FLAT ROCK, Mich. – A proposal to create a historic district covering a large portion of Flat Rock sparked tense exchanges at a public hearing, with some residents warning the designation could add costs and restrictions for homeowners.
Michelle Whitwam, who lives with her husband on Walnut Street, said their 1940s home is included in the proposed district.
Whitwam said the change could put homeowners in a difficult financial position.
“I don’t think they’ve thought about what it does to individual homeowners, the economic situation they’re putting us in,” Whitwam said.
If approved, the district would require property owners to obtain approval from the city’s Historic Preservation Commission before making exterior changes that require a building permit.
Residents said that could limit the materials they can use and increase maintenance expenses.
“We’re already in a flood plain, so that adds to our cost; the cost of maintenance is about double for materials,” Whitwam said.
During public comment, residents raised concerns about how a historic designation could affect property taxes, homeowners’ insurance, and the ability to sell homes in the future.
Lesley Harkai, chair of the Historic District Study Committee, said the idea of forming a historic district came about after the former Flat Rock High School was demolished in 2023.
She said the committee designed the proposed boundaries around historic structures it considers at risk, with the goal of preserving them.
Harkai said the reaction has been mixed.
“There’s clearly some places that they don’t want it, and then there’s other places where there has been very positive feedback,” Harkai said.
Harkai said the committee plans to revisit the proposal and consider adjusting the boundaries.
“We’re hopeful that the process will continue, whether it be redistricting and redrawing those lines, maybe for a smaller district or something more targeted,” Harkai said.
The proposal is not finalized.
It would need a recommendation from the city’s planning commission before going to the City Council for approval.
Harkai said there’s currently no timeline on when it could be brought to a vote.