireworks
BY CHARITY MEIER cmeier@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON HILLS — A fire caused by fireworks on the roof of Wood Creek Elementary during the early morning hours of July 27 nearly displaced students at the start of the school year.
Fortunately, the school was able to secure a permit to partially open the building so that school can resume Aug. 26.
“We are excited that staff will be able to enter the school next week to set up their classrooms. However, families will not be able to be on site until Monday, Aug. 26,” Kelly Coffin, interim superintendent of Farmington Public Schools, said in a letter to parents and families Aug. 16.
The school will have the areas affected by the fire cordoned off.
The areas that will be inaccessible include the gym, the cafeteria, the music room and two kindergarten classrooms.
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GOODBYE TO THE MAX
about the development, look for Farmington Press articles at candgnews.com, “Maxfield Training Center.”
TestDriveHearingAids
LEFT: The former Maxfield Training Center is being demolished to make way for a new 53-unit townhome community. Farmington Mayor Joe LaRussa, left, and Robertson Brothers Homes President Darian Neubecker are pictured at a press conference that was held about the development Aug. 19. ABOVE: The razing of the former Maxfield Training Center has commenced. For more information
Photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Photo by Charity Meier
Joshua Webb of City Shield Security Services sits in a rocking chair on a “fire watch” detail at the main entrance of Wood Creek Elementary School Aug. 15.
OAKLAND COUNTY PARKS PROPOSES MILLAGE HIKE ON NOVEMBER BALLOT
BY KATHRYN PENTIUK kpentiuk@candgnews.com
OAKLAND COUNTY — Oakland County voters will see an Oakland County Parks millage proposal on the ballot this Nov. 5.
In a bipartisan vote at the July 18 meeting, the Oakland County Board of Commissioners voted 16-3 to approve a resolution to place a millage proposal on the general election ballot.
“My reservations are raising the tax 70% and making it a 20-year tax instead of 10 year. I’m absolutely outraged that they would do that. It’s not good government. It’s irresponsible, and if they want to promote that to the public, they need to put in the headline, ‘this is 70% tax increase,’” Oakland County Commissioner Bob Hoffman said of his no vote. Commissioners Michael Spisz and Karen Joliat also voted no. “I support the parks,” Hoffman said. “I’ve always voted for every Oakland County Parks and Rec millage, but this one I will not vote for. This is outrageous and an insult to the taxpayers.”
The new millage would replace Oakland County Parks’ current 0.35-mill levy set to expire in 2029 with a new tax rate of 0.65 mills that would expire in 2043. If approved, the 0.3-mill increased rate would generate $24 million annually for investment in parks, trails, recreation programs and conservation. For a home with a taxable value of $133,000 — taxable value being generally half of a home’s market value — the 0.3-mill increase would equal around an additional $40 per year on top of the current cost for the same home of around $30 annually. The 0.65 mill is equal to 65 cents per $1,000 of
taxable value. According to Oakland County Parks, if the millage is approved, it would generate around $52 million in 2024.
“I think everyone in Oakland County has a great appreciation for our county park system. It’s one of the most robust park systems in the entire state, and I would even go as far as across the country. This millage proposal really puts us on a course to make the needed investments today to maintain and preserve the enjoyment for folks today and long into the future,” Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairman David Woodward, D-Royal Oak, said. “For me, it really comes down to three things. This millage is going to allow for better access for everyone to our county parks. It’s going to create new recreation opportunities for all, and it’s also going to lead to more nature preservation for today and future generations.”
Woodward added that if the millage passes in November, Oakland County residents will have free entry into Oakland County parks and dog parks, excluding payto-play attractions, such as golf courses, waterparks, campgrounds and off-road vehicle activities.
There will also be more opportunities for recreational use of major rivers, support for larger participation in school field trips to nature and farm education centers, expanded enrichment programs for park-goers of all ages, investment in equipment and facilities designed to be accessible for all regardless of age and ability, new and expanded regional trails and improved maintenance of existing trails, and the preservation and protection of natural habitats, wetlands and green spaces.
Oakland County Parks Director Chris Ward said that the current millage was ap-
Photo provided by Chris Ward
The fishing pier at the Pontiac Oaks is formerly known as Hawthorne Park. The city of Pontiac retains ownership of the park property and collaborates with Oakland County Parks to maintain and improve the park.
Parks
proved for renewal in 2020 to address ongoing budget constraints that led to disinvestment in the county park system.
“Things were getting older and deteriorating,” he said. “In some cases, we had to remove certain amenities. So we were in a bit of a downward spiral there that as we disinvested in things, they were less attractive for people to come to. We had less sales, which then led to greater budget constraints. We had more than $20 million in deferred maintenance projects or existing park facilities and infrastructure.”
Ward said that the increase and renewal in 2020 allowed the department to “climb out of that hole” and more than double the amount of money spent per year on maintaining existing assets.
Ward said that Oakland County received $244 million in federal funding from the American Rescue Plan. Oakland County Parks put together a proposal for $15 million that the Board of Commissioners approved that was centered on urban recreation and the revitalization of urban recreation spaces, which included agreements with local governments where OCP took over operating and managing existing city parklands that were underutilized because of lack of investment, as well as providing grants to Oakland County governments.
“For instance, we built a playground for Royal Oak Township,” he said. “Built a playground in Hazel Park as well. Southfield’s using some of the money to create some improvements at Beech Woods Park. Oak Park’s building a farmer’s market. So it was a combination of things, but it was all pretty much centered in the urban population centers of the county.”
The potential $100 million investment from the new millage would bring major capital improvements to improve the recreational use of all 15 parks, trails, recreational attractions and the Oakland County Farmers Market, officials said.
“What we’ve looked at here is a combination of not only maintenance but creating a system-wide update to our park system, which is going to be 60 years old in two years. We do have some major projects that need to be done to refresh those spaces to create amenities and features that are more responsive to the current needs of the public and make those spaces more attractive for people to come and enjoy.” Ward added.
He explained that the goal is to continue to partner with local governments. The Oakland County parks system will ex-
pand from 15 parks to 19 in the next two or three years with the addition of the Southfield Woods Nature Preserve at the existing Beech Woods Park; Oak Park Woods, which will take a portion of Shepherd Park; Turtle Woods in Troy; and the 100 acres south of the courthouse in Pontiac that Oakland County transferred to the park system.
