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Council directs agreement for Brownfield loan to help redevelop former Plaza Hotel at 16400 J.L. Hudson Drive
Summary
City council voted to direct the city attorney to prepare an agreement for a Brownfield redevelopment plan and local revolving fund loan to support renovation of the former Plaza Hotel, purchased by Southfield Renewal Corporation, with a Downtown Development Authority letter of support.
Southfield City Council on May 12 authorized the city attorney to prepare an agreement with the developer, Southfield Renewal Corporation, to advance a Brownfield redevelopment plan and request for a loan from the city’s local Brownfield Revolving Fund for the former Plaza Hotel at 16400 J.L. Hudson Drive.
Molly Malone, executive director of the Southfield Downtown Development Authority, told the council the nonprofit purchaser began immediate site work after acquiring the property in March, repairing fencing and removing large quantities of debris. Malone said the DDA unanimously recommended support for the Brownfield plan and loan at its May 9 meeting and read the board’s letter into the record, citing the site’s prominence and the project’s potential to “reactivate this property” and stimulate investment in the district.
The motion directing the city attorney to prepare the necessary agreement was moved by Councilwoman Banks and supported by Councilwoman Brightwell. The council approved the motion by voice vote; the mayor and council authorized execution of an agreement once legal review is complete.
Malone and the DDA referenced Public Act 381 of 1996 (Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act) in their materials; the DDA’s letter specifically noted the loan request is being considered in accordance with that statute. The council packet identifies the project as aiming to evaluate the building’s structural integrity and complete eligible activities under state Brownfield law to determine the site’s future use.
No public speakers signed up for the hearing during the meeting; the council closed the public hearing after opening it and approved the motion to proceed with the agreement and loan process.
