Board approves up to $700,000 to renovate Trinity Health property for family transitional housing

The Washtenaw County Board approved a resolution on Sept. 3 to provide up to $700,000 to support renovations and infrastructure improvements at a Trinity Health property that Alpha House will operate as family transitional housing.

What the funding covers and the timeline County administration said the allocation supports capital improvements to bring the site online for winter sheltering and immediate family placement, with the goal of housing about 30 families on the first floor when the facility opens. County staff described the award as capital‑focused: support for rehabilitation, roof and mechanical work, and other facility improvements necessary to use the space as shelter. Administration said operating arrangements and an implementation partnership with Alpha House and Trinity Health will be formalized by contract terms to be returned to the board.

Questions and board direction Commissioners asked for clear contractual commitments that protect the county’s capital investment because the property is privately owned by Trinity Health. County administration and Alpha House leaders said there is a long‑term relationship with Trinity on the property; administration agreed to bring formal agreements, timelines and governance details back to the board so the county’s contribution can be tracked and protected. Several commissioners said they supported quick action to get families into rooms before winter, while also asking for contractual clarity about the length of use and reversion language for county‑funded improvements.

Ending County staff said they will return with standard contract language that documents capital scope, reporting and long‑term property use. Commissioners approved the resolution and directed staff to complete required agreements and report progress as construction and commissioning tasks proceed.