Jennifer Champagne
In Alger County, an effort to wipe out blight has been underway, led by the Alger County Land Bank Authority (ACLBA). With nearly $700,000 in first grant monies allocated for blight cleanup and building stabilization projects, the ACLBA, under the guidance of Pam Johnson, Alger County Treasurer, is making significant strides in transforming blighted properties into community assets.
Alger County has eight civil townships; Au Train Township, Burt Township, Grand Island Township, Limestone Township, Mathias Township, Munising Township, Onota Township, and Rock River Township. The ACLBA is dedicated to revitalizing numerous areas and preserving the county’s heritage across Alger County, encompassing multiple townships and the City of Munising.
“Focusing on the most trafficked and blighted areas, like those visible to tourists entering or leaving Munising, is key,” said Johnson. With over 45 years of experience in Alger County’s accounting department, Johnson’s commitment to community revitalization has been years in the making.
Her vision for establishing a County Land Bank, aimed at addressing property challenges and returning them to the tax roll, has become a reality, thanks to strategic collaborations and proactive initiatives. “Collaboration is key. We work closely with the township, city council, and various authorities,” said Johnson. “Everyone has a part to play, and when we work together, we can accomplish great things.”
The ACLBA’s proactive approach extends across Alger County’s multiple townships and the City of Munising, encompassing various revitalization projects. “Through the whole tax cycle, if people do not pay their taxes and end up getting foreclosed on, we can either auction them off or purchase them for reuse,” explained Johnson. “This year, we’ll be purchasing a property for business use, cleaning it up with the grant I submitted on March 31st. We’re not just cleaning up properties; we’re also adding value to the community.”
The current phase of projects encompasses the demolition of the Trading Post and the adjacent white building on State Highway M-28, along with a house and garage situated directly behind it. Moreover, this initiative extends to the stabilization of the old Fire Hall in the City of Munising. With a grant totaling $699,990.54, these endeavors are geared towards tackling blight, addressing environmental concerns, and improving community properties. The breakdown of the grant is as follows: $151,225.00 for the demolition of the old Trading Post property, $59,912.70 for the adjacent property, and $443,325.00 for the stabilization of the old Fire Hall. Additionally, administrative expenses totaling $45,527.84 have been allocated to ensure that all environmental work is conducted in accordance with regulations.
“The State Land Bank has been supportive and helpful with our County Land Bank, as well as those of other counties. They’re willing to help with grant money for our projects at no cost to the county,” said Johnson. “We also work with our Brownfield Authority, aiming to clean up properties and get them on the tax roll.”
Johnson stressed the significance of working closely with local stakeholders, such as Township Supervisors like Terry Pihlainen from Onota Township. Pihlainen, a committed supervisor deeply connected to the township’s heritage, stemming from his family lineage being one of the oldest in the community, demonstrates his dedication to preserving its history while actively pursuing opportunities for progress and advancement. His enthusiastic participation in a multitude of community projects reflects his commitment to the well-being of Onota Township.
“Pam is incredible. She’s an unsung hero who does so much for the county. I just love working with her, and we’ve formed a good collaboration,” said Pihlainen.
Working alongside Johnson and the Alger County Land Bank Authority, Pihlainen has played an integral role in identifying and addressing blighted properties in Onota Township. “We’re working on quite a few projects this year,” said Pihlainen. “The land bank has been instrumental in helping us tackle these structures, such as The Trading Post.”
During its heyday, The Trading Post stood as a community fixture, with roots tracing back to the 1940s to early 1950s. Established by Stan and Ann O’Connor, the venue thrived as a vibrant center of activity. Featuring a restaurant-style kitchen and a bustling lunch counter, it drew in tourists with an array of captivating attractions, including large jars housing Lamprey specimens preserved in formaldehyde. Additionally, the adjacent property housed a residence built by the O’Connors themselves. The upstairs areas of The Trading Post housed duplex apartments. Despite the house property being eventually split from the store property and belonging to a different individual, it was targeted by the grant due to its dire condition following a fire. The removal of blight from the Onota community, while met with varying opinions among residents, is seen by Pihlainen as essential for the township’s progress. “We don’t really have good blight ordinances here,” said Pihlainen. “This is a viable option for us because it allows the Land Bank to help us with these structures.”
The collaboration between Pihlainen and Johnson has been a driving force behind the revitalization efforts in Onotoa Township. Their shared vision for a brighter future, coupled with their hands-on approach, has led to tangible improvements and a renewed sense of hope for residents.
Moreover, Johnson detailed the rigorous process required for the approval and implementation of these projects. “After project approval, we verify property ownership, cooperation from stakeholders, and conduct property valuation,” said Johnson. “Local contractors then provide estimates for the grant. Once approved, we initiate a bidding process to determine the demolition contractor.” She conveyed optimism regarding the beneficial effects of these initiatives on property values. The Land Bank Authority is committed to revitalizing numerous areas throughout Alger County, encompassing various townships and the city of Munising.
Johnson’s commitment to Alger County surpasses mere physical revitalization efforts. She deeply values community engagement and understands its significance in fostering local pride and shaping the county’s future. “Keeping the public informed and engaged is crucial,” said Johnson. “Hosting community meetings, workshops, and informational sessions can raise awareness about our projects and their community benefits.” Her leadership has sparked increased involvement in local initiatives, motivating residents like Pihlainen to contribute actively to the county’s prosperity and growth.
As Johnson continues to champion the cause of community revitalization, her impact on Alger County’s landscape and its residents’ lives is undeniable. Her vision, coupled with her collaborative efforts, has positioned her as a change maker for all who call Alger County home.
