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County treasurer seeks board's support for state demolition appropriation for Horner Mill in Eaton Rapids
Summary
Eaton County Treasurer Darris Reyna asked the committee to adopt a resolution supporting a state appropriation request (approximately $4 million) to demolish and remediate the Horner Mill complex in Eaton Rapids; the committee passed the resolution supporting the request.
EATON RAPIDS, Mich. — Eaton County Treasurer Darris Reyna presented a resolution Apr. 11 asking the county to support a state appropriation request to fund demolition and environmental remediation at the Horner Mill complex on Main Street in Eaton Rapids.
Background: The Horner Mill property has been under private ownership and subject to neglect and code enforcement actions; the city of Eaton Rapids previously sued the owner to secure the property. The Eaton County Land Bank Authority, chaired by the treasurer, has been exploring options to secure and clean the site for public reuse, likely as green space.
Treasurer's request: Reyna asked the committee to adopt a resolution supporting an appropriation request to the state legislature and said staff had reached out to Representative Anne Bowen's office and local partners. He cited recent letters of support from local parties and the city manager and said a broader base of local government support could improve the chance of a state appropriation.
Funding ask and liability: Reyna described the appropriation as "approximately $4,000,000" for demolition and cleanup costs, and said the land bank would seek to acquire the property (a nominal sale contract for $10 was under discussion). He noted the land bank receives operating funding from foreclosure proceeds and does not receive general-fund support for land-bank operations.
Committee action: The Ways and Means Committee moved, supported and passed a resolution endorsing the treasurer's effort to seek state funding and to continue coordination with Eaton Rapids officials. The committee also noted continued public-safety and blight concerns tied to the property.
Next steps: Treasurer Reyna said the land bank will continue to pursue state funding and to coordinate security and interim measures (lighting, fencing, solar cameras) if the county obtains control of the property. The county will return with additional details and any legal or financial implications if acquisition moves forward.
