The Benton Harbor Brownfield Redevelopment Authority voted Jan. 8 to support the 2026 Michigan Black Summit with a $10,000 sponsorship to cover a staffed table and marketing materials to promote the Authority’s work.

Tracy Ann Bullock, speaking for Neighbors Organizing Against Racism and the summit’s organizing team, asked the board to partner “by way of sponsorship, attendance and promotion” to market Benton Harbor and bring statewide leaders to the city. “This is a convening to talk specifically about highs and lows, troubleshoot and successes, about all issues that are facing Black Michiganders,” Bullock said.

After members pressed for documentation on last year’s results and how the Authority’s funds would be used, Mary Alice Adams moved to support the summit at a $10,000 level, specifying a staffed table for board members, marketing materials and use of the board’s existing materials where appropriate. An unidentified board member seconded the motion. The motion passed on roll call with six yes votes and one abstention.

Board members said the sponsorship should include clear materials for residents about what Brownfield plans can and cannot achieve for single-home owners. Theresa Searls, the Authority’s consultant, agreed to prepare a one-page sheet explaining the types of projects the Authority typically supports so attendees are not disappointed.

The sponsorship is intended as a marketing and education expense within the Authority’s administrative/marketing budget; staff said they would confirm eligibility under Act 381 before final disbursement.