SR-149, As Adopted by Senate, February 14, 2008

            Senators Scott and Jansen offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 149.

            A resolution commemorating 2008 Legislative Build.

            Whereas, People from all walks of life deserve affordable housing in safe and thriving communities; and

            Whereas, In order to become productive citizens, people need decent and affordable places to live; and

            Whereas, Providing resources to those who lack access to adequate housing is an integral requirement of our housing policies; and

            Whereas, Efforts to meet the housing and economic needs of Michigan communities must be promoted, supported, and encouraged; and

            Whereas, Neighborhood improvements enhance the desirability of our communities and increase pride in those communities. Neighborhood cleanups and fix-ups foster pride, cultivate dignity, and create a sense of community spirit. Demolitions and deconstructions further reduce blight and increase safety and neighborhood improvement efforts; and

            Whereas, The development of downtown areas enhances the economic viability of our communities. Vibrant and attractive downtown districts attract both residents and visitors; and

            Whereas, Healthy downtown districts and livable neighborhoods are the foundation of Michigan's past, present, and future; and

            Whereas, A broad-based coalition of agencies, associations, and organizations has come together to encourage and participate in such efforts, including Habitat for Humanity of Michigan and its 78 affiliates; Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) and its nearly 200 member organizations; Community Development Advocates of Detroit (CDAD) and its 60-plus members; Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness and its 500 members; and the Michigan Community Action Agency Association and its 30 member agencies; and

Whereas, All Michigan legislators are being invited to take part in the Legislative Build by volunteering one day on a project in their district during May through August of 2008; and

Whereas,  Tuesday, August 19, 2008, has been declared Legislative Build Celebration Day, a day when legislators, advocacy groups, and the public can celebrate the completion of Legislative Build projects in their legislative districts; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby commemorate the 2008 Legislative Build effort to help educate and engage Michigan legislators in the work of hundreds of community-based organizations, while showcasing hundreds of local housing and economic development efforts that will make Michigan a safe, healthy, and welcoming place to live; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the Steering Committee of the 2008 Legislative Build as evidence of our esteem for its leadership and service in local housing and other economic development efforts.