Michigan experiencing increase in Legionnaires’ disease

Michigan experiencing increase in Legionnaires’ disease

by | Jul 20, 2021 | Health and Wellness

MDHHS banner with logo no names

Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 19, 2021

CONTACT: Lynn Sutfin, 517-241-2112, SutfinL1@michigan.gov

Michigan experiencing increase in Legionnaires’ disease

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is coordinating with local health departments across the state to investigate a recent increase in reports of Legionnaires’ disease.

Between July 1 and July 14, 107 cases of Legionnaires’ disease have been reported in 25 counties. While increases in cases are often related to environmental factors, including heat and rainfall, this represents a 569% increase from referrals from the same period in 2020 (16 cases) and a 161% increase from referrals from the same period in 2019 (41 cases).

Confirmed cases include 19 in Wayne County, 17 in Oakland County and in the City of Detroit and 15 in Macomb County.

Legionella bacteria causes two forms of legionellosis respiratory infections. Legionnaires’ disease is an infection with symptoms that include fever, cough and pneumonia. A milder form of legionellosis, Pontiac fever, is an influenza-like illness without pneumonia that resolves on its own.

MDHHS and local health departments are working to inform healthcare providers of the increase in cases and share information regarding testing and treatment. While legionellosis cases are most common in the summer and early fall when warming, stagnant waters present the best environment for bacterial growth in water systems, this increase is higher than expected for Michigan for this time of year. MDHHS is requesting that providers keep this in mind with patients that present for care with pneumonia and existing risk factors for this infection. To date, no common sources of infection have been identified.

“Recent weather trends including rain, flooding and warmer weather may be playing a role in the rise of reported legionellosis cases this summer,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, MDHHS chief medical executive and chief deputy director for health. “We want everyone to be aware of Legionnaire’s disease, especially if they may be at higher risk for illness and we ask that healthcare providers remain vigilant, and test and treat appropriately.”

As many buildings are currently reopening after extended COVID-19 closures or periods of limited use, this may also create an environment for potential amplification and transmission of Legionella bacteria. Legionella bacteria are found naturally in freshwater lakes and streams but can also be found in man-made water systems. Potable water systems, cooling towers, whirlpool spas and decorative fountains offer common environments for bacterial growth and transmission if they are not cleaned and maintained properly. Warm water, stagnation and low disinfectant levels are conditions that support growth in these water systems.

Transmission to people occurs when mist or vapor containing the bacteria is inhaled. Legionnaires’ disease does not spread person to person. Risk factors for exposure to Legionella bacteria include:

  • Recent travel with an overnight stay.
  • Recent stay in a healthcare facility.
  • Exposure to hot tubs.
  • Exposure to settings where the plumbing has had recent repairs or maintenance work.

Most healthy individuals do not become infected after exposure to Legionella. Individuals at a higher risk of getting sick include the following:

  • People over age 50.
  • Current or former smokers.
  • People with chronic lung disease.
  • People with weakened immune systems from diseases, such as cancer, diabetes or liver or kidney failure.
  • People who take immunosuppressant drugs.

Individuals with any concerns about Legionnaires’ disease or exposure to the Legionella bacteria should talk to their healthcare provider. MDHHS and local health departments will continue to monitor cases and provide updates to the public. More information on Legionella and Legionnaires’ disease can be found on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.
Oakland county economic development news

Oakland county economic development news

by | Jul 20, 2021 | Regional News

Oakland County Economic Development David Coulter | Oakland County Economic Development NewsletterCiena Healthcare Groundbreaking

Oakland County congratulates Ciena Healthcare on the groundbreaking and ribbon cutting of
a new skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in Troy, Mich.

July 20, 2021  |  Top Stories:

American Rescue Plan  |  Centrepolis Accelerator  |  Silicone Expo  |  Ciena Healthcare  |  Kawasaki Robotics |  Federal Contracting Program  |  Economic Development Partner Meetings  |  Industry 4.0 Technology Road Show  |  NACo Award  |  Zoning Board of Appeals  |  PLC Technician Training Program  |  NPower Tech Fundamentals Program  |  Veterans Food Package Giveaway

A Message from Ingrid Tighe

Oakland County Economic Development Director

Headshot of Ingrid Tighe

Dear Colleagues,

On Tuesday, July 13 in Oak Park we kicked off our Local Business Connect program with our first in person business workshop. Nearly 60 local business leaders registered for this regional training session that covered some of the most requested business support needs including financial management, business planning, and maximizing online presence.

