Grosse Pointe Park Mayor Seeks Another Term

At 89-years old, Palmer Heenan hasn't lost his passion for people or politics. After nearly 28 years as mayor, Heenan has filed for another two-year term to lead the city of more than 10,000 residents.

"It's exciting to be a part of an energetic city," Heenan said. "I've gotten so used to it. I enjoy it. I enjoy thinking of ways to improve our community, particularly in relation to families."

His launch into politics came after he actively campaigned against school closures being considered by the district. They were considering closing one of the schools located in the Park and Heenan said at the time the council and the school board were so intricately linked the council was silent on the issue. 

"I was on a mission to keep our schools open," he said. "It would destroy the attractiveness for young families."

Parents were so happy he fought for the schools, they repeatedly asked him to run for mayor, he said. He declined the first three times but "their problem was they asked a fourth time," he said, laughing. Thus began his official political career, to which he credits his late wife Jayne who ran his campaigns.

This is the 15th term Heenan is seeking as mayor. Of those, 13 have been unopposed--circumstances he appreciates because he says it allows him to get more business done for the city.

"I'm most grateful. They don't try to pit people against me to fight for it," Heenan said. "I'm humbled by the support."

There is a contagious attitude of having fun among the council and the staff, which is part of why he continues to love his position as mayor.

"I love being with younger people even though I'm an old duffy...I've had fun...The reason I've had fun is I pick good people," Heenan said, noting many of his department heads and City Manager Dale Krajniak. "I've picked people who can help me even if they are smarter than me. Politicians are afraid of that but I enjoy that. I love working with people that are thinkers."

Among his accomplishments, Heenan modestly boasts the conversion of separate fire and police departments into one public safety department. It was the toughest issue in his time as mayor noting the strong opposition. Ultimately, the union asked for it go for a general vote and he spent two years going door-to-door explaining the benefit to the city. The voters supported the conversion.

Heenan said he enjoys fighting for issues rather than against people. He also is energetic about asking people to donate to the city for improvements, noting the Lavins Activity Center featuring a full gym, a movie theatre and other amenities for Park residents.

The key to keeping the city energetic is attracting families. He says the Park is the youngest population of the Pointes and he believes that is from a strong focus on being attractive to families.

Heenan still gets in plenty of his own fun too. As a father and grandfather, he enjoys his family near and far. He is a four time golf champion at the Country Club of Detroit and loves sports, especially when the Tigers and Red Wings are doing well.

A lawyer by profession, Heenan still practices and maintains one client. He is active with his church, which moved to Mt. Clemens and whom he helped during its establishment.

"You can't do anything without someone complaining but I love being mayor."