City employees who buy a house in a poor neighborhood could receive up to $3,000 under a plan approved last week by the City Commission.
“Nothing stabilizes a neighborhood like home ownership,” said Commissioner Linda Samuelson, who proposed the program. “I hope that what the city does sets an example for the entire community,”
The money would cover closing costs associated with getting a mortgage and buying a house. Only 43 percent of Grand Rapids’ 1,740 workers live in the city.
The city would pay up to $2,000 if employees want to settle just outside poor neighborhoods. Workers already living in Grand Rapids but willing to relocate would qualify for a portion of the subsidy.
Spending for the first year will be capped at $50,000.
“I don’t think it’s appropriate to use general tax dollars to subsidize city employees,” said Commissioner James Kozak, one of two opponents.
