Michigan Headlines

Governor Granholm’s Statement on Observance of Labor Day

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 09/03/2010 - 6:36pm

Have a safe and happy Labor Day weekend everyone!

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm issued the following statement today on the observance of Labor Day:

“For more than 100 years our nation has observed Labor Day to recognize the social and economic achievements of American workers, and to pay tribute to the contributions they have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country. This weekend as we celebrate the unofficial end to summer, let us remember the contributions made by hard working men and women who makeup Michigan’s workforce, one of the most highly skilled in the world. Further, let recommit ourselves to the ongoing effort to retain the jobs we have and to create new opportunities that will allow working families to prosper in the 21st century.”

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Radio Address: Children Heading Back to School Benefiting from Stronger Curriculum, Higher Standards

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 09/03/2010 - 4:33pm

In this week’s radio address, Governor Granholm highlights how improvements in Michigan education standards are helping to prepare kids to succeed in college and the competitive global economy.

Hello, this is Governor Jennifer Granholm.

On Tuesday, children across the state head back to school and toward a brighter future.

All children in Michigan need a world-class education that prepares them for success in college and in the workplace. So in addition to diversifying our economy and creating jobs, education has been a top priority of mine. I’ve fought for stronger curriculum, higher standards and tougher graduation requirements. And I’m proud to say student achievement is rising and college enrollment is up.

We created higher standards for kids in our elementary and middle schools - every grade; and as a result, math and reading scores have risen to record levels for students in grades 3 through 8.

And to better assess students’ academic progress and help them prepare for success in college, we required that every high school junior, beginning with the class of 2008, take the American College Test (ACT). And each year since 2008, ACT scores have increased.

Four years ago, we created a rigorous curriculum that will ensure that all our high school graduates are prepared for the demands of college and the workplace. When our high school seniors graduate in June, they’ll be the first to have completed this tougher curriculum.

When we implemented the more rigorous curriculum, many people feared that the state’s high school dropout rate would increase. But just the opposite has happened. Since 2007, the dropout rate has decreased by almost four percentage points.

Much of what we’ve done to improve education in Michigan directly results from a report issued six years ago by the bipartisan Commission on Higher Education and Economic Growth. That commission, chaired by Lt. Governor John Cherry, provided a road map to making fundamental changes in our education system in Michigan.

We’re making progress toward one of our most important education goals, which is doubling the number of college graduates in Michigan.

More students are taking advanced placement classes for college - up nearly 70 percent since 2002. Enrollment in both community colleges and state universities has jumped substantially as well.

And on September 7, the Michigan College Access Portal is going live. This is a free Web-based resource that will help students and their families plan for college. The website is www.michigancap.org, and, again, it goes live September 7.

When students return to our public schools next week, they’ll be learning from a curriculum designed to help them succeed in college and in a global economy. Our commitment to higher education standards will pay even greater dividends in the future. But the results we’ve already seen indicate education in Michigan is on the right track, and that is good news for everyone.

Thank you for listening.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor Granholm Calls on Big Banks to Help Families Facing Foreclosure

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Wed, 09/01/2010 - 10:15am

From the Governor’s Office:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today continued her effort to push the nation’s largest banks to join other lending institutions and take part in the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund. Since announcing the availability of an additional $128.4 million in federal dollars for the fund earlier this month, Granholm has reached out to executives at Bank of America, Chase, Citigroup, PNC Bank and Wells Fargo, asking them directly to help prevent additional home foreclosures.

“It is crucial that these national banks, which in their time of crisis were helped with taxpayer funds, now help those in Michigan and other states who are struggling to stay in their homes,” Granholm said. “These banks must act now to ensure that we help those currently losing their homes as well as prevent additional foreclosures. Each day that banks wait to participate ultimately means more people will continue to struggle.”

In addition to speaking with bank executives, Governor Granholm also spoke with United States Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner about expediting approval of state programs and encourage federal lenders Freddie Mac and Fannie Mae to more actively engage in the program.

“We share the same goals – save the American dream of homeownership for thousands of families, invest in our communities, and protect property values in the process,” Granholm wrote in her letter to the banks. “Your full and swift engagement in the Hardest Hit Fund will prevent additional foreclosures, helping to stabilize families and communities across our state and around the nation.”

Nationally, more than 57 percent of home foreclosures can be attributed to job loss. The Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund aims to serve homeowners who are currently receiving unemployment compensation, homeowners who have fallen behind in their mortgage payments or taxes due to a temporary layoff or medical emergency, and homeowners who can no longer afford their mortgage payments due to lower household income.

