AG Urges Consumers to Guard Against Porch Pirates
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Gov. Announces Funding to Fix Roads in Rural Counties
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 4, 2024 Contact: [email protected]
Gov. Whitmer Announces Funding to Fix the Damn Roads in Rural Counties, Saving Locals $2.9 Million
LANSING, Mich. - Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer awarded nine grants to the following cities and road agencies to help rebuild local roads in rural counties across Michigan, which will save local taxpayers $2.9 million. “These grants will help communities across the state fix local roads faster so people can get to work or drop their kids off at school and businesses can move goods and supplies around more efficiently all year round,” said Governor Whitmer. “Since I took office, Michigan has fixed nearly 23,000 lane miles of road and 1,400 bridges while supporting tens of thousands of good-paying jobs. Today’s projects will build on that total as we continue working together to fix the damn roads. Let’s keep rolling up our sleeves and moving dirt to make a real difference in people’s lives.”
City of Ishpeming: Washington Street The City of Ishpeming will resurface Washington Street from County Road PAA to Old Washington Street. The project includes pulverizing the existing surface, widening, regrading, compacting and resurfacing the roadway, paving shoulders and installing pavement markings.
Washington Street is part of a truck route connecting the Tilden Mine to US-41. This project will increase pavement depth and improve road quality to allow an increase in truck traffic and safety. Commodities typically hauled on the roadway include mining materials and supplies.
The total project cost is $515,000, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (73 percent of construction costs) and $140,000 in matching funds from the City of Ishpeming.
Mason County Road Commission: South Jebavy Drive The Mason County Road Commission will rebuild South Jebavy Drive from US-10 south to East Mitchell Street. The project will include road and shoulder widening, drainage improvements and the addition of curbs to bring the roadway up to all-season standards.
South Jebavy Road will serve as part of a new all-season route connecting US-10 to Pere Marquette Highway, which will greatly benefit businesses and help with congestion in the area. Commodities hauled on this roadway will include consumable goods, supplies for repair shops, sand, gravel and foundry materials.
The total project cost is $760,330, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (49 percent of construction costs), $385,000 in MDOT Small Urban Funding and $330 in matching funds from the Mason County Road Commission.
City of Allegan: Airway Drive The City of Allegan will resurface Airway Drive from Grand Street to Industrial Drive. The project includes cold milling the existing surface, repaving, curb and gutter replacement, and improvements to sidewalks to comply with American With Disability Act (ADA) standards.
Airway Drive serves as the major connector from M-222, through the Allegan Highland Business Park, as part of a truck route to access County Road A-37 to the north. This project will improve roadway condition and allow truck traffic to operate smoothly on the route. Commodities typically hauled on this road include fabrication materials, moving equipment, packaging materials, skin care and personal hygiene products, and instructional materials.
The total project cost is $787,936, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (48 percent of construction costs) and $412,936 in matching funds from the City of Allegan.
City of Bay City: Marquette Avenue The City of Bay City will resurface Marquette Avenue from Transit Street to Harry S. Truman Parkway. The project includes full-depth concrete patching, traffic signal upgrade, curb repair and installing pavement markings.
Marquette Avenue is a north-south truck route close to the Saginaw River and connects to Veterans Memorial Bridge. Truck traffic is expected to significantly increase on this route as a result of new bridge tolls required on other truck routes in the city. Repairs are needed to be able to withstand the additional traffic over time. Commodities typically hauled on this route include stone materials, machine parts, hot-mix asphalt, industrial products, wind turbine parts and other items imported from other counties by ship.
The total project cost is $470,555, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (80 percent of construction costs) and $95,555 in matching funds from the City of Bay City.
City of St. Clair: Clinton Avenue The City of St. Clair will resurface Clinton Avenue from Fred W. Moore Highway/6th Street to Carney Drive. The project includes milling and resurfacing the existing asphalt surface, replacement of curb and gutter and ADA sidewalk upgrades.
Clinton Avenue is an all-season route between M-29 (Riverside Avenue) and Carney Drive. The project will improve the surface condition to maintain the truck route. Commodities typically hauled on this route include automotive parts, steel, aluminum projects, tool and dies, farming equipment and goods, salt manufacturing materials and goods. Clinton Avenue also is part of an important emergency route.
