On the agenda: Auburn Hills PDF Agenda Packet (10 Mb) — Flock camera (Aug 24)

AUBURN HILLS MEETING SCHEDULE
248-370-9402 | WWW.AUBURNHILLS.ORG

AUGUST 2026
DAY
7/25 –
8/2

TITLE

TIME

LOCATION
Public Safety Building

Early Voting

8:30 AM –
4:30 PM

1899 N. Squirrel Road

4

Election Day

7:00 AM

All Polling Locations

10

City Council Workshop

5:30 PM

10

City Council Meeting

7:00 PM

10

Library Board

7:00 PM

11

Tax Increment Finance
Authority

5:00 PM

12

Planning Commission

6:00 PM

13

Zoning Board of Appeals

6:30 PM

18
20
24
25
25

Brownfield Redevelopment
Authority
Tax Increment Finance
Authority
City Council Meeting
Public Safety Advisory
Committee
Brownfield Redevelopment
Authority

6:00 PM
5:00 PM
7:00 PM
5:00 PM
6:00 PM

Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Council Chamber
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Auburn Hills Public Library
3400 Seyburn Drive
RESCHEDULED to 8/20
Council Chamber
1827 N. Squirrel Road
CANCELLED
CANCELLED
Fieldstone Golf Course
1984 Taylor Rd.
Council Chamber
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Public Safety Building
1899 N. Squirrel Road
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road

NOTE: Anyone planning to attend the meeting who has need of special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) is asked to contact the City Clerk’s Office at 248.370.9402 48 hours prior to the meeting. Staff will be pleased
to make the necessary arrangements. PLEASE BE ADVISED, DUE TO A LACK OF AGENDA ITEMS, SOME MEETINGS MAY
BE CANCELED.

AUBURN HILLS MEETING SCHEDULE
248-370-9402 | WWW.AUBURNHILLS.ORG

SEPTEMBER 2026
DAY

TITLE

TIME

8

Tax Increment Finance Authority
Informational Meeting

5:30 PM

9

Pension Board

3:00 PM

9

Retiree Health Care

Immediately
following the
Pension Board
meeting

9

Planning Commission

6:00 PM

10

Zoning Board of Appeals

6:30 PM

14

City Council Meeting

7:00 PM

14

Library Board

7:00 PM

15

Brownfield Redevelopment
Authority

6:00 PM

17

Election Commission

5:30 PM

21

Downtown Development
Authority

5:30 PM

28

City Council Workshop

5:30 PM

28

City Council Meeting

7:00 PM

29

Election Commission / Public
Accuracy Test

5:30 PM

LOCATION
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
CANCELLED
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Council Chamber
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Auburn Hills Public Library
3400 Seyburn Drive
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Administrative Conference Room
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Council Chamber
1827 N. Squirrel Road
Council Chamber
1827 N. Squirrel Road

NOTE: Anyone planning to attend the meeting who has need of special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) is asked to contact the City Clerk’s Office at 248.370.9402 48 hours prior to the meeting. Staff will be pleased
to make the necessary arrangements. PLEASE BE ADVISED, DUE TO A LACK OF AGENDA ITEMS, SOME MEETINGS MAY
BE CANCELED.

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
MONDAY, AUGUST 24, 2026

Regular City Council Meeting ♦ 7:00 PM

Council Chamber, 1827 N. Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills MI
248-370-9402 ♦ www.auburnhills.org

1.
2.
3.
4.

5.
6.
7.

8.
9.

10.
11.
12.
13.
14.

MEETING CALLED TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
ROLL CALL OF COUNCIL
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4a.
City Council Workshop Minutes, August 10, 2026
4b.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes, August 10, 2026
APPOINTMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS
PUBLIC COMMENT
CONSENT AGENDA
All items listed are considered to be routine by the City Council and will be enacted by one motion.
There will be no separate discussion of these items unless a Council Member so requests, in which
event the item will be removed from the Consent Agenda and considered in its normal sequence on
the agenda.
7a.
Board and Commission Minutes
7a1.
Tax Increment Finance Authority, July 21, 2026
7a2.
Planning Commission Minutes, August 12, 2026
7b.
Motion – To approve the 2026 Used Car Lot License for Newcomb’s Auto Sales.
7c.
Motion – To amend the 2026 General Fund Senior Services Department.
7d.
Motion – To approve budget amendments for the Giddings Road and Taylor Road Intersection
Improvements.
7e.
Motion – To approve the purchase of a Weiler P395 Asphalt Paver.
7f.
Motion – To approve the purchase of a new Singer Pressure Reducing Valve for the Palace PRV.
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
NEW BUSINESS
9a.
Public Hearing / Motion – Adopt an Ordinance to amend Chapter 54. Solid Waste; to repeal
Article II. Garbage and Refuse, of the Auburn Hills City Code and replace it with a new Article
II. Solid Waste, Recyclable Materials, and Designated Waste Hauler Collection Regulation on
Second Reading.
9b.
Motion – To amend the text of Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article XIII.
I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2, General Industrial Districts; and Article XVIII,
General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new provisions for clean industrial uses
and establish comprehensive standards for data centers.
COMMENTS AND MOTIONS FROM COUNCIL
CITY ATTORNEY REPORT
CITY MANAGER REPORT
CLOSED SESSION
13a.
Motion – To meet in closed session to discuss property acquisition pursuant to MCL 268(1)(d)
of the Open Meetings Act.
ADJOURNMENT

City Council meeting minutes are on file in the City Clerk’s Office. NOTE: Anyone planning to attend the meeting who has
need of special assistance under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) is asked to contact the City Clerk's Office at
248.370.9402 or the City Manager's Office at 248.370.9440 48 hours prior to the meeting. Staff will be pleased to make the
necessary arrangements.

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 4A
CITY COUNCIL

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
CITY COUNCIL WORKSHOP
DRAFT MINUTES
August 10, 2026
CALL TO ORDER &
Mayor Hawkins at 5:30 PM
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
LOCATION:
Admin Conference Room, City Hall, 1827 N. Squirrel Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Present: Council Members Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz,
and Verbeke
Absent: None
Also Present: City Manager Tanghe, Asst City Manager Skopek, City Clerk Pierce,
Chief of Police Gagon, Fire Chief Robinson, Director of Community Development
Cohen, Department of Public Works Director Baldante, Manager of Fleet & Roads
Hefner, Manager of Public Utilities Deman, Finance Director/Treasurer Schulz,
Accountant Moss, Assistant to the City Manager Hagge, Engineer Driesenga
0 Guests
Workshop Topic: Capital Improvement Plan Review
Mr. Baldante reviewed the Capital Improvement Plan for 2027-2031. He discussed the City’s assets
including roads, water and sewer mains, manholes, catch basins, and hydrants. He explained the
importance of the maintenance programs which is key to extend the life of each asset. Over the next five
years, there are sixty projects identified. He noted that these projects include major and local road
improvements, water system improvements, parking improvements, and pathways. He pointed out the
two reoccurring annual programs include the asphalt path maintenance and the storm sewer emergency
repairs. He further discussed potential funding sources and grants opportunities for the various projects.
Discussion followed on a variety of potential projects and improvements, including the I-75/Joslyn bridge,
the Clinton River Trail and trailhead parking, installation of a pathway connecting the apartments off
Walton Boulevard to the street-level crossing at the traffic signal leading to Oakland University, lighting
at the amphitheater, and providing additional shade at the Public Square.
The meeting adjourned at 6:35 PM.
Eugene Hawkins III, Mayor

Laura M. Pierce City Clerk

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 4B
CITY COUNCIL

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DRAFT MINUTES
AUGUST 10, 2026
CALL TO ORDER &
Mayor Hawkins at 7:00 PM.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
LOCATION:
Council Chamber, 1827 N. Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills MI
ROLL CALL:
Present: Council Members Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, and
Verbeke
Absent: None
Also Present: City Manager Tanghe, Assistant City Manager Skopek, City Attorney
Kelly, City Clerk Pierce, Chief of Police Gagon, Fire Chief Robinson, Director of
Community Development Cohen, Department of Public Works Director Baldante,
Manager of Fleet & Roads Hefner, Manager of Municipal Properties Wisser, Deputy
Treasurer Jones, Director of Senior Services Monroy Krieg, Senior Support Services
Coordinator Cox, Assistant to the City Manager Hagge, Engineer Driesenga
21 Guests
A workshop session was held prior to the regular City Council meeting at 5:30 PM. Workshop Topic: Capital
Improvement Plan Review
4.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4a.
City Council Regular Meeting Minutes, July 20, 2026
Moved by Knight, Seconded by Ferguson.
RESOLVED:
To approve the City Council Regular Meeting Minutes of July 20, 2026.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.111
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
5.
APPOINTMENTS AND PRESENTATIONS
5a.
Motion – To confirm the appointment of Gail Cartwright to the Tax Increment Finance Authority.
Mayor Hawkins shared the accolades of Ms. Cartwright and recommended her to the Tax Increment Finance
Authority.

City Council Minutes – August 10, 2026
Page 2

Moved by Fletcher, Seconded by Knight.
RESOLVED:
To confirm the appointment of Gail Cartwright to the Tax Increment Finance
Authority for a term ending on February 28, 2029.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.112
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
5b.
Introduction of Senior Support Services Coordinator, Kathryn Cox
Ms. Monroy-Kreig introduced Ms. Cox as the new Senior Support Services Coordinator.
6.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Mr. Daniel Carpenter spoke against the use of Flock cameras.
Mr. Dave Dobay spoke regarding speeding on South Squirrel Rd. and Amazon drones.
Mr. Michael Kazmierski spoke regarding the Friends of the Clinton River Trail Fundraiser.
Ms. Krista Soroka spoke against Flock cameras.
7.
CONSENT AGENDA
Mr. Moniz removed Item 7d (cost reimbursement agreement with Metro Fibernet, LLC) from the Consent
Agenda.
7a.

7b.
7c.

Board and Commission Minutes
7a1.
Election Commission, July 16, 2026
7a2.
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, July 21, 2026
RESOLVED: To receive and file the Board and Commission Minutes.
Motion – To amend the 2026 Major Roads Fund for the purchase of early fill salt.
RESOLVED: To amend the 2026 Major Roads fund in the amount of $222,090 for 3,000 tons of early
fill salt.
Motion – To receive & file the Mariner Consulting 2nd Quarter Cash Management Investment
Performance Review.
RESOLVED: To receive and file the Mariner Consulting 2nd quarter Cash Management Investment
Performance Review.

Moved by Verbeke, Seconded by Ferguson.
RESOLVED:
To approve the Consent Agenda.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.113
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
7d.

Motion – To execute a cost reimbursement agreement for overtime inspection services with Metro
Fibernet, LLC (Metronet) as part of their fiber-optic telecommunications network buildout.
Mr. Moniz requested clarification on this project and the connection with T-Mobile. Mr. Baldante provided
clarification and stated that the city is inspecting the work.
Moved by Moniz, Seconded by Verbeke.

City Council Minutes – August 10, 2026
Page 3

RESOLVED: To execute a cost reimbursement agreement for overtime inspection services with
Metro Fibernet, LLC (Metronet) as part of their fiber-optic telecommunications network buildout.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.114
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
8.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS

9.
9a.

NEW BUSINESS
Motion – To approve the Development Agreement between the City of Auburn Hills and US Signal for
the property located at 1035 West Entrance Drive.
Mr. Cohen presented the proposed agreement governing the upgrade to the existing data center. He stated
that although the project qualifies for administrative approval under the Zoning Ordinance, US Signal
voluntarily agreed to enter into a Development Agreement with the City. The agreement provides additional
protections and accountability beyond those otherwise required, including enforceable noise performance
standards, postconstruction acoustical verification, ongoing monitoring, complaint-response procedures,
corrective action requirements, and continued operational accountability. This project is not expected to
increase demands on the city infrastructure.
Mr. Cohen explained that there are three main types of data centers; enterprise data center where it serves
clients on the server, colocation data center where a company provides all the services for energy, security and
cooling, and the hyperscale while very large, uses a lot of energy.

Mr. Tom DeJonge and Zack VanOverbeke representing US Signal provided an overview of the project. It was
explained that there will be sound attenuation panels to help with the proposed new exterior chillers. It was
also explained that monthly testing will be performed on generators to ensure that they work properly.
Moved by Moniz, Seconded by Knight.
RESOLVED:
To approve the Development Agreement between the City of Auburn Hills and US
Signal for the property located at 1035 West Entrance Drive and to authorize the Mayor to execute
the Agreement on behalf of the City.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.115
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
9b.
Motion – To authorize the agreement for Single Hauler Residential Housing Solid Waste Collection.
Mr. Wisser recommended the proposed agreement be granted to Waste Management of Michigan. With the
contract with Priority Waste coming to an end and after receiving multiple complaints, the city went to bid for
the Single Hauler Residential Housing Solid Waste Collection program. Waste Management was the low bid
and will provide new carts to residents in December and pick up old cans. It will include one pre-scheduled
bulk item collection per household per week at no additional charge, a 10% senior and veteran discount, and
direct monthly billing to residents with convenient online payment options. Waste Management will provide
manual and automated services for pick up. The proposed new service will begin on January 1, 2027. A
communication campaign will take place in the Fall.

City Council Minutes – August 10, 2026
Page 4

Mr. Doug Reams, Brian Snyder and John Moskal representing Waste Management were present to answer any
questions.
The following individuals spoke against the new contract:
• Mr. Mario DiBartolomeo
• Ms. Amy Mackie
• A representative of Priority Waste.
Ms. Verbeke asked for clarification on the cost.
Mr. Wisser stated that since the bid results were so close, the focus became on the service provided.
Ms. Verbeke stated that she has not had any problems with Priority Waste in the past but is looking forward
to Waste Management fulfilling their promise of taking care of the residents.
Moved by Knight, Seconded by Marzolf.
RESOLVED:
To authorize a five-year agreement with WM (Waste Management of Michigan, Inc.)
for single hauler residential housing solid waste collection as proposed under the automated
collection service model, effective January 1, 2027, at the unit prices set forth in its proposal. The
final agreement shall be reviewed and approved by the City Attorney and shall incorporate the
Contractor's written clarifications. Furthermore, authorize the City Manager to sign the final
agreement on behalf of the City.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.116
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
9c.

Motion – To accept the First Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 54. Solid Waste; to repeal
Article II. Garbage and Refuse, of the Auburn Hills City Code and replace it with a new Article II. Solid
Waste, Recyclable Materials, and Designated Waste Hauler Collection Regulation; and to set for Public
Hearing and Second Reading / Adoption at the Meeting on August 24, 2026.
Mr. Cohen presented an amendment to update Chapter 54 of the City Code to add automated residential waste
collection system.
Moved by Verbeke, Seconded by Ferguson.
RESOLVED:
To accept the First Reading of an Ordinance amending Chapter 54. Solid Waste; to
repeal Article II. Garbage and Refuse, of the Auburn Hills City Code and replace it with a new Article
II. Solid Waste, Recyclable Materials, and Designated Waste Hauler Collection Regulation; and to set
for Public Hearing and Second Reading / Adoption at the meeting on August 24, 2026.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.117
Motion Carried (7 - 0)

10.
COMMENTS AND MOTIONS FROM COUNCIL
Mr. Knight expressed his delight at the bike patrol he had seen. He was pleased to share that the pathway
connection at Forester Square has been completed. He suggested a fund raiser offering the rental of chairs for
the concerts in the park.

City Council Minutes – August 10, 2026
Page 5

Mr. Moniz congratulated Fire Chief Robinson on his completion of the National Academy. He also thanked
Clerk Pierce for a great August election. He questioned if there were specific times the Amazon drones could
be in the air. Mr. Tanghe stated that it is best to share concerns with the FAA. The city website has the
information on how to do this under the resident tab.
Dr. Fletcher suggested more election signage being shared. She commented on complaints regarding speeding
on South Blvd. She also shared that people would like to know who to contact at the State level regarding
having the school district boundaries reevaluated for Auburn Hills.
Mr. Ferguson commented on the Friday night concert.
Mr. Marzolf would like to see restoration take place on Squirrel Road near Stellantis due to repairs from an
updated fiberoptics project. He also sought an update on the Avant project on Five Points Drive. Mr. Cohen
commented that they have been given a deadline in November to show that they are making progress.
Mayor Hawkins stated he would like to have a follow-up conversation regarding bricks at the Veteran’s
Memorial. Mr. Tanghe said discussions are taking place regarding this topic and it being offered annually.
11.

CITY ATTORNEY REPORT

12.

CITY MANAGER REPORT

13.
13a.

CLOSED SESSION
Motion - To meet in closed session to discuss a confidential legal opinion under MCL 15.268(1)(h) of
the Open Meetings Act.
Moved by Ferguson, Seconded by Moniz.
RESOLVED:
To meet in closed session to discuss a confidential legal opinion under MCL
15.268(1)(h) of the Open Meetings Act.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.118
Motion Carried (7 - 0)

13b.

Motion – To meet in closed session to discuss property acquisition pursuant to MCL 15.268(1)(d) of the
Open Meetings Act.
Moved by Verbeke, Seconded by Marzolf.
RESOLVED:
To meet in closed session to discuss property acquisition pursuant to MCL
15.268(1)(d) of the Open Meetings Act.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.119
Motion Carried (7 - 0)

The meeting recessed to Closed Session at 9:11 PM.
The meeting reconvened in Open Session at 9:55 PM.
14.
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Moniz, Seconded by Ferguson.

City Council Minutes – August 10, 2026
Page 6

RESOLVED:
To adjourn the meeting.
VOTE: Yes:
Ferguson, Fletcher, Hawkins, Knight, Marzolf, Moniz, Verbeke
No:
None
Resolution No. 26.08.120
Motion Carried (7 - 0)
The meeting adjourned at 9:56 PM.

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7A1
TAX INCREMENT FINANCE AUTHORITY

“Not Yet Approved”
CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
TAX INCREMENT FINANCE AUTHORITY MEETING
July 21, 2026
CALL TO ORDER: Chairman Kneffel called the meeting to order at 5:34 PM.
ROLL CALL:

Present:
Absent:
Also Present:
Guests:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Ferro, Fletcher, Long
Andrew Hagge, Assistant to the City Manager/TIFA Executive Director; Tim Wisser,
Manager of Municipal Properties; Jackie Monroy-Krieg, Director of Senior Services
Gail Cartwright

LOCATION: COUNCIL CONFERENCE ROOM, 1827 N. Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
PERSONS WISHING TO BE HEARD
Executive Director Hagge took this time to introduce Gail Cartwright to the Board of Directors. Gail is a part-time employee for
the City of Auburn Hills as well as a member of the Public Safety Advisory Committee.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. TIFA Regular Meeting Minutes – June 9, 2026
There was no discussion on the approval of the minutes.
Moved by Mr. Goodhall to approve the TIFA Board of Directors Regular Meeting Minutes from June 9, 2026, as presented.
Seconded by Dr. Fletcher
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
none
Motion Carried

CORRESPONDENCE & PRESENTATIONS
None
CONSENT AGENDA
A. FY 2026 Adopted Budget and YTD Summary – June 30, 2026
There was no discussion of the Consent Agenda.
Moved by Dr. Fletcher to approve the Consent Agenda.

Page 2
Seconded by Mr. Goodhall
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

UNFINISHED BUSINESS
None
NEW BUSINESS
A. Community Center Carriage Room Workstation Technology Purchase
Mr. Hagge presented the agenda item regarding the approval to purchase workstation technology equipment. The request
before the TIFA Board was to approve a budget amendment in order for staff to purchase the necessary technological
equipment to create an additional workstation in the Community Center’s Carriage Room. Some of that technology includes a
new desk phone, computer, monitor, and docking station, among other items. The new workstation would be used by
different part-time staff, part-time interns, and other seasonal help.
Moved by Dr. Fletcher to approve the purchase of workstation technology at the Community Center in the amount of
$4,240.26. Furthermore, authorize a budget amendment increasing appropriations within the TIF-D budget to
accommodate this purchase.
Seconded by Mr. Ferro
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

B. Multi-Sport Athletic Field Scoreboard Purchase
Mr. Wisser presented the agenda item regarding the approval to purchase a new scoreboard at the Multi-Sport Athletic Field.
The existing scoreboard has taken on damage over its more than 20-year life at the Auburn Hills Multi-Sport Athletic Field,
and its electronic components have become unreliable. The new, proposed scoreboard will be slightly larger (16’ by 5’
compared to 18’ by 8’) and feature larger LED numerals. Mr. Wisser noted that the timing of this purchase is critical so that it
can be installed before the Fall sports season. Additionally, Mr. Wisser noted that the scoreboard would be installed by DPW
staff. Finally, the request before the TIFA Board included a budget amendment to support this purchase.
Moved by Mr. Ferro to amend the 2026 TIFA-D budget with an increase of appropriations of $16,000 and to authorize the
purchase of a Daktronics FB-2018 scoreboard for $15,085.
Seconded by Dr. Fletcher
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

C.

Community Center Wesson Room Table Replacement

Mrs. Monroy-Krieg presented the agenda item regarding the approval to purchase replacement tables for the Community
Center’s Wesson Room. Earlier in 2026, Director Monroy-Krieg brought a similar request to the TIFA Board, which featured a
request to purchase replacement tables for the Seyburn Room in the Community Center. This request is for the replacement
tables in the Wesson Room. The 2026 TIF-D budget included $45,000 to replace tables in the Seyburn Room. The Seyburn

Page 3
Room tables came in under budget. The remaining budget leftover from the original $45,000 would be used to purchase the
Wesson Room tables.
Moved by Dr. Fletcher to approve the quote from KI, Sourcewell delivered and installed for $7,823.24 for eight flip-top
square Uniframe tables.
Seconded by Mr. Ferro
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

D. Dutton Farm Grant Reimbursement Payment
Mr. Hagge presented the agenda item regarding the reimbursement payment for the grant that was awarded to Dutton
Farm. Earlier in 2026, the TIFA Board approved a grant for Dutton Farm’s expansion of services project. The grant was a
reimbursement grant in the amount of $246,445.00. Dutton Farm has begun that project and has made significant steps
toward completion. Dutton Farm requested to be reimbursed for money that has already been spent on the project. Further,
Mr. Hagge noted to the Board that Dutton Farm wishes to be reimbursed for the total grant amount in three separate
reimbursement payments. The request before the TIFA Board is to authorize the Executive Director to provide the first
reimbursement payment to Dutton Farm in the amount of $88,740.90. If approved, the Executive Director will request
documentation evidencing that work has been completed and that invoices have been paid. If those requests have been met,
then the Executive Director will work to provide that first reimbursement payment.
Moved by Mr. Long to authorize the Executive Director to provide the first reimbursement payment to Dutton Farm.
Furthermore, authorize a budget amendment increasing appropriations within the 2026 TIF-B budget to support the grant
reimbursement payment.
Seconded by Dr. Fletcher
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

E.

TIF-D Budget Amendments in Support of “Auburn Hills Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday” Event

Mr. Hagge presented the agenda item regarding the proposed budget amendments associated with the “Auburn Hills
Celebrates America’s 250th Birthday” event. In 2026, the TIFA Board budgeted $25,000 to support the 250th drone show
event. The total event costs were paid by either dollars budgeted from the TIFA Board or dollars from corporate event
sponsors. As corporations sent sponsorship checks to the city in support of this event, those checks were both deposited and
spent from TIF-D accounts. The request before the TIFA Board was to amend the TIF-D budget to properly acknowledge and
account for both the revenues and expenditures associated with corporate sponsorships.
Moved by Mr. Long to authorize a budget amendment to increase revenues in the 2026 TIF-D budget. Further, authorize a
budget amendment increasing appropriations, by the same amount, in the 2026 TIF-D budget.
Seconded by Mr. Ferro
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

Page 4
F.

