New tools, updates to boost election security
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Secretary Benson presented Arn Tellem, Detroit Pistons vice chairman, with a t-shirt featuring one of Michigan’s winning “I Voted” stickers designed by Grosse Pointe student Jane Hynous.
Secretary Benson announced new tools, funding, and security upgrades while speaking to media at the Detroit Pistons Performance Center.
Secretary Benson (R) met with Detroit Pistons players, coaches, and employees to talk about the ways they can help encourage Michigan citizens to vote this year.
Secretary Benson spoke to the Detroit Pistons players, coaching staff, and employees encouraging them to serve as trusted community messengers about voting and participation in the 2024 General Election.
Whitmer Statement on Passage of Bipartisan Literacy Package
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE September 26, 2024 Contact: [email protected] Gov. Whitmer Statement on Passage of Bipartisan Literacy Package LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer released the following statement after the Michigan House/Senate passed Senate Bill 567 and 568, bipartisan legislation to improve literacy outcomes statewide by offering more screening and resources for students with dyslexia or other reading challenges and supporting evidence-based, science of reading curricula.
“To build a brighter future for Michigan, we must ensure our students have the skills they need to succeed, including literacy, which is directly tied to lifelong education, income, and health outcomes.
“Today’s commonsense, bipartisan package will allow teachers and tutors to use proven science of reading strategies to improve literacy. It will also strengthen professional development for our educators and more support and screening for dyslexia and other learning challenges.
“I am grateful to Senator Jeff Irwin, Senator Dayna Polehanki, all my partners in the Michigan Legislature on both sides of the aisle, and so many stakeholders who prioritized this issue. Together, we will help even more students read at higher levels and move our state forward.” |
Michiganders Recognized for Asset Management Excellence
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167 Michiganders Recognized for Asset Management Excellence at State’s First-Ever 2024 Integrated Infrastructure ConferenceOver 200 experts, government officials and industry leaders gather to learn about asset management best practicesGRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Individuals and agencies demonstrating excellence in infrastructure asset management were recognized at the state’s first-ever 2024 Integrated Infrastructure Conference in Grand Rapids, held Aug. 13 and 14 at the L.V. Eberhard Center at Grand Valley State University. Hosted in partnership with the Michigan Infrastructure Council, Transportation Asset Management Council (TAMC) and the Water Asset Management Council (WAMC), more than 220 asset management professionals, local government officials and industry leaders were in attendance. “The awards presented at the first-ever Integrated Infrastructure Conference highlight the critical role of asset management in ensuring that our infrastructure investments deliver long-term benefits for communities across the state,” said Palencia Mobley, P.E., chairperson of the MIC. “Asset management is the key to creating a sustainable future where our communities are connected, our natural resources are protected and our economy is resilient.” Awards given at the 2024 Integrated Infrastructure Conference include: MIC Asset Management Ambassador Award: John Weiss, Exec. Director, Grand Valley Metropolitan Council For the first time, the MIC presented the Asset Management Ambassador Award to John Weiss, executive director of the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council. Weiss was recognized for his leadership in accelerating asset management practices throughout his community and the state. Weiss was a driving force behind efforts to start the Asset Management Champions program in 2021 to help educate communities with accurate and trusted information to support effective infrastructure decisions. The Asset Management program has now grown to have over 500 graduates statewide in Michigan and over 70 counties have asset management champions. Weiss has extensive experience in the asset management sector, having previously served as chairperson of the MIC and the Kent County Road Commission. Weiss also served on the West Michigan Regional Prosperity Alliance, the 21st Century Infrastructure Pilot for West Michigan and was the Township Supervisor of Cannon Township. Over the course of many years, Weiss has continuously contributed to improving infrastructure planning and sustainability in Michigan.
MIC Chairperson, Palencia Mobley, P.E., presenting John Weiss with the Asset Management Ambassador Award TAMC Organizational Achievement Award: MDOT, Bureau of Bridges and Structures Ancillary Structures Program The Organizational Achievement was given to the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT), Bureau of Bridges and Structures for their Ancillary Structures Program. This program complements the MDOT Transportation Asset Management Plan and is one of the few in the nation that integrates ancillary structure asset types in the management of planning and design processes. The Program is creating a new standard in MDOT’s funding strategies for public roadway stewardship and enhancing road users’ safety and quality of life.
