New Novi Trade Center
is giving Novi a bad
name (and it's not
even open yet)

8/6/07

So far, the publicity has been nothing but negative over the planned Novi Trade Center, which is trying to open in the old Novi Expo Center property, and it's starting to give our fine city a bad name.

First, it was a sign that the city said wasn't properly approved. That one made regional headlines, and the owners painted over the sign.

Then, there was a spat over allegedly unpaid lease monies due from the former tenant.

Today, it's apparent issues regarding the fine print of the zoning ordinance and what is and isn't allowed on the property. The city says it can't be a retail store. The owners says there will be six two month sales per year.

Folks, what's the difference? Sounds like it will be a retail place to us. If so, it sure sounds like the zoning will need to be changed to allow for it.

Meanwhile, Novi's new Rock Financial Showplace continues to prosper and make Novi shine. It's a fine example of how things should be done, and Showplace boss Blair Bowman knows how to work with people to get things done. He sets an example others need to follow.

We the People are not pleased with the negative publicity. The owners of the new Novi Trade Center need to work cooperatively with the city and others, and the city needs to ensure every effort is made to work with the owners in a cordial manner to get things worked out.

Nothing is worse than a vacant building, and we have enough of those in metro-Detroit already.

Novi's reputation has changed from one that was adverse to business in the past, to one that's become business friendly. Let's keep it that way.

p.s. - Kudos to Novi PD for once again using their in-car AEDs to save a man following an apparent heart attack. This is the third time that's happened, and the AEDs were certainly one of the best investments the city has ever made.