Withdrawal of Proposed Parking Lease Agreements

Mr. Hagge presented the agenda item regarding the withdrawal of previously proposed parking lease agreements made by
the TIFA to two downtown developments. Several years ago, when now-established downtown developments were being
built (commonly referred to as “Designhaus” and “The Brunswick”), the TIFA Board authorized the Executive Director to
propose parking lease agreements to these developments. The two aforementioned downtown developments would sign
parking lease agreements with the TIFA to rent spaces within the city’s downtown parking structure. Those downtown
developments never got back with and corresponded with the Executive Director, and after several years, no parking lease
agreements were executed. Now more than four years have passed since the TIFA Board provided the Executive Director that
authorization a couple things have changed. First, with the upcoming development, The Webster, there are no longer the
same number of spaces available within the parking structure. Second, the proposed lease rates have changed over those
four years as well. The memo before the TIFA Board would be to formally rescind those offers made to Designhaus and The
Brunswick. This would officially close that loop and prevent any future dispute regarding parking spot renting within the
downtown parking structure.
Moved by Mr. Ferro to rescind the TIFA Board’s prior approvals of the proposed parking-space lease agreements with
Riverside 2, LLC, commonly known as The Brunswick, and Designhaus, LLC; withdraw and revoke any outstanding offers to
enter into those agreements; terminate any authority previously granted to the TIFA Executive Director to execute those
agreements; and direct the TIFA Executive Director to provide written notice of this action to each entity.
Seconded by Dr. Fletcher
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Fletcher, Ferro, Long
None
Motion Carried

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR REPORT
Mr. Hagge discussed a few items with the Board, including Anthony Barash’s resignation from the TIFA Board, future budgeting
for a 2027 drone show event, scheduling the upcoming August TIFA meeting, and what to expect on the August TIFA meeting
agenda. Mr. Hagge mentioned to the Board that Mr. Barash resigned because he has officially accepted to attend law school
at the University of Pittsburgh. Because of this commitment, he will no longer be able to fulfill the duties of a TIFA Board
member. Additionally, the drone show event, sponsored by the TIFA, was a success and met with overwhelmingly positive
support. For that reason, the city seeks to hold the event again in 2027. Executive Director noted to the Board that he intends
to budget $30,000 to support the event with the Board’s support. The TIFA Board was supportive of budgeted $30,000 for next
year’s drone show event. Finally, the TIFA Board discussed when to hold its next meeting. The August meeting takes place at
Fieldstone Golf Club and features a budget presentation. The Board found consensus around holding that upcoming meeting
on Thursday, August 20th at 5:00 PM at Fieldstone Golf Club.
BOARD MEMBER COMMENTS
None
ANNOUNCEMENT OF NEXT MEETING
The next regularly scheduled TIFA Board of Directors meeting is scheduled for Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. at
Fieldstone Golf Club located at, 1984 Taylor Road, Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326.

Page 5
ADJOURNMENT
Moved by Mr. Goodhall to adjourn the TIFA Board meeting.
Seconded by Dr. Fletcher
Yes:
No:

Kneffel, Goodhall, Ferro, Fletcher, Long
None
Motion carried

The TIFA Board of Directors meeting adjourned at 7:00 p.m.
Steve Goodhall
Secretary of the Board

Andrew Hagge
Assistant to the City Manager

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7A2
PLANNING COMMISSION

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
NOT YET APPROVED

August 12, 2026

CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Beidoun called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL:

Present: Raymond Saelens, Jack Ferguson, Dominick Tringali, Cynthia Pavlich, Dominic
Patrus, Sam Beidoun
Absent: Darlene MacMillian, Michelle Case, Carolyn Shearer
Also Present: Director of Community Development Steve Cohen, Assistant Director of Community
Development Devin Lang, Economic Development Manager Stephanie Carroll, Mayor Eugene
Hawkins III
Guests: None

LOCATION: Council Chambers, 1827 N. Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
3.

PERSONS WISHING TO BE HEARD

4.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES – July 8, 2026

Moved by Ferguson to approve the City of Auburn Hills Planning Commission minutes of July 8, 2026.
Second by Saelens.
VOTE: Yes: Saelens, Ferguson, Pavlich, Tringali, Patrus, Beidoun
Motion Carried (6-0)
No: None
5.

PETITIONERS

5a. Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance (6:01 p.m.)
Public Hearing/Motion – Recommend to City Council the approval of the text amendment to Article XII.
T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2, General
Industrial Districts; and Article XVIII, General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new
provisions for clean industrial uses and establish comprehensive standards for data centers.
Mr. Cohen confirmed that the hearing documents are in order and that no communications have been received
about this petition.
Mr. Cohen delivered a comprehensive presentation on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that
address clean industrial uses and data centers. He noted that the amendments are not intended to prohibit data
centers but to establish clear, reasonable, and fact-based standards for their location, design, and operation in
Auburn Hills. He further explained that data centers differ from traditional office and industrial uses due to their
significant electrical demands, continuous operations, cooling systems, backup generators, and relatively limited
permanent staffing. He noted that the City's existing Zoning Ordinance lacks comprehensive standards that
address these characteristics.
Mr. Cohen explained that staff recommendations were primarily influenced by three factors: the City's experience

Auburn Hills Planning Commission – August 12, 2026
Page 2 of 3
with the current US Signal data center, research on data center regulations adopted by other communities, and
discussions with DTE Energy about Auburn Hills' electrical infrastructure and capacity. He also reviewed the City's
assessment of potential sites for future data centers. Staff identified six industrial properties, mainly in the northern
part of the City, that are better suited for data center development because of their land availability, infrastructure,
surrounding land uses, and separation from residential areas. The proposed amendments aim to direct future data
center development to these areas while still allowing other locations to be considered through the Planned Unit
Development process when appropriate.
He outlined the City's intent to preserve the T&R District for corporate offices, research and development,
technology, and other higher employment uses. The proposed amendments would remove data centers as a
permitted use in the T&R District and provide a PUD option if an alternative location can be shown to be
appropriate.
Mr. Cohen summarized the proposed standards in new Section 1837, including requirements for noise studies and
monitoring, emergency generator operation and testing, equipment screening, cooling and water systems, electrical
capacity, emergency planning, future expansion, and a recorded Development Agreement that establishes
enforceable operational and performance requirements.
Mr. Cohen concluded that the proposed amendments offer a balanced approach that recognizes the economic and
technological significance of data centers, guides their placement, establishes reasonable operating standards,
protects nearby properties, and supports the City's long-term planning goals.
Staff recommends approval of the proposed text amendment.
Ms. Pavlich asked whether any new data centers have been proposed. Mr. Cohen stated that there have been no
recent proposals and that this was a proactive step to address the land use.
Ms. Pavlich asked who would hold any proposed data centers accountable if they expand their equipment or fail to
complete their project as contracted. Mr. Cohen stated that the City of Auburn Hills would hold them accountable
under a Development Agreement.
Ms. Pavlich stated that this is a highly complex and consequential issue that will affect the City when the current
Commission members are no longer on the Commission. She expressed concern about the future removal of
equipment that has outlived its usefulness in this rapidly evolving industry. She would like assurance that the
agreement addresses this outdated equipment. Mr. Cohen stated that the agreement would address it to the extent
necessary.
Mr. Saelens asked whether water capacity is an issue for a closed-loop system. Mr. Lang explained the closed-loop
refrigerant system used to cool data centers.
Mr. Patrus asked about the electrical infrastructure for the large data centers and whether the proposed ordinance
amendments would pose an issue if DTE begins upgrading its systems to accommodate them. Mr. Cohen
explained that the City is only required to provide an area where a data center could be built. The City is not
responsible for electrical capacity but only needs to provide a place where they could be built.
Mr. Cohen explained the difference in noise impact between the small data centers and the large-scale centers.
These amendments provide the ability to address any noise issues should they arise. Mr. Saelens asked whether
the noise is primarily caused by the backup generators. Mr. Cohen confirmed that this is correct and that the
generators are used only during a continuous power outage or routine monthly testing. He also noted that other
mechanical equipment, such as the chillers, can produce objectionable noise if not properly mitigated with
enclosures and soundproofing.
Mr. Ferguson stated that he appreciated the extensive presentation and all the information provided to City Council
and the Planning Commission.

Auburn Hills Planning Commission – August 12, 2026
Page 3 of 3
Mr. Beidoun asked whether data centers will become like cell towers, with one needed every so many miles. He
also asked whether data centers cater to a particular industry. Mr. Cohen explained that, in his understanding,
smaller data centers serve local and regional companies, and that it will take time for the industry to evolve to
determine how many will be needed. He does not anticipate any extensive, large-scale artificial intelligence
hyperscale data centers, as Auburn Hills does not have the land or electrical capacity required for a large center.
Mr. Beidoun asked whether the City has any discretion. Mr. Cohen explained that the available locations are
subject to a special land use permit.
Mr. Beidoun asked about the required parking. Mr. Cohen explained that it would be determined on a case-by-case
basis. Most sites would require only 10-30 spaces, as they are needed only for the few employees who service the
property.
Ms. Pavlich asked whether tax abatements would have to be granted. Mr. Cohen stated that he was unsure
whether they would meet the qualifications, but it could be possible depending on the amount invested in real
property. Ms. Carroll stated that she is not aware of any data centers receiving tax abatements.
Mr. Beidoun asked about the electric grid in the six areas indicated in the presentation. Mr. Cohen explained that
DTE has indicated that its process for upgrades for anything over 10-15 megawatts could take 24 months to four
years to plan and implement, depending on the electrical demand of the new facility.
Mr. Ferguson thanked Mr. Cohen for preparing all this information to protect Auburn Hills.
Mr. Beidoun opened the public hearing at 7:01 p.m.
There being no public comments, Mr. Beidoun closed the public hearing at 7:01 p.m.
Moved by Ferguson to recommend to City Council the approval of the enclosed text amendment to Article
XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2,
General Industrial Districts; and Article XVIII, General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new
provisions for clean industrial uses and establish comprehensive standards for data centers.
Second by Tringali.
VOTE:
Yes:
Ferguson, Tringali, Pavlich, Saelens, Patrus, Beidoun
No:
None
Motion Carried (6-0)
6.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS – None.

7.

NEW BUSINESS – None.

8. COMMUNICATIONS
Mr. Beidoun asked about the intersection of I-75 and Baldwin Road and the safety of those gathering there. Mr.
Cohen stated that he would investigate the matter further with the Police Department and report back.
9. NEXT SCHEDULED MEETING
The next scheduled meeting is on Wednesday, September 9, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Auburn Hills Council
Chambers.
10. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Chairperson Beidoun adjourned the meeting at 7:06 p.m.
Submitted by:
Susan McCullough, MiPMC III, CMC
Recording Secretary

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7B
CITY CLERK’S OFFICE

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Laura M. Pierce, City Clerk
August 12, 2026
Motion – To approve the 2026 Used Car Lot License for Newcomb’s Auto Sales.

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
In May, City Council approved the renewal of three Used Car Lot licenses and delayed the consideration of the
fourth, Newcomb’s Auto Sales, 3123 Lapeer Rd. Newcomb’s Auto Sales is the tenant located on 3123 Lapeer. The
property owner of 3123 Lapeer, the site of Newcomb’s Auto Sales, was in court as a result of ordinance enforcement
action. The case was heard before the 52-3 district court on April 7, 2026, and the defendant was given until July
1, 2026, to bring the property into compliance.
The property owners’ court case was heard on July 28th and resolved that same day. The property is now in
compliance with the City ordinances. It is recommended that 2026 Used Car Lot License for Newcomb’s Auto Sales
be approved.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend that the 2026 Used Car Lot License for Newcomb’s Auto Sales be approved.
MOTION
Move to approve the Used Car Lot License for the 2026 licensing period for Newcomb’s Auto Sales, 3123 Lapeer.

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

MEETING DATE: August 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7C
SENIOR SERVICES DEPARTMENT

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Jacqueline Monroy Krieg, Director of Senior Services
August 12, 2026
Motion – Amend the 2026 General Fund Senior Services Department

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The Senior Services Department received two AARP grants; the AARP Flagship Grant and the AARP Community
Challenge Microgrant. The AARP Flagship Grant for $12,010 will provide reflective address signs for the community
to increase visibility and improve emergency response times. The AARP Community Challenge Microgrant for
$2,500 is to be used to host three disaster preparedness classes for all at the Community Center.
Due to the awarding of the grants, senior services staff identified that the senior community outreach budget line
items were deficient in expenses and the local grant budget line item was over in revenue.
Thus, a budget amendment is needed to stay compliant with the state’s Uniform Budgeting and Accounting Act.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The senior department recommends budget amendments to increase expenses by $14,510 in GL# 101-685887.001-Community Relations, bringing the current budget to $16,110 to accommodate the grant awards.
Also, an increase of the revenue account GL# 101-685-582.000- Local Grants, by $14,510, bringing the current
budget to $14,510 to reflect the grant awards.
MOTION
Move to amend the General Fund Senior Services department, increasing appropriations by $14,510 and
increasing revenue by $14,510.

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7D
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Stephen Baldante, Public Works Director
August 14, 2026
Motion – To approve budget amendments for the Giddings Road and Taylor Road
Intersection Improvements

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Earlier in 2026, the City approved and entered into Contract #26-5239 with the Michigan Department of
Transportation (MDOT) for the rehabilitation and improvement of the Giddings Road/Taylor Road intersection. The
project consists of the construction of a single-lane roundabout with truck aprons and curb heights designed to
accommodate truck traffic through the intersection. Improvements include full pavement reconstruction, concrete
curb and gutter throughout the roundabout and splitter islands, and new drainage structures connecting to the
existing storm sewer within the intersection.
The MDOT contract is funded in part by Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF) Category A grant
dollars, applied to eligible project costs up to the lesser of 96% of the approved low bid amount or $1,600,000.
Under a separate 2026 agreement, Lear Corporation has agreed to bear the remaining project costs associated with
engineering design and construction engineering services, estimated at $402,127. Because the project is funded
through a direct grant from the State of Michigan, the City is directly responsible for administering the bid and
contract.
On July 8, 2026, the City held a competitive bid opening for the intersection improvements and received twelve (12)
bids. Pro-Line Asphalt Paving Corporation, of Washington, Michigan, submitted the low bid in the amount of
$1,235,390.00. OHM Advisors, the City's project engineer, reviewed the bid tabulation, interviewed the lowest
bidders, and issued a letter of recommendation supporting award to Pro-Line Asphalt Paving Corporation, whose
recommended contract amount (excluding the bid's Crew Days allowance) totals $1,192,390.00.
In addition to the construction contract, OHM Advisors has submitted a scope of services and fee proposal for
construction engineering, construction observation, and contract administration for the project. This includes: (1)
construction engineering services in the not-to-exceed amount of $33,500; (2) contract administration services in
the not-to-exceed amount of $31,000; and (3) construction observation billed under the contractor's Crew Days
line item in the amount of $43,000, based on the per-day rate bid by the Contractor. G2 Consulting Group will
provide materials testing services for the project in the estimated amount of $25,000.
Council previously awarded the Giddings/Taylor Road Intersection Improvements contract to Pro-Line Asphalt
Paving Corp, but a budget amendment is needed for both revenue and expense lines associated with the project.
With bids now received and the scope of construction engineering and contract administration services from OHM
Advisors finalized, staff request that Council approve a budget amendment in the amount of $1,324,890.00,
reflecting the total project cost inclusive of the construction contract, construction engineering, contract
administration, construction observation (Crew Days), and materials testing services, so that the approved project
budget aligns with the actual costs brought forward for award. In addition, a budget amendment reflecting revenue
for the project is needed to reflect both the TEDF grant and Lear Corporation funding for the project. As mentioned

Page 2
previously the city has no financial obligation to the project with expenses being paid through the MDOT TEDF
Category A grant funding and Lear corporation.
Item

Amount

Pro-Line Asphalt Paving Corp. – Construction Contract

$1,192,390.00

OHM Advisors – Construction Engineering

$33,500.00

OHM Advisors – Contract Administration

$31,000.00

OHM Advisors – Crew Days (Construction Observation)

$43,000.00

G2 Consulting Group – Materials Testing Services (est.)

$25,000.00

TOTAL PROJECT BUDGET AMENDMENT

$1,324,890.00

STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend that City Council approve a budget amendment increasing the Major Roads Fund account 202452-973.000-GIDDINGS_RAB in the amount of $1,324,890.00 for the Giddings Road/Taylor Road intersection
improvement project, reflecting the construction contract with Pro-Line Asphalt Paving Corporation, construction
engineering and contract administration and observation services from OHM Advisors, and materials testing
services from G2 Consulting Group, funded through MDOT/TEDF Category A grant proceeds and the Lear
Corporation contribution, with no impact to the City's General Fund. In addition, staff recommend a budget
amendment to increase the Major Roads Fund account 202-452-676.001-GIDDINGS_RAB to reflect the revenue
portion of the project.

MOTION
Move to amend the 2026 Major Road fund increasing both revenue and appropriations by $1,324,890 for all costs
and expected funding for the Giddings Road/Taylor Road intersection improvements as described in the staff
recommendation.

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7E
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Jason Hefner, Manager of Fleet & Roads
August 12, 2026
Motion – Purchase of a Weiler P395 Asphalt Paver

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
Budgeted in the 2026 Fleet Equipment budget is $160,000 for an asphalt paver. The addition of this piece of
equipment was initially prompted by the replacement of our 2007 Asphalt Zipper asphalt recycler/reclaimer. While
there are occasions when a section just four feet wide needs to be repaired, more often a larger area needs repair.
With our current set-up, DPW mills out a four-foot-wide section and uses a drag box that mounts to the back of a
dump truck to level the asphalt going back. The drag box must ride on skis on either side of the four-foot milled
section, which means a wider section must be completed over multiple days. The conveyor in the bed of the dump
is used to offload the asphalt from the truck into the drag box with some of the residual asphalt getting trapped
under the conveyor. This can cause damage to our trucks as it is impossible to remove. Moving forward, the desire
is to be more flexible in how much we can mill at once. In addition, the DPW increased to a larger mill earlier this
year to increase efficiencies on larger projects while not creating large inefficiencies on smaller projects. The issue
with this upgrade is that our current drag box will not be adequate any longer.
The addition of a paver instead of a new drag box will allow the DPW to pave wider sections in one pass; great for
making lane-width repairs or larger repairs to parking lots and will result in more professional and longer lasting
repairs. The budgeted amount proposed in June 2025 was for a small and basic paver as it would be the city’s first
experience with a paver. As DPW researched options and discussed with experts, former operators, and laborers,
much was learned about what was needed to easily and quickly get a great product. After having these discussions,
the Weiler P395 was proposed as the appropriate machine to work in conjunction with our larger milling machine
purchased earlier this year, for asphalt road patches, asphalt pathway repairs and new construction, and would be
the machine needed if an in-house paving division were to be created.
The proposed Weiler P395 contains: a larger 96-inch track for movement, 14” rubber track pads to protect the
surface being driven over, swing-out operating stations for better visibility, dual LCD displays for controls for better
verification of set-up, steering wheel in place of joystick for easier steering, a larger 11-ton hopper, fed by auger
and conveyor instead of gravity for a more consistent loading of asphalt, a narrower and wider pave from 7’8” to
15’4” hydraulic adjustment instead of manual adjustment, a thermostat controlled electric heated screed, and a
hydraulic crown adjustment of +-3%. Additionally, the 1’ Auger Extension Group, 1’ Extensions w/Electric Heat
Group (Both Sides), DC Blade Light Group (2 Lights) and the Upgrade Warranty to 36 Months/3000 Hrs. Powertrain
+ Hydraulic + Electric + CAT Engine Warranty options will be added.
The Weiler P395 will be purchased under the MiDEAL contract #MA240000000165 (State of Michigan contract) with
Michigan CAT of Shelby Township, MI for the cost of $335,869.84. The purchase of this vehicle will include a 3year/ 3,000-hour powertrain, hydraulic, electric, and CAT engine warranty. We have used cooperative bids
throughout the years to purchase a variety of items that include vehicles, equipment, and road salt. The cooperative
bids that are used most often are the State of Michigan MiDEAL, the Oakland County Cooperative, Sourcewell, and
the Rochester Hills Consortium. These cooperative bids are based on larger volumes which result in lower prices, a

Page 2
high-quality contract, and meet the spirit of the Purchasing Ordinance. In addition, a budget amendment of
$175,869.84 will be needed to 661-594-977.000 to cover the additional cost.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend approval to purchase an Weiler P395 for $335,869.84 from Michigan CAT of Shelby Township, MI
under the MiDEAL contract #MA240000000165. Staff also recommend amending the 2026 budget by $175,869.84
to 661-594-977.000. Funding for the purchase will then be available in 2026 via account number 661-594-977.000.
CITY MANAGER’S NOTE: The decision to purchase this larger and more expensive piece of equipment was discussed
with me in advance of bringing it to City Council. With the city contemplating the possibility of future in-house local
road paving activities, this machine will be a key piece of equipment that would be needed for that endeavor and
will already be in place.
MOTION
Move to approve the purchase an Weiler P395 for $335,869.84 from Michigan CAT of Shelby Township, MI under
the MiDEAL contract. Staff also recommend amending the 2026 budget by $175,869.84 to 661-594-977.000.
EXHIBIT
Exhibit 1 – Quote & Equipment Information

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

Quote 148000-02

MI Deal Contract Number MA240000000165

August 12 2026
CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
1827 N SQUIRREL RD
Auburn Hills, Michigan 48326

Thank you for this opportunity to quote a solution from Michigan CAT for your business needs. We are pleased to submit the
following for your purchase consideration.
One (1) New WEILER P395 Asphalt Paver with all standard equipment in addition to the additional specifications listed
below:
STOCK NUMBER:

SERIAL NUMBER:

YEAR: 2026

SMU:

Est. Late Sept 2026 Shipment from Factory with an order placed now.
MACHINE SPECIFICATIONS
WEILER P395 Asphalt Paver
CATERPILLAR 3.6 Tier 4F, 120 HP Engine
Track Group w/ 14'' Poly Pads
Adjustable, Oscillating Push Rollers
Paver Pause Function
Dual Pivoting Operator's Stations w/ Two (2) Seats
Spray Down w/ Separate Tank and 4 Spray Hoses
Electrically Heated Screed 7' 8'' to 15' 4'' Paving Width
Heavy Duty Screed w/ 5 Zone Thermostatically Controlled Electric Heat
Front Mounted Extensions with Heated End Gates
Lower Additional Screed Mounted Control Panel Group
Power Screed Crown & Power Extension Height Adjustment .
Power Extension Slope Control Adjustment
Two (2) Pendant Controls w/ Cords
Direct Drive 12 kW Hydraulically Powered Generator For Screed Heat
Sonic Controlled, Reversible 14'' Ni Hard Augers
Highway Class, Sonic Controlled, Reversible Conveyors
Steering Wheel Controls & Suspension Seats
LED Strobe Light Group
LED Work Lights (9)
Remote grease fittings
Replaceable Floor Plates
5 Engine Access Doors
Braided electrical harnesses and sealed connections
Operator & Maintenance Manual
Est Weight 25,000 Lbs.
US, Canada English Language & Decal Group
Second Steering Indicator Group
Added:
1' Auger Extension Group
1' Extensions w/ Electric Heat Group (Both Sides)
DC Blade Light Group (2 lights)

Page 1 of 2

Quote 148000-02
Included:
One (1) Day Start Up Training
F.O.B. City of Auburn Hills, MI

WARRANTY & COVERAGE
Weiler Standard Warranty : -12 Month Standard Manufacturer's Warranty 24 Months/2000Hr.
Standard Warranty:
CATERPILLAR Engine Warranty. Travel Time & Truck Usage Charge Not Included in Warranties
Extended Coverage:

Upgraded Warranty to 36 Months/3000 Hrs. Powertrain + Hydraulic + Electric + CAT Engine Warranty,
Travel Time Labor & Truck Usage Costs Not Included in Warranties

Sell Price

$335,869.84

Net Balance Due

$335,869.84

Ext Warranty
Total Net Purchase Price

Included
$335,869.84

PAYMENT TERMS

Cash Invoice Terms

We believe the equipment as quoted will exceed your expectations. On behalf of Michigan CAT, thank you for the opportunity to
supply WEILER machinery. This quotation is subject to machine availability. We reserve the right to update this quote due to any
manufacturer price increases. If there are any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,

Matthew Swain
Machine Sales Representative
Michigan CAT
[email protected]
586-855-2854

Page 2 of 2

Cat C3.6 Tier 4F/Stage V
120 HP
39 gal Fuel Capacity

Feed System
Heavy Duty Chains and Augers
Variable Speed and Reversible
Independent Control of Each Side
Modular Conveyor Drive and Sealed
Chain Case
11-Ton Hopper

Undercarriage
96” Track Length
14” Bolt On, Poly Track Pads
3-Speed / 350 FPM Max Speed

Operating Stations
Dual Stations w/
Swing Out Air Ride
Seats
Screed Mounted
Control Panels
Standard

7’8” – 15’ 4” Paving Width
4,400 lb Screed
Thermostatic Controlled Heat
Power crown, Slope and Height Standard

P395 COMMERCIAL PAVER

Built for High production.

proven screed.

LARGEST UNDERCARRIAGE.

