City of Mt. Pleasant Shares Housing Report and Invites Community Feedback

The City of Mt. Pleasant has released its 2026 Housing Report and is asking residents to share what types of housing they’d like to see in Mt. Pleasant and what matters most to them when it comes to housing options.

The report was put together by the City’s Planning and Community Development Department, and it takes a close look at home and rental availability, affordability, demographic shifts and development opportunities across Mt. Pleasant. It will help guide future conversations about neighborhoods and planning to ultimately support future growth, neighborhood vitality and long-term economic sustainability.

Mt. Pleasant is growing and changing in ways that create real opportunity. More working families and seniors are calling our community home, and demand for housing that fits a wider range of lifestyles and budgets is on the rise. The report helps the City understand where that demand is coming from and where the greatest opportunities to meet it exist.

The report also found that more than 12,000 people drive into Mt. Pleasant for work every day, many of whom would prefer to live here if the right housing options were available. Giving more people the chance to live where they work strengthens local businesses, supports city services and adds to the long-term health of our neighborhoods.

The report identifies opportunities for new housing on already-vacant or underused land, as well as housing types that many Michigan communities are adding, things like townhomes, duplexes, small apartment buildings and accessory dwelling units.

As part of the process, the City is asking residents to participate in a community housing survey to share what types of housing they’d like to see available in Mt. Pleasant and what housing characteristics matter most to them. It takes less than two minutes to complete.

“This report is intended to educate, inform and start productive community conversations,” said City Manager Aaron Desentz. “As future housing and land use discussions take place, it’s important to understand the challenges and opportunities that Mt Pleasant is currently facing”

To read the 2026 Housing Report and take the survey, visit www.mt-pleasant.org/housingreport.

For questions, contact Manuela Powidayko, Director of Planning and Community Development, at mpowidayko@mt-pleasant.org or (989) 779-5346.

Topics to Watch at the 06/04/26 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, June 4, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Z-26-01 – Introduction: Discuss proposed rezoning of parcels 17-000-17-300-00, 17-000-17 303-00, 17-000-17-304-00, 17-000-17-305-00, 17-000-17-306-00, located at the southwest corner of Crawford and Broomfield, from PRD (Planned Residential Development) to CD-4 (General Urban Character District with the Residential/Dwelling Use Restriction), CD-4 (General Urban Character District), SD-U (Special District University), and CZ (Civic Zone), and consider setting a public hearing at the July 9, 2026 regular meeting.

TC-26-02 – Introduction: Discuss proposed amendment to Table 154.405.A of the zoning ordinance as it relates to SD-U University Special District rules and consider setting a public hearing at the July 9, 2026 regular meeting.

PRD Dissolution: Termination of the Planned Residential Development Agreement (PRD) for the southwest corner of Crawford and Broomfield.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet Link

How to follow public meetings:

The Planning Commission Meeting will be held in person in the City Chambers/City Hall (320 W. Broadway Street) with virtual attendance options as well. Non-voting participants may view the meeting live on the City’s YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/user/MtPleasantMi/, on Spectrum Charter channel 188 or via Zoom.

If a virtual option becomes unavailable due to technical difficulties, the meeting will continue as scheduled. Residents who would like to provide a comment during the appropriate time are welcome to come to the meeting at City Hall or email their statement to comment@mt-pleasant.org.

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88448225094?pwd=bHfAbbJVzlwm9NZadnhHnlGLolpgxh.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 421332
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

For participants accessing via computer or smartphone please use the “Raise Your Hand” icon to indicate you would like to speak. First, click on the “Participants” icon at the bottom of your screen. Next, click on the “Raise Your Hand” icon near the bottom right corner of the screen.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.

Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Persons with disabilities needing assistance to participate may call the Human Resources office on (989) 779-5314. Persons requiring speech or hearing assistance may contact the city through the Michigan Relay Center at 711. 48-hour advance notice is necessary for accommodation.

Topics to Watch at the 05/07/26 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Review of the 2027–2032 Capital Improvement Plan

Introduction of a new Planning Commission member

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

Thursday May 7th E-Packet

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82846354357?pwd=78K3ZiWA0dzJCSq3EGzSydEODXuCqF.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 026095
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.

Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Topics to Watch at the 04/09/26 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 7 p.m.

TC-26-01 – Screening on Industrial Sites – A proposed text change of the Zoning Ordinances to Table 154.405.A District Standards: SD-I Industrial Special District pertaining to Screens, to increase the maximum screen height not at Frontage or Adjacent to Civic Space from six feet to eight feet

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

Thursday April 9^th E-Packet

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82846354357?pwd=78K3ZiWA0dzJCSq3EGzSydEODXuCqF.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 200382
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.

Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Topics to Watch at the 03/05/26 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, March 5, 2026, at 7 p.m.

TC-26-01 Introduction to a proposed amendment to the SD-I (Industrial Special Districts) zoning ordinance regarding wall or fence screen height.

Review of the 2025 Planning Commission Annual Report.

Introduction of new Planning Commission members.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet Link

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82846354357?pwd=78K3ZiWA0dzJCSq3EGzSydEODXuCqF.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 392185
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.

Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Topics to Watch at the 02/05/26 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 5, 2026, at 7 p.m.

Public Hearing on a Special Use Permit request for a short-term rental at 1009 S. Kinney Ave.

Recommend a Planning Commission representative to serve on the Zoning Board of Appeals.

Review of nominees for the Community Improvement Awards.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet Link

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82846354357?pwd=78K3ZiWA0dzJCSq3EGzSydEODXuCqF.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 621028
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.

Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Topics to Watch at the 12/04/25 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, December 4, 2025, at 7 p.m.

