AG Nessel: Re-Issue of Cryptocurrency Alert

AG Nessel: Re-Issue of Cryptocurrency Alert

by | Apr 9, 2024 | Regional News

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

April 8, 2024

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Continues Recognition of Financial Literacy Month with Re-Issue of Cryptocurrency Alert

LANSING – In her quest to ensure that Michigan consumers are as informed as possible, Attorney General Dana Nessel has re-issued her alert, Cryptocurrency! What is it? What are the Risks? to highlight this speculative asset during Financial Literacy Month.

Before investing in cryptocurrencies, it is important to understand what they are and how they relate to fiat currencies. Fiat currencies, such as the dollar, are what we typically think of as money. Fiat currencies are managed by a nation’s central government. Cryptocurrencies are a form of digital currency, managed by either a private enterprise or algorithm, and function as digital cash that allows direct transactions between users. Cryptocurrencies are often touted as investment vehicles. Unlike traditional investments, such as stock and bonds, cryptocurrencies often lack underlying value, and investors have no legal recourse if their investment fails or if they fall victim to fraud. There is no way to reverse a cryptocurrency transaction.

While many see cryptocurrencies as an investment opportunity, potential investors should be aware of the perils involved in investing in cryptocurrency. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), more than 46,000 people have reported losing money in cryptocurrency scams totaling over $1 billion in losses. This number is 60 times what it was in 2018.

Those statistics, along with the fact that cryptocurrencies are highly volatile assets, make them risky and likely to attract scammers. These scammers will often exploit the anonymity of cryptocurrency transactions to defraud investors.

According to the FTC, of the reported losses from cryptocurrency fraud since 2021, $575 million involved fraudulent investment proposals. In order to induce consumers to part with their crypto, investment fraudsters promise large profits and adapt old tricks to the new world of cryptocurrency. For instance, websites and applications that purport to track the progress of investors’ cryptocurrency are sometimes completely fake. Some investors are able to make small “test” withdrawals from the sites, but are not allowed to cash out unless they submit further cryptocurrency as “fees.” Or the scammer may tell the investor they have to pay an upfront fee or tax to withdraw their money.

“During Financial Literacy Month, it’s crucial to understand the risks associated with cryptocurrency,” Nessel said. “While it is often portrayed as a lucrative investment, the reality is far from glamorous. Cryptocurrencies are volatile, susceptible to scams, and lack the regulatory protections of traditional investments. Investing in cryptocurrency should be approached with caution and a thorough understanding of the risks involved.”

AG Nessel’s cryptocurrency alert advises potential investors to:

  • Do your research.
  • Be wary of high-pressure sales tactics or promises of quick returns.
  • Don’t invest out of fear of missing out or because a celebrity has endorsed the product.
  • Never invest more than you can afford to lose.
  • Remember: If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) recommends that you steer clear of anyone who:

  • Demands payment in cryptocurrency – no legitimate business will insist on this kind of payment, but most scammers do because of its lack of protections;
  • Guarantees profits or big returns – this should always be a red flag because investments have some element of risk; or
  • Tries to mix online dating and investment advice – anyone on a dating app who tries to entice you into investing in cryptocurrency or asks you to send them cryptocurrency is a scammer.

This month is meant to shine a light on the critical role personal finance plays in providing us with the financial freedom to take control of our lives and keep up with the world’s changing financial landscape. Protect yourself by being vigilant and informed in your investment decisions.

Making the path to financial literacy a lifelong pursuit is a step in the right direction.

You can report cryptocurrency fraud on the FTC’s website. To file a complaint with the Attorney General, or get additional information, contact:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
Award recommendation for Medicaid Health Plans

Award recommendation for Medicaid Health Plans

by | Apr 9, 2024 | Health and Wellness

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Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: April 8, 2024

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, [email protected]

MDHHS issues award recommendation for Michigan’s Medicaid Health Plans
  Health plan coverage awarded based on state’s 10 Prosperity Regions 

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has awarded Comprehensive Health Care Program contracts for Michigan’s Medicaid health plans, which serve nearly 2 million Michigan residents receiving coverage through Medicaid and the Healthy Michigan Plan. 

