Saginaw City Council Approves Development Agreement for Charles Lee Mansion

Saginaw City Council has approved a Lease and Development Agreement with Alex de Parry and his firm, Ann Arbor Builders, Inc. to restore the historic Charles Lee Mansion located at 633 S. Washington Avenue.

Restoration work will soon begin on the historic lumber baron’s mansion also known as The DeGesero House, as part of the agreement approved by City Council on August 27, 2018.

Under the lease and development agreement with Ann Arbor Builders, the firm will have the option to purchase the property after one year if certain thresholds are met including: exterior painting, replacement of the roof, restoration of the entrance, and maintenance of all landscaping.

If these repairs are completed within one year the developer will have the exclusive option to purchase the property for approximately $20,000.

The Lee Mansion is a local landmark with an elaborate history, last owned by Rosemary DeGesero. The property was acquired in 2011 by the City of Saginaw with funds provided by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. For several years, the historic mansion sat in a state of disrepair and faced an uncertain future. The City Council requested that the City Manager and staff market the property in an attempt to find an interested party for redevelopment or restoration of the property.

Ann Arbor Builders plans to restore the home into a community meeting space with unique offices throughout the home. According to developer Alex de Parry, “The home is perfectly positioned to serve as an access point to the riverfront, Downtown Saginaw, and the Historic Cathedral District. The new life coming to the Lee Mansion is symbolic of the renaissance happening throughout Saginaw. I want to thank the many supporters and the City of Saginaw for making the rebirth of the Lee Mansion possible.”