The Grand Haven City Council voted to approve a Commercial Rehabilitation Act exemption certificate for property at 1445 Columbus Street, allowing a developer to demolish two existing buildings and construct a multi‑story building with 45 rental units.

Staff described the action as the second step in the statutory process under Public Act 210 of 2005 as amended and said Brownfield/EDC and administration recommended approval after a third‑party financial review. The developer, Peter Olyzuk, told council the project had been reviewed by Plante Moran and that construction was targeted for spring 2027 if approvals proceed.

During discussion several council members questioned whether the project met local goals for workforce‑priced housing and pressed staff on the project budget and the independent reviewer’s "but for" analysis. Staff replied that the developer provided updated, project‑specific budget numbers that aligned with Plante Moran’s review and that, given current market conditions, the incentive made the project financially viable.

Council debated the length of the abatement: the developer initially requested a 10‑year abatement, but council voted to amend the motion to specify an 8‑year term. On the final roll call the motion carried 4–1 (Fritz, Dora, Lyon and Maneta voted yes; Calio voted no). Staff estimated roughly $638,000 would be foregone in taxes during the abatement period but noted that the ultimate amount depends on assessed values over time.

Staff and councilors reiterated that short‑term rentals would not be allowed in the district and that the project’s units would be long‑term rentals. Council also discussed alternative housing tools (community land trust, neighborhood housing services) and the broader challenge of providing lower‑cost housing in Grand Haven.

Next procedural steps include finalizing any related administrative documents and the developer moving toward site work and permitting if the project secures financing and necessary approvals.