Oakland County Retains Top Credit Rating

Oakland County Retains Top Credit Rating

by | Oct 14, 2024 | Regional News

Oakland County Retains Top Credit Rating for $18 Million Bond, Citing Strong Financial Management and Growth

Post Date:10/14/2024 12:54 PM
  • Bond rating agencies gave Oakland County a stable outlook citing strong management under County Executive Dave Coulter and the Board of Commissioners.
  • The county’s administration has proposed, and the bipartisan board has approved, strong policies and practices that help the county maintain its robust fund balance and liquidity.
  • Oakland County received the highest credit rating for bonds that will fund vital upgrades to the Huron Rouge Sewage Disposal System in Novi.

Pontiac, Mich., – Oakland County has maintained its Aaa bond rating from Moody’s and AAA bond rating from Standard & Poor’s (S&P), both with a stable outlook, for its $18 million Huron Rouge Sewage Disposal System Capital Improvement Bonds, Series 2024. These top-tier credit ratings place Oakland County among an elite group, as only about three percent of counties in the United States achieve these highest credit scores.

Moody’s cited the county’s growing tax base, substantial reserve cushion and strong management under Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter’s administration, working in collaboration with the Board of Commissioners and Treasurer Robert Wittenberg, as key factors for the stable outlook.

The agency noted the county’s adherence to budgetary and debt policies, adding that “management maintains strong policies and practices that sustain its robust fund balance and liquidity.”

S&P said the county’s management practices are proactive, viewing “county management as highly effective given sophisticated, forward-looking policies and robust well-embedded practices.” The agency also noted that the county’s reserves had grown to $445 million under Coulter’s leadership.

“A triple-A bond rating is so much more than an obscure grade that Wall Street doles out to government,” said Coulter. “It means we are strong fiscal stewards of taxpayer dollars. It means we are saving money on projects that are improving the lives of our residents. And it translates into the confidence that business leaders can have in Oakland County when they’re looking at where to locate and expand their companies.”

Board of Commissioners Chair David T. Woodward said the bipartisan board works together to ensure the county’s fiscal practices are strong.

“Long-term planning, fiscal responsibility and proactive leadership is central to every decision and act we take,” said Oakland County Board of Commissioners Chairman David T. Woodward. “Reaffirming our AAA bond status affirms our fiscal strength and current county leadership.”

Wittenberg said maintaining a Aaa bond rating helps the county fund infrastructure improvements while saving taxpayers money.

“Oakland County’s top-tier bond rating demonstrates our unwavering commitment to sound fiscal management,” said Oakland County Treasurer Robert Wittenberg. “This rating enables the funding of crucial infrastructure projects, leading to savings for taxpayers and bolstering the county’s enduring stability and advancement, ensuring a high quality of life for residents and business owners.”

The Huron Rouge Sewage Disposal System project entails vital improvements in Novi that extend from the north side of I-96 and east of Taft Road to Chattman Street north of Nine Mile Road. During a 2019 closed-circuit television inspection of the pipe, significant structural defects – including loss of concrete pipe thickness – were creating microbial-induced corrosion.

“If left unchecked, this could present a long-term concern of the structural integrity of the sewer pipe,” said Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash. “Taking these proactive measures are just part of the service we extend to the people we serve, and our credit rating allows us to save significantly in our project financing.”

The Huron Rouge Sewage Disposal System Capital Improvement Bonds, Series 2024 are expected to be sold on Oct. 31.

Whitmer Honors Native American Veterans Day

Whitmer Honors Native American Veterans Day

by | Oct 11, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES 

October 11, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Honors Native American Veterans Day 

Celebrating the service, sacrifice and resilience of Native American Veterans

 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued a proclamation recognizing October 11, 2024, as Native American Veterans Day in Michigan. This day honors the remarkable contributions of Native American veterans, who have served with exceptional courage, valor, and loyalty in the U.S. Armed Forces, from the Revolutionary War to Iraq and Afghanistan.

 

“Native American veterans have demonstrated unparalleled bravery and commitment to their tribal nations and our country throughout history,” said Governor Whitmer. “These men and women have not only defended our freedoms on the battlefield but have also played crucial roles in advocating for the rights and needs of their communities. On Native American Veterans Day, we pay tribute to their service, sacrifice, and resilience, and we recommit to ensuring they receive the support and recognition they deserve.”