Engineered and built to exceed the
demands of commercial paving, the Weiler
P395 incorporates proven designs with
new innovations to provide performance,
reliability and outstanding mat quality in a
wide range of applications.

The Weiler designed 4,400 lb (1996 kg)
screed delivers outstanding mat quality
and a wide paving range. The 7’ 8” (2.3
m) front mount screed is hydraulically
extendable to 15’ 4” (4.67 m).

Best-in-class 96” (2438 mm) track length
with 74” (1880 mm) of ground contact and
140 mm track chain pitch provides smooth
ride and excellent flotation. Automatic
track tensioning ensures performance and
maximizes component life.

VISIBILITY AND CONTROL.

DURABLE COMPONENTS.

FAST SERVICE.

The P395 has swing out consoles for
optimal visibility while the adjustable,
magnetic-resistance intelligent steering
system allows for reliable control. The
joystick allows for automatic functions.

Highway class chains, conveyor and auger
bearings provide long-term reliability.
Remote grease lines located on the front
of the counterweight provide easy daily
maintenance.

Remote grease lines, spray down system
with 4-10’ (1.2 - 3.0 m) coiled hoses. Hinged
engine access doors and Caterpillar dealer
service and support keep your machine up
and running.

weilerproducts.com

P395 Specifications
WEIGHT

25,000 lb

11 340 kg

screed weight

4,400 lb

1996 kg

engine

Cat® C3. 6 Tier 4F/Stage V

Length

15’ 2”

4623 mm

main plate width

16.5”

419 mm

paving speed

150 fpm

45 mpm

Width

102”

2591 mm

extension plate width

10”

254 mm

transport speed

350 fpm

106 mpm

height

100”

2540 mm

screed heat

Electric - 4 elements

Fuel capacity

39 gal

148 L

truck clearance

19”

482 mm

vibration

4 x 2500 vpm max

hydraulic capacity

30 gal

114 L

auger diameter

14”

356 mm

auger speed

150 rpm max

def capacity

5 gal

18 L

POWERTRAIN

SCREED

Cat C3.6 Tier 4F/Stage V engine with 120 hp (89 kW)
3-Speed hydrostatic drive, 350 fpm (106 mpm) transport speed
Automatic track tensioning
96” (2438 mm) track length with 74” (1880 mm) of ground contact
14” (356 mm) bolt on, polyurethane track pads
7 track rollers per side w/1 carrier roller
140 mm track chain pitch
Hydraulically driven 12 kW generator

7’ 8” (2.3 m) to 15’4” (4.67 m) standard paving width
4 element electric heated screed w/ thermostatic control
3/8” (9.5 mm) thick screed plates
Hydraulic slope
Powered extension height
Sonic feed sensors
Hydraulic crown adjustment (+-3%)
Folding rear walkways
Adjustable, springloaded end gates
Heated end gates

®

OPERATING ENVIRONMENT
Dual, swing-out operating stations
Air ride seats
Push button keypads
Dual LCD display provides conditions and diagnostics
Pause mode enables return to same settings
Steering wheel standard
Screed mounted control panels

SERVICE/MAINTENANCE

MATERIAL DELIVERY

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

11-ton (10 mt) hopper
Replaceable floor plates
Heavy-duty chains and flight bars
Narrow chain guards
14” (356 mm) Ni-hard augers
Adjustable push roller
Independent, fully proportional and reversing auger and conveyor
Cut-off doors
Hydraulic dumping front apron

Truck hitch
Hydraulically extendable push rollers
DC LED blade lights
Auto grade and slope controls
Cut-off shoes
12” (305 mm), 18” (457 mm), 24” (610 mm) berm attachment
Hydraulic integrated berm

SALES AND SERVICE

WARRANTY

Sold and serviced through Caterpillar dealers worldwide.

12 months standard. Extended warranty available.

weilerproducts.com

8-gal (30 L) spray down system with 4 hoses/nozzles
Braided electrical harnesses and sealed connections
12-volt electric system with automotive-type fuses
Remote grease fittings
5 engine access doors
Lockable vandal covers and engine access doors

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 7F
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Jason Deman, Manager of Public Utilities
August 19, 2026
Motion – To Approve the Purchase of a New Singer Pressure Reducing Valve for the
Palace PRV

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The City has many Pressure Reducing Valves (PRV) throughout the water system which helps regulate water
pressures from getting too high in certain areas. Pressures from Great Lakes Water Authority, system pumps, or
changes in hydraulic grade can cause these high pressures. The Palace PRV is located along Harmon near the former
Palace site and feeds that site and many buildings in that area (Lapeer District). This area is a low spot that causes
high pressure buildup if the PRV was not present. The Lapeer District is shown below in orange-

The current Ross valve at this location was installed in 2005 and has been in service and maintained ever since.
Regular maintenance and re-building of the valve help prolong their life, but a recent rebuilding did not fix an
operational issue with the valve, and is causing intermittent issues in the area. Normally valves like these are in
service for 30-40 years, but this one will need to be replaced a little early.
The City made the decision in 2013 to begin utilizing Singer Valves in all our future and replacement PRV situations.
All the new Singer valves that have been installed and put into service since 2013 have been operating to our
expectations. For the sake of operational use and knowledge, we would prefer use of Singer Valves solely in our

Page 2
system moving forward. Purchasing Singer valves in this area is done through a sole source vendor, Kennedy
Industries. A single source letter has been provided as Attachment 2. We have a very good relationship with
Kennedy, purchasing PRV valves, water pumps, sewage pumps, storm pumps, and even utilizing them for
emergency maintenance calls when we are unable to handle the repairs.
The quote for the replacement 10” Singer PRV is $23,384 and can be viewed as Attachment 1. There are adequate
funds in GL 592.536.933.000 for this purchase. This PRV will be installed in-house with the water and sewer
department personnel, thus saving money on installation costs from a contractor to do the work.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Considering the current valve is not operating correctly, Staff recommend replacement with the new Singer valve
from Kennedy Industries. The cost of the valve will be paid out of the Water maintenance budget.
MOTION
Move to approve the purchase of a new Singer Pressure Reducing Valve for the Palace PRV in the amount of
$23,384.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1- Singer quote from Kennedy
Attachment 2- Kennedy-Singer Sole Source Letter

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

DATE
8/17/2026

B AUB100
I
L CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
L 1500 BROWN ROAD

Accepted By:

T AUBURN HILLS, MI 48326
O US

PO#:

ATTENTION:
JASON DEMAN

248-408-9952

QUOTATION
NUMBER

PAGE

0072346

1 of 1

Date:
Ship To:

[email protected]

WE ARE PLEASED TO PROPOSE THE FOLLOWING FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION:
CUSTOMER REF/PO#

JOB TITLE

VALVE

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS, AUBURN HILLS PALACE, PRESSURE
REDUCING VALVE, WATER

QTY

SLP
SAH/BJA

SHIPPING TYPE

DESCRIPTION
(1) 10" PRESSURE REDUCING VALVE, S106-PR 150F, 150# FLANGE CONNECTIONS, DUCTILE IRON GLOVE VALVE, MODEL
160-PR-SST W/20-200 PSI SPRING. COMPLETE WITH SST PILOT, RIGID SST TUBING/FITTING, INLET/OUTLET PRESSURE
GUAGE WITH COCK-SST, X107-SST VISUAL POSTION INDICATOR.
(1) START-UP ASSISTANCE.
NET PRICE INCLUDING FREIGHT, BUT NO TAXES:--- $23,384.00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------NOTES:
1) SINGER VALVE QUOTED DOES NOT MEET AIS, BUY AMERICA OR BABA REQUIRMENTS.
2) LEAD TIME 8-12 WEEKS AFTER RELEASE TO PRODUCTION.
3) THIS PRICE INCLUDES ALL APPLICABLE TARIFFS AS OF 8/17/2026. DUE TO THE CURRENT VOLATILITY IN TARIFFS,
KENNEDY RESERVES THE RIGHT TO ADJUST THE PRICE FOR ANY INCREASED TAX, DUTY, OR TARIFF IMPOSED FROM THIS
DATE THROUGH PROJECT COMPLETION.
WE DO NOT INCLUDE:
INSTALLATION, OFF-LOADING, SITE WORK, CONCRETE, ANCHOR BOLTS, PIPING, CONDUIT, WIRING, MAIN DISCONNECT,
MTS, ATS, GENERATOR, GENERATOR RECEPTACLE, SCADA EQUIPMENT, SCADA INTEGRATION, PADLOCKS, KEYS,
WITNESS/CERTIFIED TESTING, SPARE PARTS OR ANYTHING NOT LISTED ABOVE.
WE APPRECIATE THIS OPPORTUNITY TO QUOTE AND LOOK FORWARD TO BEING OF FUTURE SERVICE.
SINCERELY,
SPENCER HASBROUCK / BEN ADAMS

This Quotation is subject to and incorporates by reference (i) the Master Terms and Conditions of Sale available at www.kennedyind.com/Master-TCs, and (ii) the Supplemental Seller T&Cs available at
www.kennedyind.com/Supplemental-Seller-TCs.

QUOTE VALID FOR 30 DAYS. QUOTE DOES NOT INCLUDE ANY TARIFFS OR ESCALATION UNLESS NOTED ABOVE. CREDIT CARD PAYMENTS ARE
SUBJECT TO AN ADDITIONAL 3% CHARGE. NO TAXES OF ANY KIND ARE INCLUDED IN THIS PROPOSAL. PAYMENT TERMS: NET 30, SUBJECT
TO CREDIT APPROVAL.

P.O. Box 930079 Wixom, MI 48393 - 4925 Holtz Drive Wixom, MI 48393 - Phone: 248-684-1200 - Fax: 248-684-6011

www.Kennedyind.com

Singer Valve, LLC
1200 Abernathy Road, Suite 1200
Atlanta, GA 30328

phone: 770.206.4200
singervalve.com

April 29, 2022

RE: Sole Representative for Singer® Products
To Whom it may concern.
This letter shall confirm that Singer Valve, LLC (“Singer”) is the sole manufacturer of Singer
control valves, parts, kits, and accessories (“Products”).
Kennedy Industries is the sole representative of Singer Products for the water/wastewater
market in the State of Michigan. No other company is authorized, contractually, or otherwise,
to represent Singer Products in these States.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Austin Lange Area Manager, Mueller
Water Products at 515.443.5250.
Best Regards,
Joe Passalacqua.
Sr Manager Business Development and Support, Water Management Solutions

MUELLER® | ECHOLOGICS® | HYDRO GATE® | HYDRO-GUARD® | JONES® | MI.NET® | MILLIKEN® | PRATT® | SINGER® | U.S. PIPE VALVE AND HYDRANT
F 14032 10/18

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 9A
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Steven J. Cohen, AICP, Director of Community
Development
August 18, 2026
Public Hearing / Motion – Adopt an Ordinance to amend Chapter 54. Solid Waste; to
repeal Article II. Garbage and Refuse, of the Auburn Hills City Code and replace it with a
new Article II. Solid Waste, Recyclable Materials, and Designated Waste Hauler Collection
Regulation on Second Reading

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The proposed amendment, prepared by The Kelly Firm, comprehensively updates Chapter 54, Article II of the
Auburn Hills City Code to reflect the City’s transition from manual waste collection to an automated, cart-based
system under the City's anticipated next contract with WM. Because the existing ordinance was written for manual
collection, it has been completely reorganized and updated.
Article II. Garbage and Refuse will be repealed and
replaced by a new Article II. Solid Waste, Recyclable
Materials, and Designated Waste Hauler Collection
Regulation. Under the proposed waste collection
contract with WM, residential collection will
transition from Priority Waste's manual system, in
which crews lift garbage cans and bags, to WM’s
automated side-loader trucks.
WM’s trucks use a mechanical arm to lift, empty, and
return standardized roll carts without requiring the
driver to leave the vehicle. As a result, the existing
ordinance, which permits sealed garbage cans of any
size, plastic bags, and disposable cartons, will no
longer be compatible with the City's new collection
system. The updated ordinance establishes
regulations that support automated collection and
ensure consistent, safe, and efficient service.

WM’s automated collection

The proposed ordinance establishes customer requirements and operational standards for the new collection
system. Each single-family residence will receive one 96-gallon garbage cart and one 64-gallon recycling cart, both
provided by WM. Residents must use only WM-supplied carts and no other containers, as required by the contract.
Existing requirements governing the timing of curbside placement and removal of carts, participation in the City's
designated waste hauler program, and the collection of residential solid waste, recyclables, compostables, and yard
waste are retained, with updated standards.

Page 2
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff recommend the adoption of the proposed ordinance.
MOTION
Move to adopt an Ordinance amending Chapter 54. Solid Waste; repealing Article II, Garbage and Refuse, of the
Auburn Hills City Code; and replacing it with a new Article II. Solid Waste, Recyclable Materials, and Designated
Waste Hauler Collection Regulation, on Second Reading. It shall be known as Ordinance No. 26-952.

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
ORDINANCE NO. 26-952
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 54. SOLID WASTE TO
REPEAL ARTICLE II. GARBAGE AND REFUSE OF THE AUBURN
HILLS CITY CODE AND REPLACE IT WITH A NEW ARTICLE II.
SOLID WASTE, RECYCLABLE MATERIALS, AND DESIGNATED
WASTE HAULER COLLECTION REGULATION
THE CITY OF AUBURN HILLS ORDAINS:
SECTION 1. Title.
This Ordinance shall be known and cited as the City of Auburn Hills "Solid Waste, Recyclable
Materials, and Designated Waste Hauler Collection Regulation Ordinance", and it shall be
sufficient in any action for enforcement of the provisions hereof to define the same by such short
title or by reference to the number hereof.
SECTION 2. Purpose.
The purpose of this Ordinance shall be:
(a)
To further secure and protect the general welfare and safety of the citizens and others within
the City of Auburn Hills;
(b)
To promote recycling and composting as desirable alternatives to the disposal of solid
wastes in landfills or by incineration;
(c)
To regulate the business of solid waste collection within the City of Auburn Hills;
(d)
To enact rules and regulations for the conduct of such business;
(e)
To establish a Designated Waste Hauler for specified generation sites;
(f)
To establish and allow for a Designated Waste Hauler Contract that provides for the terms
and conditions for the collection of solid waste and recyclables by the Designated Waste
Hauler.
(g)
To provide for licenses and fees; and
(h)
To establish penalties for the violation of the provisions.
This Ordinance shall not apply to or regulate disposal areas as set forth in Article III.
SECTION 3. Definitions.
Collection Vehicle - any vehicle specifically designed for and used for the collection of solid
waste or recyclable materials.
Commercial - any business establishment or office, regardless of zoning district, which provides
for the sale of goods and/or services to customers.

Compostables - means yard clippings and residential compostables. Residential compostables
means organic fruit and vegetable material which is produced incidental to the preparation of food
for human consumption in residential structures.
Designated Waste Hauler - means any person or entity awarded a contract as the City’s
Designated Waste Hauler to engage in the business of collecting solid waste, recyclable materials,
compostables and yard clippings from specific generation sites within the City for hauling,
transporting or disposing of such materials.
Designated Waste Hauler Contract - an Agreement between the City and a Waste Hauler that
has been approved by the City Council, signed by both parties and covering the applicable dates.
Disposal Areas - means a refuse transfer facility, incinerator, sanitary landfill, refuse processing
plant, material recovery facility or any other refuse handling or disposal facility utilized in the
disposal of refuse.
Garbage - rejected food wastes including waste accumulation of animal, fruit, or vegetable matter
used or intended for food or that attends the preparation, use, cooking, dealing in, or storing of
meat, fowl, fruit, or vegetable.
Industrial - any business establishment, regardless of zoning district, which provides for the
production or manufacture of goods or raw material or component parts.
Litter - means all rubbish, refuse, waste material, garbage, offal, paper, glass, cans, bottles, trash,
debris or other foreign substances of every kind and description.
Multiple-Family - any residential development which provides for more than one family on a
single parcel of land.
Multi-Family Generation Site - as set forth in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract, certain
multi-family generation sites, including certain duplex, triplex, fourplex, and townhouse or
condominium residential units will be covered by Designated Waste Hauler curbside collection
system. Such multi-family generation sites will be defined or set forth in the Designated Waste
Hauler Contract.
Recyclables - selected items that are authorized to be picked up to be recycled. Recyclable
materials means source-separated materials, site-separated materials, high grade paper, glass,
metal, plastic, aluminum, newspaper, corrugated paper, yard clippings and other material deemed
to be recyclable materials by duly adopted resolution of the City Council. These shall include, but
need not be limited to, clear glass containers, metal food cans and lids, aluminum, newspaper, flat
and corrugated cardboard (up to 3' x 3', bundled), plastic containers with recycling codes.
Rubbish - means nonputrescible solid waste, excluding ashes, consisting of both combustible and
non-combustible waste including paper, cardboard, metal containers, yard clippings, wood, glass
bedding, crockery, demolished building materials, or litter of any kind that may be a detriment to
the public health and safety.

Single - Family Generation Site - any single-family dwelling unit that is not attached to any other
dwelling unit by any means.
Solid Waste - garbage, rubbish, ashes, incinerator ash, incinerator residue, street cleanings,
municipal and industrial sludges, and solid commercial and solid industrial waste, animal waste;
but does not include human body waste, liquid or other waste regulated by Michigan statute,
ferrous or nonferrous scrap directed to a scrap metal processor or to a reuser of ferrous or nonferrous products.
Yard Clippings - means leaves, grass clippings, vegetables or other garden debris, shrubbery,
brush or tree trimmings less than four feet in length and two inches in diameter, that can be
converted to compost humus. This term does not include stumps, agricultural wastes, animal waste,
roots, sewage, sludge or garbage.
SECTION 4. License Required and Applicable Fees of all Non-Designated Waste Haulers.
Section 4 does not apply to the Designated Waste Hauler. The license, application, renewal and
transfer of the Designated Waste Hauler will be addressed and enforced through the Designated
Waste Hauler contract with the City. Section 4 applies to solid waste and recyclable collection
businesses within the City, other than the City’s Designated Waste Hauler; primarily serving
multiple family units, industrial and commercial units.
(a)
(b)

(c)
(d)

A person, firm, or corporation shall not engage in or carry on the business of solid waste
collection within the City of Auburn Hills without first having obtained the necessary
licenses from the City Council as hereinafter provided.
A license fee in the amount of One Hundred Dollars ($100) for each collection vehicle to
be used by the licensee in connection with said business within the City of Auburn Hills
shall be paid to the City Treasurer at the time application is made for an original license.
The fee for renewal of a license previously issued shall be Fifty Dollars ($50) if paid before
March 15. The fee to renew a license after March 15 but before expiration of the present
license shall be Seventy-Five Dollars ($75). After March 31, license fees for such vehicle
shall be the same as if the vehicle was previously unlicensed.
Fifty percent (50%) of such fee shall be refunded should the original license or the renewal
license not be granted, unless the reason for not granting a license is due to the vehicle
failing inspection.
Such fee shall not be refunded should the original license or renewal license be revoked.

SECTION 5. Application Process.
Section 5 does not apply to the Designated Waste Hauler. The license, application, renewal and
transfer of the Designated Waste Hauler will be addressed and enforced through the Designated
Waste Hauler contract with the City. Section 5 applies to solid waste and recyclable collection
businesses within the City, other than the City’s Designated Waste Hauler; primarily serving
multiple family units, industrial and commercial units.

(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

(e)

(f)
(g)
(h)

Applications for licenses to engage in the business of solid waste collection, other than the
designated waste hauler, within the City of Auburn Hills shall be made to the City Clerk,
and shall contain
(1)
The full name, address, and telephone number of the applicant;
(2)
An indication of whether the applicant is a person, partnership, or corporation;
(3)
A complete description of every collection vehicle and other equipment to be used
in the conduct of the solid waste collection business. The description shall include
at a minimum:
a.
The vehicle identification number provided by the vehicle manufacturer.
b.
The current Michigan license plate number. (This information shall be kept
current by the applicant.)
c.
Proof of insurance as required by Michigan Law.
d.
A certificate of liability insurance in the minimum amount as shall be
established from time to time by the City Council.
(4)
Such other information as may be required by the City Clerk to reasonably apprise
the City Council of the character of the applicant and of the nature of the business
to be carried on.
Applications for initial licenses shall be referred to Auburn Hills Police Department for
investigation and recommendation. This investigation and recommendation shall be
completed within one (1) month of receipt of the information. The vehicle(s) shall meet
the requirements of Section 9 (A).
The application shall then be presented to the City Council at its next regularly scheduled
meeting. The applicant shall have the right to appear before the Council and to furnish such
additional information as may be required to enable the Council to determine whether or
not the license should be granted.
The City Council may continue consideration of the application from meeting to meeting
for the purpose of securing additional information or to afford any citizen of the City an
opportunity to be heard in connection with the issuance of a license. Such continuation
shall not be used to unreasonably deny the applicant the right to do business in the City
of Auburn Hills.
The City Council shall have the authority to refuse to grant any application for any just
cause, or when, in its judgment, the public health, safety, and welfare of the inhabitants of
the City so require. In any action to refuse to grant a license, the Council shall set forth
the specific reason or reasons.
Licenses that are issued shall be in such form as shall be prescribed by the Council. Each
and every license shall expire on the thirty-first (31st) day of March following the issuance
of the original license or the renewal license.
The City, through the Clerk's Office, shall notify the licensee in writing by April 1 on an
annual basis of the disposition of the license to do business and shall furnish stickers for
each approved vehicle.
The permit stickers shall be displayed in the lower right corner (passenger side) of the
windshield upon the licensed collection vehicle or other equipment.

SECTION 6. Renewal of License.
Section 6 does not apply to the Designated Waste Hauler. The license, application, renewal and
transfer of the Designated Waste Hauler will be addressed and enforced through the Designated
Waste Hauler contract with the City. Section 6 applies to solid waste and recyclable collection
businesses within the City, other than the City’s Designated Waste Hauler; primarily serving
multiple family units, industrial and commercial units.
A license shall be renewed by the City Clerk on an annual basis, subject to the following
requirements:
(a)
(b)

(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)

The licensee shall pay to the City Treasurer the required fees on or before the fifteenth
(15th) day of March each year it seeks a license renewal.
The licensee shall file with the City Clerk the required list of vehicles, vehicle identification
numbers, license plate numbers, proof of liability insurance, and the vehicle certificates of
insurance on or before the fifteenth (15th) day of March each year it seeks a license
renewal.
All vehicles shall meet the requirements of Section 9 (A). During the year, trash-hauling
vehicles shall be subject at any time to random inspection by the Auburn Hills Police
Department during the course of doing business in the City of Auburn Hills.
A quarterly report of random inspections and violations may be provided by the OCSD to
the City Council.
A vehicle which fails an inspection because of safety violations shall not be used for trash
collection in the City of Auburn Hills until noted deficiencies are corrected and repairs are
made and certified as completed by a licensed mechanic.
If the licensee fails to pay the required fees, and provide the necessary information, by the
thirty-first (31st) day of March each year that it seeks a license renewal, any request for a
license thereafter shall be considered a new license, requiring a new application and
hearing before the City Council.

SECTION 7. Temporary Transfer of License.
Section 7 does not apply to the Designated Waste Hauler. The license, application, renewal and
transfer of the Designated Waste Hauler will be addressed and enforced through the Designated
Waste Hauler contract with the City. Section 7 applies to solid waste and recyclable collection
businesses within the City, other than the City’s Designated Waste Hauler; primarily serving
multiple family units, industrial and commercial units.
(a)

Licenses issued by the City of Auburn Hills may be temporarily transferred to another
collection vehicle in an emergency situation, provided:
(1)
The originally licensed collection vehicle cannot practically be used for solid waste
collection because of a mechanical failure or some other malfunction of the
equipment.
(2)
The licensee shall apply to the City Clerk for a temporary transfer of said license
stating the reason(s) for the transfer and the length of time required for the transfer.

(3)
(b)
(c)

(d)
(e)

The vehicle to which the license is to be transferred shall be inspected by the
Auburn Hills Police Department and shall meet all the requirements of Section 9
(A).
The City Clerk may temporarily transfer the license, upon the licensee meeting the stated
requirements.
The temporary transfer shall be in the form of a certified letter indicating the name, address,
and telephone number of the licensee; the Michigan license plate number of the vehicle to
which the temporary transfer is applicable; and the termination date of the temporary
transfer.
This temporary license transfer letter is to be carried in the vehicle at all times and shall be
presented when requested by any authorized person.
A temporary transfer shall last no longer than three (3) weeks.