More information about the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund can be found at www.michigan.gov/hardesthit.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Radio Address: Governor Granholm Says Justice Davis Will Be Advocate for All People

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 12:53pm

In this week’s radio address, Governor Granholm praised former Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth Weaver for her service to Michigan, and said newly appointed Justice Alton Thomas Davis will be an advocate for all people. Watch the press conference from yesterday’s announcement below.

Hello, this is Governor Jennifer Granholm.

If you’re like most people in our state, you probably don’t spend too much time thinking about our Michigan Supreme Court. But the important work they do impacts all our lives every day.

In just the last year, the seven men and women who serve on the state Supreme Court have decided cases involving such critical issues as child protection, civil rights, worker safety and fair elections.

This week, Justice Elizabeth Weaver announced her resignation from the Michigan Supreme Court where she has served since 1994.

During her 36 years on the bench, including time on the probate court in Leelanau County and the Michigan Court of Appeals, Justice Weaver established herself as a tough, independent fighter for fair and balanced courts.

Justice Weaver often said that her guiding principle is to “do right and fear not.”

And she operated by that principle. Justice Weaver has been recognized many times for her tireless efforts on behalf of children. Thanks to her hard work, Michigan has a nationally recognized juvenile justice system. She was also a leader in creating and expanding the state’s drug court system.

It’s my duty as governor to find the proper replacement for Justice Weaver on the state Supreme Court. And she left big shoes to fill.

Judge Alton Thomas Davis of the 4th District Court of Appeals shares Justice Weaver’s compassion for those in need, her commitment to a fair and open court and her fierce independence.

So, I was proud to appoint Judge Davis this week as the next justice of the Michigan Supreme Court. I know that Justice Davis, like Justice Weaver, will also “do right and fear not.” He’s proven that throughout his service to the citizens of Michigan, first as a county prosecuting attorney then as a judge on the circuit court and the Michigan Court of Appeals.

Born and raised in northern Michigan, Justice Davis has established himself as an advocate for all people regardless of their social or economic standing.

In accepting his appointment to the Supreme Court, Justice Davis said, “I believe that every person has a right to be fully heard, to be treated courteously, and to have their issues considered and decided without fear or favor by an impartial judge.” And that’s exactly the kind of Supreme Court justice Alton Thomas Davis will be for the people of Michigan.

Thank you for listening.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Senator Hunter Invites Local Residents to Join Him for 'Talk Time With Tupac'

News from the Michigan Senate Democrats - Fri, 08/27/2010 - 1:00am

Read Full story for complete details.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor Granholm Appoints Judge Alton Thomas Davis to Michigan Supreme Court

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Thu, 08/26/2010 - 12:59pm

Breaking news from the Governor’s Office:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today praised Michigan Supreme Court Justice Elizabeth “Betty” Weaver for her lifelong effort to protect Michigan’s children and young people and her unwavering commitment to an independent, fair and balanced judicial system. The governor’s comments followed Weaver’s announcement that she has resigned from the state’s highest court. Her resignation became effective at 11:00 a.m. today.

“For 36 years, Justice Weaver has served the citizens of Michigan as a judge and a fighter for fair, common-sense justice,” said Granholm. “She has been a tireless advocate for Michigan’s children and families and a strong proponent of an independent and balanced judiciary.”

Granholm also announced the appointment of Judge Alton Thomas Davis to serve as a justice of the Michigan Supreme Court, filling the vacancy created by Weaver’s resignation. Davis, of Grayling, currently serves on the 4th District Court of Appeals. Prior to being appointed to the Court of Appeals by Granholm in 2005, Davis served as chief judge of the 46th Circuit Court representing Crawford, Kalkaska and Otsego counties.

“Justice Davis is the most experienced jurist I have ever appointed to the bench,” said Granholm. “He has been universally praised by those who appear before him, by fellow judges, and by people from both political parties. Justice Davis is someone who can bring a sense of collegiality and gravitas to the Michigan Supreme Court as a seasoned, unflappable, no-nonsense steady hand.”

