Housing (Local Government)

This bill proposes a change to the state constitution to require the University of Michigan to follow local zoning laws and ordinances for any land it acquires on or after January 1, 2027. Currently, the university operates with significant autonomy over its property, but this amendment would shift that authority to local governments for future land purchases. The rule applies specifically to the Regents of the University of Michigan and does not affect other state universities like Michigan State or Wayne State. If passed by voters, the change would ensure that new university campuses align with the planning rules of the cities or counties where they are built.

This bill, known as the Dark Store Prevention Act, allows Michigan cities, villages, and townships to legally remove private deed restrictions on vacant commercial properties. To proceed, a local government must prove the property is in a retail zone, has been empty for at least two years, and is considered blighted after holding a public hearing. If these conditions are met, the local government can file a lawsuit to have a court officially strike the restrictive clauses from the property's deed. The measure directly affects local officials seeking to clear abandoned retail spaces and property owners whose land is subject to such covenants.