Michigan Rural Council

Housing affordability and safety are central to supporting a vibrant community, including rural communities that may struggle with high foreclosure rates, excessive and aging housing stock and decreasing population.  Maintenance or revitalization of existing stock, increasing energy efficiency and tying housing into local commercial districts are all key issues to be addressed for the success of rural communities.

MRC has agreed to provide input to the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) on its annual draft allocation plan for low income housing tax credits and other proposed housing programs to enhance program effectiveness for rural communities.  MRC urges housing program investments in rural communities that:

• Support projects that are smaller in size to match context of community and compatibility with existing housing.  This also includes advocating for higher per-unit subsidies to make units affordable for very low-income families;
• Encourage preservation of existing housing;
• Promote revitalization of Main Street areas through mixed-use development;
• Increase availability of funding and programs that help increase and enhance housing affordability for low-income households; and
• Educate stakeholders and lawmakers on emerging issues.