The governor’s appointment of Justice Davis became effective at noon today. The appointment is not subject to disapproval.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Bloomberg TV: Governor Granholm Discusses the Revival of the Auto Industry and New Manufacturing Jobs in Michigan

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Tue, 08/24/2010 - 8:53am

Governor Granholm speaks with Matt Miller on Bloomberg Television’s “Street Smart” on how the government has partnered with the private sector to revive auto industry manufacturing in Michigan, which is bringing the electric vehicle to market and creating thousands of new jobs in our state.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Baord of State Canvassers Approves Language for Elected Officials Ballot Proposal

News from the Michigan Senate Democrats - Tue, 08/24/2010 - 1:00am

Read Full story for complete details.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor Granholm on “Meet the Press”

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Sun, 08/22/2010 - 2:14pm

From today’s “Meet the Press with David Gregory”, Governor Granholm debates Fmr. House Majority Leader Dick Armey (R-TX) on current political issues facing the country.

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor, First Family Dedicate Habitat for Humanity Home in Detroit

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Sun, 08/22/2010 - 7:40am

From the Governor’s Office:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm participated in a dedication ceremony for two new Habitat for Humanity homes and one refurbished home in Detroit’s Morningside neighborhood. Throughout the summer, the governor, First Gentlemen Daniel G. Mulhern and members of their family from across the country gathered for a family reunion and used the opportunity to volunteer on the Habitat build site featured in today’s dedication ceremony.

“Our family is proud to join with members and future homeowners here today to celebrate the completion of these beautiful, energy-efficient homes for families right here in Detroit,” Granholm said. “We encourage families across our state to join together to strengthen their communities and support those in need.”

Prior to the ceremony, flowers taken from the first family’s garden at the governor’s residence in Lansing were donated and planted at the homes. In addition, Habitat for Humanity Detroit, the Greening of Detroit, and The Giving Gardens based in Grand Rapids, assisted with landscaping as well as donated flowers, trees and shrubs for the ceremony.

The Giving Gardens concept was founded in 2004 by Margaux Drake, owner of the M. Drake Company and the S.D. Drake & Co., whose plant-it-forward philosophy was inspired by the movie “Pay It Forward,” in which the main character is challenged to develop an idea to make the world a better place and the put it into action.

The first family has partnered with Habitat for Humanity Michigan and other Habitat affiliates across the state to elevate the need and importance of community service. The MI Family Builds Michigan initiative will not only help Habitat to build quality, affordable homes, but also demonstrate how community service can help speed Michigan’s recovery from the recession and the mortgage foreclosure crisis. For more information on the MI Family Builds Michigan initiative, visit www.michigan.gov/mifamily.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Radio Address: Governor Granholm Says Investment Missions Bring Jobs, Diversify Economy

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 08/20/2010 - 12:13pm

In this week’s radio address, Governor Granholm highlights how her overseas investment missions are bringing new businesses and jobs to Michigan.

Hello, this is Governor Jennifer Granholm.

The distance from Michigan to Germany is more than 4,000 miles, but the two became a little closer this week.

That’s because on Tuesday, a company that’s part of the Kostal Group – which is an independent German family-owned business – was approved for a state tax credit by the Michigan Economic Growth Authority to build a new manufacturing facility in our state.

The company, named Kostal Kontakt Systeme, develops and manufactures electric components for various industries. And it fits well into two of the sectors we’ve targeted to help diversify Michigan’s economy – advanced manufacturing and clean energy.

Kostal intends to invest more than $27 million to relocate the existing production of its solar connector systems that are used in the clean energy sector from Germany and from Mexico to Rochester Hills in southeast Michigan. The company plans to create 247 jobs at its Rochester Hills facility, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation estimates the creation of an additional 395 spin-off jobs.

Kostal could have chosen to locate its production facility anywhere. In fact, it was seriously considering Mexico as a site as well as other U.S. locations.

But Kostal chose Michigan, and the groundwork for convincing the company to come to our state was laid back in April during one of my overseas investment missions.

Since 2004, I’ve taken 10 investment missions to countries such as Germany, Italy, Austria, Belgium and Japan. These missions have been part of my efforts to go anywhere and do anything to bring new investment and jobs to Michigan and to further diversify the state’s economy.

These missions have resulted in 48 international companies announcing almost $1.7 billion in new investment in Michigan and the creation or retention, most importantly, of more than 13,000 jobs.

My investment mission this past April was to Germany and Italy. And when I was in Germany, I met with representatives of Kostal to make the case why Michigan was the best location for its new facility. I touted our manufacturing infrastructure, our skilled workforce, our great natural resources and our quality of life.

