Housing
Over 96% of the participants in a survey done for the Mancelona Area Master Plan feel that rehabilitating blighted properties should be a top priority. The community is also interested in pursuing new housing development to meet the demands of people moving around and into the area, while also complimenting existing housing character. The Village and Township of Mancelona need additional housing development tools to make these goals realistic.
With this guidance, the CRD is working on the following housing goals.
First, improve what we have.
The CRD received funding from MSHDA to provide a pilot mini-grant program for Village homeowners who need financial assistance to rehabilitate the exterior of their home to improve aesthetics, safety, and/or energy efficiency. Grants of up to $7,500 were awarded to five homeowners for improvements to roofing, siding, windows and doors, porches, accessible ingress/egress, and similar projects.
The community response to this pilot program was incredible. Within a few weeks of releasing the grant application, nearly 100 interested homeowners had inquired about the program. To meet this need, the CRD is currently seeking investment to offer additional rounds of mini-grants.
Second, consider new housing tools.
The CRD is working in partnership with the Village and Township of Mancelona to advocate for the consideration of a countywide land bank authority. A land bank authority can be a helpful economic development tool, but the mission, operating model, and local support must be clearly defined. The CRD is advocating that Mancelona and Antrim County stakeholders learn more about the benefits, purpose, and operation of a land bank authority to determine if this tool is a good fit for Antrim County. Learn more here.
Third, develop new housing.
The CRD recently completed a housing needs assessment with CR-Services that details the number, type, location, and price point of new housing units that the Mancelona market can support, based on current and forecasted demand. Conservative estimates call for 8-10 new units, in locations that are walkable to Mancelona Public Schools, essential services, and community amenities.
We are coordinating the necessary partnerships, resources, and incentives to attract housing development that meets the community’s vision and needs.