Along with our content expert presenters from the Small Business Development Center and Pitch Black Media, this series of workshops will feature small business resource organizations, including CEED Lending, Chaldean Chamber of Commerce, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, Greater Farmington Area Chamber of Commerce, Huron Valley Chamber of Commerce, Lake Orion Downtown Development Authority, Main Street Oakland County, Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association, Michigan Small Business Development Center, Oakland County Business Finance Corporation, Oakland County Michigan Works!, Oakland County Veterans’ Services, Ortonville Downtown Development Authority, Pitch Black Media, Pontiac Community Foundation, SOAR—South Oakland Area Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Troy Chamber of Commerce—bringing information and support directly to communities throughout Oakland County.

This series continues in communities throughout Oakland County including:

  • July 20 at the Flagstar Strand Theater in Pontiac
  • July 21 at the Old Town Hall in Ortonville
  • July 22 at the United Methodist Church in Lake Orion
  • July 28 at the Salvation Army in Farmington Hills

Each event runs from 8 to 10:30 a.m. For more information visit OakGov.com/LocalBusinessConnect. Our team looks forward to reconnecting with you in person and helping you build strategies for success.
Icon: Buildings

Business
The American Rescue Plan logo

The American Rescue Plan (ARP) will Allow Oakland County to Leverage Funds for COVID-19 Short-Term Recovery and Invest in Long-Lasting Growth

Through the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Oakland County has been allocated $244 million to be used by December 31, 2024. Oakland County Executive David Coulter has convened a task force of community and business leaders who are working on evaluating the following areas for ARP funding:

  • Economic Development for Future Prosperity
  • A Skilled and Educated Workforce
  • Affordability, Equity, and Opportunity
  • Quality of Life and Sustainability
  • Coordination with State, Regional, and Local Governments

Oakland County’s goals for the ARP funding are to ensure ongoing support; cover short-term public health, economic stabilization and recovery needs; coordinate with state, regional and local governments on medium-term priorities; and solicit and evaluate long-lasting transformational initiatives.

The work to allocate ARP funds has already begun with the Board of Commissioners reviewing recent resolutions and fund allocations focused on acute and immediate community needs involving housing, mental health and economic recovery, as well as funding for the Oakland Together Skilled and Educated Workforce Program. For more information: News | Oakland County, Michigan (oakgov.com)
Centrepolis Accelerator Awarded a Regional Industry 4.0 Readiness Grant

Centrepolis Accelerator Awarded a Regional Industry 4.0 Readiness Grant

The Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University has been awarded grant funding to provide regional Industry 4.0 programming and services to increase manufacturers’ readiness to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies. The funding is part of a Michigan Economic Development Corporation-led initiative to ensure 50% of Michigan manufacturers are prepared to adopt Industry 4.0 technologies by 2025. Learn more and apply here: Demo Fund | i4.0 Accelerator (i40accelerator.com)
Silicone Expo | Doors Open in One Year

Silicone Expo – Save-the-Date
June 21-23, 2022

On June 21-23, 2022, the TCF Center in Detroit will host Silicone Expo, a must attend conference for anyone in medical device, manufacturing, innovation, engineering and health care. The event offers the opportunity for matchmaking, education and exhibiting. Silicone Expo is the world’s first free-to-attend commercial trade show and conference for the silicone industry. More than 180 global exhibitors from the entire manufacturing and extended supply chain (of elastomers, resins, fluids and gels) industries will be pitched face-to-face with over 3,500 buyers and delegates from a multitude of the industries served. Details: silicone-expo.com
Ciena Ground Breaking

Ciena Healthcare Breaks Ground on Skilled Nursing Facility

Oakland County congratulates Ciena Healthcare on the groundbreaking and ribbon-cutting of a new skilled nursing and rehabilitation center in Troy, Mich. Regency of Troy will provide short-term rehabilitation and traditional long-term care for geriatric patients. The 154-bed facility on West Maple Road, between Coolidge and Crooks Roads, will create 250 to 300 full- and part-time jobs. Scheduled to open in February 2023, it will be the sixth Ciena Healthcare center in Oakland County and 49th location in Michigan. Read The Oakland Press article: http://ow.ly/RtMD50Fl3qx
and the DBusiness article: http://alturl.com/gh5p9
Kawasaki Groundbreaking

Kawasaki Robotics Expands Facility

On June 28, 2021, Kawasaki Robotics (USA), Inc., broke ground on the new addition to their facility, which serves as the company’s North American Headquarters and Training Center.

