Royal Oak, Michigan Development News

City Commission Approves Six-Month Extension for Centennial Commons Bathroom, Debates DDA Funding

The City Commission discussed and approved a six-month extension for the Throne portable smart bathroom at Centennial Commons. The extension costs $33,000, with the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) expected to contribute half. The city's Public Services staff proposed a budget amendment to cover the city's portion by reallocating funds from Normandy Oaks Park heated restrooms retrofit and park benches/picnic table replacement. Commissioners debated the funding source, the DDA's financial capacity, and the necessity of the bathroom, especially considering its location within the social district and the park's high usage. A motion to postpone indefinitely failed, and ultimately, a motion to ratify the contract, direct staff to work with the DDA for funding, and form a task force to develop a plan for continuous bathroom service passed.