SECTION 8. Revocation of License.
Section 8 does not apply to the Designated Waste Hauler. The license, application, renewal and
transfer of the Designated Waste Hauler will be addressed and enforced through the Designated
Waste Hauler contract with the City. Section 8 applies to solid waste and recyclable collection
businesses within the City, other than the City’s Designated Waste Hauler; primarily serving
multiple family units, industrial and commercial units. The revocation of the Designated Waste
Hauler license will be addressed in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract.
(a)

(b)
(c)
(d)
(e)
(f)
(g)

Any license issued hereunder may be revoked by the City Council for any of the following
reasons:
(1)
Any false statement made in the application.
(2)
Failure to comply with the provisions of this Ordinance.
(3)
Failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the license.
(4)
Failure to comply with the laws of the State of Michigan.
(5)
Other just and substantiated cause.
Before any license shall be revoked, written notice shall be given to the licensee by certified
mail by the City Clerk. The notice shall state the time, date, and place the licensee is to
appear for a hearing before the City Council.
The licensee may make whatever presentation he wishes and may produce witnesses in his
behalf.
Following the hearing, the City Council shall make a finding of fact and shall render its
decision.
If the decision is to revoke the license, the City Council shall establish the date of
revocation and cause a copy of its order to be served upon the licensee either in person or
by certified mail.
Upon service of the Council's order with the revocation of license date indicated, the
licensee shall have no further right to engage in the waste collection business in the City
of Auburn Hills.
If the City Council, for whatever reason, decides not to renew or deny the license of any
waste collection licensee, then the Council shall so notify the licensee by certified mail.
The licensee shall be entitled to a hearing before the Council as outlined in this Section, if
he requests it in writing to the City Clerk within ten (10) days of the notice of revocation.

SECTION 9. Collection Licensee Requirements, Including Designated Waste Hauler.
(a)

(b)

(c)

(d)

Vehicles.
(1)
Any collection vehicle used for the transportation of solid waste or recyclable
materials within the City shall be water-tight, and equipped with covers over that
portion of the vehicle that is used for the transportation of solid waste or recyclable
materials.
a.
Inspection of Collection Vehicles. A Waste Hauler shall, upon request,
permit the inspection of collection vehicles by the City or its designee, as
those items relate to safe and proper equipment, including, but not limited
to, lights, brakes, tires and exhaust for compliance with existing state law
and local ordinance.
(2)
Any such vehicle shall also be in good working order so as not to constitute a
nuisance or a hazard to other traffic on the roads within the City. The items to be in
good working
order include, but are not limited to, the tires, lights, horn, brakes, exhaust system,
and steering system.
(3)
Any licensed vehicle, in addition to displaying the City sticker or plate, shall also
display in a conspicuous place the licensee's name, address, and telephone number,
so that the vehicle can be readily identified.
Fee Schedule.
(1)
Each licensee shall file with the City a complete schedule of fees and charges to be
made to customers for service. The Designated Waste Hauler shall satisfy this
requirement by way of an approved contract with the City.
(2)
A licensee shall not depart from its filed or contracted for fees and charges in the
operation of its business within the City.
(3)
Except as set forth in the designated Waste Hauler Contract, any change in the fees
or charges shall be filed with the City Clerk and mailed or hand delivered to each
customer at least thirty (30) days before the changed fees are to become effective.
Pick-Up Schedules and Areas, unless Specified in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract.
(1)
Each licensee shall file with the City Clerk a complete schedule of the days and the
areas that pickup from customers are to be made.
(2)
A licensee shall not depart from its filed schedule of days and areas for conducting
a solid waste and recyclable materials collection business within the City unless
thirty (30) days written notice has been filed with the City Clerk and mailed or hand
delivered to each customer.
(3)
Exceptions to the above requirements will be allowed only in case of an emergency
situation. Such a situation shall be that which constitutes a potential health hazard
because conditions not directly within the control of the licensee, such as, but not
limited to, weather conditions, acts of God, and vehicle breakdowns which could
not have been prevented. Such exceptions shall be decided by the City Clerk.
Pick-Up Prohibitions.
A licensee shall not drive or cause to be driven any of his vehicles over or through any
street in the City of Auburn Hills at any time on any Sunday or on New Year's Day,
Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, or Christmas Day, unless
otherwise authorized by the City or provided for in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract.

(1)

(e)

Domestic solid waste, recyclable materials and yard clippings shall be collected
within the City from the curbside of residential sites of generation only between
the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday through Saturday.
(2)
Commercial and industrial solid waste, recyclable materials, compostables, and
yard clippings shall be collected within the City from commercial and industrial
sites of generation only between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m., Monday
through Saturday.
Non-Discrimination.
Service shall be offered by the licensee to any and all customers, without
discrimination, who request such service and are willing to pay the established fees and
charges.

Section 10 – Curbside / Roadside Recycling, Including Designated Waste Hauler.
(a)

(b)

Every person, firm or corporation engaged in the business of solid waste collection within
the City of Auburn Hills shall provide curbside/roadside recycling to each single-family
and multiple-family residence from which they also collect solid waste, at no additional
cost. Unless as otherwise stated in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract, the following
applies:
(1)
Recyclables shall be picked up weekly, and on the same day of the week as the
solid waste collection of that week.
(2)
The solid waste hauler shall provide appropriate containers for recyclables to its
own customers.
a.
Single-family and applicable multi-family residences, including mobile
homes, shall each be provided with suitable containers for small
recyclables. Large or bulky recyclables will be placed near the recycling
container for pick-up.
b.
Large multiple-family residences shall be provided with separate
receptacles for solid waste and recyclable materials so long as said
residences are compliant with the screening requirements established in
Section 1825 of the Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance and Section 11(B)
below.
(3)
Recyclables separated by residents shall not be disposed of into trash hauling
vehicles by trash hauling personnel. A separate vehicle shall be used to collect
recyclables.
The progress of the City's recycling effort shall be monitored by the City of Auburn Hills.
The City of Auburn Hills may require periodic reports of the trash haulers to assist in their
efforts to promote recycling in the City.

Section 11 – Customer Requirements.
(A)

Single-Family Customers.
(1)
Each customer of a licensed solid waste, recyclable materials, compostables and
yard clippings collector within the City of Auburn Hills shall comply with the
following requirements:

(a)

(B)

Containers. Containers for garbage, rubbish, and refuse (outside residential
and nonresidential properties), including covering of containers, shall
comply with the terms of the Designated Waste Hauler Contract
(b)
Accumulation. Garbage shall not be allowed to accumulate more than ten
days.
(2)
Standing for collection. Refuse, including garbage, may be placed at the place for
collection, the evening before the collection, in containers compliant with the
Designated Waste Hauler Contract, but shall not be left standing in such location
for more than 24 hours from the scheduled pick up.
(3)
After pick-up, all empty containers shall be removed from the street promptly, but
not later than 8:00 p.m., on the day of collection.
(4)
All single-family generation sites are required to have their solid waste, recyclable
materials, compostables and yard clippings picked-up by the Designated Waste
Hauler under the terms, conditions and costs set forth in the Designated Waste
Hauler Contract.
Multiple-Family, Commercial, Industrial.
(1)
Multiple Family, commercial and industrial properties must comply with the
specifications set forth in the Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance, as may be amended
from time to time.

SECTION 12. DESIGNATED WASTE HAULER COLLECTION PROGRAM.
(a)

Collection and disposal of solid waste and recyclable materials by the City's Designated
Waste Hauler. Commencing on the date set forth in the Designated Waste Hauler
contract, collection and disposal of solid waste, yard clippings, compostables and
recyclable materials from single-family generation sites shall be in accordance with the
Designated Waste Hauler Contract and the following provisions:
(1)
No person shall dispose of any solid waste or recyclable materials (excluding yard
clippings removed by landscapers) generated from single-family generation sites
within the City other than by means of the Designated Waste Hauler contracted
by the City for such purpose.
(2)
As further directed in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract, the Designated
Waste Hauler shall deliver solid waste to a facility authorized under Act 451, as
amended, recyclables to a recycling facility and all other collection as directed in
the Designated Waste Hauler Contract.
(3)
No person except the Designated Waste Hauler shall engage in the business of
collection, transporting, delivery or disposal of solid waste or recyclable materials
generated by single-family generation sites within the City.
(4)
The Designated Waste Hauler shall comply with Act 451 and all applicable
federal, state and county laws, local ordinances, and rules and regulations in the
collection, transportation and delivery of solid waste and recyclable materials.
(5)
No person shall knowingly place hazardous waste at curbside or other designated
locations for collection, and the Designated Waste Hauler shall not knowingly
collect or deliver hazardous waste to a processing or disposal site.
(6)
The provisions of Section 12 shall not prohibit the placement of solid waste, yard
clippings or recyclable materials for collection by a person or company other than

(b)

(c)

the Designated Waste Hauler if such person or company is operating under an
active license of the City and is providing collection services pursuant to a
collection contract existing prior to the enactment of the Designated Waste Hauler
contract, between such person and the owner and occupant of a single-family
generation site. Section 12 shall apply to such person or company upon expiration
of the contract or license, whichever comes first.
Rates, charges, and payments for Designated Waste Hauler Collection program: The
Designated Waste Hauler shall charge fees for collection and disposal of waste and shall
bill for such services in accordance with the following; unless provided otherwise in the
Designated Waste Hauler Contract.
(1)
The Designated Waste Hauler shall charge fees for collection and disposal of
waste placed for collection as set forth in the contract between the Designated
Waste Hauler and the City.
(2)
Unless specified otherwise in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract, the
Designated Waste Hauler shall send a quarterly invoice, in advance, to each
single-family generation site for which services are provided in the City. Such
invoice shall represent charges for services to be rendered in the following
quarter.
(3)
Unless otherwise specified in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract, the invoice
shall be delivered by regular mail at least two weeks prior to the beginning of the
quarter for which charges are imposed.
(4)
If the invoice is not paid within 90 days after the due date, it shall be considered
delinquent and a penalty set by the City Council or as otherwise specified in the
designated Waste Hauler Contract shall be added to the amount due.
a.
If provided in the Designated Waste Hauler Contract, the charges for
collection and disposal fees relating to services to single-family generation
sites by the Designated Waste Hauler shall constitute a lien on the singlefamily generation site for which the services have been provided. Any
charges and penalties delinquent for three months or more shall be certified
annually by the City official in charge of collection to the tax assessing
officer of the City to be entered upon the next tax roll against the singlefamily generation site for which the services have been rendered, and the
charges and penalties shall be collected as part of the general City taxes
against such single-family generation site and shall accrue further interest
and penalties and shall be collected in the same manner as provided for
delinquent real property taxes in the City. If not provided for in the
Designated Waste Hauler Contract, the Designated Waste Hauler shall be
responsible to collect all fees and the City will have no obligation to collect
any fee or delinquent payment by tax lien or otherwise.
If any term, provision or condition is not covered by this Ordinance, the Designated
Waste Hauler Contract shall control and the City retains the right to amend, modify or
change any term or condition provided in the Contract upon renewal, agreement of the
parties or selection of a new Designated Waste Hauler.

SECTION 13. Penalties.
(a)

(b)

Penalty. Any person, business engaging in solid waste collection for multiple family units
or commercial units, or a Designated Waste Hauler, who violates any provision of this
Ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall
be subject to a fine of at least Twenty-Five Dollars ($25) and not more than Five Hundred
Dollars ($500) and the costs of prosecution. A separate offense shall be deemed committed
for each violation and for each day a violation continues.
Violations Declared Nuisance. Any storage or disposal of garbage, rubbish, solid waste
and/or recyclables in violation of the provisions of this ordinance is hereby declared to be
a nuisance per se. (Ord. No. 796, § 1, 2-5-07; Ord. No. 11-838, § 1, 9-12-11; Ord. No.
11-839, § 7, 12-20-11)
(1)
A person who owns, manages, leases, rents, or occupies a premises shall not
create, maintain, operate, or permit to be created, maintained, or operated any
nuisance as defined in this article. All persons who own, manage, lease, rent or
occupy any premises shall be equally responsible for keeping the premises in a
clean and habitable condition and shall take all necessary precautions to prevent
any nuisance, as defined in this article, from existing on the premises. Each day a
violation occurs or continues is deemed a separate offense. (Ord. No. 796, § 1, 25-07)
(2)
Notice to Abate. Upon observing a violation of the provisions of this article, an
enforcement officer may issue a notice to abate to the occupant and property owner
as shown on the records maintained by Oakland County. The notice to abate shall
be served on the occupant and the property owner by first class mail and posted in
a conspicuous location, where possible, upon the property at issue. Failure to
receive such notice is not a defense to any action by the city to abate the violation,
collect abatement costs, collect administrative costs, or impose penalties authorized
by this Code.
(3)
The notice to abate shall inform the owner and occupant of the following:
a.
The nature of the violation;
b.
The time frame within which the owner and/or occupant shall abate the
violation, being not more than ten days from the date of the notice for
violations related to the storage of refuse and 24 hours from the date of
notice for violations related to standing for collection. The enforcement
officer may grant additional time where bona fide efforts to abate the
violation are in progress.
c.
If the owner or occupant fails to abate the violation, the enforcement
officer may issue a municipal civil infraction citation.
d.
The city may act to abate the violation, if it is not abated by the owner or
occupant;
e.
The cost of abatement by the city, plus an administrative fee, shall be a
personal debt of the owner which may be assessed as a tax lien against the
property until paid. (Ord. No. 796, § 1, 2-5-07)
(4)
Emergency Abatement by City. When, in the opinion of the city manager, there is
actual and immediate danger to the public or occupants of a premises caused by a
violation on the premises, the city manager may, without any notice or hearing,

(5)

(6)

order and require any reasonable action to abate the violation. (Ord. No. 796, § 1,
2-5-07)
Penalty for Violation. A person who violates the provisions of this article, as
amended, may be fined for a municipal civil infraction, subject to the following
penalties:
a.
Civil fines shall apply in the event of a determination of responsibility for
a municipal civil infraction. Fines shall be in an amount set forth for the
offense in the Schedule of Fines adopted by the 52-3 District Court, plus
costs and other sanctions, for each offense.
b.
In addition to ordering the defendant determined to be responsible for a
municipal civil infraction to pay a civil fine, costs, damages and expenses,
the judge or magistrate may issue any judgment, writ or order necessary to
enforce, or enjoin said violation.
c.
Each act of violation, and on each day upon which any such violation shall
occur, shall constitute a separate offense.
d.
In addition to any remedies provided for by this article, any equitable or
other remedies available and/or permitted by law may be sought.
e.
The judge or magistrate may impose costs, damages, and expenses as
provided by law.
f.
A municipal civil infraction shall not be a lesser included offense of a
criminal offense or of an Auburn Hills City Code or other city ordinance
violation which is not a civil infraction. (Ord. No. 796, § 1, 2-5-07)
Abatement by City; Lien. If the notice to abate is not complied with in the allotted
time period, then an agent authorized by the city manager or by an order of the
52-3 District Court may enter the property as many times as necessary to remove
or eliminate the violation.
a.
The property owner shall be liable for all costs incurred by the city to
remove or eliminate the violation. In addition, an administrative fee in the
amount of 25 percent of the cost of the removal or elimination may
included in total costs.
b.
Billing of costs will be mailed to the property owner by regular mail to the
last known address. If the charges involved are not paid by the owner
within 30 days from the date of billing, the payment shall be delinquent. In
the event of delinquent charges, the city shall have a lien upon such
property for the charges, and the lien is enforceable as a tax lien in the
manner prescribed by the general laws of the state against the property and
collected as in the case of general property tax.
c.
An action for abatement by the city does not preclude the right of the city
to initiate a municipal civil infraction citation and request for formal
hearing at 52-3 District Court. (Ord. No. 796, § 1, 2-5-07)

SECTION 14. Severability.
If any section, clause or provision of this Ordinance shall be declared to be unconstitutional, void,
illegal or ineffective by any Court of competent jurisdiction, such section, clause or provision

declared to be unconstitutional, void or illegal shall thereby cease to be a part of this Ordinance,
but the remainder of this Ordinance shall stand and be in full force and effect.
SECTION 15. Existing License.
All existing licenses issued under this Ordinance that will be covered under the terms of the
Designated Waste Hauler Contract, will not be renewed and will expire upon expiration of the
current license or upon service being assumed by the Designated Waste Hauler, whichever comes
first.
SECTION 16. Savings.
All proceedings pending and all rights and liabilities existing, acquired or incurred at the time this
Ordinance takes effect are saved and may be consummated according to the law when they were
commenced.
SECTION 17. Effective Date.
The provisions of this Ordinance are hereby ordered to take effect upon publication in the manner
prescribed by the Charter of the City of Auburn Hills.
SECTION 18. Adoption.
This Ordinance is hereby declared to have been adopted by the City Council of the City of
Auburn Hills at a meeting thereof duly called and held on the 24th day of August, 2026, and ordered
to be given publication in the manner prescribed by the Charter of the City of Auburn Hills.
AYES:
NAYES:
ABSTENTIONS:
STATE OF MICHIGAN

)
) ss.
COUNTY OF OAKLAND )
I, the undersigned, the duly qualified Clerk of the City of Auburn Hills, Oakland County,
Michigan, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and complete copy of Ordinance No. 26952 adopted by the Auburn Hills City Council on the 24th day of August, 2026, the original of
which is in my office.

_________________________
Eugene Hawkins, III, Mayor

_______________________
Laura M. Pierce, City Clerk

MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 9B
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

To:
From:
Submitted:
Subject:

Mayor and City Council
Thomas A. Tanghe, City Manager; Steven J. Cohen, AICP, Director of Community
Development
August 18, 2026
Motion – To amend the text of Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article
XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2, General Industrial Districts; and Article
XVIII, General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new provisions for clean
industrial uses and to establish comprehensive standards for data centers.

INTRODUCTION AND HISTORY
The attached text amendment to the Zoning Ordinance updates the City's regulations governing technology-related
land uses and establishes appropriate standards for data center development. The primary purpose of the proposed
amendment is to ensure that data centers are located in appropriate areas and are designed and operated to
minimize potential impacts on surrounding properties, while supporting the City's long-term planning and economic
development objectives.
The proposed amendment includes the following key changes:
1. Updates the intent and purpose statement for the T&R District to better reinforce its role as a location for
corporate offices, research and development, and other high-quality employment uses.
2. Establishes clean industrial uses as a Special Land Use within the T&R District, permitting advanced
manufacturing when the City finds such activities compatible with the district's character and surrounding
development.
3. Removes data processing and computing centers and related services as a principal permitted use in the T&R
and I-1 Zoning Districts.
4. Establishes data centers as a Special Land Use only within the I-1 and I-2 Districts, subject to the requirements
of new Section 1837. The amendment also prohibits new data centers within the T&R District, except through
approval of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) when the applicant demonstrates and the City agrees that the
proposed location is appropriate, considering available infrastructure, compatibility with adjacent
development, and consistency with the City's long-term planning and economic development objectives.
5. Creates a new Section 1837, Data Centers, within the General Provisions. This section establishes
comprehensive standards for the location, design, and operation of data centers to help ensure compatibility
with adjacent properties.
BACKGROUND
Data centers are a growing topic nationwide. They provide essential technology services, but residents often raise
concerns about increased electricity use, noise, and visual impact. A recent Gallup poll found that about 71% of
Americans oppose new data centers in their communities.
This staff report neither advocates for nor opposes data center development. Instead, it outlines the regulatory
approach recommended by City staff, grounded in sound planning principles, technical data, and Auburn Hills'
specific circumstances. The goal is to provide a fair, balanced, and fact-based framework for assessing this emerging
land use.

Page 2
BACKGROUND (cont.)
Under the Michigan Zoning Enabling Act, the City cannot ban a legal land use simply because it is controversial or
unpopular. Zoning rules must be reasonable, fact-based, and consistent with legitimate planning goals. The City's
role is to determine where a land use is suitable and to set standards that protect nearby properties, residents,
businesses, and public infrastructure.
To understand the recommended approach, it helps to first understand what a data center is. In simple terms, data
centers are buildings that power the internet. They house servers that support cloud computing, artificial
intelligence, online banking, healthcare records, streaming services, and many other digital services people rely on
every day. Like private utilities, such as fiber-optic networks and cell towers, data centers have become an essential
part of today's economy and technology infrastructure.
The recommendations in this report are based on three primary sources:
1. The City's experience reviewing and regulating the modernization of the US Signal data center at 1035 West
Entrance Drive.
2. Research on how municipalities across the country plan for and regulate data center development.
3. Coordination with DTE Energy on Auburn Hills' electrical infrastructure, available capacity, and the ability to
support future data center development.
City staff have prepared a pragmatic ordinance for Auburn Hills that would impose stricter regulations on data
centers than those currently mandated by the City. This draft has been developed using local insights, industry
research, and technical data from DTE Energy. The regulations aim to protect neighboring properties, promote
responsible economic growth, and establish a transparent, predictable process for evaluating future data center
projects.
UNDERSTANDING DATA CENTERS AND THEIR VARIOUS SIZES
Public concern about data centers often focuses on a specific type called "hyperscale” data centers. These are very
large campuses built by major tech firms to support cloud computing, AI, and large-scale digital services. Hyperscale
data centers have raised issues such as noise, increased demands on electrical and water systems, and impacts on
community character. However, such large facilities are unlikely in Auburn Hills because the City lacks the land,
utilities, and electrical capacity needed for them. A few locations in the northern part of the City could host
medium- to large-sized data centers if electrical infrastructure is upgraded and zoning requirements are met.
Smaller centers, such as the existing US Signal facility, could fit within the City’s T&R and industrial zones, given the
existing electrical infrastructure. Therefore, it's important for the City to set clear zoning standards now to guide
where these facilities can be built, ensure they are compatible with surrounding uses, and address potential impacts
before new proposals are considered.

Page 3
UNDERSTANDING DATA CENTERS (cont.)
Data centers generally fall into three categories, each serving a distinct purpose:
1. Enterprise data centers, 4-10 megawatts (MW), are generally smaller facilities managed by a single company to
support its own operations and, occasionally, its clients' technology requirements.
2. Colocation data centers, 10-50 MW, are managed by a third-party provider that leases secure space to various
businesses. Each tenant is responsible for installing, owning, and managing its servers and equipment, while
sharing infrastructure such as power, cooling, security, and electrical backup systems.
3. Hyperscale data centers, exceeding 50 MW, are extensive facilities developed and managed by leading tech
firms. They support cloud computing, AI, streaming services, and other internet-based applications utilized by
millions of people worldwide.
The existing US Signal facility is a colocation data center where multiple businesses lease space for their servers and
technology equipment. US Signal acquired the facility in 2024 and owns and operates the building, electrical
systems, cooling equipment, security systems, and other supporting infrastructure. The facility provides secure,
reliable data services to a major Auburn Hills employer, regional healthcare providers, financial institutions, and
other businesses throughout Metro Detroit. Originally built in 1986 as the EDS Information Processing Center, the
building has operated continuously as a data center for about 40 years. To meet growing demand, US Signal is
upgrading the facility's electrical capacity from approximately 6 to 12 MW, including improvements to cooling
systems, standby emergency generators, and other supporting infrastructure. These $120 million upgrades are
being made within the existing site, allowing the facility to expand its capacity while continuing its established
operations.
New Emergency Back-up Generators

Existing Generators to Be Replaced

New Chillers
(Cooling)

Renderings of the US Signal property with all phases completed

Page 4
WHY MODERN DATA CENTERS REQUIRE SPECIFIC ZONING STANDARDS
Data centers provide essential services that support today's modern economy. They enable businesses, government
agencies, healthcare providers, and individuals to store, process, and access the digital information and services
they rely on every day. At the same time, data centers operate differently from traditional industrial uses. They
require significant electrical infrastructure, operate 24 hours a day, and rely on cooling systems and backup
generators to keep services running without interruption. They also typically have fewer employees than many
industrial buildings of a similar size. Because of these differences, traditional industrial zoning standards may not
fully address the impacts associated with data center development.
People nationwide have raised common
concerns about data centers, including noise,
visual impact, utility requirements, water
consumption, emergency generator testing, and
compatibility with adjacent properties. Noise is
often a major issue because cooling systems run
continuously, producing low-frequency sounds
that are especially noticeable at night.
Additionally, testing backup generators can
cause temporary noise disturbances if not
carefully scheduled and controlled. Because of
these unique characteristics, many communities
have adopted zoning standards tailored to data
centers. These standards address site design,
noise control, equipment screening, operational
requirements, and protection of surrounding
properties.