This event marks the 16-year anniversary, to the day, of the company’s initial groundbreaking, symbolizing the automation industry’s continued growth and expansion. This new addition to Kawasaki’s facility is not just an exciting moment for the company itself but a testament to the resiliency and momentum of the automation industry. Learn More: Kawasaki Robotics (USA), Inc. Breaks Ground on Facility Expansion | Kawasaki Robotics
Jets flying in a sunset sky.

Oakland County’s Government Contracting Program Training Continues

There is still time to register for the Wednesday, July 28, event, “GSA Schedules – Don’t Take No For An Answer.” 

There’s a training for every business – no matter if you are considering selling your product or service to the government or if you have already been doing so. Increase your customer base, sales and success through these training opportunities and one-on-one assistance from our expert staff. Program benefits include an opportunity outlook for Oakland County businesses; finding contracting opportunities at no cost; assistance with writing a winning grant proposal; federal contracting training events; and access to regional small business resources. Check out the newly added Federal Contracting events here: OakGov.com/DTFC
L. Brooks Patterson Building

Sneak Peak: Economic Development Partner Meetings Return

Starting Wednesday, August 18, Oakland County Economic Development Partner Meetings will resurrect. They will be hosted in the L. Brooks Patterson Building Conference Center on a quarterly basis. The purpose of these meetings is for CVT officials, economic development directors, downtown directors, chamber presidents and stakeholders like the MEDC, MMTC, SBDC, etc. to share updates about economic development topics and initiatives taking place throughout Oakland County. More information coming soon.
Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center logo

Industry 4.0 Technology Road Show
Oakland County

On August 12, 2021, at the Oakland County Executive Office, join the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, in partnership with Oakland County, to showcase and discuss some practical solutions to optimize your equipment and create a clear ROI in your manufacturing process.
Icon: Open Sign

Community
David Coulter with ReOpen Kits

NACo Shines Light On Oakland County Pandemic Response

Oakland County’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic is capturing national recognition, garnering 12 NACo Achievement Awards. The county’s award-winning pandemic response programs included Oakland County Economic Development’s ReOpen Kits. Oakland County staff worked across departments and with partner municipalities, downtown organizations, chambers and the private sector to expeditiously assemble and distribute 15,000 free ReOpen Kits to small businesses, nonprofits, faith-based organizations and voting precincts to help them reopen safely within health protocols. The kits contained critical and hard-to-find Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), including masks, gloves, sanitizing solutions, thermometer, social distancing decals and industry-specific reopening guides via a companion reopen website. Read the full story about all the award winning pandemic response programs: oakgov.com/pages/news.aspx#/naco-shines-light-on-oakland-county-pandemic-response-county-garners-12-naco-achievement-awards

 
APA MI logo over aerial view.

Zoning Board of Appeals: Volunteers Who Listen, Evaluate and Help Protect the Integrity and Personality of Their Community

Hundreds of residents in Oakland County volunteer each year to serve on a Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA). Serving can be difficult; however, it is an important role they perform for their community.

Last month, Oakland County’s Department of Economic Development partnered with the Michigan Association of Planning to train 67 residents from 22 cities, villages and townships to help prepare them for their role as a ZBA member.

Zoning is an ordinance, adopted by a local government, that regulates development of land, uses, activities and structures. In Michigan, zoning is under the jurisdiction of a city, village or township specifically (not a county).

Sometimes, a business or resident is unsatisfied with a decision or has a special ordinance request and comes to the ZBA. The ZBA functions as a quasi-judicial body dealing with land and is empowered to hear and decide appeals and grant variances. Decisions can impact current and future landowners, the use and value of the land and the larger community.