 

“As we mark Native American Veterans Day, we honor the deep sense of duty and warrior spirit that Native American veterans have shown in their service to this nation,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “Their legacy of bravery, honor, and commitment has helped shape the fabric of our country. Today, we not only reflect on their contributions but also recommit ourselves to ensuring that they have access to the benefits, healthcare, and support they deserve. We stand tall for our Native American veterans, honoring their courage and the strength they’ve shown on and off the battlefield.”

 

A Legacy of Service: Native Americans’ Proud History of Military Enlistment

Native Americans have historically enlisted in the military at higher rates per capita than any other ethnic group. Over 44,000 Native Americans served in World War II, including more than 800 Native American women who served in the Women’s Army Corps. Today, there are more than 140,000 Native American veterans across the United States and Puerto Rico, with 2,534 living in Michigan.

 

Governor Whitmer’s proclamation acknowledges the enduring challenges that Native American veterans face, including access to healthcare, benefits, and support services. The state of Michigan remains committed to advocating for these veterans and working alongside community leaders to ensure that their sacrifices are honored, and their needs met.

 

Native American Veterans Day serves as an opportunity to reflect on the significant role that Native Americans have played in defending the nation and to raise awareness about the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of Native American veterans. Michigan encourages all residents to learn more about the experiences of Native American veterans and honor their contributions to the state and the country.

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

by | Oct 10, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 10, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

  Governor Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

  LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the following appointments to the Michigan Women’s Commission, Michigan Board of Dentistry, Michigan Beef Industry Commission, Board of Barber Examiners, Military Appeals Tribunal, Statewide Housing Partnership, and the Michigan Wildlife Council, and Commission on Middle Eastern Affairs. 

Today’s appointees represent Michigan’s young professionals, communities of color, seniors, and more. The appointees announced this week build on Governor Whitmer’s work to ensure appointees reflect Michigan’s diverse population. Sixty percent of appointees are women or people of color, and the Whitmer cabinet is the most diverse in Michigan history. 

Michigan Women’s Commission 

D. Sue Townsel, of West Bloomfield, is the project manager of Corewell Health Children’s of Southeast Michigan. She was recently the manager of the Gilbert Family Adolescent and Young Adult Program at Corewell Health East and served as a health educator for Cancer Clinical Trials at legacy Beaumont Health System. Townsel holds a Bachelor of Science in human ecology from Michigan State University and a Master of Science in social work from Wayne State University and is also currently enrolled in the global executive MBA program at the University of Notre Dame. Townsel has served on the Michigan Women’s Commission since 2022, and she is appointed as Chairperson of the Commission for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. D. Sue Townsel succeeds Dr. Geneva Williams as chair, whose term as Chairperson has expired.

  Lisa Cawley, of Ann Arbor, is the Michigan public service account lead at Accenture, LLP. Since first joining the firm in 2010, she has held multiple high-level roles at Accenture. Cawley has served on the Michigan Women’s Commission since 2022, and she is appointed as Vice Chairperson of the Commission for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring at the pleasure of the Governor. Cawley succeeds D. Sue Townsel, who has been appointed as Chairperson.  

The Michigan Women’s Commission was created by statute in 1968. The Commission’s duties include reviewing the status of women in Michigan, directing attention to critical problems confronting women, and recognizing women’s accomplishments and contributions to Michigan.  

   Chairperson and Vice Chairperson designations are not subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.   

Michigan Board of Dentistry 

Delbert Denkins, of Berrien Springs, is a commercial real estate appraisal and evaluation manager at Huntington National Bank. He has previously been chief appraiser at Chemical Bank in St. Joseph and a commercial real estate appraiser at Feasibility Research Group. He is licensed in the State of Michigan as a certified general real estate appraiser. He earned a Bachelor of Economics from Eastern Michigan University and a master’s degree in management, strategy, and leadership from Michigan State University. Delbert Denkins is appointed to represent the general public for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring June 30, 2027. Denkins succeeds Fonda Brewer, whose term has expired.

 

The Michigan Board of Dentistry was formed to regulate the practice of dentistry and dental hygiene, authorize dental assistants, and certify specialists in the fields of orthodontics, endodontics, prosthodontics, pediatric dentistry, periodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and oral pathology.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Michigan Beef Industry Commission

Tamara Klink, of Garden, farms with family on the Garden Peninsula where they raise cattle and grow all the feed for their operation. She holds a Bachelor of Science in agriculture and natural resources communications from Michigan State University. Tamara Klink is appointed to represent beef cattle growers for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring May 31, 2027. She succeeds Jon Haindl, whose term has expired.