The Planning Commission will review an amendment request for a previously approved site plan at 1219 N. Mission Street.

Commissioners will discuss potential properties to list as priority redevelopment sites for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

The Commission will establish next year’s meeting dates.

After adjournment, commissioners will move into a work session.

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet Link

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82442572171?pwd=yW9deD7a1sWyYICkrbZINUa8SdkJvl.1

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475
Passcode: 094130
Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.

Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

Topics to Watch at the 11/06/25 Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission Meeting

Here are the topics to watch at the next in person, as well as virtual Mt. Pleasant Planning Commission meeting scheduled for Thursday, November 6, 2025, at 7 p.m.

Public Hearing: The Planning Commission will consider a request for a special use permit to allow a Registered Student Organization (RSO) to operate at 915 S. Main Street. (SUP-25-12)

To view the entire meeting packet visit:

E-Packet Link

How to follow public meetings:

To participate via Zoom:

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82556681289?pwd=HXKR15ovr7KESG38XEEJlKxjxlM0R0.1

Phone dial-in: (312) 626-6799

Meeting ID: 893 0229 8475

Passcode: 423264

The audio and video will be muted for members of the public and then unmuted by the host during public comment periods.

To raise your hand for telephone dial-in participants, press *9.

Members of the public may be muted or removed if using abusive language or if they become disruptive to the meeting.

Virtual attendance at the meeting and participation during public comment periods will be conducted as follows:

Members of the public are asked to provide their name and address with any comments.
Comments/Questions may be sent ahead of the meeting, or during the meeting via email to comment@mt-pleasant.org. Comments sent via email will be read aloud to the Commission during the public comment period.

City of Mt. Pleasant 2050 Master Plan Update

The City of Mt. Pleasant is preparing to update its 2050 Master Plan. Every five years (per Public Act 33 of 2008), all Michigan cities are required to have their Planning Commissions review their Master Plans and determine if amendments are necessary, or if the city should adopt a new document.

Master Plans

Master Plans chart the direction of the City’s development for the next 30 years.

Master plans are critical policy documents. They are the primary way for the community to answer the following questions:

What do we want our community to look like in 2050?
How do we get there?
How can we ensure our community is resilient by avoiding or mitigating risks or threats that we may face?

The plan will continue to address land use, transportation, housing, downtown, economic development, and public safety.

Suggested Updates

The city’s current 2050 Master Plan reflects the need for more housing options in the community. Proposed updates are as follows:

Add information from the Mission Street Improvement Plan project. This plan, approved by the Mission Street Improvement Plan Steering Committee, and the Mission/Pickard DDA, focuses on roadway improvements, zoning updates, and strategic investments along the Mission Street Corridor.
Other suggested updates include incorporating results from the recent Parks & Recreation public outreach efforts, as well as the completed Town Center redevelopment.

Public Input Needed

Public input is imperative during this amendment process. The public is invited to participate in a series of open meetings, which will be held at City Hall, 320 W. Broadway Street. The public will have an opportunity to share their thoughts during the public comment section of each meeting. This can be done in-person or virtually, in some cases.

April 3: Planning Commission – 7 p.m. – City Hall/Hybrid

April 22: Parks & Recreation Commission – 6 p.m. – City Hall (no hybrid option)

April 28: City Commission – 7 p.m. – City Hall/Hybrid

City of Mt. Pleasant Master Planning History

Major projects and policy changes often result from a master planning process. The city adopted its first Master Plan in 1946 with subsequent plans being adopted in 1965, 1987, 2006, and 2020. For instance, the 1965 Master Plan led to the development of “Town Center” and the creation of a new 1971 zoning ordinance. The 1987 Master Plan led to significant investments in park accessibility for individuals with disabilities; facility investments to improve drinking water quality; and extensions of Bellows and Preston Streets.

For more details regarding the 2050 Master Plan Update visit www.mt-pleasant.org/masterplan.

For information about the Mission Street Improvement Plan visit www.mt-pleasant.org/missionstreet.

City of Mt. Pleasant Recognized for Supporting Business in their Community

The City of Mt. Pleasant has been named a 2024 eCities Honored Community for its successes and efforts in contributing to Michigan’s growth. The designation was given as part of the annual eCities study, conducted by iLabs, the University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Office of Engagement and Impact. The four other Honored Communities are the cities of Battle Creek, Romulus, Sault Ste. Marie, and Tecumseh.

According to City Manager Aaron Desentz, “This eCities recognition is tangible evidence that the City of Mt. Pleasant continues to focus on all forms of economic development, while enhancing capital assets through improved roads and pathways. To be recognized out of a field of 277 communities is an honor.”

The eCities study analyzed publicly available data from 277 communities from 54 counties in Michigan. Researchers focused on the five-year changes in property values, community assets, and tax rates, which can demonstrate the growth, investments, and cost of doing business within the community. For example, over the five-year period of 2019-2023, these communities increased their capital assets by an average of 3.71 percent per year by investments such as new buildings, roads and bike paths, and library renovations. Further, these places are home to 86 percent of Michigan’s real commercial property and have 64 percent of the state’s total property value. Communities that have seen the strongest growth in business development over the past five years, while controlling the costs of doing business in town, are designated as five- and four-star communities.

Although accounting for less than 20 percent of the State’s cities and townships, the 277 communities analyzed are home to 71 percent of Michigan’s population and 87 percent of the state’s commercial property. “Each year, we enjoy recognizing the efforts made by cities and townships throughout Michigan to support business growth and entrepreneurship in their communities,” said Kari Kowalski, Assistant Director of iLabs.