Training is important because a lot is expected of a ZBA member, including:

  • Knowing, interpreting and upholding the requirements of a community’s zoning ordinances
  • In an open forum, impartially evaluating the appeals of administrative decisions and requests for variances
  • Ability to assess the potential long-term impact of various decisions

A ZBA member must treat each person and property in a fair and consistent manner—and excuse themselves from the decision-making process when there is a conflict of interest.

The Planning Commission, not the ZBA, is responsible for drafting zoning ordinances and the master plan, which is a guide for future development in a community. The planning and zoning functions need to balance various, often competing, interests of businesses and residents while maintaining the welfare of neighborhoods and protecting property values.

Contact your local municipality if you are interested in becoming a ZBA member. For a Zoning Board of Appeals Handbook, visit: mml.org/pdf/ZBA_Handbook_2015.pdf

See the American Planning Association for more information on community planning. Visit AdvantageOakland.com for Oakland County’s planning services, including planning training events, current and future land-use maps and statistics and more.

 
Icon: People Networking

Workforce
PLC Robotics Workers

Oakland County Michigan Works! PLC and Robotics Technician Training Program Provides New Career Opportunities

Unemployed or underemployed persons interested in pursuing a new post-pandemic career in the robotics industry are invited to apply for a spot in an upcoming training program for programmable logic controller (PLC) and robotics technicians, both of which are in high demand across southeast Michigan.

The program is administered by Oakland County Michigan Works!, in partnership with Oakland Community College (OCC) and the Workforce Intelligence Network for Southeast Michigan. Since its launch in 2017, the program has graduated 129 people, with 80 percent now working full-time in the field. The next cohort starts on July 19. Read the full story: News | Oakland County, Michigan (oakgov.com) and watch the Local 4 news story: Robotics technician training offered via Oakland County Michigan Works (clickondetroit.com)
Young woman working on a computer.

NPower Tech Fundamentals Program – Now Accepting Applications for Fall 2021

The NPower Tech Fundamentals program—done from the comfort of your home—will have you on the job in less than six months. This free, 16-week instructor-led virtual training offers an opportunity for paid internships or project-based learning experiences and an opportunity to earn industry-recognized certifications. Certifications include CompTIA A+ and IT Fundamentals +, as well as a Google IT Support Certificate and exposure to Microsoft, Cisco, AWS and other leading technologies. To Learn more or to apply visit: Application Process | NPower
Icon: Veteran Tags

Veterans
Elderly veteran holding a box of food.

Veterans Food Package Giveaway – Tuesday, July 27, 2021, 9:00 a.m. to Noon

On Tuesday, July 27, from 9:00 a.m. to noon, a Veterans Food Package Giveaway will be held at the Holly Area Veteran Resource Center. All veterans, active duty, guard and reserves, as well as their families, are welcome to receive giveaway items, which include boxes of food and information on community resources. Registration is required: Click Here to Register

For help with registration, contact Joe Mishler:
[email protected]  |  (810) 348-9960
Icon: Calendar

AdvantageOakland.com/Pages/All-Events.aspx

Did you find this publication helpful? Subscribe at:
public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIOAKL/subscriber/new?topic_id=MIOAKL_950
AdvantageOakland.com | Facebook and Twitter: @AdvantageOak

DNR News Digest – Week of July 19, 2021

by | Jul 20, 2021 | Recreation
Centennial banner

News Digest – Week of July 19, 2021

forest header

Help keep our forests clean – Adopt-a-Forest today!
This DNR news digest, issued earlier today, had formatting issues; the full, corrected release is below. We apologize for any inconvenience.

As our state works to reopen to the public, this week’s stories may reflect how the Department of Natural Resources has adapted to meet customer needs and protect public health and safety. Follow our COVID-19 response page for updates on access to facilities and programs.

We’ll continue to share news and information about the best ways to discover and enjoy Michigan’s natural and heritage resources! Here’s a look at some of this week’s stories:

See other news releases, Showcasing the DNR stories, photos and other resources at Michigan.gov/DNRPressRoom.

PHOTO FOLDER: Larger, higher-res versions of the images used below, and others, are available in this folder. The forest cleanup photo courtesy Anastasia Gepp via Pixabay.

Photo ambassador snapshot: Swift summer sails

sailboats on lakeWant to see more pictures like this, taken by Michigan state parks photo ambassador Jamie Ball at Charles Mears State Park in Oceana County? Visit Instagram.com/MiStateParks to explore photos and learn more about the photo ambassadors! For more on the program, call Stephanie Yancer at 989-274-6182.

