Dutton Farm opened its doors in 2010 when Michele Smither saw firsthand the challenges her daughter Becca faced after aging out of school. Wanting Becca—and others like her—to continue growing, developing skills, and finding purpose, Michele transformed concern into action. What began as a response to one family’s need has grown into a mission serving the broader community.
That mission continues today with the opening of Dutton Farm’s newest location in Clinton Township. Wanting to reach more individuals and offer expanded programming, the organization needed a larger space to call home. That’s where Macomb County Planning and Economic Development stepped in.
Our team began by conducting a comprehensive site search to identify properties that could meet Dutton Farm’s unique needs. When the perfect location surfaced, the Dutton Farm team knew immediately it was the right fit. In January 2026, MCPED coordinated a meeting between Dutton Farm and Clinton Township officials to review zoning, occupancy requirements, and even the important question of whether animals would be permitted on-site.
Through the County’s local connections, we were also able to introduce Dutton Farm to the Master Gardeners in Clinton Township. With a garden planned as a key component of their program model, this partnership will help support educational opportunities, ongoing maintenance, and long‑term sustainability of the garden on the new property.
This collaboration helped lay the foundation for a new chapter—one that will allow Dutton Farm to serve more individuals, families, and community members for years to come.
Is your company looking to expand or select a new site, please contact our economic development team at 586-469-5285 for free and confidential assistance.