“About 55% of the county right now lives within a 10-minute drive of one of our parks,” Ward said. “This partnership model, where we work together with local governments, we think has tremendous potential for us to move the dial on that from 55% to 90% in a few years by acquiring and developing new properties together.”
He added that if the millage is approved, OCP plans to enter into a partnership with Rochester Hills to develop Nowicki Park and a partnership with West Bloomfield Township to collaborate on the development of Pine Lake Park. Ward mentioned Turtle Woods in Troy as an example of the challenges the county park system faces when acquiring new properties for nature preserves and parks. He said that currently, OCP is in the process of reapplying for a grant from the Department of Natural Resources Trust Fund, and if denied again, the millage would allow them to move forward with work at the site regardless of whether that grant is obtained. Ward also mentioned that the unpaved parking lot at Catalpa Oaks in Southfield is another great example of a major improvement needed at an existing park. Red Oaks Waterpark in Madison Heights needs more than $10 million in investments to update outdated and deteriorating facilities. He explained that the cost of public water supply for the irrigation of the Red Oaks Golf Course is more than $100,000 annually. Oakland County Parks is working to address this issue by developing a system to utilize and recycle stormwater for irrigation and aims to address the lack of sufficient parking at the park.
Since its inception in 1966 with one park of 190 acres, the Oakland County parks system has expanded to 15 parks, with more on the way. The department has more than 7,000 acres, 80 miles of trails and nearly 2 million visitors annually.
“We are always looking for new opportunities, new things that we could do to reach more people and provide a chance for people to have fun, get active and enjoy the outdoors,” Ward said.
For more information about the proposed millage, visit OaklandCountyParks. com and select the tab labeled “2024 Millage.” Residents can share their feedback by emailing info@OaklandCountyParks.com.
Man armed with sword barricaded inside Farmington Hills residence
BY MARK VEST mvest@candgnews.com
FARMINGTON HILLS — A man who barricaded himself inside of a four-unit apartment was arrested and charged with multiple felonies, according to a press release from the city of Farmington Hills.
On Aug. 15, just after 6:45 a.m., the Farmington Hills police responded to a report of a felonious assault in the 31000 block of Nine Mile Road.
After arriving at the scene, officers spoke with a 28-year-old man, who explained that his ride-share driver had used the driveway of a neighboring house.
The occupant of the neighboring home, who was later reported to be Brandon Mayfield, 41, reportedly confronted the 28-yearold man after he had exited the vehicle.
Mayfield was reportedly brandishing a knife and using racial slurs.
“The victim fled to his apartment and called 911,” the release states. “While on the phone with dispatchers, the victim reported hearing a loud pop, which he believed to be a gunshot from Mayfield’s direction. Mayfield had returned to his residence and was outside
yelling racial slurs.”
Officers quickly arrived at the location, established a perimeter and attempted to contact Mayfield, according to the release.
As officers approached Mayfield’s residence to speak with him, they observed him standing in the driveway, armed with a sword.
Despite verbal commands to drop the sword, Mayfield refused to comply and retreated into his apartment.
The officers maintained the perimeter and requested assistance from the Oakland County Sheriff’s SWAT team, the release states
Mayfield refused to comply with SWAT team orders to exit the building.
After “all attempts” to get Mayfield to comply had failed, the SWAT team deployed a chemical agent.
According to the release, it had an “immediate” effect, as Mayfield peacefully surrendered. Farmington Hills detectives obtained a search warrant for the residence, and upon execution of it, they found numerous knives, swords, a rifle and a spent shell casing.
Those items were recovered from the apartment, according to the release.
FINANCIAL CHAMPION
On Aug. 16, the Oakland County Prosecutor’s Office authorized a three-count warrant charging Mayfield with assault with a dangerous weapon, a four-year felony; ethnic intimidation, a two-year felony; and resisting/obstructing a police officer, also a twoyear felony.
Mayfield was arraigned in 47th District Court Aug. 17, and his bond was set at $100,000 – cash or surety. He was scheduled to have an in-court pre-exam conference Aug.
26, after press time.
“I’m glad to say, with the assistance of the Oakland County Sheriff’s SWAT team, our officers were able to bring this situation to a peaceful and safe resolution and take the suspect into custody without further harm or incident,” Farmington Hills Police Chief Jeff King said. “There were no injuries reported by anybody involved.”
At press time, Mayfield’s attorney had not returned a phone call seeking comment.
Around The Corner
CRIME WATCH
Parking spot disagreement leads to assault charges
FARMINGTON — On Aug. 8 at approximately 8:15 p.m., officers were dispatched to the 32000 block of Grand River Avenue for a report of an assault and battery.
When officers arrived, the suspect, a 56-year-old man, had fled the scene, but witnesses were able to copy down the license plate of the suspect vehicle.
A 27-year-old man reported that he and the suspect had had a disagreement about a parking spot. The suspect then assaulted him and fled, according to the police report.
Officers were able to locate the suspect from the license plate, and he was arrested and cited for assault and battery.
Ex accused of credit card fraud
FARMINGTON — A 42-year-old woman went to the police station Aug. 12 to report that her ex-boyfriend had opened several credit cards in her name and had made numerous purchases with them.
The case has been forwarded to the detective bureau for investigation and followup.
Stuff broken, nothing taken in B&E incident
FARMINGTON — On Aug. 13 at around 1:30 a.m., officers were dispatched to the 33000 block of North Manor Drive for a reported breaking and entering. Officers were met by a 24 year old woman, who reported that she had returned home to
her apartment after being gone for two days and found her entry door cracked open.
She said nothing was missing, but several items were broken and out of place. There were no signs of forced entry noted.
There were no cameras in the area, and a canvas of neighbors reported nothing unusual. Currently, there are no suspects. The case has been forwarded to the detective bureau for investigation.
Fraudulent charges discovered
FARMINGTON —On Aug. 16 a 65-year-old man reported that he noticed three fraudulent purchases on his bank account. He filed a dispute with his bank and also requested a police report be made. There is not currently a known suspect, and the case has been forwarded to the detective bureau for investigation.
