LANSING, Mich., Jan. 19, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced this week that funding has been secured throughout Michigan for the creation of 17 new affordable housing investments, cultivating almost 700 housing units across Michigan. Garfield Township will acquire 36 new units, after receiving a little over $1 million for the project named GTB LIHTC #2. Following the announcement, State Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City) issued this statement:
“Addressing Michigan’s affording housing crisis is a top priority for me. With skyrocketing inflation and Michiganders struggling to make ends meet, this announcement couldn’t come at a better time for our community. Affordable housing promotes better opportunities for Northern Michigan’s working families. These new investments help shape Michigan’s future, while combating the state’s housing crisis. This announcement is another win for our community and communities across the state. I will continue to work in Lansing to provide a more equitable and affordable future for the people I represent.”
The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians, and RTHawk Housing Alliance are the developers undertaking Garfield Township’s new development. The Michigan State Housing Development Authority distributed portions of the $14 million in federal funding to developers as a result of the federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit. For 10 years, chosen developers can claim credits against tax liability annually, which helps incentivize investments in affordable housing in communities across Michigan.