Second year-class of Arctic grayling eggs arrives from Alaska

arctic grayling broodA striking fish with a sail-like dorsal fin and slate-blue coloration, the Arctic grayling was virtually the only native stream salmonid (a fish of the salmon family) in the northern Lower Peninsula until the population died off nearly a century ago. Three factors contributed to the grayling’s demise in Michigan: habitat destruction, unregulated harvest and predation/competition from nonnative fish species.

Since 2016, the Michigan Arctic Grayling Initiative – comprised of the Michigan DNR, the Little River Band of Ottawa Indians and more than 40 other partners – has worked to bring this locally extinct species back to Michigan.

Late this past spring, the DNR received the 2021 year-class of brood eggs from Alaska. A year-class is a group of fish raised from the same year’s egg-take – in other words, fish that are the same age. The eggs from this year-class will help establish a brood population in Michigan.

How do fish eggs get from Alaska to Michigan? Very carefully. They were transported to Michigan by plane as the carry-on luggage of a Michigan State University researcher. Upon arrival, they were kept at the MSU lab in East Lansing before the final leg of their journey to Oden State Fish Hatchery in Emmet County. The fish are growing well after hatching, and mortalities in this group have been remarkably low.

The 2021 year-class is not the first to make the trip from Alaska to Michigan. In 2019, the DNR received another class of Arctic grayling, and they continue to thrive at Marquette State Fish Hatchery. The fish are growing well with very few mortalities. The next class is planned for May 2022, when the DNR and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game will collect eggs from Alaska’s Chena River.

The initiative to return Arctic grayling to Michigan waters could not have been possible without help from local and state partners. The DNR has received incredible support from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game; even though the agency temporarily paused its Arctic graying rearing program, staff there organized and executed the 2021 egg take, collecting eggs from wild stock in the Chena River specifically for Michigan’s reintroduction efforts.

When will you see Arctic grayling in Michigan waters? The first fish from Michigan’s Arctic grayling broodstock are expected to be available for reintroduction in 2024 or 2025. Visit MiGrayling.org for updates on this important work to restore a Michigan native.

Questions? Contact Ed Eisch at 231-499-4118.

Trash and trees don’t mix – help protect Michigan’s forests

forest cleanupRecord numbers of people are heading to Michigan’s outdoors this summer, exploring forests to enjoy the beauty of wildflowers, bright songbirds and splashing waterways. This captivating scenery is, unfortunately, sometimes marred by something less beautiful: dumpsites.

Trash in the forest isn’t just ugly – it’s hazardous to people, wildlife and the environment. If you want to help care for the wild places you love, join Adopt-a-Forest, a volunteer-driven cleanup program bringing people together to protect the outdoors. Because of this program, more than half of illegally dumped trash removed from public lands in the last 10 years has been recycled.

First, find a location using the online dumpsite database and fill out a volunteer waiver. Then, pack the right gear – including gloves, sturdy boots, sun protection and bug spray – before heading to the forest for a cleanup. Lastly, let us know to check it off the list by filling out a report – and then feel great about the good work you just did!

If a hands-on cleanup isn’t right for you, Adopt-a-Forest also needs assistance with scouting sites and sharing proper disposal resources, and accepts donations for supplies and heavy equipment rental.

“Proper disposal of waste keeps the environment clean, safe and beautiful,” said Phil Roycraft, district supervisor with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy, who handles waste programs across the northern Lower Peninsula and Upper Peninsula. “A lot of items people throw out can actually be recycled, and all can be disposed of responsibly.”

Here are a few resources for responsible recycling and waste disposal:

See someone dumping? Report it to the DNR’s Report All Poaching hotline. Find something potentially hazardous in the woods? Contact EGLE’s Environmental Assistance Center or the Pollution Emergency Alert System if it’s clearly a hazard needing immediate attention.

Learn more about Adopt-a-Forest by contacting program coordinator Conor Haenni at 989-429-5542 or visiting Michigan.gov/AdoptAForest.

Now hiring RAP hotline emergency dispatchers

RAP roomThe Report All Poaching hotline is hiring three emergency dispatchers to join the Michigan DNR Law Enforcement team. The right candidates are motivated team players with excellent communication skills who want to help solve natural resources crimes and provide safe community environments.