Amazon delivery vehicle damages parked SUV
FARMINGTON — An officer was dispatched to Brookdale Street regarding a parked vehicle that had been struck on the driver’s side door by an SUV that then fled the area around 3 p.m. July 29.
The owner of the parked vehicle provided Ring camera footage that shows a green Suburban backing into his parked vehicle and leaving the scene. The officer believes the vehicle to be an Amazon delivery vehicle.
Officers located the green Suburban disabled on Maple Street. The driver of the Suburban admitted to making a delivery on Brookdale Street but denied being involved in an accident. The 34-year-old driver was cited for leaving the scene of an accident and improper backing.
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Open intoxicants found in parked vehicle
FARMINGTON — A police officer saw a suspicious vehicle parked in the lot of the closed A&W around 3 a.m. July 30. The officer contacted the 24-year-old driver, who was asleep. The driver stated he was sleeping after a long shift at work. The officer observed an open can of White Claw and an open pint of Jose Cuervo in the center console of the vehicle. The alcohol was confiscated and poured out.
The driver was cited for having open
intoxicants in a motor vehicle.
Motorcycle flees police
FARMINGTON — Aug. 2 at approximately 12:25 a.m., an officer observed a motorcycle on northbound Orchard Lake, near Grand River Avenue, with no license plate. The officer attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but the motorcycle fled eastbound on Grand River.
The officer terminated the pursuit, and the case was forwarded to the detective bureau for further investigation.
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Sarah Zitter Masindi, who is the library’s marketing and community relations director, shared more details about the proposal.
“It is just a renewal of the current rate that we levy during the summer property tax season, and this one accounts for about 55% of the library’s revenue, on average, each year,” Zitter Masindi said. “We do not have any special plans that this money would go towards, outside of what we generally do on an average year for our services.”
According to Zitter Masindi, the majority of the library’s budget goes towards staffing and collection development, with building updates and maintenance repairs also included as part of the budget.
In an email Zitter Masindi stated that according to the 2024-2025 approved budget, the projected total amount to be allocated for payroll expenses this fiscal year is
Wood Creek
from page 3A
Coffin said they will move the affected kindergarten classrooms to the other side of the school.
The kitchen area was unaffected, so they will be able to continue to have hot breakfast and lunches for students.
“We have a solid plan in place for the partial reopening of the school,” Coffin said.
The repair work is expected to take approximately two months to complete. Coffin said during a school board meeting Aug. 13 that there is a lot of work to be done to make that area of the school building “structurally sound.”
The effects of the fire displaced many voters, as the school was scheduled to be a polling place for the Aug. 6 primary election.
Although the fire on the roof was contained to the outside of the building, the resulting smoke and water damage makes the area uninhabitable. District officials said they were working around the clock to correct the issue, but there were multiple hurdles to clear in order to completely reopen the school building.
“Immediately when we heard of the fire we recognized that the damage, while it was contained to one wing of the building … the fire and smoke smell was throughout the building, but truly it was the water in putting out the fire that created the most damage,” said Coffin, during the Aug. 13 Board of Education meeting.
$4,528,324.
She also stated that for this coming fiscal year, the projected numbers for books is $303,000, for eBooks it is $107,000, for audio/visual it is $53,700, for information resources it is $241,600, for video/DVD/ movie collection it is $68,450, and for newspapers and periodicals it is $38,000, which totals $811,750.
In regard to the 0.9264-mill renewal rate, the cost for each property owner can be calculated by multiplying the taxable value of their property by the millage rate and dividing it by 1,000.
Property tax values can be found on property tax statements and by checking with the local assessor’s office.
It is typically equal to 50% of the market value of a property.
With the Farmington Community Library’s proposal calling for a millage not to exceed 0.9264 mill, according to Zitter Masindi, for a homeowner with a taxable value of $250,000, at the current rate, that would come out to $231.35 per year for 20 years.
According to Farmington Hills Fire Marshal Jason Baloga, firefighters worked diligently.
“We expedited this process to ensure that Farmington Public Schools could move forward with its insurance claim and reconstruction process with efficiency,” Baloga said in an email. “We look forward to the school returning to normal operations as soon as possible.”
The school also underwent an electrical inspection because the generator switch was in the vicinity of the fire. Coffin said the district had an extra switch at North Farmington High School that they were able to use at Wood Creek to expedite the process of getting the building approved.
As a result of the fireworks incident, the unoccupied school building was being guarded by around the clock security service workers working six- to eight-hour “fire watch” shifts, sitting in a rocking chair at the main entrance to prevent people from entering and watching to make sure nothing catches fire.
“We just make sure nothing sparks,” said Joshua Webb of City Shield Security Services.
Webb said that along with monitoring the door, they do rounds around the school to make sure no fires occur, as another company is working on the electrical system and lights are, “like, hanging.” Diane Bauman, FPS director of school and community relations and pupil accounting, said the guards were there to watch the unoccupied building to make sure there were no more fires and to prevent people from breaking into
BALLOT LANGUAGE:
Shall the Farmington Community Library, County of Oakland, be authorized to levy annually a renewal of the previously authorized millage, which expires in 2024, in an amount not to exceed .9264 mill ($0.9264 per each $1,000 of taxable value) against all taxable property within the Farmington Community Library district for a period of twenty (20) years, 2025 to 2044, inclusive, for the purpose of providing funds for all district library purposes authorized by law? The estimate of the revenue the District Library will collect in the first year of levy (2025) if the millage is approved and levied by the District Library is approximately $4,750,000. A portion of the revenue collected may be subject to capture by the City of Farmington Downtown Development Authority and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, the City of Farmington Hills Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, and the Grand River Corridor Improvement Authority.
The wording on the ballot also states that a portion of the revenue collected may be subject to capture by the city of Farmington Downtown Development Authority and Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, as well as the Grand River Corridor Improvement Authority.
“Specifically for the DDA, that’s something that we work with them a lot because we are part of that district in downtown Farmington,” Zitter Masindi said. “We think it’s important that we contribute to it because downtown Farmington contributes a lot to the library, as well as the community as a whole.”
the building.
