50 Affordable Homes Open on Tribal Land in Michigan: Victories Square Strengthens Community Development in Petoskey
The Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians (LTBB) have reached an important milestone in their mission to foster sustainable and inclusive growth in northern Michigan. Odawa Economic Development Management Inc. (OEDMI), the Tribe’s economic arm, in partnership with Community Housing Network (CHN) and Hunt Capital Partners, has officially opened Victories Square, a 50-unit affordable housing development in Petoskey, Michigan. The grand opening, held at 1380 Victories Lane, was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by tribal leaders, state and local officials, project partners, and community members.
This new development is far more than just housing—it represents a vision of empowerment, sustainability, and community resilience. Built on tribal trust land, Victories Square delivers quality, affordable housing options to both tribal citizens and non-tribal residents while supporting local economic growth and employment.
A Major Step Toward Housing Equity
Petoskey, a picturesque city with approximately 5,865 residents, faces a growing shortage of affordable housing amid rising property values and seasonal demand pressures. The city attracts nearly 750,000 visitors annually, creating a significant need for housing that supports local workers, families, and tribal members. Victories Square directly addresses this challenge, offering 50 rent-restricted apartment homes to individuals and families earning between 30%, 40%, and 80% of the area median income (AMI).
“With a critical shortage of affordable housing across our state, these new homes will empower families and workers in Petoskey to live, work, and thrive within their own community,” said Kirsten Elliott, CEO of Community Housing Network. “This development is a testament to what collaboration and shared purpose can achieve.”
Thoughtful Design and Sustainable Construction
Victories Square reflects a deep commitment to sustainability, energy efficiency, and resident well-being. The development offers a range of studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom units, all designed for comfort and modern living. Each home includes a dishwasher, microwave, garbage disposal, washer and dryer connections, Energy Star-rated appliances, LED lighting, walk-in closets, exterior storage, and central air conditioning.
Beyond the units themselves, Victories Square is built to National Green Building Silver and MSHDA Green Policy standards, ensuring that both environmental impact and operational costs remain low over the long term. Community amenities include a spacious community room, bike racks, on-site management, and Wi-Fi in all shared spaces, creating a supportive and connected neighborhood environment.
Eight of the 50 homes include project-based rental assistance for low-income tribal citizens through 45-year contracts provided by the Tribe, guaranteeing long-term housing security for vulnerable families.
A Vision Rooted in Partnership and Inclusion
Victories Square stands as a model for what can be achieved through strong partnerships between tribal leadership, local governments, private investors, and nonprofit organizations. OEDMI led the project on behalf of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, while Community Housing Network guided the overall development process.
The construction was completed by MI-Oaks Construction LLC, a joint venture between Miller Diversified Construction and Oakwood Construction Company, ensuring that the project was executed with a focus on quality craftsmanship and efficient delivery. Dimension IV Madison Design Group served as the architect of record, while Prestige manages the property’s ongoing operations.
“It’s been an honor to partner with Odawa Economic Development Management Inc. and the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians to bring this vital development to life,” Elliott added. “These homes are more than just buildings—they’re foundations for opportunity and belonging.”
Financing the Future: A Model for Tribal Housing Investment
The project’s success relied on innovative financing strategies and collaboration across multiple funding partners. Hunt Capital Partners syndicated $13 million in 9% federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) awarded by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA), a key funding mechanism for affordable housing nationwide.
Additionally, OEDMI contributed a $5 million soft loan funded by the Tribe, the Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community, and MSHDA. Further support came through a $448,000 Affordable Housing Program grant from the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis. Together, these resources made it possible to construct high-quality housing without imposing financial strain on residents.
Victories Square shows how tribal communities can collaborate with private partners to enhance infrastructure, boost economic stability, and offer lasting housing options for members as the community evolves,” said Omar Chaudhry, Senior Director of Acquisitions at Hunt Capital Partners. “We’re proud to help make this vision a reality.
A Community Celebration and Shared Vision
The ribbon-cutting ceremony was both a celebration of achievement and a reflection of the project’s deeper significance. The event featured remarks from Winnay Wemigwase, Tribal Chairperson of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians; Kirsten Elliott, President & CEO of Community Housing Network; Tony Lentych, Chief Housing Investment Officer at MSHDA; John Murphy, Mayor of Petoskey; and David White, Chairman of the Emmet County Board of Commissioners.
Each speaker emphasized the importance of collaboration, cultural preservation, and long-term community investment. Following the official ribbon cutting, attendees were invited to tour the property and enjoy a community lunch, symbolizing the spirit of inclusivity and togetherness that defines Victories Square.
Looking Ahead: Phase II and Continued Growth
The success of Victories Square has already inspired future development. The same project team has applied to MSHDA for financing approval of Phase II, which aims to add 44 additional affordable housing units adjacent to the current complex. This next phase would further expand housing options for Petoskey residents while continuing to strengthen tribal land utilization and economic development.
Phase II will also continue the partnership’s focus on sustainability, affordability, and cultural stewardship, ensuring that each new addition aligns with the Tribe’s long-term vision of community growth and self-sufficiency.
A Model for Future Tribal Housing Development
Victories Square exemplifies a new generation of tribal-led development—one that merges economic empowerment, environmental responsibility, and social equity. It serves as a model for other tribal communities seeking to address housing shortages through innovative financing, strategic partnerships, and local leadership.
By integrating federal LIHTC resources, tribal funding, and private-sector collaboration, the project demonstrates how indigenous communities can drive their own housing and infrastructure initiatives while retaining control of land and vision.
As Petoskey continues to grow and attract new residents, Victories Square ensures that the people who sustain its economy—teachers, service workers, artisans, and tribal citizens—can continue to live and thrive in the community they help build.
The grand opening of Victories Square is more than a local milestone—it’s a symbol of resilience, collaboration, and progress. For the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians and their partners, this development embodies the belief that housing is not just about shelter, but about dignity, opportunity, and connection.
Through thoughtful design, innovative financing, and shared purpose, the Tribe and its partners have created a space where culture, community, and construction come together to shape a stronger, more inclusive future for generations to come.
Source link: https://www.businesswire.com