Emergency dispatchers provide 24/7 essential communication and monitoring to ensure conservation officer safety. They use statewide radio equipment, computer-aided dispatch systems and other telecommunication devices to stay in contact with officers and provide them with general criminal information using the Law Enforcement Information Network system.

Dispatchers work with the public and local, state and federal law enforcement agencies to receive and communicate poaching tips and complaints to help protect Michigan’s natural resources.

Applications will be accepted until 11:59 p.m. Friday, July 23. Successful applicants will have a minimum of a high school equivalent education and a willingness to learn telecommunication, CAD and LEIN systems.

Questions? Contact Dominique Clemente at 517-243-3973.

THINGS TO DO

Ready to hit your favorite fishing hole or find a new spot? Check out the weekly fishing report for conditions around the state. Gear up and make sure you have your 2021 fishing license!

BUY & APPLY

ORV riding often means riding the route less traveled. Whether you want to rev it up, go the distance or enjoy outdoor spaces, it’s not too late to purchase you ORV license and trail permit.

GET INVOLVED

Spend some time on the water by volunteering  as a harbor host for DeTour, Presque Isle, Straits and Tawas state harbors. Welcome visitors, host weekly coffee hours, help boaters and more.
Gov. Signs Legislation To Strengthen Michigan’s Manufacturing

Gov. Signs Legislation To Strengthen Michigan’s Manufacturing

by | Jul 20, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

July 19, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Governor Whitmer Signs Legislation To Strengthen Michigan Manufacturing 

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Whitmer signed Senate Bill 501, which allows workers temporarily laid off due to a manufacturing shutdown to continue to receive unemployment benefits without looking for a new job. Under current law, workers laid off more than 45 days ago are not eligible for a work search waiver. SB 501 recognizes that, in the manufacturing context, certain events triggering a temporary layoff like an equipment retooling, a parts shortage, or a temporary production volume adjustment, can last more than 45 days.

 

“Manufacturing workers are the backbone of Michigan’s economy, ” said Governor Whitmer. “This bill will help Michigan come back to work stronger than ever by ensuring that skilled manufacturing workers can stick with their employers during a temporary manufacturing shutdown, such as the shutdown caused by the global chip shortage. In addition to signing this bill, I will continue to urge President Biden to continue his efforts to address this critical shortage both in the short and long term. It’s clear that we need to do everything we can to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing, especially of auto-grade wafers, to ensure we’re getting at the root of the problem and protecting the hundreds of thousands of hard-working union members and their families that support this vital industry.”

 

The bill also requires individuals to register for work through a Michigan Works! agency.

 

“The global chip shortage is a huge hurdle for our manufacturers and their employees right now. With my bill, workers on extended layoff are protected and manufacturers aren’t losing their workforce before they can begin production again,” said Senator Ken Horn, R-Frankenmuth.  “It’s also important we restart registering for work at our local Michigan Works! Offices where they have a proven record connecting people with jobs and job training.”

 

“We are very happy to have been able to work with the policy team at the Unemployment Insurance Agency and with Sen. Horn to craft a solution that will empower manufacturers who face a supply shortage to keep their employee eligible for benefits during short-term layoffs,” said  Dave Worthams, Director of Human Resource Policy for the Michigan Manufacturers Association. “This will, in the long term, help keep people employed and Michigan’s economy strong.  Additionally, we appreciate being able to continue the work that Michigan Works! agencies do to bring more people back to the workplace by helping them with their job searches.”

 

SB 501 was sponsored by Sen. Ken Horn, R-Frankenmuth, and a copy of the bill can be found here.
Whitmer Launches MI Small Business Summer Tour

Whitmer Launches MI Small Business Summer Tour

by | Jul 19, 2021 | Regional News

Header 2021

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

July 19, 2021

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Launches MI Small Business Summer Tour to Invest in Small Businesses, Support Working Michiganders, and Jumpstart the Economy

 

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer today kicked off the MI Small Business Summer tour. The governor announced she and her cabinet members will visit and recognize Michigan’s small businesses that have shown resiliency throughout the COVID-19 pandemic and are the backbone of our communities. Throughout the pandemic, the state’s dozens of economic relief programs for businesses supported more than 25,000 companies and retained more than 200,000 jobs.

