Marquette County board approves Brownfield plan for 216 W. Division Street in Ishpeming

The Marquette County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously May 19 to approve a Brownfield plan for the property at 216 W. Division Street in Ishpeming under Act 381 of the Public Acts of Michigan of 1996.

The plan, presented by Brownfield Director Jackie Solomon, was described in board materials as meeting the statutory requirements for a Brownfield plan and including a financing approach for eligible activities. The board adopted a resolution finding the plan serves a public purpose, that eligible activity costs are reasonable and necessary, and that the estimated captured taxable value is reasonable. The Ishpeming City Council had passed a resolution of concurrence, according to staff.

During the public hearing portion, Marquette resident Margaret Brumm asked whether there is a waiting list for the redevelopment and said she would like to see Marquette County residents prioritized for any resulting housing or opportunities. Commissioner Duane LaLonde stated he is in favor of the project. With no further public comment, the hearing closed and the board approved the resolution by roll call vote: Commissioners Nordeen, LaLonde, Numinen, Benzie, Alholm and Chairperson Joseph Derocha voting aye.

Under the Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act (Act 381), the board recorded findings that the plan qualifies as a public purpose, meets the statutory criteria for eligible activities, and has a feasible financing method. The resolution also includes typical severability and repeal language.

Next steps listed in the meeting record indicate the approved plan will be filed as presented. No vote tallies beyond the unanimous approval were recorded in the minutes and no timetable for project construction or specific developer commitments was included in the meeting record.