During a special land‑use hearing on Wednesday, Detroit’s Buildings, Safety Engineering and Environmental Department (BSEED) considered DVM Utilities’ application to operate a concrete crusher called Sir‑Crush‑A‑Lot on a 3.67‑acre site in the Jeffries Schoolcraft Industrial Park. The site sits less than a quarter‑mile from homes and about two miles from an existing crusher.
Background and Permit History
DVM Utilities, a Macomb County contractor, began operating the crusher in fall 2025 after receiving a state permit from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE). The company did not have the required city permit and halted operations earlier this year after a resident complaint prompted a city inspection.
According to BSEED spokesperson Georgette Johnson, DVM first applied for a city permit in April 2026. An inspection that month found piles of material on site, but the crusher was not running. Several tickets were issued for missing documentation, which DVM paid.
Community Response
The hearing saw a mixed response. One neighboring business, Metro Welding Supply, praised DVM for being “easy to work with” and quick to react. However, BSEED staff reported receiving 190 letters opposing the permit, with most concerns focused on potential dust and air‑quality impacts.
Local resident Matthew Milia, who suffers from asthma and has a three‑year‑old child, expressed strong opposition, calling the proposed operation a “public health hazard.” He noted the proximity to residential centers, a community farm, and a nearby park slated for a new coffee roastery.
City Officials Weigh In
Detroit City Planner Dolores Perales‑Lara asked about the need for another crusher given the existing Dino‑Mite facility nearby. BSEED Director Dave Bell will decide on the application after reviewing staff recommendations and community input. If denied, DVM can appeal to the Board of Zoning Appeals.
State Sen. Mary Cavanagh, D‑Redford Township, voiced complete opposition, urging the department to deny the request to protect community health.
Company Position and Mitigation Plans
Kevin McDonald, DVM’s director of operations, said the company believed it was fully permitted after receiving state authorization and was unaware a city permit was required. He emphasized a commitment to compliance and being a good neighbor.
In its permit application, DVM proposes installing two air monitors to meet city air‑quality standards and is prepared to add additional monitors, a tip line for residents, and other measures to address concerns.
Economic Context
Engineering and environmental partners for DVM highlighted that concrete crushing is essential to Detroit’s ongoing construction boom, which includes new skyscrapers, hotels, sports complexes, and infrastructure projects. Recycling crushed concrete reduces landfill waste and supplies material for new builds.
EGLE’s 2025 inspection noted the site met state requirements, including a minimum 500‑foot distance from residences and the use of water to suppress dust. The state permit allows processing up to 2 million tons of concrete annually, far exceeding the estimated several thousand tons DVM expects to crush at this location.
Next Steps
BSEED will issue its decision in the coming weeks. Residents and local stakeholders are encouraged to continue submitting feedback and monitoring the permitting process.
Original reporting: BridgeDetroit — read the source article.