Coffin said that 360 Fire and Flood was hired immediately after the fire to start the process of cleaning up the damage.
The building is now cleaned, and the items damaged by the fire have been inventoried.
Coffin said they expected to get a list of the inventoried items soon. Once they receive that information they will be working to replace those items.
“Many of our departments in other buildings are loaning things to the teachers in the event that we are willing to start. So, we will be ready to start that way,” said Coffin. “Much of the materials were completely destroyed, so we do have a list of the books that were damaged and had to be thrown out, so we are working to order those as well. So, we’re doing everything on our part to be ready to be open,” said Coffin.
The district had also considered several other options for the children to be able to start school on time, including sending the children temporarily to various other schools in the district, going virtual for up to 15 days, or possibly delaying the start of the school year, which would have resulted in additional school days being added at the end of the year.
Many parents went to the Aug. 13 meeting to express their concerns about the possibility of virtual school. Many said virtual school presents challenges, as they work full time and young children not only have to be supervised — which would prevent parents from going to work or would require
According to information sent by Zitter Masindi from the “DDA Annual Report on Status of Tax Increment Financing Plan FY 2023,” the DDA captured $25,894 from library millages, with $2,891 being captured from the CIA, according to the “Corridor
See LIBRARY on page 9A
a babysitter — and that elementary children don’t learn and focus well in virtual school.
“Wood Creek is one of those things that you don’t plan for, but in today’s world, tornadoes come through and rip roofs off buildings, floods happen,” said Claudia Heinrich, a board member. “We didn’t prepare for the global pandemic in 2020. We had to figure out what to do. So, we have all of that experience and we have emergency plans in place. … We don’t necessarily want to take the easy way out.”
Heinrich said she understood parents’ frustration with the lack of communication, but that when working with contractors, “sometimes there isn’t good communication because there isn’t information to communicate.”
However, she said that perhaps they just need to communicate that they are “hounding” people about the issue and there aren’t any updates. She said they need to look at how they can meet the needs of all families and offer options. She said that families are impacted differently. Some are fine with virtual. Some are not.
“I want to challenge the district to really be creative and make sure we really meet the needs of all the families and listen to what they are needing and offer a variety of solutions,” said Heinrich.
Coffin said she will continue to update parents via email. However, should they have additional questions, they can contact Principal Christina Lewis at christina.lewis@ fpsk12.nwr or send an email to info@fpsk12. net.
Improvement Authority Annual Report on Status of Tax Increment Financing Plan for Fiscal Years ending in 2023.”
Zitter Masindi discussed the timing of the proposal, with many people being impacted by inflation.
“This current millage is expiring at the end of this year, so 20 years ago, when we put it to our voters, we didn’t necessarily know what inflation or the economy would look like at this specific point in time,” she said. “I think all of us who work at the library, we’re voters, we live in the community as well — all of us are affected by inflation, and I think every time voters go to the poll, we all vote with what our specific priorities are, what we feel is very valuable to the community.”
From the perspective of Jillian Baker, who is an assistant director at the library, the proposal is to keep the status quo.
“It’s just to continue to offer the services we’ve always been offering,” Baker said. “It’s simply to continue to provide staffing and collections and everything else that we’ve always offered.”
Farmington Hills resident Kathy Reno is a supporter of the millage.
“I’m for the millage because the library offers so many opportunities to families,” Reno said. “It’s a community. You can come here (and) meet people. … I think it’s important to support the millage.”
Farmington Hills resident Hal Light said that the library is very important to him.
“We’re customers, and they’re taking very good care of us,” Light said. “I’ve lived
in this community for 30 years, and this library’s been a good source for me. It’s been a good relationship for me to have a library like this.”
For Farmington Hills resident Ronda Dewald, what the Farmington Community Library offers is worth the cost in taxes.
“I read a lot, so I’m willing to pay the extra to have the libraries, rather than have to buy the books,” Dewlald said. “I’m a big supporter for the library.”
According to Zitter Masindi, the current winter millage rate for the Farmington Community Library is 0.5424 mills, which she said she believes expires in 2032 and accounts for about 32% of the library’s operating budget.
Zitter Masindi, stated that if the proposal does not pass the library will need to reduce services, beginning next July.
“Some of the affected services would include things like our public service desk staffing, building hours, and purchasing for different library collections,” she said. “We do not have a specific plan that is laid out because final decisions … would be determined by our board of trustees.”
For those who have questions about the proposal, there are resources.
“I’m not sure what to anticipate this time around, but staff are well-prepared with all of the information and we’re happy to answer any questions,” Baker said. “We will have all of the information on our website.”
For more information, visit farmlib. org/millage.
For financial information about the library, visit farmlib.org/about-us/financialinformation/
Call Staff Writer Mark Vest at (586) 498-1052.
Ruling
Mike D’Angelo is the owner of Mitten and Boot Cafe and Fine Foods in Farmington Hills, which he said he has owned for approximately four years.
Although a minimum wage increase isn’t likely to affect him, as he said that he has no tipped workers and is “literally by myself,” he has some thoughts on the subject.
From his perspective, the ruling is a “horrible thing” that will essentially kill unfranchised and non-corporate restaurants because there won’t be enough financial backing to withstand the change.
“What’ll end up happening with restaurants is they will employ servers on more of a part-time basis,” D’Angelo said. “They’ll cut their service staff down to the bare minimum during the slow times, so your servers, instead of working six-, seven-, eight-hour shifts, they’ll only predominantly work during the busy times. … Most of them at that point won’t take that position. So now you’re (going to) have a very big shortage of servers.”
D’Angelo is of the opinion that the ruling will also have a negative impact on
restaurant owners and consumers, as the minimum wage increase will mean that restaurants will have to increase menu prices.
“You’re just adding more and more money onto the bill, so either you’re just going to completely get rid of service restaurants or you’re going to have to increase the amount of money you’re charging,” D’Angelo said. “How much do you raise the prices before you completely remove that person from your restaurant? Are you going to go out and get a plate of pasta for $35? … They’re trying to eliminate the tipping culture, and I don’t think they understand the ramifications of doing so and how that’s going to affect a lot of restaurants and a lot of employees.”
D’Angelo said that if he had to add even $2 to every one of his menu items, “I might as well lock the door right now.”