So now Kostal is coming to Michigan and with it, an estimated 642 jobs.

Now through the end of the year, I’ll continue working on diversifying our economy and creating jobs. And if I have to travel to Germany or any other spot on the globe to bring new investment and jobs to Michigan, I’ll do it. I’ll do it, because every day, creating new jobs and a new Michigan economy remains our top priority.

Thank you for listening.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Granholm Announces $21.3 Million in Federal Funding to Increase College Access

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 08/20/2010 - 9:06am

Grants from the U.S. Dept. of Education will help Michigan to achieve our goal of doubling the number of college graduates in our state. Here are the details:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today announced that Michigan will receive $21.3 million from the U.S. Department of Education to dramatically increase college participation and completion rates, particularly among low-income and first-generation students. Michigan’s proposal under the federal College Access Challenge Grant Program (CACGP) aims to increase the proportion of Michiganians with high-quality degrees and credentials from 34 percent to 60 percent by the year 2025.

“An educated workforce is critical to building a vibrant, diversified economy that will create jobs for years to come,” Granholm said. “Today’s announcement will help ensure that all Michiganians are able to access postsecondary education – and succeed. It also helps further our goal of doubling the number of Michigan college graduates.”

The Michigan Department of Education (MDE) and the Michigan College Access Network (MCAN) will play central roles in Michigan’s comprehensive college access strategy. Federal funds will be used to create a new unit within the MDE dedicated to college access outreach into K-12 schools and communities.

The MDE and MCAN also will partner to support community-based college access initiatives known as Local College Access Networks, which are committed to increasing the college participation and completion rates within a community through a coordinated strategy. The MDE and MCAN will provide direct grants to communities to plan, start, and expand Local College Access Networks, and also will provide each Local College Access Network with hands-on technical assistance in program and professional development.

Other Michigan projects awarded funding through the College Access Challenge Grant Program include:

• Michigan College Access Portal
The Michigan College Access Portal will serve as a centralized website with information for students and parents to plan, apply, and pay for college. The website goes live September 7, 2010, and can be visited at www.michigancap.org.

• KnowHow2GOMichigan Public Awareness Campaign
KnowHow2GOMichigan is a public awareness campaign encouraging young people to take the necessary steps to go to college. Public service announcements will run in media markets around the state and also will be incorporated into local college access programming.

• College Positive Volunteerism Project (CACGP)
CACGP funds will be used to support partnerships between higher education institutions and local college access initiatives to tap into the energy and enthusiasm of current college students to serve as mentors for underrepresented K-12 students.

• Michigan College Advising Corps
In the tradition of Teach for America, the Michigan College Advising Corps recruits and trains recent University of Michigan college graduates to work full-time as college advisors in underserved Michigan high schools for one to two years. CACGP funds will be used to expand the Michigan College Advising Corps from eight to 24 corps members.

• The Promise Zone Project
CACGP funds will support the ten Michigan communities granted Promise Zone designations in 2009 by helping each community create and execute a sustainable development plan for its universal college scholarship program and to implement comprehensive strategies to enhance students’ college readiness. Sub-grants will be made to each of the ten communities to fund (on a matching basis) a Promise Zone coordinator position.

• Achieving the Dream College Completion Innovation Fund
“Achieving the Dream: Community Colleges Count” is a multi-year national initiative to improve student success at community colleges, particularly for students of color and low-income students. MCAN will provide sub-grants to Michigan community colleges involved in the initiative to fund innovative strategies to help more students earn postsecondary credentials. As of May, 17 of Michigan’s 28 community colleges were part of the Achieving the Dream initiative.

The funds are provided by the U.S. Department of Education and will be disbursed to the state over the next five years.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor Celebrates Launch of American Process Incorporated Clean Energy Project in Alpena

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 08/20/2010 - 7:53am

Governor Granholm traveled the state yesterday to talk about diversifying Michigan’s economy - one such project is in Alpena:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today joined company and local officials in Alpena to celebrate the launch of American Process Incorporated’s (API) waste-to-cellulosic ethanol clean energy project, which will create 58 jobs (20 direct) and 80 construction jobs. API is one of Michigan’s bioenergy Centers of Energy Excellence (COEE).

“Businesses across the state are making significant investments that will diversify our economy and create job opportunities in clean energy sectors like biofuels, solar, wind and advanced batteries,” Granholm said. “Projects like this one are helping Michigan become the clean energy manufacturing capital of the world.”