Nine health plans submitted proposals. The five-year contracts include three, one-year optional extensions and go into effect Tuesday, Oct. 1. Contracts were awarded based on the state’s 10 Prosperity Regions: 

  • Region 1 – Upper Peninsula Prosperity Alliance: Upper Peninsula Health Plan, LLC.
  • Region 2 – Northwest Prosperity Region: Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc., Priority Health Choice, Inc.
  • Region 3 – Northeast Prosperity Region: Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc., Priority Health Choice, Inc.
  • Region 4 – West Michigan Prosperity Alliance: Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc., Priority Health Choice, Inc., United Healthcare Community Plan, Inc.
  • Region 5 – East Central Michigan Prosperity Region: Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc.
  • Region 6 – East Michigan Prosperity Region: Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, HAP CareSource, Inc., McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc., United Healthcare Community Plan, Inc.
  • Region 7 – South Central Prosperity Region: Aetna Better Health of Michigan, Inc., HAP CareSource, Inc., McLaren Health Plan, Inc., United Healthcare Community Plan, Inc.
  • Region 8 – Southwest Prosperity Region: Aetna Better Health of Michigan, Inc., McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., United Healthcare Community Plan, Inc.
  • Region 9 – Southeast Prosperity Region: Aetna Better Health of Michigan, Inc., Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, HAP CareSource, Inc., McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., United Healthcare Community Plan, Inc.
  • Region 10 – Detroit Metro Prosperity Region: Aetna Better Health of Michigan, Inc., Blue Cross Complete of Michigan, LLC, HAP CareSource, Inc., McLaren Health Plan, Inc., Meridian Health Plan of Michigan, Inc., Molina Healthcare of Michigan, Inc., Priority Health Choice, Inc., United Healthcare Community Plan, Inc.

“MDHHS has selected Medicaid health plan contractors with the experience, capabilities and commitment to deliver equitable, coordinated and person-centered care,” said MDHHS Director Elizabeth Hertel. “This includes prioritizing health equity, addressing social determinants of health, increasing childhood immunization rates and improving access to health care providers. The overarching goal is to provide Michigan families with a healthier future.” 

MDHHS embedded changes in the new health plan contracts to strengthen Medicaid services provided to enrollees. Several of these changes seek to address social determinants of health through investment in and engagement with community-based organizations. The introduction of “in lieu of services” is one of these important changes and will allow plans to pay for nutrition services that have been shown to improve health. 

The rebid was part of MIHealthyLife, an initiative launched in 2022 to strengthen Medicaid services through new Medicaid health plan contracts. Input from nearly 10,000 enrollees and family members, health care providers, health plans and other community partners informed the creation of five MIHealthyLife strategic pillars: 

  • Serve the Whole Person, Coordinating Health and Health-Related Needs.
  • Give All Kids a Healthy Start.
  • Promote Health Equity and Reduce Racial and Ethnic Disparities.
  • Drive Innovation and Operational Excellence.
  • Engage Members, Families and Communities.

The MIHealthyLife initiative guided design of Comprehensive Health Care Program changes embedded in the Medicaid Health Plan contract rebid. An informational webinar is available on the MIHealthyLife home page describing these priority program changes in more detail: 

  • Prioritizing health equity by requiring Medicaid health plans achieve National Committee for Quality Assurance Health Equity Accreditation.
  • Addressing social determinants of health through investment in and engagement with community-based organizations.
  • Increasing childhood immunization rates, including increasing provider participation in the Vaccines for Children program.
  • Adopting a more person-centered approach to mental health coverage.
  • Ensuring access to health care providers by strengthening network requirements.
  • Increasing Medicaid Health Plan accountability and clarifying expectations to advance state priorities.

More information about Medicaid is available at Michigan.gov/Medicaid, or about Medicaid benefits at Michigan.gov/MIBridges.
Showcasing the DNR: Fish production facility improvements begin

Showcasing the DNR: Fish production facility improvements begin

by | Apr 9, 2024 | Recreation

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Showcasing the DNR

An aerial photo with labels shows the cool-water facility improvements at the Thompson hatchery.

Fish production facility improvements begin across Michigan

$30 million in state funds to finance three summers of projects at six hatcheries

By AARON SWITZER
Fish Production Program manager, Fisheries Division
Michigan Department of Natural Resources

With a 2023 state general fund budget appropriation of $30 million, six Michigan Department of Natural Resources fish hatcheries are being improved by updating outdated and aging infrastructure.

Several of the sites have only seen limited updates or upgrades since the late 1970s –facilities and equipment pushing 50 years old. I think about my own body at 50 and often wonder when my body parts are going to fail.