 

Leon Knirk, of Quincy, is the owner of LDK Farms. He holds an associate degree from Kalamazoo Valley Community College and a bachelor’s degree from Davenport University. Leon Knirk is reappointed to represent beef cattle feeders for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring May 31, 2027.

 

Jennifer Lewis, of Jonesville, is the human resources director and manager of Pleasant View Agriculture. She is the district 2 director and an executive committee member of the Michigan Farm Bureau and treasurer of the Hillsdale County Dairy Promoters. Jennifer Lewis is reappointed to represent dairy producers for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring May 31, 2027.

 

The Michigan Beef Industry Commission was created under Public Act 291 in 1972 to promote the sale of beef and beef products. The Commission, the Beef Promotion and Research Board, and the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association work together in a coordinated state and national effort to promote beef and veal products in order to hold market share and increase the demand for beef and veal.

 

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Board of Barber Examiners

Esteban “Stevie” Velazquez, of Flat Rock, is a licensed barber and the owner of Goodfellas Barber Company. Esteban “Stevie” Velazquez is appointed to represent barbers for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2028. Velazquez succeeds Paul Trowbridge, whose term has expired.

 

The Michigan Board of Barber Examiners was created to regulate the services of barbers, barber students, barber colleges, barber instructors, student instructors, and barbershops in Michigan. The statute defines a barber as a person who shaves or trims the beard of a person; cuts, trims, shampoos, relaxes, curls, permanently waves, dresses, tints, bleaches, colors, arranges, or styles the hair of a person; massages the face and head of a person; or renders personal services of a similar nature customarily done by a barber.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Military Appeals Tribunal

Robert Gardella, of Brighton, is an attorney at law at Robert C. Gardella, PLLC. He is a former member of State Bar of Michigan Board of Commissioners and the former chairperson of the State Bar of Michigan Representative Assembly. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Michigan State University and a Juris Doctor from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. Robert Garella is reappointed as a civilian licensed to practice law in this state for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring April 16, 2027.

 

The Military Appeals Tribunal has appellate jurisdiction, upon petition of an accused, to hear and review the record in all decisions of a court-martial after the review provided in the Michigan code of military justice.

 

This appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.

 

Statewide Housing Partnership

Nicole Basch, of Traverse City, is the housing director and a member of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Basch received her Bachelor of Arts in management and organizational development Spring Arbor University and her Associate’s of applied science in business administration from Northwestern Michigan College. Nicole Basch is reappointed as a representative of Tribal Government in Michigan for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

