Mayor Tom Semaan – New Baltimore, MI
Mayor Tom Semaan – New Baltimore, MI

Small Business Growth & Local Economy

Mayor Tom Semaan is dedicated to fostering a vibrant local economy in New Baltimore, where small businesses thrive and new opportunities emerge. By supporting entrepreneurs, streamlining processes, and promoting the city as a commercial hub, his administration is driving economic growth while preserving the community’s small-town charm. Below are the key efforts and achievements in this essential area.

Priorities & Initiatives

Supporting Small Businesses

Mayor Semaan recognizes small businesses as the backbone of New Baltimore’s economy:

  • Fast-Track Permitting: Reduced business permit approval times by 35% since 2023, helping new shops and restaurants open quickly.
  • Grant Assistance: Helped local businesses secure over $1,300,000 in state and federal grants for expansions and renovations in 2024.
  • Shop Local Campaign: Multiple intiatives offering Gift Cards and Discounts at participating merchants, boosting foot traffic by 15%.

Progress Update: Five new small businesses, including a bakery and boutique, opened downtown in 2024, citing city support as a key factor.

Downtown Economic Development

Revitalizing downtown is central to Mayor Semaan’s economic vision:

  • Ashley Development: A mixed-use project adding retail and residential units, expected to create 50 jobs by its 2026 completion.
  • Facade Improvement Program: Provided matching funds up to $10,000 per business for exterior upgrades, with 12 participants since 2023.
  • Event Promotion: Provided support for festivals (like Bay-Rama Fishfly Festival), drawing 10,000+ visitors annually and benefiting local vendors.

Progress Update: Downtown vacancy rates dropped from 8% in 2023 to 3% in 2025, reflecting a revitalized commercial core.

Attracting New Investment

Mayor Semaan is positioning New Baltimore as a “hot spot” for growth:

  • Residential Growth: Supported 25 new housing units in 2024, linked to economic projects, to attract residents and workforce talent.
  • Business Incentives: Offered temporary tax abatements for companies creating 10+ jobs.
  • Marketing Efforts: Partnered with Macomb County to promote New Baltimore at regional trade shows, securing interest from three mid-sized firms in 2024.

Progress Update: Baker building economic development grant funded with 3 apartments upstairs for rent coming soon. Total investment over $1,300,000 ! .

Mayor Semaan’s Vision

“A strong local economy means opportunity for everyone. By cutting red tape, investing in downtown, and welcoming new businesses, we’re building a New Baltimore where entrepreneurs succeed and families prosper.”

Looking Ahead

Mayor Semaan’s administration aims to:

  • Launch a “New Baltimore Business Incubator” in 2026, offering mentorship and affordable space for startups.
  • Expand outdoor dining and retail pop-up spaces along the waterfront by Summer 2025.
  • Target a 20% increase in local business revenue by 2028 through sustained growth initiatives.

Get Involved

Own a business or have ideas to boost our economy? Join the New Baltimore Business Roundtable or contact the Mayor’s Office at (586) 725-2151 or tsemaan@cityofnewbaltimore.org.