Sterling Heights awarded important certification from MEDC
Sterling Heights has been awarded the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) certification.
For its efforts in establishing a solid foundation to attract private investment and further build on municipal assets, the City of Sterling Heights has been awarded the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC)
MEDC officially designates the City of Sterling Heights as a Certified Redevelopment Ready Community in Michigan. Sterling Heights now joins a distinguished group of 84 Michigan communities from all regions of the state that have qualified as “thoroughly prepared” in their planning and zoning efforts.
This designation aims to eliminate traditional barriers and foster opportunities for potential investment. For a complete list of Redevelopment Ready Communities, visit MiPlace.org.
“Our mission at MEDC is to support Michigan’s strong economic momentum and empower communities to establish a strong planning, zoning and economic development foundation,” said MEDC Senior Vice President of Community Planning & Development Readiness Michele Wildman.
Building relationships
“Sterling Heights is well-positioned to continue to implement their vision for the future and further improve the quality of life for its residents. We look forward to building upon our relationship with Sterling Heights and supporting local economic development efforts.”
As an RRC participant, the City of Sterling Heights received a comprehensive assessment that measured current community and economic development practices compared to RRC best practice standards.
Communities leverage the RRC toolkit to integrate transparency, predictability, and efficiency into local economic development practices.
Removing development barriers
Certification is a compelling indicator that a community has removed development barriers and streamlined processes to be more competitive and attractive for investment.
“In Sterling Heights, we’re committed to smart growth, transparency and resident engagement, and becoming an MEDC Certified Redevelopment Ready Community validates that commitment,” said Sterling Heights City Planner Dr. Jake Parcell.
“This certification positions us to attract quality investment while preserving our community’s character – the secret sauce that makes Sterling Heights a great place to live, work and innovate.”
Access to new tools
As a certified community, Sterling Heights will have access to new tools to implement its community development goals as well as ongoing support and technical assistance from the Redevelopment Ready Communities team.
Annual check-ins and updates will help ensure the city continues implementing the best practices over time. Certification is active for five years before needing to be renewed.
“I couldn’t be prouder of our incredible city staff whose dedication, expertise and daily commitment to excellence made this certification possible,” said Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor.
“Their hard work behind the scenes is what drives our community forward and allows us to remain a community where progress and opportunity thrive.”