David Bulkowski, of Grand Rapids, is executive director at the Disability Advocates of Kent County. David holds his Bachelor of Arts in theology, his Master of Arts in theological studies from Catholic University of Louvain, and his Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University Law School. David is an active member on the boards of the Fair Housing Center of West Michigan, the Greater Grand Rapids Home and Building Association, the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights – Michigan State Advisory Committee. David was also a former Kent County Commissioner and past member of the Grand Rapids Board of Education. David Bulkowski is reappointed to represent community development or advocacy organizations that provide services or housing to families, or support other organizations who do, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Stephan Currie, of East Lansing, is the executive director of Michigan Association of Counties. He also serves as a member on the Horizon Bank Advisory Board of Directors, the Citizens Research Council of Michigan Board of Directors, and was a former member of the Michigan State University Green and White PAC Board of Directors. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in business administration from Hope College and a Master of Business Administration from Michigan State University. Stephan Currie is reappointed to represent local government, which might include representatives from county or municipal government associations, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Nikki Devitt, of Petoskey, is the president of the Petoskey Regional Chamber and has worked for the chamber since 2014. She also serves as a founding member of the Little Traverse Bay Housing Partnership and is a member of the boards of directors for Northern Community Mediation the Little Traverse Civic Center. Nikki graduated from Caro Community High School and has attended nonprofit and leadership trainings at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Institute for Organization Management and Leadership Little Traverse. Nikki Devitt is reappointed to represent business advocacy organizations for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Catherine Distelrath, of Farmington Hills, is a licensed social worker and the director of Michigan programs for the Cooperation for Supportive Housing. She received her Bachelor of Science in psychology and sociology from John Carroll University and her Master of Social Work from the University of Michigan. Catherine Distelrath is reappointed to represent organizations that advocate in support of access to resources and services for marginalized individuals and families for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Zosia Eppensteiner, of Marquette, serves as the chief executive officer of the Community Foundation of Marquette and has worked for the foundation since 2013. She has served as an adjunct professor of Mathematics for Northern Michigan University. She also serves as a board member of the Community Development Association of Michigan, the Community Foundation Committee, and the Statewide Equity Fund Work Group through the Council of Michigan Foundations, as a Marquette County Ambassador through the Lake Superior Community Partnership and as a board member for the Marquette Food Co-op. Zosia holds a Master of Science in mathematics and Master of Arts in sociology from the University of Gdansk in Poland. Zosia Eppensteiner is appointed to represent philanthropic or nonprofit organizations that promote the welfare of others through funding or programing for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Robert Filka, of Muskegon, is the chief executive officer of the Home Builders Association of Michigan. He previously served as the vice president of strategic initiatives for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and as a policy advisor for the Office of Governor John Engler. He has also chaired the Michigan Habitat for Humanity Board of Directors and the Michigan Virtual University. He received his Bachelor of Arts in business administration at Hope College. Robert Filka is reappointed to represent development associations or organizations, which might include organizations representing realtors, builders, and planners, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Amin Irving, of West Bloomfield, is the founder and chief executive officer of Ginosko Development Company. Ginosko owns thirty-six apartment properties across southeast Michigan, several of which are categorized as affordable housing operations. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Michigan. He serves on the boards of the Michigan Housing Council, the Modular Builders Institute, the Urban Land Institute, and the Urban Land Institute Local Product Council. He holds several 40 under 40 awards from Crain’s Detroit Business, the University of Michigan, and the Michigan Chronicle. Amin Irving is reappointed to represent development associations or organizations, which might include organizations representing realtors, builders, or planners, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

David LaLumia, of Eagle, is the executive director of the Area Agencies on Aging Association of Michigan. David received a Master of Social Work in public policy and administration from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor of Arts in history from Loyola University. Previously, LaLumia was president and chief executive officer of Health Care Association of Michigan and executive director of the Michigan Association for Community Health Boards. David LaLumia is reappointed to represent community development or advocacy organizations that provide services or housing to families, or support other organizations who do, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Joshua Lunger, of Grand Rapids, is the vice president of government affairs at the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. He received a Bachelor of Science in political science from Grand Valley State University. Lunger is a former Sergeant in the United States Army. He serves as president of the Kent County Housing Commission and president of the Wellspring Preparatory High School Board of Education. Joshua Lunger is reappointed to represent business advocacy organizations for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Sergio Martinez, of Detroit, is currently in the restaurant and hotel management business and serves on the board of Michigan United. Martinez is a longtime activist, especially for immigrant rights, affordable housing, Latino leadership, and LGBTQ+ rights. He graduated from Woodhaven High School. Sergio Martinez is reappointed as an individual with lived experience of housing instability for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Christine Narayanan, of Ann Arbor, is the president and chief executive officer of Opportunity Resource Fund. Narayanan is also the co-founder and current board chair of the Detroit Coalition, a founding steering committee member the Michigan Community Development Financial Institutions Coalition and serves as the public interest director for the Board the Federal Home Loan Bank of Indianapolis. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in management and organizational development from Spring Arbor University. Christine Narayanan is reappointed to represent the finance industry, including banking institutions, credit unions, or their respective associations, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Jason Paulateer, of Detroit, serves as the senior vice president of community development markets at Fifth Third Bank, where he is responsible for Michigan, Chicago and Indiana. With more than twenty years of banking and community experience, his most recent role was market manager at PNC Bank, and he has also served as an adjunct instructor of finance courses at Grand Rapids Community College and for the University of Phoenix. He holds a Bachelor of Business Management from Grand Valley State University and a Master of Business Administration from Grand Valley State University. He serves as the board chairman of Communities First in Flint as a board member for Samaritas, Forgotten Harvest, and LifeBUILDERS, and also serves as board secretary for Gleaners Food Bank of Southeast Michigan. Jason Paulateer is reappointed to represent the finance industry, including banking institutions, credit unions, or their respective associations, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Jennifer Rigterink, of DeWitt, is the assistant director of state and federal affairs at the Michigan Municipal League. Previously, Jennifer was the manager of the redevelopment ready communities and Michigan Main Street programs at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Rigterink holds her Bachelor of Science in urban and regional planning from Michigan State University and is a certified economic development finance professional with The National Development Council. Jennifer represents the league on MEDC’s Technical Assistance Advisory Council and serves on the executive committee of the Housing Michigan Coalition. Jennifer Rigterink is reappointed to represent local government, which might include representatives from county or municipal government associations, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Brad Ward, of South Lyon, is currently the vice president of public policy and legal affairs for the Michigan Realtors Association. He previously held a position at the Michigan House of Representatives as a legislative aid to Representative Nancy Cassis. He is a member of the National Association of Realtors Government Affairs Director Advisory Board, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce Tax Policy Committee, and the John Drypen Foundation. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in political theory and constitutional democracy for Michigan State University and his Juris Doctorate from Wayne State University School of Law. Brad Ward is reappointed to represent development associations or organizations, which might include organizations representing realtors, builders, and planners, for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Kaitlynn Lamie, of Shelby Township, is the interim president and chief executive officer of the Michigan Association of United Ways and she has been with the organization since 2012. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in international relations and social relations and policy from Michigan State University. Kaitlynn Lamie is reappointed to represent organizations that advocate in support of access to resources and services for marginalized individuals and families for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Dana Linnane, of Okemos, is the foundation liaison to the Governor’s Office of the Foundation Liaison. She was previously a policy and communications officer for the W.K. Kellogg Foundation and has a long career in the foundation space. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in communication studies and design and a Master of Public Policy from the University of Michigan. Dana Linnane is reappointed to represent philanthropic or nonprofit organizations for a term commencing October 10, 2024, and expiring September 30, 2027.

