Commission takes first step to demolish orphanage

The Marquette City Commission voted unanimously to pursue funding to demolish the Marquette Orphanage.

Marquette Mayor Johnny DePetro said that the orphanage is a safety and health issue for the community.  He also added that many Marquette residents are ready to see it torn down.

The city will be filing for the grant with the Marquette County Land Bank Authority.  It will cost one million dollars to demolish the orphanage.  The commission estimates it will cost $700,000 to demolish the orphanage, and $300,000 in abatement costs.  The funding will come through the Michigan Blight Elimination Program.

The city commission hopes to receive the grant money in the next year.