Rep. Tobocman offered the following resolution:

House Resolution No. 272.

            A resolution commemorating the 2008 Legislative Build.

            Whereas, People from all walks of life deserve affordable housing in safe and thriving communities. They need decent and affordable places to live in order to become productive citizens. Providing resources to those who lack access to adequate housing is also an integral requirement of our housing policies. 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. Cleanups and fix-ups foster pride, cultivate dignity and create a sense of community spirit; and

            Whereas, Demolitions and deconstructions further reduce blight and increase safety and neighborhood improvement efforts.  The development of downtown areas enhances the economic viability of our communities. Vibrant and attractive downtown districts attract both residents and visitors. 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, is 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 district; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the House of Representatives, That the members of this legislative body commemorate the 2008 Legislative Build.  This effort will 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 the this resolution shall 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.