In November 2008, API, in partnership with San Antonio’s Valero Energy Corporation, received $4 million from the COEE program to establish a pilot scale biorefinery at the Decorative Panels International hardwood plant in Alpena. The biorefinery will convert the process waste effluent from the plant into cellulosic ethanol, sodium acetate and clean, warm water. The project has potential to be replicated across the state in other biorefineries, pulp and paper mills, and food and agricultural processing plants. Michigan Technical University will contribute research to improve fermentation processes and also on the use of sodium acetate for novel de-icing applications.

The $4 million in COEE funding to API helped secure a U.S. Department of Energy grant for $17.9 million. API has invested $10 million in the project and estimates that replication across Michigan in existing industries alone could create annual economic value of $200 million within 10 years.

Because of projects like API’s, Michigan was recently ranked third in the country by Business Facilities magazine as a leader in clean energy.

WJRT ABC12 in mid-Michigan spoke with the Governor during her visit to Saginaw Valley State University. Watch the video below:

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor’s Budget Recommendations Solve Deficit, Protect Critical Priorities

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Wed, 08/18/2010 - 5:00pm

From the Governor’s Office:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today detailed her latest recommendations to address the budget shortfalls for the current year and fiscal year 2011 budgets. The governor’s proposal provides fiscal stability while continuing to protect the state’s critical priorities, including job-creation efforts, schools, and health care from additional devastating cuts.

“These budget recommendations build on the steps we have already taken to reduce spending, attack the state’s structure deficit and reform government,” said Granholm. “In addition, these recommendations maintain our investment in job-creation, education, and the critical services citizens rely on during a time of economic transition.”

For fiscal year 2010, the governor is recommending shifting funding for the state’s 28 community colleges to the School Aid Fund where the surplus funds can cover the $208.4 million appropriation. The state also will receive an additional $94 million in federal funding due to changes in the way the federal government funds prescription drug coverage for seniors eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid. Together, these changes address the $302.7 million shortfall in the current year.

For fiscal year 2011, the governor is recommending a combination of additional spending cuts and one-time, non-tax revenue to address the existing shortfall resulting from increased spending pressures, legislative refusal to consider corrections reform and a physician-provider assessment, and lower-than-expected federal funding through the Federal Medical Assistance Percentage (FMAP). Among the cuts recommended are a 3 percent administrative reduction for all state agencies, $50 million cuts in the Departments of Community Health, Human Services and Corrections, and restructuring of the state’s long-term debt obligations, reducing spending by $77.3 million. Combined with the cuts proposed in the executive budget recommendation in February, the governor has recommended more than $602 million in general fund spending reductions for the fiscal year.

“We must continue to make the tough decisions necessary to reduce spending,” said Granholm. “The cuts I’ve proposed help our state live within its means while continuing to provide critical services.”

The governor’s budget recommendations also include three one-time, non-tax revenue proposals to provide needed revenue in the wake of lower-than-expected federal funding. The proposals – a tax amnesty period for Michigan taxpayers, reform of the state’s abandoned property laws, and changes to the liquor regulation and distribution system – will provide $304.8 million for the fiscal year 2011 budget.

To further facilitate cost-cutting and service-sharing among the state’s public school districts, the governor also is recommending $50 million of School Aid Fund revenue be used to incent additional service-sharing through a grant competition to be administered by the state Department of Education (MDE). School districts would be able to use the one-time grant funds to reduce long-term costs by combining or consolidating services. In fiscal year 2010, school districts were offered additional budget flexibility if they entered into a memorandum of understanding with MDE to develop a services consolidation plan. Two hundred and twenty-four districts across the state are participating in the program.

“School districts facing tight budgets often can’t afford the up-front costs of consolidation or service-sharing even though they recognize the long-term benefits,” said Granholm. “A competitive grant program would eliminate this barrier, reduce costs and allow districts to put more funding in the classroom where it belongs.”

Finally, the governor’s proposal recommends a $100 million deposit into the state’s Budget Stabilization Fund to provide greater stability for future budgets.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Senate Passes Gleason Legislation to Help Clean Up Contaminated Sites

News from the Michigan Senate Democrats - Wed, 08/18/2010 - 1:00am

Read Full story for complete details.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Granholm to Nation’s Largest Banks: Step Up to the Plate and Help Michigan’s Hardest Hit Homeowners

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Tue, 08/17/2010 - 4:53pm

From the Governor’s Office:

Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today called on the nation’s largest banks – Bank of America, Chase, Citigroup, PNC Bank and Wells Fargo – to participate in the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund to help homeowners seeking assistance in preventing the foreclosure of their homes.

