Tri-City Sun

State Rep. Mike Hoadley introduced legislation today aimed at transferring property in Arenac County, owned by the state of Michigan, to a bidder at fair market value.

House Bill 5820 would enable the Department of Management, Technology and Budget (DTMB) to transfer ownership of the Standish Maximum Correctional Facility through a competitive sale process. The facility, which opened in 1990, was a maximum-security prison with five 88-bed housing units and another unit comprising 164 beds. It was operational for 19 years until its closure in October 2009. Currently vacant, Hoadley believes the facility could be retrofitted for various uses, including mental health care services.

“My legislation will help ensure our region is able to re-purpose the vacant Standish prison,” Hoadley stated. “Michigan is facing a mental health epidemic. Sheriffs, citizens and local officials are all too aware of the problem. This facility provides a resource our community is severely lacking. Recently, a series of break-ins have increased the calls to re-purpose the prison. My bill simply authorizes DTMB to label the prison as for sale.”

When state departments list state property as surplus, legislative authorization is required before that property can be transferred out of state possession. Previously considered a prime asset by the Department of Corrections, this designation no longer applies to the Standish Maximum Correctional Facility.

“This is a practical plan that legally transfers property ownership and ensures clear titles and protects a buyer’s rights,” Hoadley added.

The proposal has been referred to the House Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee for consideration.