In terms of our critical hatcheries, managers don’t want to be left wondering whether today might be the day that something vital to operations gives out.

Chinook Salmon Micro Tagging at the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery.Unfortunately, this happened recently, which reduces our ability to fulfill our mission to protect and enhance Michigan’s fisheries.

In the spring and summer of 2021, the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery experienced three major power failures. The primary electrical infrastructure failed at three separate points during that time.

Also, the primary electrical distribution system was failing. This was a real wake-up call for the Fisheries Division and the DNR.

Planning had already been underway for a substantial funding request to address the needs for capital improvements at our hatcheries. These failures highlighted the critical need to invest in Michigan’s hatchery infrastructure.

Then the pandemic hit, and we had to postpone some operations, including egg collections for steelhead that year. Had we taken steelhead eggs in 2020, we later realized that it likely would have resulted in most, if not all, of the eggs being lost with the infrastructure failures – a blessing in disguise from the coronavirus pandemic.

When I was asked to tell the story about the capital outlay projects, I thought that it may not be of interest because we haven’t really broken ground on most projects, and construction projects are not that flashy to talk about.

But when I began thinking about what we have accomplished in the last 18 months, it is apparent that the scale of the projects at our six hatcheries is huge and likely the most substantial investment in our hatcheries for decades.
Asphalt removal in progress during the summer of 2023 is shown at the Harrietta State Fish Hatchery in Wexford County.For starters, we began by building internal teams to develop a plan to tackle the array of projects we had on the board and crafting a vision of where our greatest needs occurred.

Our next step was to get a design firm on board. After that, we shared our vision with the designers and strategized how we would accomplish this mission over the next four years.

Getting the design firm and the initial planning done, which put us six months down the road, led us to an understanding.

We realized that we may not have enough funding to do everything that our hatcheries needed given changes in the economy, including inflation and supply chain concerns, as well as the decade-long backlog in major maintenance and repair projects.

To address this, we initiated a process of prioritization, which allowed us to be prepared to make difficult decisions and adapt through the construction process.

The sheer number of projects spread across the hatchery facilities was daunting.

So, we teamed up with Hobbs + Black Architects of Lansing, who have brought on many top-notch design firms, including McMillen Inc. of Boise, Idaho, which is one of the nation’s best aquaculture design and construction firms.

Construction will be managed by Spence Brothers Construction of Traverse City for the northern three facilities and Christman Constructors of Lansing for the southern three facilities.

Part of our strategy going forward was to separate projects into north and south regions, like the way our hatcheries are organized and managed. Also, a common theme among the projects is improving energy efficiency.
Coho Salmon Egg Take at the Platte River State Fish Hatchery is shown.Technology has improved tremendously since the hatcheries were originally built, and reducing energy usage across the board will save on utility expenditures as well as cut the overall carbon footprint of our operations.

We have been meeting with designers and engineers every two weeks for the past year, a year that began by discussing projects on a large scale. As an implementation strategy developed, we shifted focus to first-year projects.

Those projects are now nearing final design stages, and construction contracts will likely be executed this coming summer. Meetings and strategizing will continue as construction begins and the details of the projects for the coming three years are finalized.

The myriad components of this large capital outlay work fall largely under three general categories, including deferred infrastructure needs, energy-efficiency improvements and biosecurity improvements.

Here is a closer look at what exactly will be happening over the next three summers.

Marquette State Fish Hatchery in Marquette County houses brood stock for our brook trout, lake trout and Arctic grayling programs. It is also a production facility that stocks brook trout, lake trout and splake in Michigan waters.

The Marquette hatchery is slated to get a new roof on the hatchery building and a new energy-efficient boiler, as well as updated heating, ventilation and air conditioning controls in 2024. A new brood-isolation building will be built to replace the current crumbling structure. Leveling of settling concrete around the facility to improve accessibility will cap off the 2025 projects. Finally, in 2026, the facility will be completely repaved.
Arctic grayling arrive at the Marquette State Fish Hatchery in 2020.The facility is expected to receive $3.5 million for its improvements.

Thompson State Fish Hatchery in Schoolcraft County produces steelhead and Chinook salmon for stocking in Michigan waters. Thompson is also home to a state-of-the-art cool-water facility that supports walleye and muskellunge rearing programs.

In 2017, the Thompson hatchery was expanded to include a cool-water facility and pond rearing complex as part of a capital outlay package. An updated automated fish-feeding system was also installed in the outdoor steelhead rearing complex at this time. The 2023 capital outlay package included many needed upgrades to the cold-water facility.