Data hall inside US Signal

For these reasons, City staff recommends that Auburn Hills adopt a proactive approach by updating the Zoning
Ordinance before additional data center proposals are submitted. Establishing clear standards now will provide a
predictable review process, protect nearby residents and businesses, and ensure that future applications are
evaluated consistently and objectively. These standards will enable the City to appropriately guide future data
center development while balancing economic opportunities with the protection of surrounding properties and the
City's long-term planning and economic development goals.
CITY STAFF CONSULTATION WITH DTE ENERGY
As part of developing regulations for future data center development, City staff evaluated the factors that influence
where these facilities can be appropriately located within Auburn Hills. The review considered electrical capacity,
fiber connectivity, available properties, surrounding land uses, and potential impacts on nearby properties. A key
component of this evaluation was consultation with DTE Energy to better understand the City’s ability to support
different types and sizes of data centers.
Data centers rely on two key resources: reliable electrical power and high-speed fiber connectivity. Auburn Hills has
robust fiber infrastructure and an established electrical system that already serves corporate offices, research
facilities, and industrial and commercial entities. Conversations with DTE Energy confirmed that Auburn Hills can
host small and mid-sized data centers in suitable locations. Facilities requiring 10 to 50 MW of power could be
feasible where there is ample property, utility capacity, and appropriate site conditions. These developments would
require coordination with DTE Energy to verify electrical availability and determine whether any upgrades are
necessary.

Page 5
CITY STAFF CONSULTATION WITH DTE ENERGY (cont.)
The evaluation also identified limitations associated with very large data center developments. Facilities requiring
more than 50 MW of electrical capacity, particularly large-scale and hyperscale facilities requiring 100 MW or more,
constitute a distinct category of development due to their substantial power demands. These facilities typically
require major investments in electrical infrastructure,
including transmission upgrades, new substations, and
other utility upgrades. Such upgrades require extensive
planning, engineering, permitting, and construction (at the
developer’s cost) before electrical service can be provided.
Based on the evaluation conducted by DTE Energy and City
staff, a limited number of areas within the northern portion
of Auburn Hills were identified as having the greatest
potential for larger data center development due to their
proximity to existing electrical transmission infrastructure.
Properties near Summit Drive may be capable of supporting
facilities in the 15-30 MW range. Larger properties along
Brown Road, west of Giddings Road, have greater potential
for 50-100 MW+ because they may provide sufficient space
for additional electrical infrastructure, such as substations
and related equipment, needed to support larger facilities.

Proposed Permitted Locations
of Data Centers via new Section
1837 of the Zoning Ordinance

Proposed permitted data center locations in Auburn Hills

Page 6
CITY STAFF CONSULTATION WITH DTE ENERGY (cont.)
DTE Energy also stated that facilities exceeding 50 MW require detailed coordination with the utility. Depending on
the project's size and location, transmission enhancements may be needed. These upgrades could take
approximately 3 to 4 years to plan, design, permit, and construct, requiring considerable time and financial
investment at the developer’s expense before electrical service is available.
AUBURN HILLS DATA CENTER ORDINANCE – KEY ISSUES
The City’s proposed regulations aim to establish a clear, predictable process for future data center projects. The
goal is to protect neighboring properties, promote compatibility with surrounding land uses, and foster Auburn
Hills’ long-term economic growth. After evaluating infrastructure, land use, and community impacts, City staff
recommend classifying data centers as a specialized industrial use that requires careful oversight. These rules do
not prohibit data centers but instead define appropriate locations and set standards to ensure their proper design,
operation, and maintenance.
1. Site Selection Analysis. In developing the proposed regulations, City staff conducted a citywide review to
identify suitable locations for future data centers. The review assessed zoning, land availability, electrical and
utility infrastructure, surrounding land uses, potential noise and visual impacts, and alignment with the City’s
Master Land Use Plan. It identified a small number of properties, primarily in existing industrial zones in
northern Auburn Hills, that are well suited for future data center development. These sites offer better
opportunities to meet infrastructure needs and minimize conflicts with nearby properties.

New data centers, as
defined by Section 1837,
shall be permitted only on
these six properties unless
authorized via a PUD.

Five of the six sites are within the I-1, Light Industrial District, and the sixth is in the I-2, General Industrial
District. All are located between Brown Road and Harmon Road, west of Giddings Road. Given their size,
location, and access to utilities, these industrial properties could support data centers of various scales,
depending on market conditions and electrical capacity. This strategy also supports the City’s focus on
redevelopment and adaptive reuse. As Auburn Hills approaches full development of its remaining T&R and
industrial land, the proposed regulations promote reusing existing industrial buildings and underutilized
properties rather than relying solely on the limited supply of vacant land.

Page 7
AUBURN HILLS DATA CENTER ORDINANCE – KEY ISSUES (cont.)
2. Elimination of Data Centers as a Permitted Use in the T&R District. The proposed ordinance would remove
data centers as a permitted use in the T&R District. Instead, future data centers would be directed to the
industrial properties identified in Section 1837, which are better suited for facilities with high electrical demand,
specialized mechanical equipment, backup power systems, and other supporting infrastructure. To provide
flexibility for future circumstances, the ordinance also includes the option to use a PUD. A data center proposed
on a site not identified in Section 1837 may be considered if the applicant demonstrates that the location is
appropriate, the Planning Commission recommends approval, and the City Council determines that the
proposal is consistent with the City's planning objectives and ordinance standards. This approach recognizes
that data centers are an important part of today's digital economy while preserving the T&R District's primary
purpose of employment, technology, research, innovation, and corporate campus development. Data centers
generally create fewer permanent jobs than research and development, engineering, advanced manufacturing,
and corporate office uses. Given Auburn Hills' limited supply of remaining T&R-zoned land, City staff believe
these properties should continue to support higher-employment uses consistent with the district's long-term
vision. The existing US Signal data center is a unique case. Because it was lawfully established before the
proposed ordinance, it would become a legally recognized nonconforming use and could continue operating
under its approved site plan and its existing Development Agreement with the City. The Development
Agreement includes enforceable requirements for noise, facility operations, monitoring, mitigation measures,
and future expansion, providing protections beyond the City's Zoning Ordinance. Any major expansion,
modification, or change beyond the facility's existing approvals would require review through the PUD process.
This would allow the Planning Commission to evaluate the proposal and recommend to the City Council, which
would make the final decision.
3. Data Centers Classified as Industrial Land Use. While the existing US Signal facility shows that a smaller data
center can operate effectively in the T&R District with proper safeguards, City staff’s assessment indicates that
modern data centers have evolved substantially from the original technology types envisioned more than 40
years ago. Today’s data centers function more like infrastructure-intensive industrial facilities, requiring
significant electrical capacity, specialized cooling, backup power, and other support systems. These
characteristics differ from those of the corporate offices, R&D centers, and engineering operations the T&R
District was created to support. The City also reviewed the need to maintain appropriate distances between
data centers and sensitive areas such as residential neighborhoods, parks, schools, and places of worship.
Although mitigation measures can minimize impacts, the equipment and ongoing operations still require careful
assessment due to potential noise, visual, and operational effects. Classifying future data centers as industrial
land use helps locate them where impacts can be better evaluated, mitigated, and managed, reducing conflicts
with nearby properties.
4. Essential Provisions and Requirements of the Data Center Ordinance
The proposed ordinance establishes standards to ensure that data centers are appropriately located, designed,
and operated in a manner compatible with surrounding properties. Key requirements include:
A. Purpose and Intent. Establish standards that balance economic development opportunities with the
protection of surrounding properties, infrastructure reliability, resource efficiency, and the long-term
preservation of the T&R District for higher-employment technology and research uses.
B. Allowed Locations. Identify specific industrial properties where data centers may be considered and direct
future development to areas with appropriate infrastructure and compatible land uses. A PUD may be
considered for other locations at the City Council's discretion if the applicant demonstrates the location's
suitability.
C. Noise and Operations. Require professional noise studies, operational monitoring, and compliance with
established standards to address common concerns about noise nuisances from cooling systems,
generators, and other outdoor mechanical equipment.

Page 8
AUBURN HILLS DATA CENTER ORDINANCE – KEY ISSUES (cont.)
D. Emergency Backup Generators. Limit routine generator testing, require noise controls, and allow
emergency operation during power outages.
E. Appearance and Screening. Require screening of mechanical equipment, compatible building design, and
appropriate security fencing.
F. Water and Cooling Systems. Require disclosure of cooling systems and water needs, with an emphasis on
efficient, closed-loop cooling that uses little to no domestic water.
G. Electrical and Infrastructure. Require demonstration of available electrical capacity and establish that
applicants are responsible for required utility improvements.
H. Safety and Emergency Planning. Require coordination with emergency services and compliance with
applicable safety and fire codes.
I. Future Expansion. Require disclosure of the ultimate build-out plans and potential increases in facility
capacity.
J. Development Agreement. Require a recorded agreement that runs with the land and establishes
enforceable standards for noise, operations, monitoring, inspections, and corrective actions.
STAFF RECOMMENDATION
The proposed ordinance is based on the finding that data centers are infrastructure-intensive industrial uses that
differ from traditional office, research, and industrial facilities because of their high electrical demand, specialized
cooling systems, backup power equipment, and limited permanent staffing. These characteristics require specific
standards to address potential impacts on noise, visual appearance, utility infrastructure, emergency operations,
and compatibility with surrounding properties.
The amendment establishes a balanced regulatory framework that recognizes the economic and technological
importance of data centers while ensuring they are appropriately sited, designed, and operated. Rather than
prohibiting data centers, the amendment directs future facilities to suitable locations, sets clear performance
standards, and preserves areas intended for higher-employment corporate, research, and technology uses.
Based on the analysis in this report, City staff recommends approval of the proposed text amendment. The Kelly
Firm has reviewed the amendment and found it legally acceptable.
PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION
Recommended Approval on August 12, 2026 (6-0 vote)
MOTION
Move to accept the Planning Commission’s recommendation and approve the enclosed text amendment to
Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2,
General Industrial Districts; and Article XVIII, General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new
provisions for clean industrial uses and to establish comprehensive standards for data centers. The amendment
shall be referenced as Ordinance No. 26-951.

I CONCUR:
THOMAS A. TANGHE, CITY MANAGER

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
NOT YET APPROVED - EXCERPT

August 12, 2026

CALL TO ORDER: Chairperson Beidoun called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
ROLL CALL:

Present: Raymond Saelens, Jack Ferguson, Dominick Tringali, Cynthia Pavlich, Dominic
Patrus, Sam Beidoun
Absent: Darlene MacMillian, Michelle Case, Carolyn Shearer
Also Present: Director of Community Development Steve Cohen, Assistant Director of Community
Development Devin Lang, Economic Development Manager Stephanie Carroll, Mayor Eugene
Hawkins III
Guests: None

LOCATION: Council Chambers, 1827 N. Squirrel Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
5.

PETITIONERS

5a. Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance (6:01 p.m.)
Public Hearing/Motion – Recommend to City Council the approval of the text amendment to Article XII.
T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2, General
Industrial Districts; and Article XVIII, General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new
provisions for clean industrial uses and establish comprehensive standards for data centers.
Mr. Cohen confirmed that the hearing documents are in order and that no communications have been received
about this petition.
Mr. Cohen delivered a comprehensive presentation on proposed amendments to the Zoning Ordinance that
address clean industrial uses and data centers. He noted that the amendments are not intended to prohibit data
centers but to establish clear, reasonable, and fact-based standards for their location, design, and operation in
Auburn Hills. He further explained that data centers differ from traditional office and industrial uses due to their
significant electrical demands, continuous operations, cooling systems, backup generators, and relatively limited
permanent staffing. He noted that the City's existing Zoning Ordinance lacks comprehensive standards that
address these characteristics.
Mr. Cohen explained that staff recommendations were primarily influenced by three factors: the City's experience
with the current US Signal data center, research on data center regulations adopted by other communities, and
discussions with DTE Energy about Auburn Hills' electrical infrastructure and capacity. He also reviewed the City's
assessment of potential sites for future data centers. Staff identified six industrial properties, mainly in the northern
part of the City, that are better suited for data center development because of their land availability, infrastructure,
surrounding land uses, and separation from residential areas. The proposed amendments aim to direct future data
center development to these areas while still allowing other locations to be considered through the Planned Unit
Development process when appropriate.
He outlined the City's intent to preserve the T&R District for corporate offices, research and development,
technology, and other higher employment uses. The proposed amendments would remove data centers as a
permitted use in the T&R District and provide a PUD option if an alternative location can be shown to be
appropriate.
Mr. Cohen summarized the proposed standards in new Section 1837, including requirements for noise studies and
monitoring, emergency generator operation and testing, equipment screening, cooling and water systems, electrical
capacity, emergency planning, future expansion, and a recorded Development Agreement that establishes
enforceable operational and performance requirements.

Auburn Hills Planning Commission – August 12, 2026
Page 2 of 3
Mr. Cohen concluded that the proposed amendments offer a balanced approach that recognizes the economic and
technological significance of data centers, guides their placement, establishes reasonable operating standards,
protects nearby properties, and supports the City's long-term planning goals.
Staff recommends approval of the proposed text amendment.
Ms. Pavlich asked whether any new data centers have been proposed. Mr. Cohen stated that there have been no
recent proposals and that this was a proactive step to address the land use.
Ms. Pavlich asked who would hold any proposed data centers accountable if they expand their equipment or fail to
complete their project as contracted. Mr. Cohen stated that the City of Auburn Hills would hold them accountable
under a Development Agreement.
Ms. Pavlich stated that this is a highly complex and consequential issue that will affect the City when the current
Commission members are no longer on the Commission. She expressed concern about the future removal of
equipment that has outlived its usefulness in this rapidly evolving industry. She would like assurance that the
agreement addresses this outdated equipment. Mr. Cohen stated that the agreement would address it to the extent
necessary.
Mr. Saelens asked whether water capacity is an issue for a closed-loop system. Mr. Lang explained the closed-loop
refrigerant system used to cool data centers.
Mr. Patrus asked about the electrical infrastructure for the large data centers and whether the proposed ordinance
amendments would pose an issue if DTE begins upgrading its systems to accommodate them. Mr. Cohen
explained that the City is only required to provide an area where a data center could be built. The City is not
responsible for electrical capacity but only needs to provide a place where they could be built.
Mr. Cohen explained the difference in noise impact between the small data centers and the large-scale centers.
These amendments provide the ability to address any noise issues should they arise. Mr. Saelens asked whether
the noise is primarily caused by the backup generators. Mr. Cohen confirmed that this is correct and that the
generators are used only during a continuous power outage or routine monthly testing. He also noted that other
mechanical equipment, such as the chillers, can produce objectionable noise if not properly mitigated with
enclosures and soundproofing.
Mr. Ferguson stated that he appreciated the extensive presentation and all the information provided to City Council
and the Planning Commission.
Mr. Beidoun asked whether data centers will become like cell towers, with one needed every so many miles. He
also asked whether data centers cater to a particular industry. Mr. Cohen explained that, in his understanding,
smaller data centers serve local and regional companies, and that it will take time for the industry to evolve to
determine how many will be needed. He does not anticipate any extensive, large-scale artificial intelligence
hyperscale data centers, as Auburn Hills does not have the land or electrical capacity required for a large center.
Mr. Beidoun asked whether the City has any discretion. Mr. Cohen explained that the available locations are
subject to a special land use permit.
Mr. Beidoun asked about the required parking. Mr. Cohen explained that it would be determined on a case-by-case
basis. Most sites would require only 10-30 spaces, as they are needed only for the few employees who service the
property.
Ms. Pavlich asked whether tax abatements would have to be granted. Mr. Cohen stated that he was unsure
whether they would meet the qualifications, but it could be possible depending on the amount invested in real
property. Ms. Carroll stated that she is not aware of any data centers receiving tax abatements.
Mr. Beidoun asked about the electric grid in the six areas indicated in the presentation. Mr. Cohen explained that
DTE has indicated that its process for upgrades for anything over 10-15 megawatts could take 24 months to four

Auburn Hills Planning Commission – August 12, 2026
Page 3 of 3
years to plan and implement, depending on the electrical demand of the new facility.
Mr. Ferguson thanked Mr. Cohen for preparing all this information to protect Auburn Hills.
Mr. Beidoun opened the public hearing at 7:01 p.m.
There being no public comments, Mr. Beidoun closed the public hearing at 7:01 p.m.
Moved by Ferguson to recommend to City Council the approval of the enclosed text amendment to Article
XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts; Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts; Article XIV. I-2,
General Industrial Districts; and Article XVIII, General Provisions of the Zoning Ordinance, to address new
provisions for clean industrial uses and establish comprehensive standards for data centers.
Second by Tringali.
VOTE:
Yes:
Ferguson, Tringali, Pavlich, Saelens, Patrus, Beidoun
No:
None
Motion Carried (6-0)

DRAFT
8-03-26

CITY OF AUBURN HILLS
COUNTY OF OAKLAND
STATE OF MICHIGAN
ORDINANCE NO. 26-951
TEXT AMENDMENT TO ZONING ORDINANCE
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND ARTICLE XII. T&R,
TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH DISTRICTS,
ARTICLE XIII. I-1, LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS,
ARTICLE XIV. I-2, GENERAL INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS,
AND ARTICLE XVIII. GENERAL PROVISIONS OF THE
AUBURN HILLS ZONING ORDINANCE NO. 372
THE CITY OF AUBURN HILLS ORDAINS

Section 1.
Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance
No. 372 is amended to revise the preamble to read as follows:
The T&R, Technology and Research Districts are established to provide a high-quality
environment for corporate and regional headquarters, research and development
facilities, advanced technology enterprises, automation and robotics operations,
aerospace, life sciences, biotechnology, information technology, engineering, and other
employment-generating uses of a similar character and intensity. The Districts are
intended to support Auburn Hills' role as a hub for corporate investment, innovation, and
advanced technology employment opportunities by encouraging the development of
businesses and facilities that contribute to the City's diversified economic base.
Technology and Research Districts are intended to be located and designed to:
1.
Support innovation, investment, and economic growth by providing a business
environment that encourages the development, retention, expansion, and
diversification of technology-based, research-oriented, and advanced employment
uses across multiple industry sectors;
2.
Accommodate complementary accessory and support uses that serve the
operational needs of businesses and employees within the District, provided such
uses remain clearly secondary and supportive of the District's primary corporate,
research, technology, and employment-generating functions;
3.
Promote high-quality development standards through coordinated site planning,
building design, architecture, landscaping, and infrastructure improvements that
reflect the District's importance as a location for corporate, research, and advanced
technology investment; and

1

4.

Protect the long-term function and economic vitality of the District by ensuring
compatibility among permitted uses, maintaining adequate infrastructure capacity,
and encouraging development patterns that are consistent with surrounding land
uses and the City's long-range planning objectives.

Section 2.
Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance
No. 372 is amended to revise Section 1200. Principal Uses Permitted to remove
subsection 2. Data processing and computing centers, and related services, and
renumber subsections 3-5 to 2-4 to read as follows:
SECTION 1200. PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED
In the T&R Technology and Research District no building or land shall be used and no
building shall be erected except for one (1) or more of the following specified uses,
unless otherwise provided in this Ordinance:
1. Any use charged with the principal function of research, design, and development of
pilot or experimental products and processes including research labs, training
facilities, and light assembly operations as adjuncts to the principal use. Assembly
operations shall be limited to those involving premanufactured finished objects and
components and shall include only the incidental fabrication, machining, or forming of
metal, plastic, or other materials as part of product development, experimentation,
demonstration and repair, or the provision of customized components.
2. Single and multi-tenant office buildings. Sales as an adjunct to the principal use are
also permitted.
3. Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above
principal uses permitted (e.g., child care, food service, and health/workout rooms,
and other similar adjunct uses provided within a facility which are intended for sole
use of the workers of said facility and not the general public).
4. Uses determined to be similar to the above principal permitted uses in accordance
with the criteria set forth in Section 1827 and which are not listed below as Special
Land Uses Permitted.

Section 3.
Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance
No. 372 is amended to revise subsection 7 in Section 1201. Special Land Uses
Permitted to read as follows:
7. Clean industrial uses may be permitted as Special Land Uses within the T&R District
when conducted entirely within an enclosed building and when consistent with the
purpose and intent of the District. Such uses shall comply with the requirements of
Section 1202 and shall be subject to the following standards:
A. Definition and Operational Characteristics. For purposes of this Section, a clean
industrial use is a light industrial operation involving the assembly, incidental
fabrication, processing, testing, research, development, or production of
advanced technology, high-value, precision, or specialized products within an
enclosed building. Clean industrial uses shall utilize processes designed to
minimize external impacts, including noise, vibration, odors, dust, smoke,
emissions, outdoor storage, and truck traffic. A clean industrial use may
constitute the principal use of a site and need not be accessory to an office,
research and development, or corporate headquarters use. A clean industrial use
does not include a Data Center, as defined in Section 1837.

2

B. Site and Building Design Standards. Buildings and sites occupied by clean
industrial uses shall maintain the high-quality character and development
standards of the T&R District through superior site design, landscaping,
greenspace, and architecture. Building elevations visible from public rights-ofway, private road easements, or adjacent properties shall incorporate high-quality
materials, glazing, and architectural features consistent with a corporate,
research, or technology-oriented appearance.
C. Transportation and Freight Limitations. Truck traffic associated with clean
industrial uses shall be limited to deliveries and shipments customary and
incidental to the operation of the use. Warehouses, distribution centers, fulfillment
centers, freight terminals, logistics facilities, and similar uses whose primary
function is the storage, distribution, or movement of goods are prohibited,
regardless of whether such facilities include office, corporate, or administrative
space. Uses that are dependent upon high-volume truck traffic or intensive freight
movement are likewise prohibited.

Section 4.
Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance No. 372 is
amended to revise Section 1300. Principal Uses Permitted to remove subsection 4.
Data processing and computing centers, and related services, and renumber
subsections 5-7 to 4-6 to read as follows:
SECTION 1300. PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED:
In the I-1 Light Industrial Districts no building or land shall be used and no building shall
be erected except for one (1) or more of the following specified uses, unless otherwise
provided for in this Ordinance:
1.
Any of the following uses when conducted wholly within a completely enclosed
building (no outside storage of permanent vehicles, material or equipment):
A.
Warehousing and wholesale establishments, with retail sale only if
accessory to the principal use.
B.
The manufacture, compounding, processing, packaging, or treatment of
such products as, but not limited to: bakery goods, candy, cosmetics,
pharmaceuticals, toiletries, food products, hardware, and cutlery; tool, die,
gauge and machine shops.
C.
The manufacture, compounding, assembling or treatment of articles or
merchandise from previously prepared materials such as , but not limited
to: bone, canvas, cellophane, cloth, cork, feathers, felt, fiber, fur, glass,
hair, horn, leather, paper, plastics, precious or semi-precious metals or
stone, shell, textiles, tobacco, wax, wire, wood (excluding saw and planing
mills), and yarns. Sheet metal stamping is not permitted as a principal
use.
D.
The manufacture of pottery and figurines or other similar ceramic products
using only previously pulverized clay, and kilns fired only by electricity or
gas.
E.
Manufacture of musical instruments, toys, novelties, and metal or rubber
stamps, or other small molded rubber products.
F.
Manufacture or assembly of electrical appliances, electronic instruments
and devices, radios and phonographs.
G.
Manufacture and repair of electric or neon signs, light sheet metal
products, including heating and ventilating equipment, cornices, eaves,
and the like.

3

H.

2.

3.

4.
5.

6.

Automobile repair stations, automobile or other machinery assembly
plants; painting and varnishing shops, and undercoating shops.
I.
Experimental, film or testing laboratories.
J.
Building material storage and sales in an enclosed building.
Private paramedical emergency facilities subject to the following conditions:
A.
Such facilities shall be located only on collector thoroughfares or major
thoroughfares as indicated on the adopted Major Thoroughfare Plan of
the City of Auburn Hills.
B.
All ingress and egress on the site shall be located at least fifty (50) feet
from any adjacent property line or right-of-way line.
C.
If not in existence, a passing lane shall be provided opposite the
ingress/egress route used for paramedical and such other emergency
vehicles in addition to the required acceleration and deceleration lanes.
The passing lane is required to insure that the purpose and intent of this
Zoning Ordinance is met, and is deemed necessary to prevent traffic
congestion in order to assure proper egress for fast moving and
accelerating emergency vehicles in order to protect the health and safety
of the citizens of Auburn Hills and abutting areas.
D.
All such facilities shall be developed on sites of at least one (1) acre in
area.
Any use charged with the principal function of research, design and development
of pilot or experimental products and processes including research labs, training
facilities, and light assembly operations as adjuncts to the principal use.
Assembly operations shall be limited to those involving premanufactured finished
objects and components, and shall include only the incidental fabrication,
machining or forming of metal, plastic, or other materials as part of product
development, experimentation, demonstration and repair, or the provision of
customized components.
Oil and gas wells in accordance with the criteria set forth in Section 1835.
Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the
above principal uses permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty
(50) percent of the gross building area (e.g., general office, child care, food
service, health/workout rooms, and other similar adjunct uses provided within a
facility which are intended for sole use of the workers of said facility and not the
general public).
Uses determined to be similar to the above principal permitted uses in
accordance with the criteria set forth in Section 1827 and which are not listed
below as special land uses.

