Economic Development

Welcome to the Economic Development Department!

Eastpointe's Economic Development Department is located in the City Manager's Office. The department is responsible for the promotion of business and economic development activities within the Gateway to Macomb County. We focus on supporting commercial and residential properties, as well as development projects through streamlining plans, processes, and ordinances; business retention and expansion (BR&E) through formalizing Eastpointe's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem; the heart of Our Family Town through the Downtown Development Authority (DDA); and sustainable solutions that benefit the health and well-being of the community.

The 2023-2024 Objectives

Maintain Eastpointe’s Redevelopment Ready Community (RRC) Certification through the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), ensuring best practices are implemented in all planning, zoning, and economic development activities.

Establish and maintain data on residential and commercial buildings, including properties located within the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) District, Opportunity Zones (OZ), and CDBG-eligible census tracts. Address vacant and/or blighted residential and commercial properties, including Dangerous Buildings. The department will utilize procedures to ensure the efficient and effective deployment of financial, staff, and legal resources.

Implement a comprehensive Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) outreach program for current businesses. This includes (but is not limited to) surveying, meeting with owners to assess business climate issues and concerns, and identifying interests and priorities. A specific focus will be on supporting Very Small Businesses (VSB's), and businesses owned by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI's), including (but not limited to) Black and/or Women-Owned Businesses.

Formalize Eastpointe's Entrepreneurial Ecosystem by identifying and establishing strategic partnerships with Business Support Organizations (BSO's), including (but not limited to) the Eastpointe Roseville Chamber of Commerce, Macomb County's Planning and Economic Development Department, and the Metro Detroit Black Business Alliance (MDBBA). Bring or create a small business training course to be hosted in the spring and fall each year within the city limits. Set up quarterly resource fairs and monthly meetings or webinars to share timely and relevant information and resources. Create business affinity groups, and include relevant resources and topics at quarterly and monthly meetings.

Provide administrative and marketing support to the Downtown Development Authority (DDA). When appropriate, pursue purchasing, and either renovate or sell tax-reverted properties in the DDA District. Facilitate the application and approval process for the Facade Improvement Program. Plan and execute special events, including (but not limited to) the DDA Summer Concert Series and a community farmer's market.

Continue the process of community and stakeholder engagement for the Modern Nine Main Street Project in 2023 and 2024. Coordinate with multiple municipal departments to institute new decorative light fixtures, traffic calming, easement beautification, parking solutions, and other ‘Main Street' improvements.

Led by Eastpointe's Community Development Fellow, coordinate and launch a comprehensive sustainability program, including (but not limited to) tree planting; park, garden, and green space improvements; renewable energy; and green stormwater infrastructure (GSI). Work to align with the Michigan Green Communities Framework by early to mid-2024.

Support the Assistant City Manager and the Recreation Authority of Roseville and Eastpointe (RARE) with updates to Eastpointe's and RARE's Master Plans in 2023-24 and 2024-25, respectively. Explore opportunities to develop additional community plans, including (but not limited to) Economic Development and Sustainability. Support the acquisition of new resource and funding opportunities for the department, including grant application and administration. Form strategic partnerships with non-profit, government, and corporate partners. Support the Community Engagement Manager with community marketing, promotion, branding, and event planning.

Strategize with the Building Official, Senior Planner, and Zoning Administrator to assist the Planning Commission and City Council in adopting the updated Eastpointe Zoning Ordinance. Ensure zoning updates align with the current and future Master Plan, and meet the RRC requirements and best practices. Finalize the approval of three medical marijuana businesses. Ensure the medical marijuana operators understand the local ordinance, and are able to open and operate in a timely manner that is harmonious with the existing business and residential community.

City of Eastpointe Master Plan

Nine Mile Strategic Corridor Plan