Central Park discusses student housing

The Central Park Neighborhood Association Jan. 14 discussed student housing, code enforcement and stimulus funds.

President Jerry Rule shared a letter from UM-Flint Chancellor Ruth Person about the increasing demand for off-campus student housing.

"Availability of safe and quality of off-campus housing within walking distance to the campus plays a critical role in the success of the university," Person wrote.

Nicole Bowen said she is concerned about getting derelict properties fixed up so students coming into the neighborhood feel safe.

"When we have students coming in to a neighborhood where houses have front doors open and broken down cars, they won't want to live here," Diana Goodell said.

"If code enforcement is not an issue of priority, those of us who care about our homes will ultimately get fed up and leave, and the tax base of Flint will be gone," said Ingrid Halling.

"Public safety and blight are the hugest issues in Flint," said Councilman Dale Weighill (7 Ward). Weighill said the Flint City Council has requested additional code enforcement officers and is reminding Mayor Dayne Walling of his campaign promise to make public safety, blight and code enforcement a high priority.

Weighill urged residents to send letters and e-mails to Walling about their concerns.

Rule discussed NSP II funds that will be distributed to Flint. The city is to receive 26 million dollars in stimulus funds. The group has not yet been informed how much Central Park neighborhood will receive.

The group will next meet 7 p.m. Feb. 11 at 727 East St.