 

Asa Zuccaro, of Flint, is the executive director of the Latinx Technology and Community Center in Flint. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Africana studies and psychology from the University of Michigan. He serves on the foundation board of Mott Community College and the steering committee of the Flint and Genesee Literacy Network and was recognized by the Michigan Hispanic/Latino Commission as an Emerging Leader in 2018. Asa Zuccaro is appointed as an individual
Whitmer Signs Bills to Support Michigan Students and Schools

Whitmer Signs Bills to Support Michigan Students and Schools

by | Oct 10, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE  

October 10, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills to Support Michigan Students and Schools, Investing in Literacy Education, School Safety and Mental Health Programs, and More

These commonsense, bipartisan bills bolster Governor Whitmer’s commitment to Michigan’s students, schools, and educators by building on the historic investments made in the FY25 Budget.

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Whitmer signed three bills that build on the most recent budget’s historic investments in Michigan’s students, schools, and teachers. These bills will put money back in the pockets of Michiganders, grant greater financial flexibility to our schools, and ensure all students get the support they need in the classroom, making Michigan a state where anyone can live, work, and invest.

 

“These commonsense, bipartisan bills will help us build a brighter future for Michigan by making key investments in our schools, students, and teachers,” said Governor Whitmer. “From investing $125 million more in our students and schools to implementing proven science of reading strategies that will improve literacy, I’m committed to making a real difference in people’s lives. That’s why I’m proud to sign these three bills into law, giving our schools, students, and teachers the flexibility they need.”

 

House Bill 5503, sponsored by state Representative Regina Weiss (D-Oak Park), adds $125 million in School Aid Fund money for Fiscal Year 2025, supporting per-pupil school safety and mental health in school districts across the state. The bill also secures one million dollars to support a tip line for students to anonymously report improperly stored firearms that were accessible to a minor. By investing in school safety, this commonsense legislation will keep our kids safer and make our communities stronger.

 

“As a teacher-turned-legislator, I understand firsthand how important it is to make the necessary investments to ensure our schools have the resources they need for success. Michigan Democrats are taking the lead in transforming our schools statewide,” said state Representative Regina Weiss, chair of House Appropriations Subcommittee on School Aid and Education. “This substantial investment will strengthen our schools and allow them to focus on meeting the unique needs of their students and communities. Strong schools support healthy kids, and Michigan Democrats will always put our kids first.”