The total project cost is $552,650, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (68 percent of construction costs) and $177,650 in matching funds from the City of St. Clair.
Van Buren County Road Commission: Kalamazoo Street The Van Buren County Road Commission will resurface Kalamazoo Street from Blue Star Highway north 0.2 miles to the South Haven city limit. The project includes cold milling the existing surface, asphalt paving, curb and gutter replacement, and installing new pavement markings.
Kalamazoo Street is part of a truck route allowing commercial traffic access between the city of South Haven’s industrial areas and Blue Star Highway. This project will improve road conditions for a safe and continuous all-season road system. Commodities typically hauled on this roadway include concrete, landscape materials, steel and other metals, vehicle and equipment parts, plastics and other manufacturing supplies.
The total project cost is $125,645, with up to $100,516 in TEDF Category F funds (80 percent of construction costs) and $25,129 in matching funds from the Van Buren County Road Commission.
Village of Schoolcraft: West Eliza Street The Village of Schoolcraft will rebuild West Eliza Street from US-131 west 0.5 miles to the village limit. The project includes cold milling the existing surface, fine grading and compaction of the aggregate base, paving, re-establishing ditches and installing new pavement markings.
West Eliza Street is a major street in Tecumseh that provides east-west access to town and to US-131. This project will improve the road condition and solve drainage issues to accommodate commercial truck traffic. Commodities typically hauled on this road include aggregate materials, food and beverage, freight and supplies for the downtown businesses.
The total project cost is $402,750, with up to $201,375 in TEDF Category F funds (50 percent of construction) and $201,375 in matching funds from the Village of Schoolcraft.
City of Chelsea: North Street The City of Chelsea will rebuild North Street from M-52 (Main Street) to Hayes Street. The project includes replacing curb and gutter and sidewalk improvements to meet ADA requirements.
North Street serves as the main entrance for the Chelsea Milling Co. and as a commercial traffic bypass route to avoid narrow roadways and pedestrian traffic downtown. This project will improve the paved surface and increase pavement depth, resulting in a longer-lasting roadway capable of handling an increase in truck traffic. Commodities typically hauled on this route include raw ingredients and finished products for the milling company, as well as iron products for a metal stamping company.
The total project cost is $796,679, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (47 percent of construction costs) and $421,679 in matching funds from the City of Chelsea.
City of Tecumseh: South Occidental Highway The City of Tecumseh will resurface South Occidental Highway from M-50 (West Chicago Boulevard) to West Russell Road. The project includes resurfacing the existing asphalt, curb and gutter replacement, new pavement markings and ADA ramp improvements.
South Occidental Highway provides access to the Tecumseh commercial business corridor on M-50. The proposed project will improve the road condition and safety. Commodities typically hauled in this corridor include aggregates, food service, freight and agricultural goods.
The total project cost is $750,035, with up to $375,000 in TEDF Category F funds (50 percent of construction costs) and $375,035 in matching funds from the City of Tecumseh.
About Transportation Economic Development Grants 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 getting workers to their jobs, materials to growers and manufacturers, and finished goods to consumers. TEDF “Category F” or “Urban Areas in Rural Counties” grants provide state funding for public roadway improvements that create system continuity with the secondary all-season road system. Eligible entities for the Category F program are urban areas of 5,000 population or more, in rural counties having less than 400,000 population.
Category F grants provide funding for projects that include improving access to the state all-season system or improving safety and all-season capabilities on routes having high commercial traffic. Eligible road agencies include county road commissions, cities and villages. More information about the program is available online at www.Michigan.gov/TEDF. |
Consumer Alert on Charitable Giving for Giving Tuesday
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$3 Million Pledge by Penske Family Foundation to Integrated Care
Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter Announces $3 Million Pledge by Penske Family Foundation to Integrated Care Center
- The $3 million pledge by Penske Family Foundation, to be disbursed over three years, will bolster the services provided by the Integrated Care Center.
- Led by Honor Community Health in partnership with Oakland County, Oakland Community Health Network, Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency and Trinity Health, the center is expected to open its permanent location in February 2025.
- The Integrated Care Center will provide mental health and medical services, along with wrap-around services offered by Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency.
