When it comes to growth, the township’s commitment to a low-tax environment also appeals to both local and international businesses. Rasawehr highlights, “We’ve been fortunate enough that we did not have to go out and seek these businesses. We’re centrally located in the county, in an area that provides easy transportation in and out of the township.” Amazon reached out about locating in the community, and Shelby Township welcomed them with open arms. “We are happy they moved in because there was a brownfield. For 10 years, we didn’t know where that was going to end up, and then Amazon was interested,” elaborates Stathakis. Along with a tax abatement, the company agreed to clean up the property, spending $9 million to get the job done. “We’re happy that they’re here. They’re a great corporate partner,” he continues. Another major corporation, NorthPoint, moved in to the adjacent land and cleaned up the rest of the property.“Today we now have uncontaminated property, on a very important stretch of Shelby Township.” Along with these significant partners, Stathakis underscores the importance of its small businesses, who are the backbone of Shelby Township. With 178 of these local enterprises opening in 2024 alone, the township recognizes their contribution to the character and quality of life for the community.“Those are really important partnerships,” he maintains. “We’ve got some wonderful, great restaurants here in Shelby Township. You can practically buy anything you want right here, a lot of it right on Van Dyke.” BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE As it plans for future growth Shelby Township is addressing both water and sewer needs. In 2017 a special assessment district was created, allowing developers to join together and bring sanitary sewers to the northeast corner of the municipality. “That’s what really busted open the residential,” relays Danielle Allen, Director of Public Works.“That was the biggest portion of undeveloped property in Shelby Township. Once the sanitary, which is the most expensive part of it, came into play, the developers 6 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06
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