Mount Clemens approves $59,633 CDBG reallocation for demolition of city properties

On Nov. 7 the Mount Clemens City Commission approved a staff recommendation to reallocate $59,633 in Community Development Block Grant funds for a clearance and demolition project.

City staff told the commission the funds must be spent by Dec. 31, 2017. Commissioner Metzer asked whether the homes targeted for demolition would be taken down before that deadline; a staff member said the plan is to proceed much sooner if weather permits and identified likely targets as three city-owned lots at 12 Murdoch and recently acquired properties at 127 Court and 88 Gibbs.

The commission voted to approve the recommended reallocation by roll call.

Why it matters: The CDBG reallocation directs federal block grant dollars to demolition of blighted properties, a step the city said will reduce hazards, speed rehabilitation of key parcels and prepare sites for future use. The funding is time-limited and must be expended by the end of 2017.

What’s next: Staff will proceed with project planning and scheduling with the goal of completing demolition work well before the grant expiration date.