Constance Panaretos is a server at the Farmington Diner, which is located on the corner of Grand River Avenue and Middlebelt Road. She estimated that she earns approximately $25 per hour with the current system that is in place, and she is not a proponent of changing it.
“If it’s not broke, why fix it? Everybody’s used to this,” Panaretos said. “I make a lot more money than minimum wage, so I personally do not want it to stop.”
Keemeh Williams is also a server at the Farmington Diner. She thinks that the ruling is going to hurt more than it helps.
“If people stop tipping us because they think, ‘Oh, they get $10 an hour,’ I’m not going to be able to feed my kids,” Williams said. “I don’t make anything less than $25 an hour when you calculate my tips plus my $3. So it’s going to hurt really bad if people stop tipping. … I’m going to have to find another job, and I don’t know where else I’m going to work.”
Williams also thinks the business itself could be hurt due to the possibility of having to raise menu prices.
“We’re not (going to) be a family diner if it costs $20 or $25 per person to eat,” she said. “So who’s making money in the long run? Nobody. It’s hurting everybody.”
How this happened
This ruling was years in the making. It’s the result of wrangling to keep the issue off the ballot in Michigan by legislators against the changes.
It started with two petitions in 2018 that received the required number of signatures to potentially appear on the ballot.
One petition would have given workers gradual wage increases until the minimum wage became $12 in 2022. After 2022, the
wage would be increased each year, as determined by the state, according to inflation. The minimum-wage gap between tipped workers and all other workers, 38% in 2018, would be eventually closed by 2024.
The other petition required employers to give employees one hour of paid sick time for every 30 hours worked per week.
The Legislature adopted the unaltered initiatives in September 2018. This kept them off the ballot and allowed lawmakers to alter them.
They did this in two bills. One caused the minimum wage increases to not exceed $12 until 2030 and removed the increases for tipped workers. It also removed increases to the wage based on inflation. The second made changes to sick time. It exempted employers with under 50 employees from providing paid sick time. It reduced the amount of paid sick time hours for larger businesses from 72 hours to 40.
The changes, led by Republicans, were approved along party lines by margins of 6048 in the Michigan House of Representatives and 26-12 in the state Senate in a lame duck session in December 2018. They were signed by then-Gov. Rick Snyder and went into effect March 29, 2019.
In the Michigan Court of Claims, it was
See RULING on page 11A
Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic
What started as a one-person auto repair shop has grown into a high-tech, highly knowledgeable locally owned automotive clinic that treats its clients and employees like family.
Just as importantly, Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic in Farmington Hills is focused on continuing education and mentorship in a fast-paced industry, according to Owner Bill Griffin. With 10 full-time employees, Griffin’s has evolved into one of the most advanced auto clinics in metro Detroit, with a loyal customer base and a collective knowledge rivaled by few.
The clinic handles basic repairs like brakes shocks, exhausts and alignment, but stands apart from its competitors by offering OEM-level, one-stop repair services of diagnostic equipment and multiple makes and models. Several other auto repair shops refer more complex, diagnostic projects to Griffin’s because of that knowledge and expertise. “We enjoy doing some of the repairs that other shops won’t, like in-house programming calibrations, current ramping, pressure transducers and handling complex electronic systems,” says Griffin. “We operate on a different level of expertise.”
senior, certified mechanics will train younger staff in the shop on more complex repairs. This ensures a higher level of knowledge that benefits the entire clinic and its clients. All employees work as a team – none are paid by commission.
“I’ve set up the compensation structure here so that it benefits everyone if every job is done right the first time,” Griffin says. “We operate as a team. I may ask three different (technicians) to look at a client’s vehicle to make sure a repair or maintenance is done properly.” Team members at Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic are often state and nationally certified in multiple auto technical segments. All have been personally mentored by Griffin. Many of his employees have stayed with him for years, building a strong bond with longtime, repeat customers.
That also includes tackling heavy engine and transmission projects that other auto shops won’t touch, he adds. Over the years, Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic has invested in both the tools and teaching needed to complete such complex repairs. As a result, the clinic has developed a reputation for handling performance engines and classic car repairs, along with aftermarket enhancements.
“We’re proud to have a mix of cutting-edge and high-tech repairs,” Griffin says. Education is an important part of the Griffin experience. The auto clinic is open weekdays, but on Saturdays Griffin and other
“Building qualified staff is important because the number of young people entering the trade is not keeping pace with the number of people retiring”, Griffin adds. He has hired young people still in high school, and mentors them in a way so that they can have the skills and certifications needed to have a high-paying career immediately after they graduate from high school.
“We’re always striving to build long-term relationships with our customers and our employees,” Griffin says. “They aren’t just a name and a number. They really are like family to us.”
Griffin’s Neighborhood Auto Clinic is located on 23905 Freeway Park Drive and is open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Free shuttle transportation and towing to and from the clinic is available in most cases. Learn more by calling 248-888-9406 or visiting griffinsautoclinic.com.
Ruling
determined that the Amended Wage Act and the Amended Earned Sick Time Act were unconstitutional on July 19, 2022. This was reversed by the Michigan Court of Appeals, but was ultimately upheld by Michigan Supreme Court’s July 31, 2024, ruling.
“We hold that this decision to adopt the initiatives and then later amend them in the same legislative session (what has been referred to as ‘adopt-and-amend’) violated the people’s constitutionally guaranteed right to propose and enact laws through the initiative process,” the majority opinion states.
Business owners, associations react
Many business owners and associations have decried the decision.
The Michigan Retailers Association released a statement in the wake of the news.
“Bedrock principles of capitalism and a competitive labor market are thwarted by extending the paid leave law to employers with only one employee, dramatically altering the paid leave requirements for those with 50 or more employees, and mandating substantial changes to the minimum wage,” the association stated in a press release.
Other organizations including the Michigan Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Association of Michigan struck a similar tone in press releases.
Joe Vicari, founder and CEO of the Joe Vicari Restaurant Group, spoke out against the changes. The Vicari Group, which includes mostly Michigan businesses under the Andiamo brand, has over 20 restaurants.
