U.S. Secretary of Housing and Urban Development Scott Turner visited Lansing, Michigan, to promote affordable housing projects in mid-Michigan. Turner joined U.S. Rep. Tom Barrett, R-Michigan, for tours of several housing developments, including The Residences at Walter French, a low-income apartment complex developed inside a former Lansing school building.

Affordable Housing Challenges

Michigan continues to struggle with rising housing costs and a shortage of inventory, which some have labeled a ‘crisis’ for Michiganders. Turner said public-private partnerships are key to driving meaningful economic growth and community revitalization. ‘Lansing is a powerful example of how public-private partnerships can drive meaningful economic growth and community revitalization,’ Turner said.

Turner also met with local housing, business, and government leaders to discuss ways to expand housing opportunities across the region. They emphasized the importance of continued taxpayer-funded federal housing spending. ‘From retention of Community Development Block Grant dollars to funding for housing and homeless resources, federal investments are necessary for Lansing, and all cities, to be successful,’ said Andy Schor, mayor of Lansing.

State-Level Efforts

State lawmakers from both sides of the aisle have advanced dozens of housing bills this year as housing availability and affordability remains a growing concern. Last month, Michigan House Republicans approved a package of bills they say would reduce housing costs by eliminating the state property tax.

Other housing-related proposals continue to move through the state legislature, including a bill that would allow communities to permit certain multi-family housing developments with single-staircase designs. Another proposal would prohibit large corporations from purchasing single-family homes if they already own significant housing portfolios.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.