New Law Expands Use of Land Banks

Governor Whitmer signed legislation expanding the number of cities in townships that can establish land bank fast track authorities.

Key Points:

• • Under the new law, any city or township with a population greater than 50,000 can now utilize one, if they’re not located in a county that already has a county authority.
  • Prior to the change, only counties and the city of Detroit could create these authorities.
  • Local government use these authorities as a tool to revitalize vacant, unused, abandoned, or blighted land and structures, build affordable housing, make downtowns and neighborhoods more livable and attractive, and grow local economies.