The House New Economy Committee this morning passed legislation – HB 6203 - that will extend the sunset for the Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act. This is a tool that many communities use to rehabilitate old and obsolete buildings. It has been very effective in many communities throughout the state. Click here to see the communities that have use this tool and the investments that have resulted.
The Michigan Municipal League requested legislation that would extend this important tool. Both Senator Jason Allen (R-Traverse City) and Rep. Ed Clemente (D-Lincoln Park) sponsored legislation to accomplish this by extending the tool to 2016.
I testified in support of the bill and was joined by Brian Anderson, Executive Director of the Mid-Michigan Development Corporation (and formerly of the City of Lansing), in pushing for passage of this legislation. The City of Detroit and the City of Grand Rapids were also in support, as was the Detroit Regional Chamber of Commerce. HB 6203 passed committee with one opposition vote and is expected to pass the House soon. There are also indications that the Senate will take up this legislation.
Andy Schor is the Assistant Director of State Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. Contact him at (517) 908-0300 or by email.
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