In a March conversation with GMAR’s Government Relations Committee, Oakland County Treasurer Robert Wittenberg shed light on the vital responsibilities of his office and how they intersect with local housing and community development.
As part of his responsibilities to the county, Treasurer Wittenberg manages tax collection, disbursements, and investment of surplus funds on behalf of the 62 cities and townships within Oakland County as well as the county as a whole.
Treasurer Wittenberg also focused on the approach to delinquent taxes and property foreclosures. He emphasized that foreclosures are typically on vacant properties and are treated as a last resort. The office prioritizes one-on-one meetings with homeowners to understand individual situations and to develop customized payment plans aimed at keeping people in their homes.
Wittenberg also highlighted the Home Buyer Assistance Program, which offers $5,000 toward a first-time home purchase. This initiative, as a partnership with Independent Bank, aims to support residents on the path to homeownership.
Another important topic was the Land Bank, an area where the Treasurer’s Office plays an active role, especially in cities like Pontiac. Wittenberg spoke about ongoing efforts to collaborate with local governments and developers to repurpose vacant or underutilized land for development. In response to questions from committee members, he addressed concerns around parcels that are currently not buildable. While some properties could be re-zoned or have lot sizes adjusted through conversations with local governments, others, such as those on swamp land, may be permanently unusable for development and could be removed from the tax rolls altogether.
Overall, Treasurer Wittenberg expressed a keen interest in increasing development and homeownership opportunities through the work being done in his office. He reaffirmed his commitment to working collaboratively with Realtors® and community stakeholders to create solutions that address both immediate housing needs and long-term community growth.