Section 5.
Article XIII. I-1, Light Industrial Districts of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance No. 372 is
amended to add new subsection 23 regulating Data Centers and renumber subsections
23-24 to 24-25 in Section 1301. Special Land Uses Permitted to read as follows:
23.
24.
25.

Data Centers and related data processing and computing facilities, subject to the
requirements of Section 1837.
Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above
special land uses permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty (50)
percent of the gross building area.
Special land uses determined to be similar to the above special land uses in
accordance with the criteria set forth in Section 1828.

4

Section 6.
Article XIV. I-2, General Industrial Districts of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance No. 372 is
amended to add new subsection 13 regulating Data Centers and renumber subsections
13-14 to 14-15 in Section 1401. Special Land Uses Permitted to read as follows:
13.
14.
15.

Data Centers and related data processing and computing facilities, subject to the
requirements of Section 1837.
Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above
special land uses permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty (50)
percent of the gross building area.
Special land uses determined to be similar to the above special land uses in
accordance with the criteria set forth in Section 1828.

Section 7.
Article XVIII. General Provisions of Auburn Hills Zoning Ordinance No. 372, as
amended, is hereby amended to add a new section 1837. Data Centers, which shall
read in its entirety as follows:
SECTION 1837. DATA CENTERS
1. Purpose and Intent
The purpose of this Section is to establish reasonable, predictable, and enforceable
standards governing the siting, design, construction, operation, and expansion of Data
Centers within the City of Auburn Hills in order to:
A. Promote high-quality investment, expand the City's tax base, create employment
opportunities, and support economic development by accommodating appropriately
located Data Centers within designated zoning districts.
B. Protect residents, businesses, public infrastructure, and surrounding property owners
from potential adverse impacts associated with Data Center development and operation,
including, but not limited to, noise, low-frequency sound, vibration, visual impacts,
hazardous material storage, and demands on municipal utilities and public services.
C. Establish measurable, objective, and enforceable operational performance standards,
including post-construction verification of noise, low-frequency sound, utility usage, and
other operational characteristics that may affect surrounding properties.
D. Promote the efficient use of energy and natural resources through sustainable building
design, energy-efficient equipment, stormwater best management practices, and cooling
technologies that minimize potable water consumption, with a preference for closed-loop
or other low-water-use cooling systems where feasible.
E. Require coordination with electric, water, sewer, and other applicable utility providers to
verify that adequate infrastructure capacity exists or will be provided by the applicant,
and that facility operations will not adversely affect the reliability or availability of
municipal services.
F. Recognize that Data Centers may require substantial land area and electrical
infrastructure while generating comparatively few permanent employment opportunities.
Accordingly, the standards of this Section are intended to balance the City's long-term
economic development objectives, preserve limited T&R, Technology and Research
District land and available electrical infrastructure for employment-intensive uses, and
prohibit new Data Center developments within said District except when approved by the
City Council through the Planned Unit Development Option in Section 1830 and in
accordance with the applicable standards of this Section.
G. Recognize that the City is approaching build-out of its industrial land supply and
encourage Data Center development through the adaptive reuse of existing industrial

5

buildings and underutilized industrial properties rather than on the City's limited
remaining vacant industrial land.
2. Definitions
For purposes of this Section, the following definitions apply. Where a term is not defined in
this Section, the definition set forth elsewhere in this Ordinance, or its plain meaning, shall
control.
A. Data Center. A building, or portion of a building, whose primary use is to house computer
systems, servers, and associated components, including cooling, power distribution,
backup generation, and network infrastructure, for the storage, processing,
management, or distribution of data, whether operated by a single user, colocation
provider, or multiple tenants. A Data Center does not include computer systems, server
rooms, network equipment rooms, telecommunications closets, or similar facilities that
are clearly incidental and subordinate in floor area, electrical demand, and function to
another lawful principal use on the same zoning lot, primarily support the operations of
that principal use, and are not operated or marketed principally as a data-processing,
hosting, storage, or colocation facility.
B. Designed Electrical Load Capacity. The maximum electrical load, expressed in
Megawatts, that a Data Center is designed to accommodate at Ultimate Build-Out,
including information technology equipment, cooling systems, electrical distribution
equipment, backup power systems, and all supporting infrastructure, as demonstrated by
electrical engineering plans, utility service agreements, manufacturer specifications, or
other documentation acceptable to the City.
C. Megawatt. A unit of electrical power equal to one thousand (1,000) kilowatts or one
million (1,000,000) watts, used in this Section to express Designed Electrical Load
Capacity.
D. Ultimate Build-Out. The maximum reasonably anticipated development intensity of a
Data Center site, including all existing, proposed, approved, reserved, entitled, or
reasonably foreseeable future phases, buildings, additions, increases in Designed
Electrical Load Capacity, mechanical systems, emergency generation, and related
infrastructure, regardless of whether all phases are proposed for immediate construction.
E. Ambient Sound Level. The A-weighted sound pressure level, expressed in dB(A),
representing the existing background sound environment at the property boundary or
other measurement location designated by this Ordinance.
F. Tonal Component. A discrete, audible frequency or narrow frequency band that is readily
distinguishable from the surrounding broadband sound, as determined in accordance
with ANSI/ASA S12.9 or a successor standard approved by the City.
G. Backup Generator. Any diesel, natural gas, or other fuel-fired engine-generator set
installed to provide emergency or standby electrical power to a Data Center during a
utility outage or other interruption of normal electrical service.
3. Existing Data Centers
Any Data Center lawfully operating on the effective date of this Section shall be considered
lawful and conforming solely as to the data center use and may continue subject to its
approved site plan, Development Agreement, and other applicable approvals. Nothing in this
subsection shall cause a nonconforming structure or site condition to become
conforming or authorize an expansion except in accordance with this Section. No increase in
the maximum approved electrical capacity, measured in Megawatts, gross floor area, or
Backup Generator capacity, shall be permitted unless authorized by an amendment
to the recorded Development Agreement approved by the City Council. For any lawfully
operating Data Center on the effective date of this Section that is not subject to a
Development Agreement, any increase in designed electrical load capacity, gross floor area,

6

cooling system equipment, or backup generator capacity shall comply with the requirements
of this Section.
4. Applicability and Permitted Locations
A. Permitted Locations. A citywide evaluation of potential Data Center locations was
conducted to identify sites capable of accommodating the use while protecting
surrounding land uses and making efficient use of existing and planned infrastructure.
The evaluation included consultation with the electric utility regarding available electrical
service capacity and the practicality of extending service, and considered the following
factors:
1) Compatibility with surrounding land uses, including protection of residential
neighborhoods and avoidance of conflicts with existing and planned development;
2) Potential operational impacts, including continuous equipment noise from cooling
systems and emergency generator testing;
3) Availability of necessary infrastructure, including electrical service, fiber optic and
telecommunications systems, and municipal utilities;
4) Sufficiency of parcel size and configuration to accommodate the proposed use and
potential future expansion;
5) Existing development patterns and consistency with the goals and objectives of the
City's Master Land Use Plan;
6) Visual compatibility with surrounding development; and
7) Efficient use of public infrastructure and services in a manner that promotes the
public health, safety, and welfare.
Accordingly, Data Centers, as defined in this Section, shall be permitted only on the
properties identified in the following Table 1 subject to Special Land Use approval.
Table 1
Address
1681 Harmon Road
3985 Giddings Road
1750 Summit Drive
1751 Summit Drive
1700 Brown Road
1750 Brown Road

Sidwell Number
14-03-100-043
14-03-100-047
14-03-100-052
14-03-100-051
14-03-100-028
14-03-100-024

Zoning District
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-2, General Industrial

B. Planned Unit Development Option. New Data Centers and expansions to existing Data
Centers in locations other than those identified in Table 1 above may be considered only
through approval of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) in accordance with Section
1830. Approval of a PUD for a new Data Center or the expansion of an existing Data
Center shall be at the sole discretion of the City Council, following a recommendation
from the Planning Commission. An applicant shall have no right to appeal the
requirements of this section to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
5. Data Center Review Criteria
In addition to the Special Land Use review criteria set forth in Section 1818 or PUD review
criteria set forth in Section 1830, as applicable, the Planning Commission and City Council
shall consider the following Data Center-specific criteria when evaluating an application:
A. Compatibility of anticipated noise, vibration, lighting, and visual impacts with adjacent
and nearby land uses.
B. Adequacy of the proposed acoustic mitigation measures, including equipment selection,
screening, building orientation, and site layout, based on the required pre-construction
acoustic study.

7

C. Adequacy of existing and proposed emergency and utility infrastructure to serve the
facility without adversely affecting service reliability for existing customers.
D. Consistency and adequacy of the proposed Backup Generator testing and operating
protocols.
E. Whether the applicant has disclosed the Ultimate Build-Out of the site and demonstrated
that the facility can comply with all applicable standards of this Section at Ultimate BuildOut, rather than only during the initial phase of development.
6. Application Requirements
In addition to the standard site plan submission requirements, an application for a Data
Center shall include the following information to demonstrate compliance with this Section:
A. A pre-construction acoustic study prepared in accordance with subsection (7.A).
B. A written statement describing the Ultimate Build-Out of the site, including the maximum
anticipated Designed Electrical Load Capacity, total floor area, and the number, size,
and location of all proposed mechanical equipment, cooling systems, electrical
infrastructure, and Backup Generators, regardless of whether all phases are proposed
for immediate construction.
C. The utility-related information and documentation required by subsection 11(A), below.
D. A narrative describing the proposed water supply and cooling system, including
anticipated water demand, water source, wastewater generation, and discharge
methods, if applicable.
E. A Development Agreement, drafted by the City Attorney and signed by the applicant,
together with any supporting documentation necessary to demonstrate compliance with
this Section.
7. Noise and Acoustic Standards
This subsection is intended to directly address operational noise concerns typically
associated with Data Centers, including mechanical equipment, cooling systems, electrical
infrastructure, and Backup Generators. Because pre-construction predictive modeling cannot
fully account for actual operating conditions, both pre-construction and post-construction
requirements shall apply.
A. Pre-Construction Acoustic Study. Prior to Special Land Use or PUD approval and site
plan approval, the applicant shall submit an acoustic study prepared by a qualified
acoustical engineer that:
1) Documents existing Ambient Sound Levels at the Data Center property lines and at
any Residential District boundary located within one thousand (1,000) feet of the site,
based on measurements representative of both daytime and nighttime conditions.
2) Models the anticipated sound level contribution of the proposed facility at full Ultimate
Build-Out, including all mechanical, cooling, electrical, and Backup Generator
equipment, at the Data Center property lines and at any Residential District boundary
located within one thousand (1,000) feet of the site.
3) Identifies any anticipated Tonal Component, low-frequency noise, vibration, or other
sound characteristics that may increase the perceptibility or impact of facility noise
and proposes specific mitigation measures, including equipment selection,
enclosures, barriers, screening, and equipment orientation.
4) Demonstrates compliance with the performance standards of subsection 7.B,
including any applicable adjustments for Tonal Components, low-frequency noise, or
other characteristics that increase noise perception.
B. Performance Standards.
1) The facility shall comply with the noise performance standards of Section 1807.6.
2) Where residentially zoned or residentially used property is located within one
thousand (1,000) feet, the City Council may impose a more restrictive numerical
sound limit or additional mitigation as a condition of approval only upon a finding,

8

supported by the required acoustic study, that the condition is necessary to satisfy
Sections 1818 and 1837.7. Any such condition shall identify the applicable numerical
limit, measurement location, measurement duration, time period, and adjustment for
Tonal Components or low-frequency sound.
3) Tonal Components, low-frequency noise, vibration, or other characteristics that
increase the perceptibility or impact of facility noise may require additional mitigation,
even where overall dB(A) limits are satisfied. Any additional mitigation required under
this paragraph shall be supported by the acoustic study, stated in specific and
enforceable terms, and reasonably necessary to satisfy Sections 1818 and 1837.7.
4) Compliance measurements shall be conducted in accordance with industryrecognized environmental sound measurement practices using properly calibrated
equipment and under conditions reasonably calculated to produce reliable and
repeatable results.
C. Post-Construction Acoustic Verification. Pre-construction modeling shall not be
considered conclusive evidence of continued compliance. Accordingly:
1) Within ninety (90) days of the facility first achieving substantial operation, defined as
IT load reaching fifty percent (50%) or more of the initial phase’s Designed Electrical
Load Capacity, the applicant shall commission and submit to the City an independent
post-construction acoustic verification study performed under representative
operating conditions at the highest reasonably achievable load at the time of testing,
at the same measurement locations used in the pre-construction acoustic study, but
in no event later than twelve (12) months after issuance of the certificate of
occupancy, unless the City approves a later date for good cause.
2) If the post-construction study demonstrates non-compliance with subsection 7.B, the
applicant shall submit and implement a mitigation plan subject to City approval and
shall complete a follow-up verification study within one hundred eighty (180) days
confirming compliance.
3) The City may require an additional verification study, at the applicant’s expense,
following any subsequent expansion, significant equipment replacement, change in
operational characteristics, or substantiated complaint.
4) The Development Agreement for any Data Center shall include the City’s right to
conduct, or retain a third party to conduct, unannounced sound level monitoring at
the applicant’s expense not more than twice per calendar year, unless additional
monitoring is warranted due to a substantiated complaint or compliance concern.
D. Complaint Response Protocol. The operator shall designate a local or readily reachable
point of contact responsible for responding to noise complaints. The operator shall
respond to any complaint referred by the City within one (1) business day. Three (3) or
more substantiated complaints within any twelve (12) month period shall require a
mandatory re-verification study under subsection 7.C at the operator’s expense.
8. Backup Generators and Emergency Power
Backup Generators are necessary infrastructure but are also a principal source of potential
nuisance complaints if not properly regulated. Accordingly:
A. Routine, non-emergency testing and load-bank testing of Backup Generators shall occur
only Tuesday through Thursday between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m., excluding federal
holidays.
B. Routine testing shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes per Backup Generator per week,
except where additional operation is required due to a documented mechanical or
operational necessity. Testing exceeding this limitation shall require advance written
notice to the City.
C. The operator shall provide the City with written notice at least seventy-two (72) hours in
advance of any scheduled testing outside routine parameters, including annual loadbank testing.

9

D. Backup Generators shall be equipped with exhaust silencers and, where necessary to
comply with subsection 7, acoustic enclosures, barriers, or other approved mitigation
measures.
E. Nothing in this subsection shall restrict Backup Generator operation during an actual
utility outage or bona fide emergency.
F. Fuel storage shall comply with all applicable fire code requirements and Michigan
Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) requirements. Prior to
occupancy, the applicant shall provide the Fire Department with a site-specific preincident plan.
9. Visual Impact, Screening, and Fencing
A. All Backup Generators, transformers, mechanical equipment, including chillers,
condensing units, and other cooling equipment, and other utility equipment located
outside of a building shall be screened from view from any public or private roadway and
any adjacent property through a combination of building design, opaque walls or fencing,
and landscaping. Screening shall be of sufficient height and opacity to substantially
conceal the equipment and achieve compliance with the noise and acoustic standards of
subsection 7.
B. Where equipment is located on the roof of a building, screening shall be accomplished
through a parapet wall, screen wall, or comparable architectural enclosure of sufficient
height to conceal the equipment from view at grade from adjacent public streets, private
roads, and properties. Such screening shall be visually consistent with the building's
architecture.
C. Perimeter security fencing shall not exceed eight (8) feet in height, exclusive of approved
anti-climb security features. Fencing shall be located behind the required landscape
buffer adjacent to any public street right-of-way or private road easement. Barbed wire,
razor wire, concertina wire, electrified fencing, and similar security devices are
prohibited.
D. Building facades visible from a public street, private road, or adjoining property shall
incorporate architectural articulation, including variations in materials, offsets, reveals,
fenestration, or comparable design elements. No building facade shall consist of an
unarticulated blank wall exceeding one hundred (100) feet in length.
E. Where a Data Center involves conversion of an existing building rather than new
construction, subsection 9.D shall apply only to new construction, building additions, or
facade areas materially altered as part of the conversion. For an existing facade retained
without material alteration that does not meet subsection 9.D, the Planning Commission
and City Council may approve alternative compliance upon finding that literal compliance
is not structurally or economically feasible and that the proposed alternative, which may
include landscaping, decorative screening, wall treatments, lighting, or comparable
mitigation, reasonably advances the visual compatibility purposes of this Section.
10. Water Supply and Cooling Systems
A. The applicant shall identify the proposed cooling technology, including air-cooled,
evaporative, liquid, hybrid, or other systems, and provide an estimate of average and
peak daily water demand at Ultimate Build-Out.
B. Where municipal water or sanitary sewer capacity may be affected, the applicant shall
coordinate with the City’s Department of Public Works and the City’s consulting engineer
to demonstrate adequate capacity exists or will be provided at the applicant’s expense.
C. Data Centers are encouraged to use closed-loop dry cooling or other water-efficient
cooling technologies to minimize potable water consumption. Where potable municipal
water is proposed for non-contact cooling purposes, the applicant shall demonstrate why
more water-efficient alternatives are not technically or economically feasible.

10

D. Water efficiency and long-term water demand may be considered by the Planning
Commission and City Council as part of Special Land Use or PUD review.
11. Electrical Infrastructure Impact
A. The applicant shall request and, if provided by the serving electric utility, submit written
confirmation that adequate electrical capacity exists or can be made available to serve
the facility at full Ultimate Build-Out. The applicant shall also request that the utility
identify any necessary infrastructure improvements, the costs assigned to the applicant
under the utility’s applicable tariffs, rules, and applicable law, and whether the proposed
service is anticipated to adversely affect service reliability or impose additional costs on
existing customers. If the utility declines or is unable to address any of these matters in
writing, the applicant shall document its request and the utility’s response and submit any
other reasonably available utility correspondence, service-availability determination,
engineering study, or service agreement addressing the requested service.
B. Any electric substation, transmission, or distribution infrastructure required solely to
serve the facility shall be constructed at the applicant’s expense and shall be sited and
screened consistent with subsection 9 to the extent reasonably possible when located on
the same or adjacent parcel.
12. Emergency Services and Public Safety
A. The applicant shall provide a written emergency response plan and meet with the Fire
Department and Police Department to review site access, fire suppression systems,
hazardous materials, including fuel storage and battery systems, and any specialized
equipment or training necessary to respond safely to an incident at the facility.
B. The applicant shall provide and periodically update as-built emergency response
information, including site plans, shutoff locations, and hazardous materials inventory, to
the Community Development Department and Fire Department.
C. Any lithium-ion or other battery energy storage system shall comply with applicable fire
code requirements for stationary storage battery systems and shall be reviewed by the
Building Official and Fire Chief prior to installation.
13. Parking and Loading
As part of its approval of a Special Land Use or PUD, the City Council may, following review
and recommendation by the Planning Commission, approve a modification of the otherwise
applicable parking or loading requirements only upon written findings that the number and
design of the proposed spaces or loading areas are adequate for the facility’s maximum
anticipated employment, visitors, deliveries, maintenance, and emergency operations at
Ultimate Build-Out; that the modification will not impair access, circulation, public safety, or
neighboring property; and that all applicable accessible-parking and fire-access
requirements remain satisfied.
14. Required Disclosure of Future Build-Out
A. An applicant shall disclose all planned, approved, or reasonably foreseeable future
phases, expansions, and increases in electrical capacity associated with the site. The
disclosure shall provide sufficient information for the City to evaluate the facility's full
potential build-out. A material misrepresentation or omission discovered before final
approval may constitute grounds for denial or the imposition of appropriate conditions. A
material misrepresentation or omission discovered after approval shall constitute a
violation subject to the enforcement and revocation procedures in the Development
Agreement.
B. The Planning Commission and City Council shall evaluate the application based on the
anticipated Ultimate Build-Out of the facility and may condition approval of an initial

11

phase on a demonstration that subsequent phases can comply with all applicable
requirements of this Section.
15. Development Agreement
A Development Agreement is required for every Data Center facility and shall be a condition
of Special Land Use or PUD approval. The Development Agreement shall establish
enforceable obligations, restrictions, performance standards, and commitments applicable to
the facility. The Development Agreement shall be recorded against the property, shall run
with the land, and shall bind the applicant, property owner, operator, and their successors
and assigns. The provisions listed below establish the minimum required contents of the
Development Agreement and shall not limit the City’s authority to require additional terms,
conditions, restrictions, financial assurances, monitoring requirements, or obligations
reasonably related to the proposed development, anticipated impacts, or Special Land Use
or PUD approval. At a minimum, the Development Agreement shall address:
A. A description of the project, including the applicant, property owner, operator, site
location, and general nature and scope of the proposed Data Center use.
B. The planned Designed Electrical Load Capacity, in Megawatts, for the initial phase and
Ultimate Build-Out of the site.
C. A reference to the approved site plan governing the facility, including the date of
approval and any subsequent amendments.
D. The specific noise performance standards, mitigation requirements, and postconstruction verification requirements applicable to the site, which may be more, but not
less, restrictive than subsection 7.
E. Generator testing protocols specific to the site.
F. Operational conditions applicable to the facility, including hours of routine testing,
maintenance, delivery activity, and other site-specific operational restrictions.
G. The City’s right of periodic inspection and monitoring, at the operator’s expense, as
described in subsection 7.
H. Remedies for noncompliance, including written notice of the violation, a reasonable
opportunity to cure, enforcement proceedings, and, where warranted, revocation of the
Special Land Use approval or enforcement of the PUD approval and Development
Agreement. Except where immediate action is necessary to address an imminent threat
to public health or safety, the City shall provide written notice to the operator and
property owner identifying the alleged violation and allowing not less than thirty (30) days
to cure. If the violation cannot reasonably be cured within thirty (30) days, the cure period
may be extended if the operator commences corrective action within that period and
diligently proceeds to completion. If a material violation remains uncured, the City
Council may revoke the Special Land Use approval following notice and a public hearing.
Any revocation shall be supported by written findings that the violation is material,
remains uncured, and cannot be adequately addressed through a lesser enforcement
remedy. Nothing in this subsection limits the City’s authority to pursue any other remedy
authorized by this Ordinance, the Development Agreement, or applicable law.
I. Any additional project-specific provisions, conditions, representations, restrictions,
performance standards, or commitments that the City determines are necessary to
protect the public health, safety, and welfare or implement the intent of this Section,
including commitments made by the applicant during the Special Land Use or PUD
review process, all of which shall be binding upon the operator and its successors and
assigns.

Section 8. Repealer.
All Ordinances or parts of Ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed only
to the extent necessary to give this Ordinance full force and effect.

12

Section 9. Severability.
If any section, clause, or provision of this Ordinance shall be declared to be
unconstitutional, void, illegal, or ineffective by any Court of competent jurisdiction, such
section, clause, or provision declared to be unconstitutional, void, or illegal shall thereby
cease to be a part of this Ordinance, but the remainder of this Ordinance shall stand and
be in full force and effect.
Section 10. Savings.
Nothing in this Ordinance shall impair any final approval, permit, or vested right
existing on its effective date or abate any pending violation, enforcement proceeding,
liability, or remedy. Except to the extent required by a vested right established under
Michigan law, an application that has not received final approval before the effective
date shall be reviewed under this Ordinance.
Section 11. Effective Date.
The provisions of this Ordinance are hereby ordered to take effect upon the
expiration of seven (7) days after publication in the manner prescribed by the Charter of
the City of Auburn Hills and as required by law.
Section 12. Adoption.
This Ordinance is hereby declared to have been adopted by the City Council of the
City of Auburn Hills at a meeting thereof duly called and held on the 24th day of August
2026 and ordered to be given publication in a manner prescribed by the Charter of the
City of Auburn Hills.
AYES:
NAYES:
ABSTENTIONS:
STATE OF MICHIGAN )
COUNTY OF OAKLAND )

) ss.