Dec. 3, 2024, Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter today announced a $3 million pledge from the Penske Family Foundation to support the county’s Integrated Care Center in Pontiac. This significant contribution will enhance access to critical mental health resources and wrap-around services regardless of their ability to pay.
“The mental health crisis facing our community demands comprehensive action,” said Coulter. “This clinic represents our commitment to ensuring that no resident or first responder is left behind when it comes to accessing the care they need. The Penske Family Foundation’s generous support will help us expand services and meet the growing need for immediate and integrated care.”
The permanent facility, expected to open in February 2025, will be located at the former Sarah J. Weber Media Arts Academy on Woodward Avenue. The clinic, currently operating in a temporary location in downtown Pontiac, is led by Honor Community Health in partnership with Oakland County, Oakland Community Health Network, Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency and Trinity Health.
Roger Penske, chairperson of Penske Corporation, highlighted the importance of addressing mental health needs in the community.
“Mental health care is a critical component of a healthy society,” said Penske. “This clinic will provide a lifeline to individuals and families in Oakland County – including first responders – ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need during their most challenging moments.”
Since its soft launch in May 2024, the clinic has already begun transforming care delivery in Oakland County. More than 850 patients, including many from Pontiac, accessed primary and mental health care services at the clinic. The diverse patient population reflects the need for expanded access to care:
- Nearly half of the patients spoke Spanish
- More than 63 percent were women
- 25 percent were uninsured
Dr. Nik Hemady, chief medical officer of Honor Community Health, emphasized the importance of the clinic’s integrated approach.
“By combining primary care with behavioral health services, we can address the full spectrum of patient needs in one location. This is not just about treating symptoms; it’s about improving lives,” Hemady said.
Dana Lasenby, CEO of Oakland Community Health Network, added, “The collaboration between public and private partners on this initiative is a model for how we can expand access to mental health care while reducing barriers such as cost and stigma.”
The Integrated Care Center will provide more than mental health services. Patients will benefit from wrap-around services offered by the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA), including assistance with housing, nutrition and employment resources.
Deputy County Executive Madiha Tariq emphasized the holistic approach of the clinic.
“This is more than a health center – it’s a community hub where residents can access critical resources that promote stability and well-being,” she said.
The $3 million pledge by Penske will bolster the services provided by the Integrated Care Center.
In his 2023 State of the County address, Coulter outlined his vision for this center as part of a broader strategy to address the rising number of adults experiencing mental health crises.
“This clinic will be a lifeline,” Coulter said. “With the help of partners like Penske Family Foundation, Honor Community Health and Oakland Community Health Network we are creating a model for accessible, integrated care that puts people first.”
Whitmer Signs Bills Defending Michigan’s Fair and Free Elections
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 3, 2024 Contact: [email protected]
Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills Defending Michigan’s Fair and Free Elections by Protecting Michigan Voters and Supporting Public Safety
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bills 4127 and 4128 into law, making it illegal to possess a firearm at polling locations across the state. These commonsense bills build on the Whitmer-Gilchrist administration’s commitment to defending fair and free elections by reducing the threat of voter intimidation and suppression. Governor Whitmer also signed House Bills 5683 and 5684, supporting local businesses across the state by cutting red tape and expanding service ranges for estheticians and cosmetologists.
“Today, I am proud to sign commonsense legislation that protects voters and election workers and cuts red tape for local small businesses,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “Together, we are creating a safe environment for voters to make their voices heard. Here in Michigan, we are getting it done, whether it’s defending our fair and free elections or making it easier for local businesses to provide services and do their jobs.”
House Bill 4127 and House Bill 4128, sponsored by state Representative Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing) and state Representative Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit), will bolster public safety and strengthen election security by making it illegal to have a firearm at a polling or counting board location. These bills will ensure Michiganders are protected from the threat of gun violence when they head to the polls to cast their vote and also mitigate opportunities for voter intimidation, supporting our fair and free elections.
“Today, we are taking action to prevent voter intimidation and gun violence in our state,” said state Rep. Penelope Tsernoglou (D-East Lansing). “By increasing security measures, such as this legislation, we are ensuring that every Michigander can cast their ballot free from intimidation and that every election worker can perform their duty without fear of violence. I am thrilled to see this legislation signed into law.”
