Local Reps Give Thumbs Up to Blight Elimination Funds

State Representative's Matt Lori, Aric Nesbitt and Dave Pagel are applauding the Michigan Department of Human Services for awarding money to Michigan Works to eliminate blight in Southwest Michigan. DHS issued $740,000 to the Berrien-Cass-Van Buren Michigan Works Wednesday. Pagel says "Abandoned buildings and long-empty houses are not only the eyesore in our neighborhoods, but also represent a public safety issue as well." The funds come from a lawsuit concerning foreclosure practices. $15-million was distributed to 34 municipal, township and county entities statewide.