Happy Spring Eaton Rapids!
Some of you may have seen a recent article in the Lansing State Journal regarding the Horner Mill property. The City has been working with the owners of this property to bring it into compliance. As you know, the buildings are in severe disrepair. Recently, we started working with Eaton County Treasurer Bob Robinson and the county land bank to apply for a State grant that by working with the owners and the city, would provide funding to start demolition and clean up of this property. If awarded, this will be the start of bringing this property not only into property maintenance compliance, but the start of finally removing this eyesore and start working on possible redevelopment. While the grant funding will not provide for removal of all buildings at once, it will be a start and after 20 plus years of nothing happening, I for one am very excited to see this blight removed from our city.
Something I mentioned in the State of the City address was the restarting of a Citizens Academy. Several years ago, the City held an academy for residents to learn more about the city government, how our city departments work, including our Department of Public Works, Public Safety and City Administration. I would like to know if there is an interest from our residents to do this again. If you would be interested in being a part of this academy, please let me know. If there is an interest, we can start working to put this program into action. You can reach me at my email pcolestock@cityofeatonrapids.com. This would be for City of Eaton Rapids residents only.
The Downtown Development Authority has announced this year’s façade grant opportunity for the downtown business/building owners. This grant can help with exterior repairs and upgrades of up to $5,000. Applications can be picked up at City Hall and are due by 4pm on April 28th.
Enjoy your March!
Mayor Pam Colestock