Mike Halloran, Structure Program Division Admin., Bureau of Bridges and Structures, MDOT and Terry Johnson, HNTB. TAMC Carmine Palombo Individual Achievement Award: Rick DeVries P.E., Asst. City Engineer, City of Grand Rapids The Carmine Palombo Individual Achievement Award was given to Rick DeVries, P.E., Assistant City Engineer from the City of Grand Rapids. DeVries has shown great leadership in asset management and continues to advocate for transportation asset management and successful strategies. Devries played a critical role in the City’s 21st Infrastructure Task Force in 2002 and has since developed investment and planning strategies to improve the system of transportation assets in Grand Rapids.
Rick DeVries P.E., Asst. City Engineer, City of Grand Rapids and receiving TAMC Carmine Palombo Individual Achievement Award from TAMC Chair, Joanna Johnson. The 2024 Integrated Infrastructure Conference was a significant step in fostering a culture of collaboration in Michigan’s infrastructure planning. The two-day event provided education opportunities on best practices, covering sectors such as energy, communications, water and transportation. Attendees participated in sessions on topics ranging from infrastructure resiliency to artificial intelligence in infrastructure and data-driven asset management, positioning Michigan as a leader in forward-thinking infrastructure planning. About the Michigan Infrastructure Council Cultivating partnerships that strengthen Michigan’s Infrastructure to provide the foundation for public and environmental health, economic prosperity and quality of life. |
Small Business Assistance Deadline Coming Up
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| Dear Constituent,
We wanted to share some important information regarding federal assistance for those affected by the excessive rain that occurred in 2023 between July 13 and September 1. If you own or operate a small business, small agricultural cooperative, or a private non profit organization in Michigan that was affected by the rains, you may be eligible for federal working capital loans. The Small Business Administration’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program is available to eligible farm-related and nonfarm-related entities that suffered financial losses as a direct result of this disaster. In our congressional district, residents in Shiawasee County and Genesee County are eligible. Elsewhere in the state, residents in the following counties are eligible: Bay, Gratiot, Huron, Lapeer, Midland, Saginaw, Sanilac, Shiawassee, St. Clair, and Tuscola. The filing deadline for loans is October 15, 2024. Click here for more information about eligibility and how to apply. |
OC’s First Neuro-Inclusive Neighborhood Breaks Ground
Oakland County’s First Neuro-Inclusive Neighborhood Breaks Ground
- Walton Oaks will feature 11 ranch homes with three reserved and customized for adults with developmental disabilities.
- The project is a public and private collaboration involving the Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund (HTF), Three Oaks Communities, Rochester Housing Solutions, First State Bank, and private equity partners.
- Walton Oaks is the second neuro-inclusive neighborhood in Michigan.
Rochester Hills, Mich. – Oakland County, Rochester Housing Solutions and Three Oaks Communities are collaborating to build the county’s first neuro-inclusive neighborhood, Walton Oaks in Rochester Hills. This community is the second in Michigan featuring homes for sale to the public and homebuyers with developmental disabilities.
“Walton Oaks is a groundbreaking project that embodies the spirit of inclusion and community that we strive for in Oakland County,” Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter said during a news conference about Walton Oaks today. “By creating spaces where people of all abilities can live together, we are building more than homes — we are fostering opportunities for independence, belonging and growth.”
Oakland County Commissioner Brendan Johnson, who represents a portion of Rochester Hills, agrees.
“Walton Oaks is a prime example of how we can innovate housing to create more inclusive communities in Oakland County, and I am proud to pioneer this right here in Rochester Hills,” Johnson said. “This project shows the power of collaboration in ensuring individuals of all abilities can live independently and thrive alongside their neighbors.”
Three Oaks Communities and Rochester Housing Solutions will provide homebuyers of all abilities customizable homes within a welcoming community that promotes home ownership, supported independent living and proximity to friends, family, employment and local resources for residents with special needs.
“This development is magic for me and Carly,” said Oakland Township resident Maureen Guy, whose 36-year-old daughter Carly will be among the first residents of Walton Oaks. “She will be living her dream with friends and activities galore and a home of her own. It’s an amazing, wonderful thing.”
