BATTLE CREEK, Mich., Feb. 22, 2024 — State Rep. Jim Haadsma (D-Battle Creek) is pleased to announce that the Calhoun County Land Bank has been awarded $3 million in blight elimination grants from the Michigan State Land Bank Authority. These funds can be used for the demolition, rehabilitation and stabilization of blighted properties.

“This $3 million investment from the state shows our commitment to Calhoun County,” Haadsma said. “Eliminating blighted properties makes communities safer, improves public health, raises property values and paves the way for new homes in the area. I’m grateful for this news. It’s a great way to improve neighborhoods across the county.”

The Land Bank’s successful application includes five rehabilitation projects, primarily in single family homes or duplexes, as well as three stabilization projects for mixed-use properties, in Battle Creek and Albion. Remaining funds will be used for necessary demolitions in Albion, Battle Creek and the village of Tekonsha. These demolitions are in partnership with other organizations, such as the Albion Malleable Brewing Company who owns additional property in Albion, as well as the village of Tekonsha and the County Treasurer’s Office. 

“We want to thank the State Land Bank Authority for approving our application and seeing the value in our projects,” said Krista Trout-Edwards, executive director of the Calhoun County Land Bank Authority. “Our team worked diligently with public and private partners to create a successful application that would sustainably repurpose sites, and our thoughtful partnerships allow these funds to be stretched further for greater impact. The mix of rehabilitation, stabilizations and demolitions being tackled with these funds are a great example of what happens when the state and county land banks pool their resources to uplift communities.”

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For Press Inquiries:
Paul Egnatuk, Legislative Director for State Rep. Jim Haadsma, pegnatuk@house.mi.gov, 517-373-5496
Lucy Blair, Calhoun County Communications Director, lblair@calhouncountymi.gov, 269-781-0926