“This legislation is about protecting our democracy and everyone who makes it work. Voters, election workers and officials should never feel threatened or intimidated at the polls,” said state Rep. Stephanie A. Young (D-Detroit). “By creating safe, weapon-free zones around polling places and counting boards, we’re reinforcing the principle that violence has no place in our electoral process.”
House Bill 5683 and House Bill 5684, sponsored by state Representative Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park), will give estheticians and cosmetologists more flexibility in the range of services they can offer. By eliminating the red tape estheticians and cosmetologists have to jump through to provide services they have trained for, these bills will support small businesses and local economies across the state.
“I’m happy to see this legislation being signed into law,” said state Rep. Tullio Liberati (D-Allen Park). “This legislation will help to maintain a working status quo. Many estheticians already provide the services safeguarded in these bills, in a safe, sanitary and professional manner. There was no legitimate reason to prohibit continuation or to negatively impact their income and business.” |
Gov. Whitmer Strengthens Economic Ties with Spain
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 27, 2024 Contact: [email protected]
Gov. Whitmer Strengthens Economic Ties with Spain to Boost Foreign Investment and Job Creation in Michigan
LANSING, Mich. — A Michigan delegation led by Governor Gretchen Whitmer recently concluded its successful economic mission to Spain, reinforcing Michigan’s commitment to fostering global partnerships and attracting foreign direct investment to the state. With an emphasis on the “Make It in Michigan” economic development strategy of investing in People, revitalizing Places, and winning Projects, the mission focused on expanding opportunities for collaboration with Spain’s key industries and strengthening economic ties between the country and state.
“Investment is essential to Michigan’s continued economic growth, and this mission highlights our commitment to building strong partnerships that create good-paying jobs and continue innovation across our state,” said Governor Whitmer. “Spain is a valued ally and a critical partner in industries that matter to Michigan’s future, and together, we’re advancing a shared vision of economic opportunity and sustainability.”
During the visit, the Team Michigan delegation, including Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) CEO Quentin L. Messer, Jr., hosted a business roundtable with Spanish industry leaders. Additionally, Team Michigan visited with Gestamp to further build relationships with the multinational company who recently announced their Michigan expansions in Mason, Lapeer, and Chelsea. The company’s footprint in Michigan includes areas represented by state Senators Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), Sue Shink (D-Northfield Twp.), Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield), Kevin Daley (R-Lum), Michael Webber (R-Rochester Hills), and state Representatives Julie Brixie (D-Okemos), Kathy Schmaltz (R-Jackson), Brenda Carter (D-Pontiac), Phil Green (R-Millington), and Sharon MacDonnell (D-Troy).
The delegation also met with senior government officials in Madrid and Catalonia to discuss new avenues for trade, investment, and mutual growth in key sectors critical to both Spain and Michigan’s economies. On Monday, the governor met with the President of Catalonia Mr. Salvador Illa Roca and Jaume Baró Torres, Secretary for Enterprise and Competitiveness of the Ministry of Business and Labour of the Government of Catalonia and CEO of ACCIÓ in Barcelona. On Tuesday, the governor met with the Minister of Industry and Tourism Jordi Hereu Boher and Secretary of State for Industry Rebecca Torro in Madrid.
“We are grateful for the hospitality that we were shown in Spain. Team Michigan remains laser-focused on creating Michigan jobs and opportunities through global investment. These missions are critical to ensuring that Michigan is top of mind for foreign companies seeking to enter or expand in the North American market, since we are visiting them at their home locations and presenting Michigan’s strengths as they make investment decisions,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr. “This investment mission is integral to our broader ‘Make It in Michigan’ strategy and we’re proud to have strengthened our ties with Spain, a leader in advanced manufacturing and clean energy.”
Michigan and Spain have a mutually beneficial economic relationship, as Michigan is Spain’s fifth-largest trading partner in terms of U.S. states and Spain is Michigan’s 11th-largest export market. In 2023, Michigan exported more than $770 million worth of goods to Spain, and in the last ten years, companies from Spain invested in eight foreign direct investment projects resulting in 926 jobs created and $283.98 million in capital investment.
This economic development mission is supported by the MEDC and the Michigan Economic Development Foundation, an independent, not-for-profit organization that serves to help promote and fund economic development efforts in Michigan that create private investments and increase jobs and wages.
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