“This ruling will devastate the restaurant industry,” Vicari said in an emailed statement. “Many hard-working people will lose their jobs. Eighty-three percent of the restaurant industry did not want this law to pass!”
A ‘landmark victory’
Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel praised the ruling.
“This is a landmark victory for Michigan voters and a resounding affirmation of the power of direct democracy,” Nessel is quoted as saying in a press release. “The Legislature cannot manipulate its power to undermine the will of the people. This ruling sends a clear message that elected officials cannot disregard the voices of their constituents. I am glad to see the Court recognize and respect that the people reserved for themselves the power of initiative, a crucial tool meant to shape the laws that govern them.”
The Restaurant Opportunities Center called the day of the ruling “an important day to remember,” calling the decision a win for working families and democracy.
“This ruling is the answer to economic opportunities and job protections that every worker, every voter and every person— Black, white, Latino, Asian, gay and straight, binary and non-binary, Democrat and Republican, immigrants and Native Americans, young and senior—deserves,” Chris White, director, ROC Michigan, is quoted as saying in a statement. “Together with our coalition partners and allies, I am proud of what we have accomplished!”
The Michigan AFL-CIO also commended the ruling.
“We commend the Court for ruling what we all clearly witnessed back in 2018,” Michigan AFL-CIO President Ron Bieber said in a press release. “The Republicancontrolled legislature’s flagrant disregard for the citizen initiative process has robbed Michigan workers of wages and sick leave for the past five years. Republicans in the legislature quite literally stole out of the pockets of Michigan workers and today’s ruling by the Supreme Court is the first step in righting this wrong and making workers whole.”
Photo by Patricia O’Blenes
A recent Michigan Supreme Court ruling pertaining to
owners and servers.
NEWS & NOTES
VEGFEST TO RETURN
FARMINGTON — VegMichigan is scheduled to host the eighth Fall VegFest 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sept. 8 at Riley Park.
“Everyone is invited to attend this free admission, family-friendly event, whether you are completely new to plant-based eating or have been eating this way for many years,” a press release states. “This event will offer some of the best plant-based food Michigan has to offer and will feature 30 vendors, including restaurants, food trucks, caterers, specialty items, sustainable shopping, and nonprofits.”
Presentations, live music and a talk from a dietician nutritionist are all slated to be part of the event. An area for children to color and play games will be available.For more information, visit vegmichigan. org/fall-vegfest or send an email to Kim@VegMichigan.org.
Local Girl Scout recognized
FARMINGTON HILLS — The Girl Scouts of Southeastern Michigan recently gave out Gold Awards to 14 Girl Scouts, according to a press release.
The Gold Award is earned by girls who demonstrate leadership in developing sustainable solutions to local, national and global challenges, with at least 80 hours required to earn a Gold Award, according to the release.
Destiny L. Cole, of Farmington Hills, was one of the “Gold Award Girl Scout” recipients. Cole designed “A Journal of Celebration and Reflection” after noticing unhealthy mental health behavior from her school community. The journal is a resource for positive journaling, with Cole having more than 150 hard copies of the journal printed and distributed for free to students and adults.
Cole graduated from North Farmington High School, according to the release.
Farmington Hills Department of Public Services recognized
FARMINGTON HILLS — The Farmington Hills Department of Public Services achieved its third consecutive accreditation from the American Public Works Association, according to a press release.
Farmington Hills is one of three accredited agencies in Michigan, and the sole accredited city, according to the release.
The achievement recognizes that the city is in full compliance with the management practices set forth in the APWA’s public works management practices manual, the release states.
The Department of Public Services maintains roads, water mains and sewers, and handles recycling and trash collection, according to the release. For more information, call (248) 8712530 or visit fhgov.com.
FACILITY SUPPORTING INDIVIDUALS WITH MENTAL HEALTH
SOUTHFIELD — The Lois and Milton Y. Zussman Center, which is operated by Gesher Human Services and is designed for people with a serious mental-health diagnosis, has moved to a new facility, according to a press release.
The new facility, which is 8,676 square feet, is more than double the size of the previous one.
The facility was designed by and for individuals with mental health
diagnoses “who seek a welcoming and engaging community atmosphere where they can enjoy social and cultural activities, educational classes, culinary experiences, vocationally support, and volunteer opportunities.”
The facility is located in the Vanguard Center in Southfield.
An artistic enrichment program gives people opportunities to participate in photography, painting, sculpture, music, creative writing and singing lessons.
DISORDERS MOVES
“Participants at the Clubhouse for Common Good are diagnosed with persistent mental health conditions, such as severe depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia,” the release states.
More than 120 people are currently being served in the programming, according to the release.
For more information, call (248) 233-4325 or visit geshermi.org.
Photo provided by the city of Farmington Hills
SPORTS
WEST OAKLAND COUNTY FOOTBALL PREVIEW
GROVES EYES OAA WHITE TITLE, SEAHOLM HOPES TO STAY ON TOP OF OAA BLUE
BY JONATHAN SZCZEPANIAK jszczepaniak@candgnews.com
We’re back in full swing with gridiron action at the high school level. Here are previews for all teams in the C & G Newspapers coverage area in western Oakland County.
Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice
Last season’s record: 0-9. League: Catholic High School League Central.
First game: vs. Roseville, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
It was an out-of-character season for Brother Rice, which was winless in 2023. Now under the direction of head coach Aaron Marshall, who coached Southfield A&T to a state championship last year, Brother Rice is hoping to become players in the CHSL Central Division. Led by junior quarterback Brady Thomas, Rice’s offense hopes to get back on track with senior Nolan Hannawa (LB) and senior Alex Grochowski (DB) commanding the defense.
Birmingham Groves
Last season’s record: 6-4. League: Oakland Activities Association White Division.
First game: at Detroit U of D Jesuit, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
With the level of talent Groves possesses, there’s no reason why it’s not competing for an OAA White league title this year. Headlined by University of Michigan commit Avery Gach (OL); senior running back Noah Sanders, a three-star recruit, according to 247Sports; and senior defensive back Chris Little, a Grand Valley State University commit, Groves has elite-level talent on both sides of the ball. Senior Ryan Counts will command the huddle this season with senior Mario Campoy-LoVasco (RB), senior Nick Hardy (WR) and Little (WR) also contributing offensively. On the defensive side, Little
leads the group alongside senior Jalen Brooks (DB), with junior Joshua Hammonds (DL), senior Teddy Abbot (DB), senior Paul Hubbard (LB), junior Carter Hladki (LB) and senior Wyatt Shortridge (LB) all set to contribute as well.