Thompson is slated to have a new truck storage building built in 2024 at the cool-water facility to house fish-stocking vehicles and various fish-rearing equipment used at the new facility. Resurfacing concrete in the production raceways and indoor rearing units should vastly improve fish quality and health in 2025.

Additionally, improving hatchery insulation and dehumidification as part of updating HVAC systems will improve energy-efficiency efforts. Finally in 2026, the cold-water facility will be completely repaved, and the cool-water facility will be partially paved.

The Thompson hatchery will also be provided $3.5 million for the upgrades.

Oden State Fish Hatchery in Emmet County houses brood stock for brown and rainbow trout programs. It is also a production facility for that stocks brown and rainbow trout in Michigan waters.

A couple of ongoing projects including a Parshall flume, for measuring discharge flow, and 2023 well-reclamation work were supported through this funding allocation.

Repairing and repaving the hatchery visitor center parking lot and infrastructure maintenance for the building and a historic fish railcar are taking center stage at Oden in 2024. A new domestic well for the drum screen building will improve effluent management in 2024.

In 2025, a much-needed new disinfection station will be constructed, to improve biosecurity for fish-stocking trucks coming on-site following stocking trips. The main hatchery building will get modifications to the roof and new siding that is better suited for the climate conditions of the region.
Staff at the Platte River State Fish Hatchery noticed the lower Platte River weir structure was beginning to be undermined.In 2026, workers will be repaving the trails, roads and entryways as well as filling cracks and sealing the asphalt around the hatchery, brood and raceway buildings. The Oden and Platte River hatcheries have similar automated fish-feeding systems that are both being upgraded with new controls and feed-delivery options using the current infrastructure for those systems.

The Oden hatchery is receiving $2.6 million to fund the work.

Platte River State Fish Hatchery in Benzie County produces Atlantic, Chinook and coho salmon for stocking in Michigan waters. Additionally, the Platte River facility produces walleye fry for the DNR’s walleye program.

A couple of ongoing projects were completed with this funding in 2023, including stabilizing the Lower Platte River Weir and installing new roofs on the administration, hatchery and service buildings.

In 2024, resurfacing concrete maturation ponds built in the 1960s, for holding return adult coho salmon, and replacing a backup generator and associated electrical distribution from the same era are scheduled to be completed.

For 2025, projects will include shoring up the exteriors, including doors and windows, damaged by previous poor roof conditions and age of buildings that received new roofs in 2023.

Finally in 2026, the facility will be repaved, and pavement will be added to and from the pull-through-style truck storage barn at the lower weir.

The Platte River facility will receive $6 million to finance the updates.

Harrietta State Fish Hatchery in Wexford County produces Atlantic salmon, brown trout and rainbow trout for stocking in Michigan waters.

A repaving for the facility was already underway and was finished using funding from the 2023 appropriation. A new backup generator, electrical distribution panels, aeration pumps with variable frequency drives, boiler and two new backup generators at production wells will bring Harrietta up to speed with new energy-efficient electrical systems in 2024.
Children enjoy a school outing on an observation deck at Oden State Fish Hatchery and Visitor Center.A new truck storage building for stocking trucks, resurfacing concrete raceways and a new automated fish-feeding system will round out the projects scheduled for 2025. No new projects for the Harrietta facility are anticipated in 2026 as the repaving was completed this past year, although some repaving projects may continue into 2026.

The hatchery will receive $3.5 million to complete these projects.

Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery in Van Buren County produces steelhead and Chinook salmon for stocking in Michigan waters. Wolf Lake also supports the walleye and muskellunge rearing programs.

There is a current primary power, electrical distribution project underway that is supported by the funding allocation. Redrilling two production water wells to replace two that have outrun their useful lives will greatly improve fish-rearing conditions.

Two new backup generators, electrical distribution panels, aeration pumps with variable frequency drives and two new backup generators at the new production wells will bring Wolf Lake up to date with new energy-efficient electrical systems in 2024.

For 2025, projects will include new roofs on the visitor center and hatchery buildings. A new cool-water building will be constructed, bolstering the walleye and muskellunge programs. Relining rearing ponds, resurfacing concrete raceways and indoor rearing tanks, constructing a new maintenance building and a new automated fish-feeding system will round out the projects for the year.

Finally, in 2026, the entire facility will be repaved.

