On March 14, 2023 city commissioners directed city staff to recommend West Urban Properties for the development of the property on 1095 Third Street. This property was once the site of Catholic Charities, but is now vacant. Three developers have expressed interest on developing the site, and commissioners had to choose which option to pursue.

This will not be the only time this issue will come before the commission, it will have to come before the commission for further approval later. Mayor Johnson did also present the idea that they may reach out to one of the other developers if they reject West Urban Properties down the road.

The main motivation of the commission seemed to be that West Urban Properties would have a portion of their units available for Section 8 vouchers. Commissioner Ramsey suggested that making the section 8 and other vouchers work with this development would set an example to other market rate apartments in the city. Mayor Johnson also noted that more units were proposed by this developer than others.

West Urban Properties proposal featured many good urban qualities to make the area more walkable, was mixed use, and would help to enliven and activate Hackley park at more hours, as housing in proximity to that park is currently limited. It is notable that the proposal from all three developers included a historic photo of the building, obviously relating that the building’s facade is worse now than the way it was originally built. Prices for apartments, and how many would be section 8 accepting is to be determined, but this was the only market rate option. The proposals can all be accessed via section 10.d links attached to the meeting agenda here.

OPINION: I believe that West Urban Properties was the wrong choice in this location for Muskegon. Muskegon has several large market rate apartment buildings now, and more in the future as Adelaide Pointe and Harbor 31 are constructed. 3rd street is adjacent to downtown, and affordable housing projects there would allow downtown to be more equitably shared by different classes, and not only those wealthy enough to afford it. It is true that more landlords should accept section 8 vouchers, but as the first new development on this side of downtown, affordability should be the priority here. I believe that the General Capital proposal of would be more affordable to more people and would benefit the city of Muskegon and its residents more at this location. General Capital built the Ten 21 affordable apartment building, and their plans included Live/Work lofts and commercial space.