The address was delivered at the Greater Farmington Chamber of Commerce State of the Cities in early April, featuring Mayor Rich among other local leaders

 

 

Emphasizing joy, optimism and resilience, Mayor Theresa Rich delivered a speech highlighting the City’s vast successes at the Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce State of the Cities event at The Hawk Theatre on April 1. Mayor Rich reviewed some of the City’s recent accomplishments, ongoing efforts and exciting future projects.

 

“It is obvious to me that Farmington Hills is a city built on joy, optimism and resilience. Collective joy fuels us, optimism inspires us, and resilience makes us stronger together,” said Farmington Hills Mayor Theresa Rich. “Farmington Hills continues to thrive because of an engaged community and strong leadership, who share a commitment to ensuring Farmington Hills is a place where everyone is welcome.”

 

Major highlights from Mayor Theresa Rich’s speech included:

 

Strengthening Regional and Local Partnerships

Mayor Rich highlighted the City’s growing reputation as a regional hub, pointing to notable partnerships, including hosting the National League of Cities, Oakland County’s State of the County address and an immersive NFL Draft preview with Visit Detroit. Locally, the City continues to collaborate with Farmington Public Schools, the Farmington Community Library, and numerous community organizations representing its diverse community.

 

Economic Growth, Business Investment and Opportunity

Mayor Rich detailed that Farmington Hills remains a destination for major business investments: with Comerica Bank opening its largest operations center, Farbman relocating its headquarters, and international companies, like Japan Solderless Terminals (JST) and Jin Jing Electric, expanding in the City. Meanwhile, small businesses continue to prosper with expanding opportunity, as the City performs a market study to enhance the Grand River Corridor and has started a grant program to encourage redevelopment in previously overlooked areas. Mayor Rich also highlighted the growing list of exceptional medical care available in Farmington Hills, within a 30-minute drive of 70% of the region’s population, including the Kirk Gibson Center for Parkinson’s Wellness, which is set to open in 2025.

 

Enhancing Public Safety

As one of the safest cities of its size, Mayor Rich highlighted how the Farmington Hills Police and Fire Departments continue enhancing their capacities to better serve and protect the community. The Police Department welcomed its first crime data analyst and two new K9 teams, in addition to all officers and dispatchers completing mental health training that set a state precedent. The Fire Department had a record-breaking year, responding to nearly 13-thousand incidents, completing 20-thousand hours of training and earning national recognition for an investigation that led to a nationwide lithium-ion battery recall. Both departments doubled down on community engagement programs, including Shop with a Hero, the Police Department’s women’s self-defense classes and the Fire Department's annual fall assemblies in Farmington Public Schools.

 

Exceptional Quality of Life

Mayor Rich highlighted the exceptional quality of life in Farmington Hills, supported by the City’s investments in infrastructure, recreation and community engagement. From investing more than $24 million in infrastructure and technology enhancements to an award-winning arts program and record-breaking participation in City events, Farmington Hills continues to be a place where residents of all ages, interests and abilities can thrive.

 

Looking Ahead

Mayor Rich outlined the bold steps that Farmington Hills is taking to shape a future rooted in resilience. One major milestone is the implementation of the City’s new Master Plan, a blueprint for modernization that was adopted last year. With extensive input from residents, the Master Plan will guide Farmington Hills over the next 50 years, ensuring that City is ready to meet future challenges, while maintaining the shared community values of sustainability and economic vitality. Farmington Hills continues to invest in projects that uplift the City’s spirit and sense of place. This year, construction will begin on new gateway signage at I-696 and Orchard Lake Road, which will serve to instill pride in residents and offer a memorable first impression to visitors. The City is also working to bring even more public art to outdoor spaces.

 

As a reflection of the joy and optimism that characterize Farmington Hills, Mayor Rich recognized longtime Farmington Hills residents Jordan and Kathryn Norsigian. In 2024, the Norsigian family welcomed their son, Jordan Jr., with assistance from the Farmington Hills Fire Department in a unique delivery along Northwestern Highway. This moment served as a reminder of the City’s commitment to its residents through every stage of life.

The City of Farmington Hills also debuted a special video at the State of the Cities that highlights some of the reasons why residents, workers and businesses owners choose to call Farmington Hills home.

“This year’s State of the Cities was truly a celebration of opportunity in Farmington Hills and Farmington,” said Susan Arlin, Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce CEO. “The Chamber was proud to bring the two cities together with Farmington Public Schools and Oakland Community College to showcase the power of collaboration. Together, we’re building stronger connections between our local governments, businesses, educators and community members.”

 

To watch Mayor Theresa Rich’s remarks, click here. The entire State of the Cities program is also available to watch on the City of Farmington Hills YouTube. For more information, visit www.fhgov.com.

 

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