Birmingham Seaholm
Last season’s record: 9-2. League: Oakland Activities Association Blue Division.
First game: vs. Troy Athens, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
It will be a tough hill to climb in order to stay at the top of the OAA Blue, but Seaholm is looking for its inexperienced players to step up to fill the void. Returning only two starters on each side of the ball, head coach Jim DeWald said his guys are hungry to prove what they’ve got this season.
“I think they’re trying to carry on that tradition of being a gritty and tough group of kids, and every coach probably says that, but I really believe that in my heart,” DeWald said. “The last three days, we’ve been as physical as we can be without pads. We have a couple new coaches, and they’re saying how they’ve seen teams never be this physical in full pads.”
Seniors Matt Erne and Magnus Branstrom return to the offensive line, with senior Penn Roberts expected to handle the bulk of the carries offensively. Defensively, Roberts will anchor the linebacking core alongside senior Alejandro Rauth, while senior Nathan Walsh (DB) will be the mainstay in the secondary. Of course, who could forget senior kicker Wesley Billings, who gives Seaholm a chance any time it’s in opponent territory.
Bloomfield Hills
Last season’s record: 1-8. League: Oakland Activities Association Blue.
First game: vs. Troy, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
The OAA White wasn’t kind to Bloom-
field Hills, so it returned to its roots of the OAA Blue, where it posted a 9-1 record the last time it competed in the league in 2021.
Senior running back Evan Becker will headline the offensive unit with senior wideout Payton Parsons, while senior linebacker Sam Doerr leads the defense.
Bloomfield Hills Cranbrook Kingswood
Last season’s record: 2-7. League: Catholic High School League Intersectional #1.
First game: vs. International Academy of Flint, 5 p.m. Aug. 29.
We’re three years removed from Cranbrook Kingswood’s seven-straight seasons of making the playoffs. With only a handful of
returning starters on each side of the ball, it will be up to senior wideout Owen Steinke and sophomore Anthony Warchuck to lead the offense, while sophomore defensive end Charlie Fogle commands the defense.
Detroit Catholic Central
Last season’s record: 8-3. League: Catholic High School League Central.
First game: at Dearborn, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
Detroit Catholic Central has been the masters of consistency, and they should have no problem continuing that trend this season. Posting eight or more wins the past four seasons, DCC will lean on senior Jaden Py-
TOP: West Bloomfield head coach Zach Hilbers speaks with his offensive and defensive lines behind him at the Oakland Activities Association media day Aug. 9 at Rochester High School.
Photo by Erin Sanchez
ABOVE: Novi head coach Jim Sparks has a conversation with his players during a game last season. File photos by Patricia O’Blenes
Football
dyn (Army commit) to handle the bulk of the carries alongside senior running back Lee Krueger, with junior Benny Eziuka anchoring the offensive line. The Shamrocks’ defense is led by senior defensive lineman Danilo Guberinich, a Western Michigan University commit, and Krueger, who headlines the linebacking core. It’s always a dogfight in the Central, but don’t be surprised if DCC is still standing as one of the top teams in the league by the end of the regular season.
Detroit Country Day
Last season’s record: 3-5. League: Independent.
First game: vs. Portland, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
The 2023 campaign saw Country Day take a step back after seeing 16-straight playoff appearances in 17 seasons, but it’s only a minor setback if you come back strong the next season. Led by returning all-Region talent Chase Dawkins (QB) and Cade Wilhelmi (OL/DL), a University of Toledo commit, Country Day is poised for a successful year to return them back to form. Last year’s three wins was the lowest win total for Country Day since 2005.
Farmington
Last season’s record: 2-7. League: Oakland Activities Association Blue Division.
First game: vs. Oak Park, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
Another team hoping a change of scenery makes a difference, Farmington’s move to the OAA Blue after spending just a year in the OAA White is a welcomed change.
In 2022, as part of the OAA White, Farmington went 6-4, its highest win total since 2019, and head coach Jason Albrecht expects the trials and tribulations of the year in the OAA White to help his team this season.
“I had two different meetings with each grade level, and I just talked to them about what we just went through and what we could do as a program to rebound from that and take the lessons we learned and the buttkickings we took at times,” Albrecht said. “It doesn’t mean anything if you don’t grow from it.”
Senior Trenton Darden (RB), senior Julian Johnson (QB), junior Antoine Bailey (RB), and senior Brady Petrusha (OL) are expected to headline the offensive unit, while senior Daniel Vukaj (LB), senior Mark White (LB) and senior Justin Quin (DE/LB) lead the defense.
North Farmington
Last season’s record: 4-5. League: Oakland Activities Association Blue.
First game: at Livonia Stevenson, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
Hoping for its first playoff appearance since 2020, North Farmington’s veteran group is hungry to show the league what they have to offer. Junior Terrance James (WR), senior Leland Pettiway (OL), senior Micah Redic (OL) and senior Lorence Woodley (WR) are expected to lead the offense, while senior Brendon Rice (DL), a Rice University commit, headlines the defensive unit alongside senior Dominic Washington (LB), senior Trey Thomas (DB), senior Tranier Alexander (DB) and senior AJ Wilson (DT). North Farmington, which was projected to finish third in the OAA pre-season coaches poll, hopes its mix of speed and physicality has it competing for a league title towards the end of the season.
Novi
Last season’s record: 7-3. League: Kensington Lakes Activities Association West Division. First game: at Sterling Heights Stevenson, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
Tallying its highest win total since 2008 last season, Novi was an offensive juggernaut last season. Now only returning three starters on offense and five on defense may lead some to think Novi is vulnerable this year, and that’s just the way head coach Jim Sparks likes it.
“I kind of like it because on paper we only have three offensive returners and five on defense, but every one of those guys that are first-year starters have been in the program for four years,” Sparks said. “They know what they’re doing, but they just lack game experience. They’re ready to step in. I hope people underestimate us because of the fact that, on paper, we only have three starters on offense.”
