Citizen Cain Receives Response to Hovey Complaint from Sen. Mike Prusi
IRONWOOD, MI - Tuesday, November 18, 2008 - Ironwood citizen John Cain recently received a response to his letter of complaint to Michigan State Senator Mike Prusi regarding the proposed Hovey Apartment Complex in Ironwood.
Cain expressed concern about the Towering Pines project that was recently the focus of a City Commission Public Hearing. Cain told Prusi that, in his opinion, the project is not needed in the Ironwood area, and he believes it will actually hurt existing landlords and taxpayers.
In his repsonse, Prusi wrote:
"Dear John,Thank you for taking the opportunity to share your concerns with me regarding the Hovey Companies' Towering Pines project in Ironwood.I understand that some concerns have been expressed about this project on the local level. However, I believe the final decision-making authority rests with the City Commission, as they have the ability to approve or deny a tax abatement for the property. While some have expressed concern that this project would give Towering Pines an advantage over other area renters, the same MSHDA assistance is available to any company or renter interested and willing to invest in local communities. MSHDA and HUD provide a variety of programs to assist both renters and landlords that are routinely used throughout the U.P., such as Section 8 housing vouchers, Rental Assistance, or USDA loans.Again, John, I recognize your opposition to this project, and I would suggest that you continue to express your concern with the City Commission, as they have the ability to decide whether or not this project will be allowed to move forward in the near future. I believe that authority is appropriate, as local governments should have the final say in determining the unique makeup of local communitiesThank you again for your email, and please do not hesitate to contact me further regarding any state issue of your concern if I can be of assistance.Sincerely,MICHAEL A. PRUSIState Senator38th District"