 

Senate Bills 567 and 568, sponsored by state Senators Jeff Irwin (D-Ann Arbor) and Danya Polehanki (D-Livonia), implements proven “Science of Reading” strategies in public schools’ curricula to increase literacy for Michigan’s students. The bill also ensures all Michigan schools test for and support students with dyslexia. This commonsense piece of legislation ensures Michigan students get the help they need to succeed in schools and takes the burden of expensive testing and tutoring off of parents, expanding access to education and putting money back in Michiganders’ pockets. By supporting students from an early age, Michigan will continue to be a state where folks want to raise their families.

 

“These bills improve literacy by weaving the science of reading into our assessments, our teaching methods, and through teacher training,” said state Senator Jeff Irwin. “By focusing on the foundational skills of literacy and emphasizing decoding skills in early grades, we can help thousands of students with characteristics of dyslexia from falling through the cracks.”

 

“Far too many Michigan students struggling with dyslexia have gone under the radar for far too long — and these students deserve so much better,” said state Senator Dayna Polehanki. “I’m thrilled that our bipartisan legislation to implement dyslexia screening and intervention in our schools has finally been signed into law. As a former educator, I know that this is a commonsense solution that will eliminate barriers to literacy and position our youth for successful futures.”

 

 

Gov. Whitmer at bill signing event

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gov. Whitmer at bill signing event

 

 

 

 

 
Whitmer Makes Appointments to Boards and Commissions 

Gov. Whitmer Makes Appointment to the Bench 

by | Oct 8, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 8, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Makes Appointment to the Bench

 

LANSING, Mich. —Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the appointment of Anthony McDowell to the 7th Circuit Court in Genesee County.

 

“I am proud to appoint Anthony to the bench in Genesee,” said Governor Whitmer. “He brings years of diverse experience to the position, and I know he will serve the people well and uphold the rule of law. As a fellow Spartan, I wish him the best of luck. Go Green!”

 

7th Circuit Court– Genesee County

 

Anthony McDowell, of Fenton, currently serves as the Friend of the Court director for the Genesee County Circuit Court. He previously served as both Deputy Friend of the Court and a staff attorney since starting with the Friend of the Court in 2014. Prior to his work at the Friend of the Court, McDowell worked as a judicial advisory assistant at the Genesee County Circuit Court under the Honorable Duncan M. Beagle.

 

McDowell is also involved in a number of Professional Associations, including the Friend of the Court Association, Family Law Section of the State Bar of Michigan, the Genesee County Bar Association, the Michigan Child Support Formula Committee, Michigan Model Family Court Plan Committee, and the Michigan IV-D Program Leadership Group.

 

Anthony McDowell received his Bachelor of Arts in political science from Michigan State University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Toledo College of Law.

 

“I would like to thank Governor Whitmer for this appointment and her confidence in my ability to take on this great responsibility.  I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to continue to serve the families of my community in this new role.”

 

This appointment was made to fill a partial term following the resignation of Judge John A. Gadola. Judge McDowell’s term will commence on October 14, 2024, and expire at twelve o’clock noon on January 1, 2027.

 

judicial

12 Michigan Schools Honored for Blue Ribbon Recognition 

12 Michigan Schools Honored for Blue Ribbon Recognition 

by | Oct 1, 2024 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR PLANNING PURPOSES 

October 1, 2024

Contact: [email protected]

Gov. Whitmer Sends Tributes to 12 Michigan Schools Honored for National Blue Ribbon Recognition 

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer sent tributes to 12 Michigan schools for being named 2024 National Blue Ribbon Schools by the U.S. Department of Education. This prestigious recognition is awarded annually to schools that demonstrate exceptional academic performance or make significant strides in closing achievement gaps among student groups.

 

“I’m proud of our work to build a strong public education system that gives every Michigan student a real opportunity to succeed,” said Governor Whitmer. “These twelve schools represent the best of what’s possible when we invest in our kids, teachers, and communities. Their achievements show that every child can thrive academically and have a bright future with the right support. We will continue working together to ensure all of our schools have the resources they need to empower our students, close achievement gaps, and help families continue to make it here in Michigan.”

 

“Education is the key to unlocking the full potential of every Michigan student,” said Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. “These National Blue Ribbon Schools demonstrate what happens when we prioritize student success and close achievements gaps across our state. By investing in our schools and ensuring that every child has access to the best educational opportunities, we’re empowering future leaders and innovators. We are grateful to the educators, students, and communities that made this achievement possible. Together, we will continue building a Michigan where every child can thrive, and every family can stand tall.”

