A Day To Remember - January 20, 1986

Posted by – Steve Cohen, Director of Community Development

We did not want this day to go by without acknowledging something very special that happened 30 years ago.

On January 20, 1986, the Auburn Hills City Council approved a zoning change that set in motion a series of developments that jettisoned our once sleepy town into a high-tech automotive mecca.  On that cold night, the Council’s historic decision paved the way for Chrysler Corporation to come to town.

The Council listened to Chrysler’s plans for a new technology center, supplier park, and evaluation road that promised to bring thousands of jobs.  The meeting minutes reflect the excitement of Chrysler officials and their “appreciation for the cooperation that the City had extended.”  It was a new beginning for both parties.

The Council’s decision that night was an event that triggered a boom of construction that literally transformed the face of our town.

Much has changed.  Auburn Hills is a proud community.  It’s good to remember.