Lansing Seeks Renewed Court Oversight of Sycamore Townhomes After Rehabilitation Delays

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LANSING, Mich. — The City of Lansing returned to federal court on October 16, seeking to restore court-appointed oversight of Sycamore Townhomes after officials said the property’s rehabilitation plan had fallen behind schedule.

The 339-unit complex near Jolly and Waverly roads was the subject of legal action in 2024 over housing-code and safety concerns. A federal judge appointed receiver John Polderman to oversee the property. The receivership ended in March 2026, when responsibility for completing a court-approved $16.5 million rehabilitation plan passed to Arbor Realty.

Under the plan, the first 120 units were expected to be ready in September 2026. City officials say no units were delivered by that deadline and the complex remains vacant.

Mayor Andy Schor announced the renewed legal action on October 16. Third Ward Councilmember Adam Hussain also supported asking the federal court to restore receivership, citing the need to bring the property into compliance and return housing units to use.

The Lansing State Journal reported that the city filed a motion on October 16 asking the judge to reappoint Polderman. The newspaper also reported that Arbor's attorney, Max Newman, declined to comment on the filing.

A federal judge must decide whether to grant the city's request. The Chronicle News will continue following the case and any response from the property owner.