The City of Battle Creek has announced two public events focused on housing issues, scheduled for February and March. These events are part of the city’s broader efforts to address challenges related to housing availability, affordability, infrastructure, and the risk of displacement as the community experiences growth.
The first event is a Housing Strategy Meeting set for Thursday, February 19, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at the Department of Public Works Multi-Purpose Room. The city is in the process of updating its Master Plan to include a comprehensive Housing Strategy. Community members are encouraged to participate and share their perspectives on various topics such as neighborhood-appropriate housing types, infrastructure requirements, preventing displacement due to rising costs, workforce housing needs and commuting patterns, economic competitiveness, and regulatory barriers.
According to city officials: “Neighbors are invited to share their experiences on topics including:
Housing types that fit neighborhood character
Infrastructure needs
Preventing displacement amid rising housing costs
Workforce housing needs and commuting patterns
Strengthening Battle Creek’s economic competitiveness
Development feasibility and regulatory barriers
The Housing Strategy aims to reflect the community’s vision and guide future housing policies, programs, and development decisions.”
A second event—the Fair Housing Workshop—will take place on Thursday, March 5, 2026, from 4:00 PM to 5:30 PM at 200 W. Michigan Avenue. This session is organized by the City of Battle Creek in partnership with Neighborhoods Inc. of Battle Creek and the Fair Housing Center of Southwest Michigan. It is intended for landlords and property managers.
“This educational session will cover:
Federal and state fair housing laws
Tenant rights and landlord responsibilities
How to avoid discriminatory practices
Best practices for supporting tenants and maintaining compliance
This workshop is suitable for both new and experienced property managers. Participants may register online,” organizers stated.
Both events are free of charge with refreshments provided.
Residents interested in ongoing updates about local housing initiatives can sign up by texting BCHousing to 38276 or by subscribing through the Resident Notification Portal on the city’s website.