 

12 Michigan Schools Honored for National Blue Ribbon Recognition:

  • Chandler Woods Charter Academy (high performing), located in Belmont.
  • Hill Elementary School (high performing), Davison Community Schools.
  • Dearborn STEM Middle School (high performing), Dearborn Public Schools.
  • Pembroke Academy (achievement gap closing), located in Detroit.
  • Lake Hills Elementary School (high performing), Grand Haven Area Public Schools.
  • Rosy Mound Elementary School (high performing), Grand Haven Area Public Schools.
  • Hughes Elementary School (achievement gap closing), Marshall Public Schools.
  • Moraine Elementary School (high performing), Northville Public Schools.
  • Pellston Elementary School (achievement gap closing), Pellston Public Schools.
  • Meadow Ridge Elementary (high performing) School, Rockford Public Schools.
  • Handley Elementary School (high performing), Saginaw Public Schools.
  • Hamilton Elementary School (high performing), Troy School District.

 

Nominated schools also complete an extensive narrative application describing their school culture and philosophy, curriculum, assessments, instructional practices, professional development, leadership structures, and parent and community involvement.

 

“I am immensely proud of the students, teachers, and staff of Moraine Elementary for being recognized as one of the top performing schools in the state,” said Sen. Rosemary Bayer (D-West Bloomfield). “This is a significant accomplishment and testament to the hard work and dedication they show in the classroom every day. I want to offer my sincere congratulations — it is truly an honor to serve you and all of our District 13 schools at the Capitol, where I am working alongside colleagues to ensure our future leaders are set up for success. Keep up the good work.”

 

“Handley Elementary School is always leading the way for best education practices and raising the bar for student growth and success. This recognition as a National Blue-Ribbon School Program is a point of pride for our entire community,” said Sen. Kristen McDonald Rivet (D-Bay City). “I am proud to extend my congratulations and to join them in celebrating this achievement.”

 

“Winning this award is a remarkable achievement for the staff, administration, and students of Pembroke Academy, and it reflects the school’s dedication to academic excellence,” said Sen. Jeremy Moss (D-Southfield). “Congratulations to everyone involved — from parents to teachers, it truly takes a community effort.”

 

“Congratulations to the students and teachers of Dearborn STEM Academy. Your dedication to both learning and teaching has led to this well-deserved award,” said state Sen. Sylvia Santana (D-Detroit). “This achievement reflects your daily efforts, and it’s exciting to see your hard work be honored on a national scale.”

 

“This is an exciting day for Dearborn STEM Middle School,” said state Rep. Erin Byrnes (D-Dearborn). “Our middle school and its students are being recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for being a high-performing school. I would like to congratulate all the students, teachers and staff who have worked so hard to get this recognition. I am very proud of you all.”

 

“I would like to congratulate Hamilton Elementary School for being recognized as a high-performing school by the U.S. Department of Education,” said state Rep. Sharon MacDonell (D-Troy). “This is an incredible achievement that the students, teachers, staff, and families all deserve. They all worked so hard to achieve this recognition, and I am very proud of them. Congratulations, Hamilton Elementary school — you’ve earned it!”

 

“I’m proud of my community, our people and our successes,” said state Rep. Amos O’Neal (D-Saginaw). “I congratulate Handley Elementary School on this wonderful achievement, as a high-performing school, right here in Saginaw. What an accomplishment to be celebrated — shout out to Principal Julie Miller for all the hard work and to the teachers and staff who have dedicated their time and knowledge to our kids.”

 

“This recognition is a testament to the teachers, staff and parents at Moraine Elementary and their bright-minded students,” said state Rep. Matt Koleszar (D-Plymouth). “Their hard work and care for every child’s education journey is evident in their students’ achievement and love for learning. Congratulations to Moraine Elementary for this well-deserved recognition as a high-performing school!”

 

“Congratulations to the teachers, staff, and students at Pembroke Academy for receiving this title from the U.S. Department of Education for their incredible work to close the achievement gap for their students,” said state Rep. Natalie Price (D-Berkley). “This is proof that our kids thrive when teachers and parents work together to help students develop the critical skills they need to grow into future leaders of our communities. I want to thank the dedicated staff at Pembroke Academy for putting their students first.”