The Wolf Lake hatchery will receive the most amount of funding from the state allocation at $11 million for its scheduled improvements.

At the end of the day, we will have put blood, sweat and tears into these projects and, as I said earlier, we don’t really have anything flashy or shiny to show for it yet, but results are coming.

The next three summers will be busy with construction projects moving forward at a hatchery near you.

Please excuse our mess and watch your step when you come to visit us, but take in the amazing upgrades to our fish hatcheries that will pay dividends to enhancing our fisheries for decades to come.

Learn more about the DNR’s fish hatcheries and weirs at Michigan.gov/Hatcheries.

Check out previous Showcasing the DNR stories in our archive at Michigan.gov/DNRStories. To subscribe to upcoming Showcasing articles, sign up for free email delivery at Michigan.gov/DNREmail.

Note to editors: Contact: John Pepin, Showcasing the DNR series editor, 906-226-1352. Accompanying photos and a text-only version of this story are available below for download. Caption information follows. Credit Michigan Department of Natural Resources, unless otherwise noted.

Text-only version of this story.

Asphalt: Asphalt removal in progress during the summer of 2023 is shown at the Harrietta State Fish Hatchery in Wexford County. The project has some finishing touches that should be completed this spring.

Grayling: Grayling arrive at the Marquette State Fish Hatchery in 2020.

Oden: Children enjoy a school outing on an observation deck at Oden State Fish Hatchery and Visitor Center.

Plan: A photographic rendering shows the construction changes at the Thompson State Hatchery in Schoolcraft County.

Platte: Coho salmon egg take at the Platte River State Fish Hatchery is shown.

Weir: In 2019, the team at Platte River State Fish Hatchery began noticing the lower Platte River weir structure was beginning to be undermined. The undermining continued to develop over time. Full funding was recently acquired, and the lower Platte River weir stabilization project is now complete.

Wolf: Chinook salmon micro tagging at the Wolf Lake State Fish Hatchery is shown.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is committed to the conservation, protection, management, use and enjoyment of the state’s natural and cultural resources for current and future generations. For more information, go to Michigan.gov/DNR.
$250 Million to Support 1,117 New Homes Statewide

$250 Million to Support 1,117 New Homes Statewide

by | Apr 4, 2024 | Regional News

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 4, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Announces $250 Million to Support 1,117 New Homes Statewide

Latest 9% awards advance Statewide Housing Plan through 22 investments in communities from Detroit to Escanaba

 

LANSING, Mich.  – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) in announcing significant new investments through Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) awarded to 22 new construction and rehabilitation housing projects in 14 communities across the state.

 

“Housing is about so much more than a roof over your head—it’s the foundation for success at school, work, and in the community,” said Governor Whitmer. “These investments will create more than a thousand new homes, expanding supply and driving down costs for working class Michiganders. This year, we are working together to make the largest investment to build housing in Michigan history, driven by our simple philosophy of ‘build, baby, build’. Building more affordable housing also creates thousands of good-paying jobs in the trades for pipefitters, carpenters, bricklayers, and roofers. Let’s keep leading the way on housing.”

 

LIHTCs are federal tax credits administered through MSHDA following a competitive application process. Developers who receive Low-Income Housing Tax Credits can claim credit against their tax liability annually for up to 10 years. This 9% LIHTC round is awarding $25,065,677 of tax credits, with a total value over the next 10 years of about $250 million. The 22 projects will create 100 permanent jobs, support 1,473 temporary jobs, and generate a total development investment of over $300 million. The projects include at least 1,117 new rental homes, 1,056 of which will be affordable.

 

“These investments will drive our state forward toward another record-setting year in the construction and rehabilitation of new homes for Michiganders,” said Tony Lentych, MSHDA Chief Housing Investment Officer. “We will continue moving quickly with solutions, but we can’t do it alone. We’re grateful to our partners in development and construction for making these deals happen, helping build communities our neighbors are proud to call home.”

 

“This is incredibly welcome news for our community. All across our region in Northern Michigan, there is a lack of affordable housing, which has wide-ranging impacts on our local workforce and economy. That’s why expanding our affordable housing stock has been one of my top priorities while in office,” said state Rep. Betsy Coffia (D-Traverse City). “I’ve introduced legislation alongside my colleagues that would help MSHDA create more opportunities for people across Michigan to find a home they can afford. The awards announced today are just the beginning.”