 

The state of Michigan is already seeing promising results from the economic policies and COVID mitigation measures that have helped small businesses and working people recover from the pandemic:

  • Michigan’s economy grew 7.6% in the first quarter of 2021, the best in the Midwest, higher than the national average, and among the top 10 states nationwide.
  • An independent analysis from the financial publication Credible states that our economic recovery is the 2nd strongest nationwide.
  • The financial ratings agencies Fitch Ratings and S&P Global Ratings recently improved Michigan’s credit rating outlook, affirming that Michigan is headed in the right direction and saving taxpayers money by lower borrowing costs for upcoming bond issues.
  • New projections show the state’s revenue outlook increasing by nearly $6.5 billion — from a $3 billion deficit to a $3.5 billion surplus.
  • Michigan’s unemployment rate is nearly one point lower than the national average as more Michiganders get back to work.

 

“As we continue to put Michigan’s economy first, I’m laser focused on getting small businesses the support they need and creating jobs,” Governor Whitmer said. “Our dedication to small businesses is fueled from hearing from the small businesses themselves. From hosting a series of small business summits with Lt. Gov. Gilchrist to our recent Jobs and Economy town hall, we have been hearing what small businesses need directly from those who need it most. These conversations ensure that our economic recovery is strong and meets the needs of Michiganders across the state as we put Michigan back to work.”

 

Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) have launched the Michigan.gov/SmallBusiness site to help Small Businesses navigate state programs and services available to help them not only recover, but grow and thrive in the years to come. Additional programs aimed at helping employers fill job openings and provide safe, healthy work environments for employees can be found at Michigan.gov/BackToWork.

 

“To date, we have supported tens of thousands of small businesses, keeping millions of Michiganders hard at work while investing billions of dollars back into the economy,” Lieutenant Governor Gilchrist said. “But we can’t stop there. As we continue setting a course for economic recovery, we need additional efforts to stabilize, recover and ultimately grow the economy in Michigan to build on the foundation of support and relief we have already administered statewide.”

 

In addition to the June statewide virtual small business summit and in-person Detroit Small Business Summit, the State of Michigan is bringing together small businesses, state and local policymakers, regional economic development leaders, banks and credit unions, business owners and community organizations to collect feedback through regional small business summits and other outreach events to learn how to best create policies and program to continue to support small businesses.

 

The next event will take place in Grand Rapids on July 19 from 3 – 5 p.m. at the Downtown Market Grand Rapids. Additional regional and industry-specific events are in the process of being scheduled. To register and for more information, visit the online Small Business Summit meetings site.

 

With the large boost in state revenues announced at the May Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference, Michigan is in a strong position to make large investments that can transform the state and help residents and businesses recover from the pandemic.

 

With billions in funding from the American Rescue Plan and $176 million in federal State Small Business Credit Initiative funds coming our way in addition to a large influx of state revenue, this is a moment in Michigan’s history that can deliver real and lasting positive outcomes for the state.

 

This unprecedented amount of funding creates an unmatched opportunity for investment in our state.

 

“We need to ensure businesses have what they need to succeed because a recovery without robust business investment and involvement will be incomplete,” Whitmer added. “With additional state revenues expected and billions of dollars in incoming federal funding, Michigan is in a strong position to make investments that can transform the landscape for small businesses so they can thrive and create jobs.”

 

WHITMER’S ECONOMIC JUMPSTART FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

  • Governor Whitmer proposed putting $300M into the Michigan Mainstreet Initiative.
  • Michigan Small Business Restart Program: Governor Whitmer’s plan will invest $100 million to help restaurants and other place-based businesses cover costs by providing grants up to $20,000 for mortgage, rent, taxes, payroll and other operating expenses. The plan will set aside $25 million for small businesses with less than nine employees, which is over half of Michigan businesses and a high proportion of women and minority-owned businesses.
  • Michigan Small Business SmartZones & Business Accelerator & Resiliency Initiative: Governor Whitmer’s plan would invest $75 million to provide grants to startups that can help our communities thrive. The plan would create the Small Business Support Network and Small Business Fund to support traditional commercial corridor/Main Street businesses and provide opportunities for new businesses.
  • Michigan Microenterprise Support Initiative: Governor Whitmer’s plan would invest $125 million to provide grants for businesses that did not qualify or apply for other incentives, like the federal Paycheck Protection Program. The plan would work with community development financial institutions to provide loans to rural businesses or other businesses with less than nine employees that struggled to access capital through traditional programs.

