What's Happening?
The Michigan Municipal League has introduced the MI Home Program, a significant initiative aimed at tackling the housing crisis in Michigan. The program proposes an investment of $160 million annually
over five years to create and rehabilitate 10,000 attainable homes. This initiative emphasizes 'Partnership Over Preemption,' allowing local governments the resources and flexibility to address housing shortages in ways that reflect their unique community identities and values. The Michigan Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (MBC-LEO), led by Saginaw Mayor Brenda Moore, supports this program, highlighting its potential to empower local leadership and foster collaboration. The program aims to provide tools and incentives for local governments and developers to work together, moving away from state and federal mandates that often limit local innovation.
Why It's Important?
The MI Home Program is crucial as it addresses the pressing issue of housing shortages in Michigan, which impacts public health, education, workforce participation, and community stability. By focusing on local solutions, the program empowers communities, particularly those historically overlooked, to have a say in their development. This approach could lead to more equitable housing opportunities across the state, ensuring that all families, regardless of race, income, or location, have access to affordable housing. The program's emphasis on collaboration rather than preemption could serve as a model for other states facing similar challenges, potentially influencing national housing policy.
What's Next?
The Michigan Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials is committed to working with the Michigan Municipal League, the state legislature, and the administration to ensure the MI Home Program is enacted and fully funded. This collaboration will be crucial in transforming the vision of housing equity into reality. As the program progresses, it will be important to monitor its implementation and the impact on local communities, particularly in terms of how effectively it addresses housing shortages and promotes equity.