 

“Access to affordable housing in Flint is crucial, and with this announcement by the governor, new investments are on the way, making it happen,” said state Rep. Cynthia Neeley (D-Flint). “This opportunity will liven up the historic Marian Hall, the 43 new units will become cozy homes for those who need them. Affordable housing throughout Michigan is in dire demand, and I’m glad there is an opportunity to help address that need in my community.”

 

“Developing new housing options of all types is critical to the growth and overall success of our community. Housing costs are the largest part of most household budgets, and we know that Michigan renters spend more than a third of their paycheck on their rent alone,” said state Rep. John Fitzgerald (D-Wyoming). “Today’s announcement will help to bring quality, financially accessible housing to many in our community, helping attract talented people to the area, create new businesses, and build a community people love to be a part of.”

 

“Investments in housing are investments in a community’s heart and soul, and I commend Gov. Whitmer and MSHDA for their dedication to addressing the housing needs of Michiganders. The $700,000 investment in Elmtree Ewald 3 is a lifeline for my constituents, making sure our community members can find homes and build brighter futures,” said state Rep. Helena Scott (D-Detroit). “Affordable housing isn’t just about roofs; it’s about stability, opportunity and dignity. I’m proud to support efforts that make Detroit stronger and more inclusive, where anyone who calls our city home has a place here.”

 

“People all across the state deserve affordable housing; they deserve options; they deserve pathways to ownership; and more,” said state Rep. Will Snyder (D-Muskegon). “These grants will create good-paying jobs, help seniors live independently and help people afford their own place. I’m excited for what this means for Muskegon. The State is demonstrating that affordable housing should be treated as a necessity, not a luxury.

 

“After years of hard work by many strong Battle Creek partners, families finally can begin rediscovering the Kalamazoo River waterfront,” said state Rep. Jim Haadsma (D- Battle Creek). “This housing plan along with the re-naturalization of the nearby concrete channel means families will be living, working and shopping in the area again soon.”

 

LIHTC AWARD RECIPIENTS:

 

Allen Crossing, Muskegon – Credit Award: $1,466,874

This project is being developed by Spire Development, Inc, the Muskegon Housing Commission and Little River Development, Inc and will create 45 units of affordable housing in Muskegon for older adults. Eight of these units will carry project-based rental assistance from the Muskegon Housing Commission. In addition, 15% of the units will carry a preference for older adult households with tenant-based rental assistance. The project is expected to create two permanent and 68 temporary jobs.

 

Meadowbrook Apartments, Escanaba – Credit Award: $366,100

This project is being developed by UPCAP Services, Inc. and Cove Investments, LLC and will rehabilitate 32 units of existing housing in Escanaba. All 32 units carry rental assistance from the USDA Rural Development. The project is expected to create two permanent and 51 temporary jobs.

 

Shea Ravines, Wyoming – Credit Award: $1,650,000

This project is being developed by Woda Cooper Development, Inc.  and Cherry Street Services, Inc and will transform land near Cherry Health in Wyoming into 56 units of affordable housing. Twenty of these units will be set-aside for supportive housing with vouchers from the Grand Rapids Housing Commission. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The project is expected to create two permanent and 62 temporary jobs.

 

Brewster Wheeler I, Detroit – Credit Award: $1,489,900

This project is being developed by MHT Housing, Inc. and Kirsten’s Touch and will construct 53 units of affordable housing; it is the first phase of a multi-phase development that re-develops the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center site. Eight of these units will receive vouchers from the Detroit Housing Commission. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The project is expected to create two permanent and 75 temporary jobs.

 

Brewster Wheeler II, Detroit – Credit Award: $1,489,900

This project is being developed by MHT Housing, Inc. and Kirsten’s Touch and will construct 53 units of affordable housing; it is the second phase of a multi-phase development that redevelops the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center site. Eight of these units will receive vouchers from the Detroit Housing Commission. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The project is expected to create two permanent and 75 temporary jobs.

 

Brewster Wheeler III, Detroit – Credit Award:

$1,489,900 This project is being developed by MHT Housing, Inc. and Kirsten’s Touch and will construct 53 units of affordable housing; it is the third phase of a multi-phase development that redevelops the Brewster Wheeler Recreation Center site. Eight of these units will receive vouchers from the Detroit Housing Commission. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The project is expected to create two permanent and 75 temporary jobs.

