The former Ceres Solutions property on East Main Street.
– OCP file photo
Vision for site is a mix of residential and retail spaces
HART – After collaborating with city officials and gathering feedback from the community, the Tax Increment Finance Authority recently announced the release of the request for proposals (RFP) for the vacant Ceres Solutions property on East Main Street.
“This marks a significant milestone in the anticipated development of the 2.6-acre site, a prime location in the heart of downtown, following its sale to Hart’s Tax Increment Finance Authority (TIFA) by Ceres Solutions in 2022,” states press release from the Hart Economic and Redevelopment Team (HEART). “A primary TIFA goal is to stimulate private investment and economic revitalization in the TIFA district, which this RFP will help to accomplish.”
“In 2023, the TIFA board sought the input of residents and local stakeholders to guide the future of this site. The response from the community called for a blend of market-rate housing and additional retail space, designed to complement the history of the downtown district.”
A meeting Feb. 1, 2024 drew several business owners, local officials and community members who are interested in what the future holds for the prime piece of vacant property. The nearly 100-year-old feed mill has been sitting vacant for over four years after Ceres Solutions — a farmer-owned cooperative based in Indiana — closed its operations there.
“The input we received from the community was instrumental in shaping the RFP,” said Economic Development Director Nichole Kleiner. “The support for housing and retail options reinforces the vision we have for a thriving downtown. This project will have a big impact on our community — we’re excited to see this come to life.”
“The RFP outlines the city’s vision for the site, inviting qualified developers to submit proposals that will integrate residential and retail spaces, enhance the downtown area, and contribute to the local economy,” states the press release. “The goal is to create a mixed-use development that meets the needs of both current residents and future generations. The RFP serves as a sample document that investors will review to craft their vision as it aligns with the community. TIFA anticipates reviewing submitted proposals in 2025 for recommendation to the planning commission and the city council for approval.”
Proposals should be submitted no later than noon Thursday, July 17.
“The Smith Group, recognized for their expertise in urban planning and development, facilitated this process ensuring that all feedback was considered and that the development will reflect the values and aspirations of the community.”
“We are honored to have helped guide this important project,” said Kathleen Duffy, a planner at the Smith Group. “This is a pivotal opportunity to shape the future of downtown and we’re excited to see the development that will emerge from this process.”
“The community’s enthusiasm for this project reflects a shared vision for a downtown that is walkable, vibrant, and preserves its historic character. TIFA, in collaboration with city officials, will continue to market the site to developers.”
For more information about the RFP and the Ceres Solutions property, visit www.takemetohart.org/ceres or on the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s website at www.miplace.org/redevelopment-ready-sites/rrc-rfq.
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