The Calhoun County Land Bank Authority (CCLBA) celebrated the State of Michigan's 20 years of Land Banking at an open house event on November 14, 2024, in Battle Creek. Community members, local officials, and stakeholders joined the CCLBA in recognizing two decades of achievements in land banking and community revitalization throughout Calhoun County.

Held at 68/70 Frelinghuysen Avenue in Battle Creek, a current CCLBA project site, the event included a brief program with remarks from CCLBA Executive Director Krista Trout Edwards, Lynn Ward Gray, Vice Chair of the CCLBA and Chair of the Washington Heights Advisory Committee, and Joseph Rivet, Executive Director of the Michigan State Land Bank Authority. Guests enjoyed a tour of the project, illustrating the Land Bank’s commitment to improving and repurposing vacant and underutilized properties in the county.

“Today’s celebration is not just about the last 20 years in Michigan Land Banking—it’s about the legacy of revitalization and opportunity we’re building for the future in our local communities,” said Trout Edwards. “Collaboration and community support are essential to our work and success, and we are excited to continue this journey.”

The event focused on CCLBA’s progress since its formation, highlighting the transformation of vacant and abandoned properties into community assets. As it looks forward, upcoming projects and initiatives continue to build on this momentum by focusing on strategic work that aligns with the needs and priorities of local communities and neighborhoods.