To move your aquaculture project forward in 2026, you should direct your proposal to the following key officials in Highland Park. These individuals oversee the land use, water rates, and economic incentives necessary to make a fish farm on the historic Ford site feasible.
1. Community & Economic Development (CED)
This is your primary point of contact for zoning, site plan reviews, and tax incentives (like P.A. 198 tax abatements).
- Director: Carlton Clyburn
- Phone: 313-252-0050 ext. 257
- Email: CED@highlandparkmi.gov
- Staff Lead: Kalinda Powell-Watkins (CED Specialist II) – Ext. 255
2. Planning Commission
The Commission must approve your “Special Land Use” permit for an aquaculture facility. They meet on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 5:30 PM.
- Chair: Paul Motley
- Contact via CED: 313-252-0050 ext. 255
- Submission Tip: You can submit preliminary questions or your draft proposal via the CED office to get on their “Pre-Consultation” agenda.
3. Water Department
Since fish farming is water-intensive, you need to coordinate with the department currently managing the city-wide pipe replacement.
- Director: Damon L. Garrett, P.E.
- Phone: 313-865-1876
- Email: hpwaterdepartment@metroca.net
- Note: Mr. Garrett is also a principal at Metro Consulting Associates, the firm managing the city’s water infrastructure. They will be the ones to determine if your site can handle the 4” or 6” line you need.
4. State-Level Support (MEDC)
Because this is a major redevelopment of a historic site, you should also engage the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). They have regional managers assigned specifically to Highland Park projects.
- Regional Contact: Annie Mendoza (Community Development Manager)
- Email: mendozaa1@michigan.org
- Role: She can help you access “Brownfield” credits or revitalization grants to offset the cost of working on the old Ford factory land.
Your 2026 Action Plan
- Email Carlton Clyburn (CED): Attach the “Aquaculture Business Plan Summary” we drafted. Request a “Conceptual Review Meeting” to discuss the Ford site.
- Contact Damon Garrett (Water): Ask for a “Fire Flow Test” near your target address. This will confirm if the new 2026 water mains can provide the pressure required for your fish tanks.
- Inquire about the “MILE Act”: Since you are using a 70/30 crowdfunding model, mention to the MEDC contact (Annie Mendoza) that you intend to use the Michigan Invests Locally Exemption to involve local investors.
Would you like me to draft the specific “Introductory Email” you can send to Carlton Clyburn to request that first Conceptual Review meeting?