 

In addition to the suite of proposals dedicated to small business and restaurants laid out in Governor Whitmer’s Economic Jumpstart Plan, throughout the pandemic, the state has implemented 23 economic relief programs for businesses, supported more than 25,000 companies and retained more than 200,000 jobs.

 

SUPPORT FOR SMALL BUSINESSES

  • Providing Economic Relief: The MEDC launched 23 economic relief programs since March of last year to provide over $240 million in vital economic support to small businesses across all 83 Michigan counties. The programs supported over 25,000 companies and retained over 200,000 jobs with nearly 75% of support going to restaurants, bars, retailers and other service industry small businesses.
  • Business Grants to Help Small Businesses Grow Export Activities: In FY20, MEDC’s International Trade Program assisted 530 Michigan companies to increase their export sales to 121 countries.
  • Early-Stage Funding for Startups: The Entrepreneurship & Innovation Program led to over 1,300 high-tech companies being formed in Michigan, and over 20,000 new full time equivalent jobs.
  • Assisting Communities in Revitalizing Commercial Districts: In FY20, Match on Main through MEDC’s Community Development team awarded 30 grants, supporting 307 main street businesses.

GETTING MICHIGANDERS BACK TO WORK

  • Back to Work Incentive: Governor Whitmer expanded Work Share to offer employers greater flexibility as they brought employees back from unemployment. Throughout the pandemic, the program provided over $550 million, preserved over 110,000 jobs and helped nearly 2,600 employers retain workers and bring them back to the workforce.
  • Emergency Financial Assistance: Governor Whitmer’s actions to expand and extend access to unemployment programs have provided a critical lifeline for 3.3 million Michiganders since March 2020, paying over $36 billion in benefits, resulting over $68 billion in economic impact.

 

CONNECTING TALENT TO SMALL BUSINESSES

  • Virtual Job Fairs: Michigan ensured employers had access to traditional job search tools by organizing over 100 free virtual job fairs and connecting over 2,600 employers and 9,900 job seekers.
  • Apprenticeship Expansion: Creating benefits for employers and career seekers through on-the-job learning focused on new industry sectors and increasing the diversity of participants by recruiting groups historically underrepresented. Federal grants will help Michigan create over 6,000 new apprentices over the next few years.
  • Tuition-Free Certificates & Degrees: By investing $24 million in the Futures for Frontliners program, Governor Whitmer launched a new, first in the nation scholarship program that resulted in over 120,000 essential, frontline worker applicants on a tuition-free path. Whitmer also launched Michigan Reconnect with a $30 million investment to ensure over 4.1 million Michiganders age 25 or older will have an opportunity to earn a tuition-free associate degree or skills certificate. To date, nearly 75,000 Michiganders have applied.

ADDRESSING CHILD CARE NEEDS

  • Record $1.4B Investment Proposal: Governor Whitmer proposed a $1.4 billion investment in federal child care funding to expand access to high-quality child care, make child care more affordable, and support child care professionals as part of the administration’s Economic Jumpstart Plan. The plan should bring access for care to an additional 150,000 Michigan children.
  • MI Tri-Share Child Care Program: The state plans to expand its $1 million pilot that provides more affordable child care through an innovative, bipartisan cost-sharing program that divides cost equally between employees, employer and state.

 

KEEPING SMALL BUSINESSES SAFE

  • Safety Grants: The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity issued over $8 million in MIOSHA safety grants to over 1,500 businesses to help them invest in equipment, training and other materials to address their specific needs to create safe workplaces.
  • Winterization Grants: The Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity provided $3 million in federal CARES Act funds to over 300 small businesses to expand their capacity by adding weatherized, temporary outdoor facilities.
  • Ambassador Program: The free consultation program helped over 5,400 employers create safe workplaces to get people back to work.

 

These programs will ensure that our small businesses come out of the pandemic stronger than ever.  Learn more and find resources for Small Businesses at Michigan.gov/SmallBusinesses.