Central Park groups seeks UM-Flint 'green' house

The Central Park Neighborhood Association Nov. 11 discussed the possibility of the UM-Flint buying a property in the neighborhood, a proposed beautification project and elected officers.

Jerry Rule told the group about the UM-Flint alternatives house — a laboratory for green energy and sustainable living — that might relocate to a house in the neighborhood. The original site, 519 Garland St., was destroyed by fire Oct. 17.

According to Rule, the university administration has approved the search for a new location. Two sites in the Central Park area are being considered — one on Eddy Street and another on Second Street. The group voted to send a letter to the university expressing its support for the alternative facility at either location.

Norma Sain and Nicole Rodden-Bowen proposed a project to clean up the neighborhood.

"We're looking at ways to secure funding for an exterior cleanup," Sain said. "We want to do painting, fix up porches and improve curb appeal," Sain explained.

According to Sain, a commitment of $100,000 in matching funds from the Michigan State Department Housing Authority (MSDHA) was received for the project. The group will seek primary funding from the federal government, the Ruth Mott Foundation and the city.

"We want to make this neighborhood attractive so people will want to live here," Sain said.

Rule asked for volunteers to help with the project and to take inventory of the homes in the area to determine if they are owner- or renter-occupied. This information is important when applying for a grant, he said.

Rule was re-elected president and Edwin Custer was re-elected vice president. There were no nominees for secretary-treasurer.

The group voted to send a thank you note and a gift of $90 to E&B Lawn Service for cutting the East Street Park grass for free last summer.

"The job was exceptional," Rule said.

The group will meet next at 7 p.m. Dec. 9 in the Court Street Village Neighborhood House, 727 East St.

Blight officer Tammy McRae will be a featured speaker. The meeting will also include a holiday celebration.

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