AUDIO: Kalamazoo County treasurer releases foreclosure prevention program figures

KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – The final numbers from this year’s annual foreclosure prevention program are in. It may be one of the most effective programs in town to prevent homelessness.

Kalamazoo County Treasurer Thomas Whitener says the began the year with 642 properties facing foreclosure for nonpayment of taxes. They whittled that down to 41 properties, by working out payment plans with owners who just needed more time, and outright grants to those who cannot pay.

He says it helps end a cycle of non-payment for many of these families.

County Administrator Kevin Catlin says the city of Kalamazoo contributed $50,000 and they chipped in $64,000 from the ARPA grant.

He says the remaining properties that have been foreclosed are vacant lots or abandoned and condemned homes where no one is currently living.

He says each year it prevents hundreds of residents from becoming homeless.