I, the undersigned, the duly qualified Clerk of the City of Auburn Hills, Oakland
County, Michigan, do hereby certify that the foregoing is a true and complete copy of
Ordinance No. 26-951 adopted by the Auburn Hills City Council on the 24th day of
August 2026, the original of which is in my office.

_________________________
Eugene Hawkins, III, Mayor

_______________________
Laura M. Pierce, City Clerk

13

PROPOSED DATA CENTER DEVELOPMENT
LOCATIONS IN AUBURN HILLS
Data Centers, as defined in Section 1837 of the Zoning Ordinance, shall be permitted only
on the properties identified in the table below subject to Special Land Use approval.
Key
1
2
3
4
5
6

Address
1681 Harmon Road
3985 Giddings Road
1750 Summit Drive
1751 Summit Drive
1700 Brown Road
1750 Brown Road

Sidwell Number
14-03-100-043
14-03-100-047
14-03-100-052
14-03-100-051
14-03-100-028
14-03-100-024

Zoning District
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-1, Light Industrial
I-2, General Industrial

6
5

4

DTE Electrical
Substation

3
1

2

Dutton Rd

Brown Rd

8

yn

2

Rd

o r Pt

W Tienken Rd

Tienken Rd

yl

Ta

Industrial Analysis
Brew s t e r R d

Ba l d w i n

Taylor Rd

N Adams Rd

Harmon Rd

sl

Ange lus Rd

N S quir re l R d

N Lak e

Bald Mounta in Rd

7

Jo

Clintonville Rd

Rohr Rd

Mann Rd

Ada ms Rd

S Baldwin Rd

Morga n Rd

W al ton B l vd

d

E Walton Blvd

R

k e Rd

ap

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La

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Legend

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ver

Anticipated Tax Abatement
Existing Industrial

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6

59

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3,500

7,000

Feet

Aubu

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W Auburn Rd
Source: Data provided by Oakland County and the City of Auburn Hills. OHM
Advisors does not warrant the accuracy of the data and/or the map. This
document is intended to depict the approximate spatial location of the mapped
features within the Community and all use is strictly at the user’s own risk.

S S q u ir r e l Rd

Franklin Rd

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Map Published: November 13, 2025

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Pon tiac Rd

Joslyn Ave

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City of Auburn Hills

Baldwin Ave

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2026 Industrial Parcels
Map 1

South Blvd W

888.522.6711

|

ohm-advisors.com

July 23rd, 2026

City of Auburn Hills Industrial Parcels Request

Source

120kV

Legend

230kV

Load (MVA)

Minimum
Combined DTE &
ITC Footprint

Up to 60

235’ x 260’
(~1.5 acres)

60-120

460’ x 420’
(~4.5 acres)

120-180

515’ x 500’
(~6 acres)

180-240

Dependent on
final configuration

Service requirements subject to
further assessment

City of Auburn Hills
Active Tax Abatement
Industrial Parcel
230 kV Overhead

120 kV Overhead

*Only overhead transmission lines are
depicted.

July 23rd, 2026
Area 1 – Auburn Hills Industrial Parcels
Electric Capabilities:

• Several overhead transmission circuits run through this defined area
• Plan for long-term service:
• At a minimum, for loads greater than 10 MW ITC would need to construct a new 120kV
switching station on the customer’s property and loop in the 120kV circuit to the
station. Additional system upgrades to support the load may be required. Additional
ITC studies will be needed to confirm transmission capabilities.
• DTE would construct a new 120kV-13.2kV industrial substation on the customer’s
property. Alternatively, the customer could elect to construct, own, and maintain their
own substation instead of a DTE-owned substation; however, an ITC station would still
be required.
• Timeline may exceed 30-36 months
• Initial service:≤50 MW may be available via radial taps but may exceed 24 months.
Capacity on electric circuits changes with each customer request, and no capacity is reserved at this time for this
potential customer. To reserve capacity a formal Method of Service request would be required should the customer
decide to move forward with a specific location. Requests for redundant feeds would also need to be evaluated in
further detail by Engineering. This does not consider grid resource availability. Resource capacity timeline is reviewed
by DTE’s Resource Planning team during the detailed feasibility study process.

“Area 1” boundary
Existing 120 kV overhead
Existing 230 kV overhead

July 23rd, 2026
Area 2 – Auburn Hills Industrial Parcels
Electric Capabilities:
• One parallel 120kV overhead transmission circuit runs ~1.25 miles from the property.
• Due to the >1 mile line extensions required to serve the site, routing and permitting
challenges are anticipated, including a freeway crossing. These factors could result in
significant increases to both project costs and timelines. Customer is responsible for securing
property/easements to connect their site to existing infrastructure.
• Plan for long-term service:
• At a minimum, for loads greater than 10 MW ITC would need to construct a new 120kV
switching station on the customer’s property and loop in the 120kV circuit to the
station. Additional system upgrades to support the load may be required. Additional
ITC studies will be needed to confirm transmission capabilities.
• DTE would construct a new 120kV-13.2kV industrial substation on the customer’s
property. Alternatively, the customer could elect to construct, own, and maintain their
own substation instead of a DTE-owned substation; however, an ITC station would still
be required.
• Timeline may exceed 36-42 months
• Initial service:≤50 MW may be available via radial taps but may exceed 24 months.

“Area 2” boundary
Existing 120 kV overhead

Capacity on electric circuits changes with each customer request, and no capacity is reserved at this time for this
potential customer. To reserve capacity a formal Method of Service request would be required should the customer
decide to move forward with a specific location. Requests for redundant feeds would also need to be evaluated in
further detail by Engineering. This does not consider grid resource availability. Resource capacity timeline is reviewed
by DTE’s Resource Planning team during the detailed feasibility study process.

July 23rd, 2026
3501-3551 Hamlin Road, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Electric Capabilities:
• One parallel 120kV overhead transmission circuit runs ~1.1 miles from the property.
• Due to the >1 mile line extensions required to serve the site, routing and permitting
challenges are anticipated, including a freeway crossing. These factors could result in
significant increases to both project costs and timelines. Customer is responsible for securing
property/easements to connect their site to existing infrastructure.
• Plan for long-term service:
• At a minimum, for loads greater than 10 MW ITC would need to construct a new 120kV
switching station on the customer’s property and loop in the 120kV circuit to the
station. Additional system upgrades to support the load may be required. Additional
ITC studies will be needed to confirm transmission capabilities.
• DTE would construct a new 120kV-13.2kV industrial substation on the customer’s
property. Alternatively, the customer could elect to construct, own, and maintain their
own substation instead of a DTE-owned substation; however, an ITC station would still
be required.
• Timeline may exceed 36-42 months
• Initial service:≤50 MW may be available via radial taps but may exceed 24 months.
Capacity on electric circuits changes with each customer request, and no capacity is reserved at this time for this
potential customer. To reserve capacity a formal Method of Service request would be required should the customer
decide to move forward with a specific location. Requests for redundant feeds would also need to be evaluated in
further detail by Engineering. This does not consider grid resource availability. Resource capacity timeline is reviewed
by DTE’s Resource Planning team during the detailed feasibility study process.

Approximate site boundary
Existing 120 kV overhead

July 23rd, 2026
3000 University Dr, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Electric Capabilities:
• One parallel 120kV overhead transmission circuit runs ~1.5 miles from the property.
• Due to the >1 mile line extensions required to serve the site, routing and permitting
challenges are anticipated, including a freeway crossing. These factors could result in
significant increases to both project costs and timelines. Customer is responsible for securing
property/easements to connect their site to existing infrastructure.
• Plan for long-term service:
• At a minimum, for loads greater than 10 MW ITC would need to construct a new 120kV
switching station on the customer’s property and loop in the 120kV circuit to the
station. Additional system upgrades to support the load may be required. Additional
ITC studies will be needed to confirm transmission capabilities.
• DTE would construct a new 120kV-13.2kV industrial substation on the customer’s
property. Alternatively, the customer could elect to construct, own, and maintain their
own substation instead of a DTE-owned substation; however, an ITC station would still
be required.
• Timeline may exceed 36-42 months
• Initial service:≤50 MW may be available via radial taps but may exceed 24 months.
Capacity on electric circuits changes with each customer request, and no capacity is reserved at this time for this
potential customer. To reserve capacity a formal Method of Service request would be required should the customer
decide to move forward with a specific location. Requests for redundant feeds would also need to be evaluated in
further detail by Engineering. This does not consider grid resource availability. Resource capacity timeline is reviewed
by DTE’s Resource Planning team during the detailed feasibility study process.

Approximate site boundary
Existing 120 kV overhead
Existing 230 kV overhead

July 23rd, 2026
Oakland Technology Park Industrial Parcels
Electric Capabilities:
• One parallel 120kV overhead transmission circuit runs ~1.5 miles from the property.
• Due to the >1 mile line extensions required to serve the site, routing and permitting
challenges are anticipated, including a freeway crossing. These factors could result in
significant increases to both project costs and timelines. Customer is responsible for securing
property/easements to connect their site to existing infrastructure.
• Plan for long-term service:
• At a minimum, for loads greater than 10 MW ITC would need to construct a new 120kV
switching station on the customer’s property and loop in the 120kV circuit to the
station. Additional system upgrades to support the load may be required. Additional
ITC studies will be needed to confirm transmission capabilities.
• DTE would construct a new 120kV-13.2kV industrial substation on the customer’s
property. Alternatively, the customer could elect to construct, own, and maintain their
own substation instead of a DTE-owned substation; however, an ITC station would still
be required.
• Timeline may exceed 36-42 months
• Initial service:≤50 MW may be available via radial taps but may exceed 24 months.
Capacity on electric circuits changes with each customer request, and no capacity is reserved at this time for this
potential customer. To reserve capacity a formal Method of Service request would be required should the customer
decide to move forward with a specific location. Requests for redundant feeds would also need to be evaluated in
further detail by Engineering. This does not consider grid resource availability. Resource capacity timeline is reviewed
by DTE’s Resource Planning team during the detailed feasibility study process.

Approximate site boundaries
Existing 120 kV overhead
Existing 230 kV overhead

City of Auburn Hills

Zoning Ordinance

MARKED UP COPY
Removed
Added

ARTICLE XII
T&R, TECHNOLOGY AND RESEARCH DISTRICTS
PREAMBLE
The T&R Technology and Research Districts are designed to provide for the coordinated development
and complementary research, office, applied technology, and light industrial uses in a planned complex
which offers a full range of support facilities and services including hotels, recreation, and multiple family
housing.
1. Technology and Research Districts are to be located and designed to:
2. Create employment and activity focal points which benefit the surrounding community.
3. Provide opportunities for establishing mutually supportive relationships with institutions for higher
learning.
4. Afford safe and efficient access to and from nearby highway interchanges.
5. Ensure a high standard of visual and environmental quality by preserving significant open spaces,
protecting natural site amenities, and strictly limiting the nuisance impacts sometimes associated with
light industrial operations.
6. Create a unified District image through coordinated infrastructure development, site planning, and
architectural design.
The T&R, Technology and Research Districts are established to provide a high-quality
environment for corporate and regional headquarters, research and development facilities,
advanced technology enterprises, automation and robotics operations, aerospace, life sciences,
biotechnology, information technology, engineering, and other employment-generating uses of a
similar character and intensity. The Districts are intended to support Auburn Hills' role as a hub
for corporate investment, innovation, and advanced technology employment opportunities by
encouraging the development of businesses and facilities that contribute to the City's diversified
economic base.
Technology and Research Districts are intended to be located and designed to:
1. Support innovation, investment, and economic growth by providing a business environment
that encourages the development, retention, expansion, and diversification of technologybased, research-oriented, and advanced employment uses across multiple industry sectors;
2. Accommodate complementary accessory and support uses that serve the operational needs
of businesses and employees within the District, provided such uses remain clearly
secondary and supportive of the District's primary corporate, research, technology, and
employment-generating functions;
3. Promote high-quality development standards through coordinated site planning, building
design, architecture, landscaping, and infrastructure improvements that reflect the District's
importance as a location for corporate, research, and advanced technology investment; and
4. Protect the long-term function and economic vitality of the District by ensuring compatibility
among permitted uses, maintaining adequate infrastructure capacity, and encouraging
development patterns that are consistent with surrounding land uses and the City's longrange planning objectives.

Article XII. T&R, Technology and Research Districts

12-1

City of Auburn Hills

Zoning Ordinance

SECTION 1200. PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED
In the T&R Technology and Research District no building or land shall be used and no building shall be
erected except for one (1) or more of the following specified uses, unless otherwise provided in this
Ordinance:
1.
Any use charged with the principal function of research, design, and development of pilot or
experimental products and processes including research labs, training facilities, and light assembly
operations as adjuncts to the principal use. Assembly operations shall be limited to those involving
premanufactured finished objects and components and shall include only the incidental fabrication,
machining, or forming of metal, plastic, or other materials as part of product development,
experimentation, demonstration and repair, or the provision of customized components.
2.
Data processing and computing centers, and related services,
3.2 Single and multi-tenant office buildings. Sales as an adjunct to the principal use are also permitted.
4.3 Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above principal uses
permitted (e.g., child care, food service, and health/workout rooms, and other similar adjunct uses
provided within a facility which are intended for sole use of the workers of said facility and not the
general public.
5.4 Uses determined to be similar to the above principal permitted uses in accordance with the criteria
set forth in Section 1827 and which are not listed below as Special Land Uses Permitted.
SECTION 1201. SPECIAL LAND USES PERMITTED:
The following uses may be permitted under the purview of Section 1818 by the City Council, after site
plan review and Public Hearing by the Planning Commission, and subject further to such other
reasonable conditions which, in the opinion of the City Council, are necessary to provide adequate
protection to the health, safety, general welfare, morals and comfort of the abutting property,
neighborhood and the City of Auburn Hills:
1.
Retail business conducted wholly within an enclosed building. Such uses shall be accessory to the
principal use of the premises. Freestanding retail shopping centers and freestanding restaurants,
including drive-through and drive-in restaurants, shall not be permitted in the district.
2.
Banks and credit unions with drive-in facilities may be permitted when said drive-in facilities are
incidental to the principal function, and subject to the following conditions:
A.
Drive-up stations shall provide at least five (5) queuing spaces eighteen (18) feet long by ten
(10) feet wide from each order/transaction station. The lane containing the queuing spaces
shall be separate and distinct from other access drives and maneuvering lanes for parking
spaces. The queuing space lane shall have a clear width of ten (10) feet and be physically
separated from access drives, maneuvering lanes and parking spaces with a landscaped
area eight (8) feet wide with raised curbs on all sides.
B.
Drive-up windows shall provide at least ten (10) queuing spaces eighteen (18) feet long by
ten (10) feet wide from the window. The lane containing the queuing spaces shall be
separate and distinct from other access drives and maneuvering lanes for parking spaces.
The queuing space lane shall have a clear width of ten (10) feet and be physically separated
from access drives, maneuvering lanes and parking spaces with a landscaped area eight (8)
feet wide with raised curbs on all sides.
3.
New motels, hotels, and conference centers, or the expansion of existing motels, hotels, and
conference centers, shall only be permitted in the T&R Technology and Research Districts via
Section 1830. Planned Unit Development Option. The decision to approve a Planned Unit
Development allowing a motel, hotel, and/or conference center, or the expansion of an existing
motel, hotel, and/or conference center, in the T&R Technology and Research Districts shall be at
the sole discretion of the City Council, after recommendation from the Planning Commission. An
applicant shall not have the right to seek relief from this section to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Motels, hotels, and conference centers approved by the City Council in the T&R Technology and
Research Districts before February 17, 2020 shall be considered legally conforming and subject to
the Zoning Ordinance standards and conditions in effect at the time of the City approval.
4.
Nursery schools, day nurseries and child care centers provided the following conditions are
met:
A.
Such facilities shall be located on major thoroughfares with an existing or proposed right-ofway of one hundred and twenty (120) feet.
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B.

5.

6.
7.

8.

Any area not used for parking in the front yard shall be kept in lawn and landscaped in
accordance with Section 1808.
C.
Outdoor play areas shall be in the side or rear yard in the amount of one hundred (100)
square feet for each child cared for, but at least a minimum of one thousand two hundred
(1,200) square feet.
D.
Whenever the school or center abuts a residential district, parking, drop off, and play areas
shall be screened with an obscuring six (6) foot fence or wall, four foot six inch (4'6") high
berm with landscaping or a twenty (20') foot wide greenbelt landscaped in accordance with
Section 1808, or a combination of the above, whichever in the opinion of the Planning
Commission and City Council achieves the objective of screening and controlling noise
levels.
E.
Any other conditions which the Planning Commission and City Council deem necessary to
assure that the technology and research character of the district shall be maintained.
Multiple family residential dwellings shall not be permitted as a Special Land Use, but shall only be
permitted via Section 1830. Planned Unit Development Option in the T&R Technology and
Research Districts. The decision to approve a Planned Unit Development allowing multiple family
residential dwellings in the T&R Technology and Research Districts shall be at the sole discretion of
the City Council, after recommendation from the Planning Commission. An applicant shall not have
the right to seek relief from this section to the Zoning Board of Appeals.
Public, quasi-public, and commercial recreation facilities including parks, golf courses, health and
athletic clubs.
Light industrial uses listed as Principal Uses Permitted in Section 1300 when conducted wholly
within an enclosed building and subject to the Required Conditions specified below in Section 1202.
Clean industrial uses may be permitted as Special Land Uses within the T&R District when
conducted entirely within an enclosed building and when consistent with the purpose and
intent of the District. Such uses shall comply with the requirements of Section 1202 and
shall be subject to the following standards:
A. Definition and Operational Characteristics. For purposes of this Section, a clean
industrial use is a light industrial operation involving the assembly, incidental
fabrication, processing, testing, research, development, or production of advanced
technology, high-value, precision, or specialized products within an enclosed building.
Clean industrial uses shall utilize processes designed to minimize external impacts,
including noise, vibration, odors, dust, smoke, emissions, outdoor storage, and truck
traffic. A clean industrial use may constitute the principal use of a site and need not be
accessory to an office, research and development, or corporate headquarters use. A
clean industrial use does not include a Data Center, as defined in Section 1837.
B. Site and Building Design Standards. Buildings and sites occupied by clean industrial
uses shall maintain the high-quality character and development standards of the T&R
District through superior site design, landscaping, greenspace, and architecture.
Building elevations visible from public rights-of-way, private road easements, or
adjacent properties shall incorporate high-quality materials, glazing, and architectural
features consistent with a corporate, research, or technology-oriented appearance.
C. Transportation and Freight Limitations. Truck traffic associated with clean industrial
uses shall be limited to deliveries and shipments customary and incidental to the
operation of the use. Warehouses, distribution centers, fulfillment centers, freight
terminals, logistics facilities, and similar uses whose primary function is the storage,
distribution, or movement of goods are prohibited, regardless of whether such facilities
include office, corporate, or administrative space. Uses that are dependent upon highvolume truck traffic or intensive freight movement are likewise prohibited
Vertical Take-Off and Landing fields (VTOL), and Heliports shall be permitted subject to the
following conditions:
A. The minimum site size for heliports shall be one (1) acre, unless the location or other
circumstances would dictate a smaller site, and shall conform in dimension to the requirements
of the FAA.
B. Any petitioner for a heliport shall prepare a written statement to City Council addressing at least
the following factors:

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1.
2.

9.
10.

11.

12.

Minimum obstructions in the approach and departure area.
Minimum disturbance from noise and desirable location with regard to adjacent land
use.
3.
Access to surface transportation.
4.
Safety precautions for the control of pedestrian and vehicular circulation in relation to
the heliport.
Wireless communication facilities in accordance with the standards and requirements listed in
Section 1832, except for co-location applications which are subject to the administrative review
provisions listed in Section 1832, Item K.
Vehicular evaluating tracks, provided the following conditions are met:
A.
The track shall be screened from public view in accordance with Section 1808.
B.
Any outdoor lighting shall be shielded in compliance with Section 1810.
C.
The noise limitations and other requirements of Section 1807, shall be adhered to.
D.
Adequate safeguards shall be provided to prevent the trespass of animals onto the track.
Outside storage of vehicles only when the vehicles are accessory to the principal use of the
premises. The vehicle storage shall relate to the retrofit, manufacture, or testing of said vehicles.
Space for said outside storage of vehicles shall be provided in addition to required parking. Such
areas shall be screened from adjacent public right-of-ways and properties with a minimum twentyfive (25) foot landscaped greenbelt with staggered eight (8) foot evergreen trees. Alternative
screening techniques within the minimum twenty-five (25) foot landscaped greenbelt shall be at the
discretion of the City Council, after recommendation from the Planning Commission. Exception:
The Director of Community Development may approve the outside storage of vehicles only when
the vehicles are accessory to the principal use of the premises and provided the total site area is no
less than four-hundred (400) contiguous acres.
Colleges, universities, and other such institutions of higher learning, both public and private,
provided the property is located on the land bounded by M-59 and Featherstone Road, between I75 and Squirrel Road. In addition to requirements for signs permitted within Section 1811. Signs,
the following additional sign standards shall apply:
A.
Two (2) automatic changeable copy signs may be permitted and shall be considered as a
separate special land use under the purview of Section 1818, provided the following
conditions are met:
1. The sign shall meet the standards of Section 1811.3(C)1 for automatic changeable copy
signs, with the following exceptions:
a. The sign may be increased in height from ten (10) feet to twelve (12) feet and in
width from twelve (12) feet to twenty (20) feet.
b. The LED copy area of the sign may be increased from sixty (60) to eighty (80) square
feet in size.
c. The signs shall be setback a minimum of one (1) foot from the road right-of-way and
adjacent property lines.
d. The total sign area on each face of the sign shall not exceed two hundred (200)
square feet.
B.
Two (2) signs incorporated in decorative landscape walls may be permitted and shall be
considered as a separate special land use under the purview of Section 1818, provided the
following conditions are met:
1. The signs may only be permitted along Squirrel Road and Featherstone Road.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet.
3. The signs shall be setback a minimum of one (1) foot from the road right-of-way and
adjacent property lines.
4. The total sign area of each sign may not exceed two hundred (200) square feet.
C. One (1) accessory identification pylon sign may be permitted on the property adjacent to an
interstate highway and shall be considered as a separate special land use under the purview
of Section 1818, provided the following conditions are met:
1. The height of the sign shall not exceed sixty-five (65) feet.
2. The sign shall be setback a minimum of thirty (30) feet from the road right-of-way and
adjacent property lines.

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3. The total sign area permitted on each face of the sign shall not exceed two hundred (200)
square feet.
D.
The signs described in this subsection A-C may be submitted in a single special land use
permit application package or in parts.
14. Data centers and related data processing and computing facilities, subject to the
requirements of Section 1837.
13.14 Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above special land
uses permitted.
14.15 Special land uses determined to be similar to the above special land uses in accordance with the
criteria set forth in Section 1828. The application for Special Land Use Approval will be evaluated
on the basis of the following criteria in addition to the requirements of Section 1818. Will the
proposed development:
1.
Have an adverse effect on the ambient noise level for a significant number of
people?
2.
Have an adverse visual or aesthetic effect?
3.
Adversely divide or disrupt an established community, or divide existing uses?
4.
Have an adverse effect on areas of unique interest or scenic beauty?
5.
Destroy or detract from important recreational areas?
6.
Interfere with important wildlife breeding, nesting, or feeding grounds?
7.
Significantly increase air or water pollution?
8.
Adversely affect the water table of the area?
9.
Cause excessive congestion on existing ground transportation facilities?
10. Adversely affect the Master Land Use Plan for the area and the City?
SECTION 1202. REQUIRED CONDITIONS:
Principal and Special Land Uses Permitted shall be subject to the following conditions, as applicable:
1.
Building Height:
Any building over four (4) stories shall require the approval of the City Council in accordance with
Section 1818. Any mechanical equipment on the roof of the building, and penthouses on the
building, may not be more than twenty (20) feet in height. Mechanical equipment and penthouses
are not counted as a story for purposes of this Section.
2.
Setbacks:
A.
Buildings containing office uses, light industrial uses or research-related lab and/or assembly
operations, or any mixture of said uses, shall be setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet from any
public right-of-way. Minimum side and rear yard setbacks specified in Section 1701 for I-1,
Light Industrial uses shall be observed.
B.
Buildings four (4) stories or taller shall provide a minimum front, side, and rear setback equal
to the height of the building.
C.
Nursery schools, day nurseries, and child care centers shall observe the minimum setback
requirements specified in Section 1701 for the B-2, General Business district.
D.
Hotels, motels, and conference centers shall be set back a minimum of fifty (50) feet from any
public right-of-way. Minimum side and rear yard setbacks shall be equal to the height of the
building.
E.
Public, quasi-public, and commercial recreation buildings shall be setback a minimum of fifty
(50) feet from any public right-of-way. Minimum side and rear yard setbacks specified in
Section 1701 for B-2, General Business uses shall be observed.
F.
All buildings shall be located at least one hundred (100) feet from any residential
development.
G.
All residential uses shall observe the applicable minimum setback requirements specified in
Section 1700.
3.