 

Wills Manor, Marysville – Credit Award: $1,489,497

This project is being developed by Cove Investments and the Marysville Housing Commission and will construct 48 units of elderly affordable housing. Eighteen of these units will receive vouchers from the Port Huron Housing Commission and five of these units will be mixed-finance public housing units undergoing the Faircloth-to-RAD process. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The project is expected to create two permanent and 117 temporary jobs.

 

Elmtree Ewald 3, Detroit – Credit Award: $700,000

This project is being developed by Ginosko Development Company and Century Partners LLC and will rehabilitate 67 units of affordable housing. Thirty-five of these units will receive project-based rental assistance with the preservation of a current Housing Assistance Payment (HAP) contract from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development that is currently in jeopardy of being terminated. The project is expected to create 29 temporary jobs during the construction period.

 

The Bridge II, Detroit – Credit Award: $1,650,000

This project is being developed by The Community Builders, Inc and Tribe Development Holdings LLC and will construct 31 units of affordable housing and 11 units of market-rate housing in the 9% phase and will construct 66 units in the 4% phase. Eight of these units in the 9% phase will receive vouchers from the Detroit Housing Commission. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance.  This development is in a Choice Neighborhood. The project is expected to create eight permanent and 100 temporary jobs.

 

Clarendon Glen, Clare – Credit Award: $264,088

This project is being developed by CRA Development Group, LLC and Cove Investments and will preserve 24 units of affordable housing. The development will feature 12 one-bedroom and 12 two-bedroom units targeted to residents at or below 60% Area Median Income (AMI). Of the 24 units, 15 will receive project-based vouchers through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Rental Assistance program. Additionally, at least 15% of the available units at the development will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The development is expected to create 39 temporary jobs during the construction phase.

 

East Bay Flats, Traverse City – Credit Award: $788,000

This project is being developed by Goodwill of Northern Michigan and TJ Acquisitions and will create 64 units of Permanent Supportive Housing. The development will feature 13 studio and 51 one-bedroom units. Each unit will receive rental assistance from MSHDA and will target clientele to include persons meeting HUD category 1 or 4 homelessness definition and are in the top 10% of the Local CoC Prioritized List. Construction of the project is expected to create 52 temporary jobs with an additional 14 permanent jobs created once the project is completed.

 

Village North II, Gladwin – Credit Award: $785,000

This project is being developed by DeShano Development Corporation and is the second phase of the Village North project. This second phase will create 29 new units of affordable housing in the City of Gladwin. The development will feature one, one-bedroom and 22 two-bedroom units; as well as six three-bedroom townhouses. These units will be targeted to residents earning below 60% (AMI) with seven units reserved for tenants earning below 30% AMI and one unit reserved for a tenant earning below 20% AMI.  The project is expected to create local construction jobs during its development.

 

VOA St. Mary, Detroit – Credit Award: $1,650,000

This project is being developed by Volunteers of America Michigan and Cove Investments, LLC. The project is an adaptive reuse of the historic St. Mary of Redford Catholic Church School Building to create 44 units of Permanent Supportive Housing. This project is the 9% LIHTC phase of a combined 4%/9% LIHTC project. The 4% LIHTC phase is expected to create an additional 17 units of supportive housing for a total of 66 units. The overall project will feature nine studio, 48 one-bedroom and four two-bedroom units. The 9% phase of the project will feature 34 units of rental assistance from MSHDA and the remaining 10 units will feature HUD-Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing (VASH) rental assistance. Development of the project is expected to create 1.5 permanent and 146 temporary jobs.

 

Whispering Pines II Apartments, Pinconning – Credit Award: $169,710

This project is being developed by DeShano Development Corporation and is the second phase of the Whispering Pines Apartments project. This second phase will preserve 16 units of affordable housing. The development will feature eight one-bedroom and eight two-bedroom units targeted to residents at or below 60% AMI. Of the 16 units, 10 will receive project-based vouchers through the USDA Rental Assistance program. The project is expected to create several temporary jobs during the construction period.

 

West Shore Apartments, Whitehall – Credit Award: $559,409

This project is being developed by Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids and Little River Development LLC and will rehabilitate 48 units of affordable housing in Whitehall. Forty-two of the units will receive project-based rental assistance with the preservation of the USDA RD units while additional units will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The development is expected to create 59 temporary jobs during the construction phase.

