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Lapeer approves renewal of downtown DDA 10-year TIF plan, removes White Junior High brownfield language
Summary
The Lapeer City Commission approved a restated 10-year Downtown Development Authority development and TIF plan on June 16, 2025, agreeing to remove language that labeled the former White Junior High site a brownfield.
The Lapeer City Commission on June 16 approved the Downtown Development Authority(DDA)10-year development and tax-increment finance (TIF) plan as restated in 2025, with the specific removal of wording that identified the former White Junior High parcel as a brownfield. Commissioner Petrie moved the amendment; Commissioner Swindell supported it and the motion carried.
The plan, presented by James Hall, executive director of the Old Green Main Street DDA, updates projects and estimated revenues for the next decade while preserving the plan's general structure. "We did go through and make a few updates where necessary," Hall said, noting additions such as the dog park and Rotary Park and adjustments to promotions, facade programs and a small loan program intended to support downtown occupancy.
The removal of the White Junior High brownfield language grew out of concern that an outdated reference could deter prospective buyers or be misleading. City attorneys and commissioners discussed whether to retain the historical reference as a footnote; the city attorney recommended removing current brownfield language if the property is no longer eligible. Commissioner Petrie said the parcel "is not a brownfield" and moved to excise the reference so the plan accurately reflects current conditions.
During the hearing Hall said the downtown vacancy rate has improved markedly since 2015: "We had a vacancy rate downtown of about 46%. Since that time . . . we are now at 96% occupancy, which is considered very healthy for downtown." Commissioners asked about partnerships, facade programs and whether the DDA would reopen the plan if future changes warranted it; Hall said the plan is intended as a guiding document and that the DDA will update the list of partnership projects as needed.
The commission's vote approved the restated DDA 10-year development and TIF plan as amended. The record shows the plan will continue to guide DDA activities including infrastructure, marketing and loan programs while excluding the specific White Junior High brownfield reference that commissioners removed.
The DDA will proceed with the updated plan and continue coordinating with city staff on implementation and any future amendments.