Senior running back Logan Ellison will handle the bulk of the carries this year, while senior Sele Cox and senior Jaden Von-
drasek lead the wide receiving core. Senior Johnny Aurilia, a standout baseball player for Novi, is the leader in the clubhouse to take over at quarterback where former Novi baseball standout, Caleb Walker, shined last season. Defensively, it’s senior Ethan Young, senior Christian Molnar, senior Christian Cobb and senior Cash Warren manning the trenches, with senior Mario Miminllari, junior Reece Pippin and junior Colin Edwards at the linebacker spots. Novi was one win away from clinching the league title before losing to Northville, so expect the Wildcats to use it as motivation in 2024.
Orchard Lake St. Mary’s
Last season’s record: 3-6. League: Catholic High School League Central.
First game: vs. Portage Northern, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
A team that’s flying under the radar, Orchard Lake St. Mary’s is looking to announce its presence this year in the CHSL. Led by a trio of Michigan State University commits in Bryson Williams (ATH), Charles White (LB) and Jayden Savoury (TE), Orchard Lake St. Mary is quietly flying under the radar with an array of talent ready to leave it all on the field. Sophomore Jabin Gonzales will command the huddle with three-star recruit senior Antonio Johnson anchoring the offensive line group.
Walled Lake Central
Last season’s record: 3-6. League: Lakes Valley Conference. First game: vs. Berkley, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
With back-to-back 3-6 seasons, the three-straight winless years from 2019-2021 are a thing of the past for Walled Lake Central. Central opened up the season with a win before dropping five-straight, but rebounded with a 2-1 record to end the year.
Walled Lake Northern
Last season’s record: 1-8. League: Lakes Valley Conference. First game: vs. South Lyon, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
It’s been a pair of underwhelming seasons for Walled Lake Northern, but, hopefully, the tides turn in its favor in 2024. Northern returns an all-Region talent in senior linebacker Jackson Ferguson.
Walled Lake Western
Last season’s record: 10-2. League: Lakes Valley Conference. First game: Waterford Mott, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
The playoff streak now stands at 14 for Walled Lake Western, and they even added a district championship to the fold last year. Returning an all-State talent in senior offensive lineman Liam Vaughn, a Western Michigan University commit, and an all-Region talent in senior linebacker Shane Rachner, Walled Lake Western should be a threat in the Lakes Valley Conference, which they’ve won the last two seasons.
West Bloomfield
Last season’s record: 10-3. League: Oakland Activities Association Red Division.
First game: vs. Clinton Township Chippewa Valley, 7 p.m. Aug. 29.
A thrilling state semifinals matchup last year was fought between West Bloomfield and Southfield A&T, and being that close has the Lakers motivated for this season. Returning one of the best wide receiving duos in the state in seniors Elisha Durham and Kamren Flowers, a University of Toledo commit, West Bloomfield’s offense should pick up right where it left off. Senior running back Josh Tate is expected to handle the bulk of the carries, with senior defensive back Jaiden Allos, senior defensive back Jonathan Edison Jr. and senior defensive back Brody Pikur headlining the defensive unit. West Bloomfield head coach Zach Hilbers said he expects the offensive and defensive lines to be the Lakers’ strong suit this year, featuring University of Colorado commit Jay Gardenhire, who stands at 6 feet, 8 inches, 350 pounds; junior Travis Robertson (DL); senior Joshua Bryant (DL); junior Jeremiah Benson (OL/DL); junior Kamari Pittman (DL); senior Ashton McCoy (OL); and senior Dwayne Broome Jr. (OL).
“These guys don’t get the recognition they deserve,” Hilbers said.
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The Exterior Painters Celebrate 20 Years of Transforming Properties, Neighborhoods
Nothing transforms a property and makes it shine brighter than a fresh coat of paint. It’s simply the best and most cost-effective investment you can make for your home draped in the colors of yesterday.
The Exterior Painters have been revitalizing properties for 20 years.
“We specialize in just exterior painting, and the reason why we do that is we believe that repetition is the mother of all skill,” said owner Brian Scott. “For 20 years, that’s all we’ve been doing is outside work. When it comes to that, we do wood replacement and siding replacement. It makes us the perfect fit for homeowners who don’t want to re-side their whole house.”
The Exterior Painters replace damaged siding and boards as needed, but they’re not looking to push for a full siding replacement.
“It gets people by another 10 years and transforms the look of the house, bringing it to the next color trends of today,” Scott said.
“Another thing we do that makes us unique, we have a full-time color consultant,” Scott added. “For most people, that’s the hardest, most stressful part, choosing what color they want. Our consultant comes out and
meets with the homeowners and gives them an idea of what the new color trends are so they can make a good color choice that complements their landscaping, brickwork and architectural features.”
The Exterior Painters also specialize in brick staining.
“A lot of younger people are buying houses. We’re taking it from grandma’s house of the ’50s, ’60s or ’70s and bringing it to that HGTV look,” Scott said.
you’re getting a bigger bang for your buck.”
It’s a win for everyone, from the crews The Exterior Painters employ and pay well to the homeowners who see their neighborhoods transformed. The company paints 30 houses a week on average in Macomb, Oakland, Wayne and Livingston counties, and boasts a five-star Google review average.
Power washing the siding — and for an additional charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also make a big difference in terms of curb appeal.
charge, soft washing the roof if needed — can also
transformed through fresh paint,
Scott said his crews often see their work spread from house to house in a neighborhood as the properties are transformed through fresh paint, siding repairs and much-needed washing.
“It’s the cheapest home improvement you can do without breaking the bank,” Scott said. “Compared to other home improvements,
“With us you’re buying certainty. We don’t ask for a large deposit, and you don’t have to worry about anyone running off with your deposit,” Scott said.
“We stand by our work. We provide a warranty and proven results by taking care of everybody in the community. We’re Nextdoor’s No. 1 preferred contractor in Rochester two years in a row. It’s that certainty factor. You know what you’re going
“It’s the cheapest home to get.”
The Exterior Painters are located at 2365 Avon Industrial Drive in Rochester Hills. To request a quote or for more information, call (248) 844-8888.