Walton Oaks, located off Walton Boulevard across the street from Oakland University, will feature 11 ranch homes on one-third acre lots with a private road. Three of the homes have been reserved and customized for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities with input from their families.
The project has both public and private support from the Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund (HTF), First State Bank, and private equity partners. The HTF has invested $500,000 into the project.
“The Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund is honored to support Walton Oaks, a development that truly reflects the values of equity and inclusion,” said Oakland County Neighborhood & Housing Development Officer Khadija Walker-Fobbs. “This partnership not only creates innovative housing solutions for individuals with developmental disabilities but also sets a precedent for how communities can be designed to meet the diverse needs of all residents.”
Rochester Housing Solutions (RHS), a nonprofit founded in 2020 by several dozen local families, spearheaded the initiative to create a neuro-inclusive neighborhood in the Rochester Hills area. These families sought safe, sustainable and permanent housing for their adult children with disabilities. RHS partnered with Three Oaks Communities, which is known for its innovative approach and success in building Michigan’s first neuro-inclusive residential development in Saline.
“Walton Oaks represents the culmination of years of dedication by families and advocates who believe in creating inclusive communities,” said David Mingle, chair of Rochester Housing Solutions. “This neighborhood is more than just housing – it’s about providing a place where adults with developmental disabilities can truly thrive, living alongside their neighbors in a supportive, integrated environment.”
Each unique neighborhood will address the needs of the individuals with developmental disabilities who live there, with input from those individuals and their families. Walton Oaks will include three homes for people with disabilities, each with multiple bedroom suites. All suites designated for adults with disabilities have been reserved at this location.
“Walton Oaks is a testament to what can be achieved when we design with inclusion at the forefront,” said Bill Godfrey, co-founder of Three Oaks Communities. “Our goal is to provide homes that meet the unique needs of residents with developmental disabilities while fostering a sense of community for everyone.”
This collaboration on building neuro-inclusive neighborhoods will continue with Auburn Oaks on Auburn Road near Crooks Road in Rochester Hills. This neighborhood will include a combination of townhomes, condominiums, and single-family homes, with up to 24 units designated for adults with disabilities. A groundbreaking is anticipated in the spring of 2025. The HTF has also invested $1.5 million into the Auburn Oaks development.
“It’s hard for me to even put into words what this means for us. Not just because of this project, but because once people see this and find out what it’s like and that it’s possible,” Maureen Guy said. “And they’re going to be really good neighbors. They are just going to lift the whole neighborhood.”
About Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund
The Oakland Together Housing Trust Fund (HTF) supports the development and preservation of affordable, attainable, workforce, and mixed-income housing throughout Oakland County by leveraging HTF funds with the financial resources of the private sector and other governmental funding sources. The Oakland County Board of Commissioners allocated $18 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and a $2 million annual appropriation of general funds. The HTF is governed by a seven-member board populated with representatives that have relevant residential development, funding and/or oversight experience. HTF funds are allocated through an application process that prioritizes developments that meet the specific goals and needs of the county and its community partners.
About Three Oaks Communities
Based in Plymouth, Mich., Three Oaks Communities (“Three Oaks”) is the first private developer in the United States to build neuro-inclusive neighborhoods that include homes for sale to neurotypical homebuyers as well as adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (“I/DD”) and their families. Three Oaks’ unique development concept also includes caregiving and support services that are organized by the families of our I/DD homebuyers. Its concept is also aligned with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Service guidance for home and community-based housing and services, promoting greater independence, autonomy, choice, privacy, dignity, respect, and community integration for all its I/DD homebuyers. The principals of Three Oaks are William J. Godfrey, John E. Zdanowski, and Bruce A. Michael.
About Rochester Housing Solutions
Rochester Housing Solutions (RHS) is a nonprofit founded in 2020 to create long-term, inclusive housing options for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Originating from a group of families in the Rochester Hills area, RHS formed to address the need for homeownership opportunities for their adult children. RHS began collaborating with Three Oaks Communities several years ago to develop plans for two neuro-inclusive neighborhoods in Rochester Hills. Three Oaks Communities was one of the pioneers in the development of neighborhoods for people with and without intellectual disabilities. Since its inception, RHS has grown steadily, with 39 families now actively involved and strong demand for its housing. Walton Oaks, located near Oakland University, will feature three fully reserved homes for adults with IDD, while Auburn Oaks offers a mix of condos for both IDD and neurotypical residents. These unique neighborhoods foster diversity, independence, and community, offering both purchase and rental options for families and individuals who value a supportive and integrated lifestyle.
