St. Clair Shores · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in St. Clair Shores public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
Flock surveillance camera contract concerns
Twelve residents plus multiple council members opposed the city's 12 Flock cameras, citing hacks, FBI data access, and misuse in other cities. The council directed all cameras be bagged for six months, with a final decision in March 2027.
Board member resignation creates vacancy
Long-serving member Dennis DeWulf is stepping down but will stay until a replacement is found. There's an open question about whether his seat must be filled by an architect.
Police in-car radio replacement
The police department completed its multi-year radio modernization project with 12 new Kenwood radios, since the old Motorola units can't meet new encryption and Phase 2 requirements.
13 Mile Road damaged house demolition
The tree-crushed house at 23105 13 Mile finally sold and is set for demolition — but utility clearances from DTE and Consumers are dragging, frustrating council.
Dog leash enforcement reminder
After an off-leash dog darted into traffic recently, Rusie reminded residents the city's ordinance requires dogs to be leashed off your property — police can educate and cite.
School resource officer for Lake Shore
An 85th police officer will be assigned full-time to Lake Shore schools, funded mostly by a $130,000 state grant with the district covering the gap. Parents get an extra layer of security.
Social District age restriction after 8 p.m.
After a 'teen takeover' incident with smoke bombs and firecrackers, the council required anyone under 18 to be with a parent or guardian after 8 p.m. at Social District events. Critics said it punishes responsible teens and is unenforceable with two officers on site.
Ambulance Equipment Maintenance Agreement
The fire department's five ambulances rely on Stryker power stretchers and loaders. The two-year, $33,731 agreement covers preventive maintenance and repairs, keeping equipment safe for patients and firefighters. Council asked staff to look into a Ferno demo as a possible future alternative.
New Fire Station Opens
The new fire station is open and ran its first call May 13, replacing a building that served 68 years. Built with ARPA funds, it opened with a hose uncoupling ceremony and drew wide praise from council members.