 

Lofts of Muskegon, Muskegon – Credit Award: $1,650,000

This project is being developed by Pivotal Development LLC, Muskegon Housing Commission, and Little River Development LLC and will create 46 units of affordable housing in Muskegon. Eight of these units will receive project-based rental assistance from the Muskegon Housing Commission. Fifteen percent of the units at the project will carry a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. An estimated 125 to 175 temporary construction jobs and two permanent jobs will be created by this development.

 

Blue Light, Battle Creek – Credit Award: $1,650,000

This project is being developed by Edison Community Partners, LLC and will create 48 affordable as well as 48 market rate units in Battle Creek. A minimum of 15% of the units will be reserved for households that receive tenant-based rental assistance. This is a strategic first phase of multiple planned phases of development to support several local plans for revitalization in Battle Creek. Approximately 80 temporary construction jobs and 25 permanent jobs are expected to be created by this development.

 

Riverview Flats, Owosso – Credit Award: $1,500,000

This project is being developed by Venture, Inc, Capital Area Development, LLC, and Cove Investments, LLC and will create 53 units of affordable housing in Owosso. Eight of these units will receive project-based rental assistance from the Shiawassee Economic Development Partnership. Fifteen percent of the units will be prioritized for use by households receiving tenant-based rental assistance. An estimated 85 temporary construction jobs and 23 permanent jobs will be created by this development.

 

Kalrecovery, Kalamazoo – Credit Award: $1,214,700  This project is being developed by Edison Community Partners, LLC and will create 46 units of affordable housing in Kalamazoo. All 46 affordable units are designated as supportive housing with vouchers from MSHDA. An additional two units will be constructed for support staff to reside on-site. The supportive housing will be set-aside as recovery housing; taking tenant referrals from Michigan’s problem-solving court system which provides alternatives to imprisonment for nonviolent criminal offenders with substance use disorders and mental illnesses. Approximately 83 temporary construction jobs and six permanent jobs are expected to be created by this development.

 

Jefferson Avenue, Detroit – Credit Award: $1,650,000  This project is a collaboration between CHN Housing partners and TRIBE Development, two entities committed to creating positive change in the community. It entails the construction of 52 affordable housing units in Detroit. Eight units will be supported by project-based vouchers from the Detroit Housing Commission, while 15% of the units will be preferred for households with tenant-based rental subsidies. The contractors intend to employ 75 temporary employees during the project’s construction period. Two permanent positions will be created after construction.

 

Marian Hall, Flint – Credit Award: $1,167,417   A collaboration between Communities First, Inc. and North Flint Development LLC, this project is an adaptive reuse that will turn the historic Marian Hall building into 43 new affordable units. Seven units will be supported by project-based vouchers from the Flint Housing Commission, and at least 15% of the units carrying a preference for households with tenant-based rental assistance. The contractors intend to employ 51 temporary employees during the project’s renovation. After construction, there will be four permanent positions.

 

Bridgeview III, Detroit – Credit Award: $234,861  This project is a joint venture between the Church of the Messiah Housing Corporation and Capital Area Housing Partnership. It involves rehabilitating 22 units of scattered-site housing. Bridgeview III has set aside four units for households with tenant-based assistance who receive referrals from the local or housing agency in the municipality or county. This project will create 28 temporary jobs during the renovation period.
Filing deadline approaching for candidates

Filing deadline approaching for candidates

by | Apr 4, 2024 | Regional News

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 04, 2024
Contact: Cheri Hardmon
(517) 643-7236

Filing deadline approaching for candidates seeking office in 2024 elections

LANSING, Mich.– April 23 is the filing deadline for certain candidates seeking office in 2024 to appear on the Aug. 6 primary ballot. Candidates must submit their filing paperwork by 4pm.

The April 23 deadline applies to the following:

  • Nominating petitions and non-incumbent Affidavits for Court of Appeals, Circuit Court, District Court and District Probate Court.
  • Nominating petitions and Affidavits for partisan candidates for state House of Representatives, U.S. Congress, and U.S. Senate.

All probate judge candidates, some U.S. House of Representatives, and some House candidates, whose districts are wholly contained in a county, must file with their county clerk, not the Bureau of Elections. To verify which candidates must file with their county clerk, view this list online.

The Bureau of Elections recommends that candidates filing at the state level set up an appointment through the Michigan Secretary of State online appointment system.

 

More information is available online or by emailing MDOS-File-Canvass@michigan.gov.

Michigan’s primary election is Aug. 6, 2024, and the general election is Nov. 5, 2024.