Landscaping and Buffers:
A.
Landscaping shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of Section 1808.
B.
A minimum twenty-five (25) foot landscaped greenbelt shall be provided abutting public rightof-ways and private road easements in accordance with Section 1808 and kept free of
parking.

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C.

4.
5.
6.
7.

8.
9.
10.
11.

A minimum twenty-five (25) foot landscaped greenbelt with staggered eight (8) foot evergreen
trees shall be provided between residential and non-residential uses. Alternative screening
techniques within the minimum twenty-five (25) foot landscaped greenbelt shall be at the
discretion of the City Council, after recommendation from the Planning Commission.
D.
For each one (1) story increase over four (4) stories, an additional three (3) feet of greenbelt
shall be added to the greenbelt required by Section 1805 and Section 1808. This provision
shall not apply to the twenty-five (25) foot required greenbelt.
Outside Storage:
No outside storage shall be permitted, with the exception of outside storage of vehicles as provided
in Section 1201, Item 11.
Off-Street Parking:
Off-street parking shall be provided in accordance with Sections 1804 and 1805.
Cross-Access Interior Drives:
Cross-access interior drives, or drives that will allow vehicles to move from one site to another
without entering the frontage street, may be required.
Off-Street Loading:
Off-street loading space shall be provided in accordance with Section 1701, Item p and Section
1806, with the exception that office uses shall provide paved loading space at a ratio of ten (10)
square feet per front foot of building.
Performance Standards:
All development shall adhere to the Performance Standards specified in Section 1807.
Protection of Natural Amenities:
Natural terrain and amenities shall be protected and preserved to the greatest extent possible.
Site Plan Review:
Site plan review and approval is required for all development within the District in conformance with
Section 1815.
Freestanding Lighting:
Freestanding light poles shall not exceed forty (40) feet in height and lighting shall be shielded onto
the site so as to not become a nuisance to adjacent areas. For purposes of clarification, the height
of light poles illuminating outdoor recreation facilities permitted via Section 1201, Item 6 may
exceed forty (40) feet in height at the discretion of the City Council upon Special Land Use review
and approval of said use.

SECTION 1203. AREA AND BULK REQUIREMENTS
See Article XVII, Schedule of Regulations, for additional requirements limiting the height and bulk of
buildings and not in conflict with this Article XII.
(Amended: 3-06-00 per Ordinance No. 658)
(Amended: 11-11-02 per Ordinance No. 712)
(Amended: 10-06-03 per Ordinance No. 726)
(Amended: 6-26-17 per Ordinance No. 894)
(Amended: 2-17-20 per Ordinance No. 913)
(Amended: 3-18-24 per Ordinance No. 938)
(Amended: 3-17-25 per Ordinance No. 946)

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MARKED UP COPY
Removed
Added

ARTICLE XIII
I-1, LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
PREAMBLE
The I-1 Light Industrial Districts are designed so as to primarily accommodate wholesale activities,
warehouses, and industrial operations whose external physical effects are restricted to the area of the
District, and in no manner affect in a detrimental way any of the surrounding districts. The I-1 District is
so structured as to permit, along with any specified uses, the manufacturing, compounding, processing,
packaging, assembly, and/or treatment of finished or semi-finished products, from previously prepared
material, it being the intent that the processing of raw material for shipment in bulk form, to be used at an
industrial operation at another location, not be permitted.
The general goals of this use district include, among others, the following specific purposes:
1.
To provide sufficient space, in appropriate locations, to meet the needs of the City's expected
future economy for selected types of manufacturing.
2.
To promote manufacturing development which is free from danger of fire, explosions, toxic and
noxious matter, radiation, and other hazards, and from offensive noise, vibration, smoke, odor,
and other objectionable influences.
3.
To promote the most desirable use of land in accordance with a well considered plan. To protect
the character and established pattern of adjacent development, to conserve the value of land and
buildings, and other structures, and to protect the City's tax revenues.
SECTION 1300. PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED:
In the I-1 Light Industrial Districts no building or land shall be used and no building shall be erected
except for one (1) or more of the following specified uses, unless otherwise provided for in this Ordinance:
1.
Any of the following uses when conducted wholly within a completely enclosed building (no
outside storage of permanent vehicles, material or equipment):
A.
Warehousing and wholesale establishments, with retail sale only if accessory to the
principal use.
B.
The manufacture, compounding, processing, packaging, or treatment of such products
as, but not limited to: bakery goods, candy, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, toiletries, food
products, hardware, and cutlery; tool, die, gauge and machine shops.
C.
The manufacture, compounding, assembling or treatment of articles or merchandise from
previously prepared materials such as , but not limited to: bone, canvas, cellophane,
cloth, cork, feathers, felt, fiber, fur, glass, hair, horn, leather, paper, plastics, precious or
semi-precious metals or stone, shell, textiles, tobacco, wax, wire, wood (excluding saw
and planing mills), and yarns. Sheet metal stamping is not permitted as a principal use.
D.
The manufacture of pottery and figurines or other similar ceramic products using only
previously pulverized clay, and kilns fired only by electricity or gas.
E.
Manufacture of musical instruments, toys, novelties, and metal or rubber stamps, or other
small molded rubber products.
F.
Manufacture or assembly of electrical appliances, electronic instruments and devices,
radios and phonographs.
G.
Manufacture and repair of electric or neon signs, light sheet metal products, including
heating and ventilating equipment, cornices, eaves, and the like.

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H.

2.

3.

4.
5.4.
6.5.

7.6.

Automobile repair stations, automobile or other machinery assembly plants; painting and
varnishing shops, and undercoating shops.
I.
Experimental, film or testing laboratories.
J.
Building material storage and sales in an enclosed building.
Private paramedical emergency facilities subject to the following conditions:
A.
Such facilities shall be located only on collector thoroughfares or major thoroughfares as
indicated on the adopted Major Thoroughfare Plan of the City of Auburn Hills.
B.
All ingress and egress on the site shall be located at least fifty (50) feet from any adjacent
property line or right-of-way line.
C.
If not in existence, a passing lane shall be provided opposite the ingress/egress route
used for paramedical and such other emergency vehicles in addition to the required
acceleration and deceleration lanes. The passing lane is required to insure that the
purpose and intent of this Zoning Ordinance is met, and is deemed necessary to prevent
traffic congestion in order to assure proper egress for fast moving and accelerating
emergency vehicles in order to protect the health and safety of the citizens of Auburn
Hills and abutting areas.
D.
All such facilities shall be developed on sites of at least one (1) acre in area.
Any use charged with the principal function of research, design and development of pilot or
experimental products and processes including research labs, training facilities, and light
assembly operations as adjuncts to the principal use. Assembly operations shall be limited to
those involving premanufactured finished objects and components, and shall include only the
incidental fabrication, machining or forming of metal, plastic, or other materials as part of product
development, experimentation, demonstration and repair, or the provision of customized
components.
Data processing and computing centers and related services.
Oil and gas wells in accordance with the criteria set forth in Section 1835.
Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above principal uses
permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the gross building area
(e.g., general office, child care, food service, health/workout rooms, and other similar adjunct
uses provided within a facility which are intended for sole use of the workers of said facility and
not the general public).
Uses determined to be similar to the above principal permitted uses in accordance with the
criteria set forth in Section 1827 and which are not listed below as special land uses.
(Amended: 11-11-02 per Ordinance No. 712)
(Amended: 4-21-14 per Ordinance No. 859)

SECTION 1301. SPECIAL LAND USES PERMITTED:
The following uses may be permitted under the purview of Section 1818 by the City Council, after site
plan review and Public Hearing by the Planning Commission, and subject further to such other
reasonable conditions which, in the opinion of the City Council, are necessary to provide adequate
protection to the health, safety, general welfare, morals and comfort of the abutting property,
neighborhood and City of Auburn Hills:
1.
Lumber and planing mills when completely enclosed and when located in the interior of the
District so that no property line shall form the exterior boundary of the I-1 District.
2.
Metal plating, buffing and polishing, subject to appropriate measures to control the type of
process to prevent noxious results and/or nuisances.
3.
Sheet metal stamping operations limited to die tryout and prototype parts (vs. regular production
parts) provided that blank sizes shall be limited to 54 inches by 36 inches by 0.035 inches, and
further provided that Performance Standards of Section 1807, Item 10 shall be adhered to. In
addition to the information required for Site Plan Review by Section 1815, Items 3 and 5, the
petitioner shall provide data on soil conditions and assurances, through press foundation design
or other, that potential changing ground conditions will not cause increases to noise levels and
vibration standards exceeding maximum allowable limitations.
4.
Storage of vehicles such as trucks, farm implement tractors, off-road self-propelled vehicles, and
trailers when accessory to the main use of the building subject to controls to eliminate unsightly
appearance.
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City of Auburn Hills
5.
6.
7.

8.
9.
10.

11.

12.
13.
14.

15.

Zoning Ordinance

The temporary storage of vehicles overnight or through weekend days only when the vehicles are
accessory to the main use of the premises. Space for such parking shall be provided in addition
to required employee parking.
Check cashing facilities other than banks, savings and loans, and credit unions only when located
on an individual parcel not accessible to any other use, and only when not adjacent to a parcel
which contains a retail or restaurant use.
Self-storage facilities used to provide temporary storage needs for businesses, apartment
dwellers, and other individuals on a self-service basis subject to the following:
A.
The minimum site size devoted to traditional facilities with rows of multiple single-story
storage buildings with self-service primarily accessible from an exterior driveway shall not
be less than ten (10) acres. Vertical, multiple-story climate controlled facilities, dedicated for
the exclusive use of storage, with self-service access primarily from common interior
spaces shall have no minimum site size.
B
Ingress and egress from the site shall be provided from a major thoroughfare of one
hundred and twenty (120) feet in existing or proposed right-of-way.
(Amended: 1-22-07 per Ordinance No. 795)
Warehouse, storage and transfer, electric and gas service buildings and yards, water supply
plants, water and gas tank holders, railroad transfer and storage tracks, heating and electric
power generating plants, and railroad right-of-way.
Building material storage and sales, including landscaping materials and pallets.
Sales space for new cars, motor homes, travel trailers, and mobile homes, with used cars, used
motor homes, used travel trailers, and used mobile homes as an accessory facility only to the
new sales, subject to the following:
A.
All lighting shall be shielded from adjacent residential districts in accordance with Section
1810.
B.
Ingress and egress to the outdoor sales area shall be at least sixty (60) feet from the
intersection of the right-of-way of any two (2) streets.
C.
Screening and landscaping shall be provided in accordance with Section 1808 where the
I-1 District abuts R, RM, MHP or residential uses in the SP Special Purpose District.
Sales space for used cars provided the following conditions are met:
A.
Such uses shall only be allowed on major thoroughfares of one hundred and twenty (120)
feet in right-of-way.
B.
Ingress and egress to the site shall be at least sixty (60) feet from the intersection of the
right-of-way of any two (2) streets.
C.
In addition to loading and unloading area, parking spaces, and maneuvering lanes,
display areas shall be provided with asphaltic or concrete surfacing.
Indoor recreational uses involving large uses of a nature which could be easily converted to
industrial usage.
Wireless communication facilities in accordance with the standards and requirements listed in
Section 1832. Wireless Communication Facilities, except for co-location applications which are
subject to the administrative review provisions listed in Section 1832, Item K.
Vertical Take-Off and Landing fields (VTOL), and Heliports shall be permitted subject to the
following conditions:
A.
The minimum site size for heliports shall be one (1) acre, unless the location or other
circumstances would dictate a smaller site, and shall conform in dimension to the
requirements of the FAA.
B.
Any petitioner for a heliport shall prepare a written statement to City Council addressing
at least the following factors:
1.
Minimum obstructions in the approach and departure area.
2.
Minimum disturbance from noise and desirable location with regard to adjacent
land use.
3.
Access to surface transportation.
4.
Safety precautions for the control of pedestrian and vehicular circulation in
relation to the heliport.
Commercial Kennel and Animal Husbandry. The raising for profit of any fur bearing animals or
commercial kennel shall be permitted on parcels of five (5) acres or more in size and the pens or

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cages shall be located not less than one hundred (100) feet from any front, side or rear property
line, and further provided that such use shall not be injurious to the surrounding neighborhoods.
The property shall not be located within 1,000 ft. of a residential district. In the instance of the
raising for profit of horses, cows, or other large animals that weigh two hundred (200) pounds or
over at maturity, the minimum site size shall be five (5) acres plus one (1) acre for each additional
animal. Further, all requirements of the Performance Standards in Section 1807 shall be adhered
to.
A. Doggy Day Care Facility - Exception
1. Site size, building size, setbacks, and location.
a. The minimum parcel size shall be three-quarters (3/4) of an acre.
b. The maximum number of kennels and dogs housed in the kennel / indoor play area
(e.g., excluding office, lobby, breakrooms) shall be determined by the following ratios:
i. 1 kennel per 125 sq. ft. of kennel / indoor play area
ii. 1 dog per 75 sq. ft. of kennel / indoor play area
c. The building and outdoor play area together shall meet setback requirements for the
I-1, Light Industrial district.
d. Property shall not be located within 1,000 ft. of a residential district.
e. Said use shall not be permitted in multi-tenant buildings.
2. Permitted Use.
a. Animals shall be limited to dogs.
b. Dogs may be groomed, trained, exercised, socialized, and boarded overnight; but not
bred, sold, or let for hire.
c. Accessory uses may include the retail sale of products related to the operation.
3. Outdoor Play Area. All animal boarding and training shall be located inside the building,
with the exception that on-site outdoor play areas may be permitted for limited use.
a. The location and size of the outdoor play area shall be at the full discretion of the City
Council, after recommendation from the Planning Commission. The size of the
outdoor play area shall be a minimum of 10% of the enclosed structure and a
maximum 20% of the enclosed structure.
b. A sight-obscuring fence shall provide full containment for the animals. The fence
structure shall be deep enough and secured to the ground to prevent escape and
high enough to prevent the animals from jumping or climbing over.
c. The outdoor play area shall be cleaned at least daily. Liquid animal waste shall be
disposed of in accordance with best management practices.
4. Interior Requirements. In addition to requirements of the Building Code as determined by
the Building Official, the facility shall:
a. Utilize impervious, washable materials for all wall finish materials a minimum of 48
inches from the floor (e.g., sealed masonry, ceramic title, glassboard, or marlite).
Floor finish shall be sealed concrete or other approved impervious surface. Liquidtight curbing, at least six inches high, shall be installed along all walls for sanitary
confinement and wash-down cleaning.
b. Connect the floor drain system to the sanitary sewer system.
5. Waste Disposal. Refuse pick-up shall be a minimum of two (2) times a week, unless the
Building Official determines additional disposal is required. Animal wastes shall be
enclosed in a container of sufficient construction to eliminate odors.
(Amended: 8-01-05 per Ordinance No. 756)
Restaurants, including those defined as drive-through, provided the following requirements are
met:
A.
There shall be a minimum distance of at least two thousand (2,000) lineal feet
between restaurants with indoor seating only, regardless of zoning district, on the
same side of any right-of-way.
B.
There shall be a minimum distance of at least two thousand (2,000) lineal feet between
drive-through and/or drive-in restaurants, regardless of zoning district, on the same side
of any right-of-way.
C.
The minimum yard requirements of the B-2 General Business District shall be adhered to.

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D.

17.
18.

19.
20.
21.
22.

23.
23.24
24.25

Such uses shall only be allowed on major thoroughfares existing or proposed to be at
least one hundred and twenty (120) feet in right-of-way.
E.
Ingress and egress to the site shall be at least sixty (60) feet from the intersection of the
rights-of-way of any two (2) streets.
F.
Ingress and egress shall be limited to one (1) boulevard entrance, unless circumstances
exist where individual drives can be placed at least five hundred (500) feet apart.
G.
Restaurants with drive-through facilities shall only be permitted on sites containing one
and one-half (1½) net acres, and having one hundred and fifty (150) feet of road frontage
width. The Site Plan shall clearly reflect that the queuing lane and parking maneuvering
lane are not in conflict, and will not inhibit safe ingress and egress from/to the main
access thoroughfare.
H.
Restaurants with drive-through facilities shall provide at least ten (10) vehicle queuing
spaces eighteen (18) feet long by ten (10) feet wide from the order station. The lane
containing the queuing spaces shall be separate and distinct from other access drives
and maneuvering lanes for parking spaces. The queuing space lane shall have a clear
width of ten (10) feet and be physically separated from access drives, maneuvering lanes
and parking spaces with a landscaped area five (5) feet wide with raised curbs on all
sides.
Outdoor seating or outdoor facilities for the serving and/or consumption of food or beverages for
restaurants and other similar uses, where food and/or beverages are served and/or consumed,
subject to all provisions of Article IX, Section 902, Special Land Uses Permitted.
Offices, provided the following requirements are met:
A.
The Building in which the office use is to be located does not exceed fifteen thousand
(15,000) square feet in total area.
B.
The minimum yard requirements of the I-1 Light Industrial District shall be adhered to.
C.
Loading space shall be provided in the rear or side yard in the ratio of at least ten (10)
square feet per front foot of building and shall be computed separately from the off-street
parking requirements.
D.
Except as otherwise provided herein, all other requirements of the O Office District as
contained in Article VII of this Ordinance shall be complied with.
Private clubs, fraternal organizations and lodge halls.
Churches and places of worship.
Colleges, universities and other such institutions of higher learning, both public and private,
provided the property is located on the land bounded by M-59 and Featherstone Road, between
I-75 and Squirrel Road.
Training facilities, located on parcels that are twenty-five (25) acres or greater in size, that provide
a scenario-based learning environment for career preparation and continuing education in law
enforcement, firefighting, and emergency medical services as well as civilian emergency
preparedness.
Data centers and related data processing and computing facilities, subject to the
requirements of Section 1837.
Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above special land
uses permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the gross building
area.
Special land uses determined to be similar to the above special land uses in accordance with the
criteria set forth in Section 1828.
(Amended: 11-11-02 per Ordinance No. 712)
(Amended: 5-15-06 per Ordinance No. 779)
(Amended: 6-25-18 per Ordinance No. 903)

SECTION 1302. AREA AND BULK REQUIREMENTS:
See Article XVII, Schedule of Regulations, limiting the height and bulk of buildings.

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MARKED UP COPY
Removed
Added

ARTICLE XIV
I-2, GENERAL INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
PREAMBLE
The I-2 General Industrial Districts are designed primarily for manufacturing, assembling, and fabrication
activities including large scale or specialized industrial operations whose external physical effects will be
felt to some degree by surrounding districts. The I-2 District is so structured as to permit the
manufacturing, processing and compounding of semi-finished or finished products from raw materials. All
uses in the I-2 General Industrial District shall be so regulated as to not become a nuisance to any
adjacent residential district or use.
SECTION 1400. PRINCIPAL USES PERMITTED:
In the I-2 General Industrial Districts no building or land shall be used and no building shall be erected
except for one (1) or more of the following specified uses, unless otherwise provided for in this Ordinance:
1.
Any principal uses first permitted in an I-1 District, provided the standards of this I-2 District are
met.
2.
Lumber and planing mills when completely enclosed and when located in the interior of the
District so that no property line shall form the exterior boundary of the District.
3.
Metal plating, buffing and polishing, subject to appropriate measures to control the type of
process to prevent noxious results and/or nuisances.
4.
Sheet metal stamping operations provided that blank sizes shall be limited to 54 inches by 36
inches by 0.035 inches and further provided that the Performance Standards of Section 1807,
Item 10 shall be adhered to. In addition to the information required for Site Plan Review by
Section 1815, Items 3 and 5, the petitioner shall provide data on soil conditions and assurances,
through press foundation design or other, that potential changing ground conditions will not cause
increases to noise levels and vibration standards exceeding allowable limitations.
5.
Experimental, film, or testing laboratories.
6.
Manufacture and repair of electric or neon signs, light sheet metal products, including heating and
ventilating equipment, cornices, eaves, and the like.
7.
Warehouse storage and transfer, and electric and gas service buildings and yards, water supply
and sewage disposal plants, water and gas tank holders, railroad transfer and storage tracks,
heating and electric power generating plants, and railroad right-of-way.
8.
Building material storage and sales.
9.
Oil and gas wells in accordance with the criteria set forth in Section 1835.
10.
Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above principal uses
permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the gross building area.
11.
Uses determined to be similar to the above principal permitted uses in accordance with the
criteria set forth in Section 1827 and which are not listed below as special land uses.
(Amended: 11-11-02 per Ordinance No. 712)
(Amended: 4-21-14 per Ordinance No. 859)
SECTION 1401. SPECIAL LAND USES PERMITTED:
The following uses may be permitted under the purview of Section 1818 by the City Council, after site
plan review and Public Hearing by the Planning Commission, and subject further to such other
reasonable conditions which, in the opinion of the City Council, are necessary to provide adequate

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protection to the health, safety, general welfare, morals and comfort of the abutting property,
neighborhood and City of Auburn Hills:
1.
Any Special Land Uses Permitted in the I-1 District, provided the standards of this I-2 District are
met.
2.
Sheet metal stamping operations subject to appropriate measures to control the process to
eliminate unsatisfactory effects on adjacent property from vibration and noise.
3.
Indoor recreational uses involving large uses of a nature which could be easily converted to
industrial usage.
4.
Heating and electric power generating plants, and all necessary accessory uses.
5.
Any production, processing, cleaning, servicing, repair, or storage of materials, goods, or
products which shall conform with the Performance Standards set forth in Section 1807.
6.
The raising of animals or commercial kennels subject to the Special Land Use requirements of
Section 1301, Item 15 of the I-1 District.
7.
Truck tractor and trucking facilities, including storage and repair.
8.
Freight yards and truck terminals.
9.
Fleet fueling facilities other than gasoline service stations, provided the following
requirements are met:
A.
Such uses shall not provide any service or retail facilities.
B.
Such uses shall not provide any temporary or permanent parking facilities, other than for
the employees of the fleet fueling facility.
C.
Queuing spaces shall be provided for vehicles waiting to be fueled and such spaces shall
be separated from any other maneuvering lanes.
D.
Direct access shall be provided for ingress and egress to the facility from a collector or
major thoroughfare as indicated on the adopted City of Auburn Hills Major Thoroughfare
Plan.
E.
Any overhead canopies shall meet all setback requirements.
F.
Toilet facilities shall be provided.
10.
Wireless communication facilities in accordance with the standards and requirements listed in
Section 1832. Wireless Communication Facilities, except for co-location applications which are
subject to the administrative review provisions listed in Section 1832, Item K.
11.
Outdoor theaters subject to the following conditions:
A.
The proposed internal design shall receive approval from the City Engineer as to
adequacy of drainage, and other technical aspects.
B.
Points of ingress and egress shall be available to the outdoor theater from abutting major
thoroughfares of at least one hundred and twenty (120) feet in existing or proposed rightof-way, or greater, and shall not be available from any residential street.
C.
All vehicles waiting or standing to enter the facility shall be provided off-street waiting
space in the ratio of one (1) space for every ten (10) viewing spaces within the drive-in
theater. No vehicle shall be permitted to wait or stand within a dedicated road right-ofway.
12.
Sales and rental of construction equipment and other types of large machinery in which
outside storage of same is the primary use.
13.
Data centers and related data processing and computing facilities, subject to the
requirements of Section 1837.
13.14 Accessory buildings and accessory uses customarily incidental to any of the above special land
uses permitted; however, accessory uses shall not exceed fifty (50) percent of the gross building
area.
14.15 Special land uses determined to be similar to the above special land uses in accordance with the
criteria set forth in Section 1828.
(Amended: 11-11-02 per Ordinance No. 712)
SECTION 1402. AREA AND BULK REQUIREMENTS:
See Article XVII, Schedule of Regulations, limiting the height and bulk of buildings.

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MEETING DATE: AUGUST 24, 2026

AGENDA ITEM NO 13A

13a. CLOSED SESSION
No Electronic Information Available

MOTION
Move to meet in closed session to discuss property acquisition pursuant to MCL 15.268(1)(d) of the Open
Meetings Act.