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Royal Oak sidewalk proposal that sparked outcry from residents passes

Posted at 11:38 PM, May 22, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-22 23:38:14-04

A proposal over sidewalks in Royal Oak that sparked outrage passed the city commissioner’s vote.

Royal Oak city leaders want to install new sidewalks at 10 locations around the city that currently do not have sidewalks.The residents living at the residential homes where the sidewalks will be installed will be required to foot the bill.

At Monday’s regular meeting, Royal Oak City Commissioners passed the motion and many residents are upset by the decision.

Prior to passing the proposal, residents were given the opportunity to speak during the public comment session.  Many residents pleaded their case, talking about the large trees that would potentially be removed, the lack of sidewalk traffic they would have and the large bill it would force them to pay. Some residents would be asked to pay between $5,000 to $10,000 for the sidewalk installation.

City commissioners did pass the proposal, stating the city needs the sidewalks to be safe and walkable. They also stated that it’s Michigan law to require individual taxpayers to pay for special assessment items. City commissioners said they want to be consistent, since all residents must pay for the upkeep of their sidewalks.

Residents tell 7 Action News they will be looking into a possible petition and other ways to block this proposal.