Funding to Fix Local Roads in 28 Villages and Small Cities
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Governor Whitmer Announces Funding to Fix Local Roads in 28 Villages and Small Cities Across the State
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced 28 villages and cities across the state with populations less than 10,000 will receive road funding grants totaling $5.1 million.
“These grants will help 28 communities across Michigan fix their local roads faster to save drivers time and money,” said Governor Whitmer. “Since I took office, Michigan has fixed 23,000 lane miles of road and 1,600 bridges while supporting over 89,000 jobs, and today’s funding will build on that total. Let’s keep fixing the damn roads so people can go to work, drop their kids off at school, and run errands without blowing a tire or cracking an axle. Let’s keep fixing our roads to lower costs for drivers on repairs, save them valuable time, and improve their quality of life.”
Established by the state Legislature in 2018, the Community Service Infrastructure Fund (CSIF) Category B program is administered by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) and serves as a stop-gap program to help fund road projects in small communities. Successful projects were selected, in part, because they are paired with planned infrastructure work, coordinated with other road agencies, focused on extending the useful life of the road and had limited funding sources.
“I applaud MDOT’s work to improve our infrastructure around the state by partnering with and investing directly into our communities,” said state Senator Erika Geiss (D-Taylor). “As we continue to work to make all of our communities vibrant places to live, work and grow, this state funding helps the City of Ecorse stretch their dollars while improving our local roads.”
“It’s often difficult for smaller communities to compete for resources alongside our larger cities. I’m grateful that the Community Service Infrastructure Fund exists to help fill this gap,” said state Senator Sam Singh (D-East Lansing). “Thanks to this program and MDOT, residents in and around the Village of Lennon can expect a smoother, safer drive as they navigate Lennon Road.”
“Maintaining great communities means maintaining our infrastructure, and we know that’s a costly task for our municipalities,” said state Senator Mallory McMorrow (D-Royal Oak). “Through our partnership with the state and MDOT, and as a testament to the stellar coordination on projects from local leadership, we’re able to help bring one more infrastructure project closer to completion for Huntington Woods residents.”
“With Michigan’s often severe weather, our roads can almost always use extra attention. The $250,000 in funding is welcomed news,” said state Representative Joey Andrews (D-St. Joseph). “The investment will allow Saugatuck to make necessary repairs to ensure safer commutes for our neighbors who take Maple Street every day to work, school or wherever else they may need to go. I’m thrilled to see this investment being made in our community, as it will undoubtedly go a long way in keeping our drivers and pedestrians safer on the roads.”
“The additional $250,000 in road repair funding will improve the lives of many Huntington Woods residents,” said state Representative Natalie Price (D-Berkley). “Investing in roads ensures safer communities, reduces wear and tear on our vehicles and enhances the safety of both drivers and pedestrians. I’m proud to have worked alongside my colleagues in the Legislature to secure this funding, and I will continue to advocate for more resources for our communities.”
“The $250,000 investment in Ecorse will be a boon for the city. It will provide for much needed repairs to a number of our neighborhood streets, allowing for people to travel more safely and securely within our community,” said state Representative Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park). “In the long run, this grant will help drivers in our communities save time and money by ensuring that our roads are safe for use while not damaging drivers’ vehicles
Grant awards range from $54,000 to $250,000 for road resurfacing, culvert replacement, pavement crack sealing and other preservative measures.
CSIF Category B grants for 2025
Enacted in 1987 and reauthorized in 1993, the Transportation Economic Development Fund (TEDF) helps finance highway, road and street projects that are critical to the movement of people and products, and for getting workers to their jobs, materials to growers and manufacturers, and finished goods to consumers. TEDF “Category B,” or the “Community Service Infrastructure Fund,” grants are allocated for road improvements in cities and villages with a population of 10,000 or fewer.
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