“When America’s big banks were in trouble, they received help to weather the storm,” said Granholm. “It’s time for those same big banks to step up and help Michigan families facing hard times through no fault of their own. I’m calling on Bank of America, Chase, Citigroup, PNC Bank and Wells Fargo to join the dozens of banks and credit unions around the state who are participating in the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund.”

The governor’s call for the big banks to step up took place at an event in Detroit’s Mexicantown to highlight an additional $128.4 million in federal funds for Michigan’s Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund.

At the event, the governor was joined by the Fifth Third Bank Homeownership Mobile, or eBus, a retrofitted bus which rolled into Detroit on Tuesday as another resource to help educate residents about mortgage assistance options.

“With these additional federal funds, almost 30,000 Michigan homeowners are now eligible to receive mortgage assistance through the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund,” Granholm said. “I applaud Fifth Third and other lenders who are working to help Michigan homeowners and their families to remain in their homes.”

In June, the U.S. Departments of Treasury and Housing and Urban Development approved the Michigan State Housing Development Authority’s (MSHDA) plan to distribute $154.5 million in federal funds to help homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure. MSHDA estimated that the initial plan would help 17,000 at-risk homeowners, including 11,000 residents who are unemployed.

With the additional $128.4 million in federal funds, MSHDA will be able to assist another 13,000 homeowners. Those who may be eligible include Michigan homeowners who are currently receiving unemployment compensation, homeowners who have fallen behind in their mortgage payments or taxes due to a temporary layoff or medical emergency, and homeowners who can no longer afford their mortgage payments due to lower household income.

Fifth Third’s eBus today was staffed with counselors available to homeowners free of charge to discuss eligibility for assistance, including through the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund. A 40-foot, self-contained bus retrofitted with the latest wireless technology and on-board computer bank, the eBus will continue to serve residents at additional events through August 21. Residents do not have to be a Fifth Third Bank customer to inquire about eligibility for mortgage assistance through the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund. For more information about the calendar of Fifth Third eBus events, call 800-246-5372 toll free.

Eligible homeowners also can obtain more information regarding the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund by calling 866-946-7432 or visiting www.michigan.gov/HardestHit. A complete list of lenders and servicers participating in the Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund also can be found at that site.

The Helping Hardest Hit Homeowners Fund was developed in partnership with representatives from the Michigan Bankers Association, Michigan Credit Union League, Michigan Association of Community Bankers, Michigan Association of Realtors, Michigan Foreclosure Task Force and MSHDA’s statewide homeownership counseling network.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Governor Granholm Announces 2,739 New and Retained Jobs for Michigan

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Tue, 08/17/2010 - 1:05pm

Governor Granholm and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced today 11 projects are expected to create and retain 2,739 jobs (1,085 direct new jobs) and generate $89.4 million in new investment in the state. The Michigan Economic Growth Authority (MEGA) board approved incentives to win the following projects for Michigan over competing states and countries:

• Covenant Eyes Inc. – The company, whose Internet accountability and filtering software helps people bridge the gap between technology and relationships, intends to continue expansion at its global headquarters office in Owosso. Due to growth in sales and the increasing need to keep up with technology changes, Covenant Eyes plans to invest $3.7 million over the next five years to expand the size of its team and increase office space to house the new employees. Based upon the anticipated hiring of up to 139 people, the MEDC estimates that the project has the potential to create an additional 238 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $635,203 over five years to encourage the company to expand in Michigan instead of competing sites in Colorado and Texas.

• General Electric Company – The diversified technology, media and financial services company formed in 1892 plans to invest more than $20 million to establish a new proprietary development and manufacturing process center in Van Buren Township. The project is expected to create up to 301 total jobs, including 130 directly at the company. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by this program has the potential to create an additional 171 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $2.3 million over 10 years to convince the company to expand in Michigan over competing sites at many of the company’s other locations across the globe. The charter township of Van Buren is considering an abatement to support the project.

• Gordon Food Service – State brownfield tax credits valued at approximately $6 million will support the consolidation of the foodservice distributor’s Canadian operations and restructure its Wyoming campus to increase efficiency and provide space for future growth. The project will redevelop four parcels on 50th Street, including the demolition of functionally obsolete structures, infrastructure improvements and the construction of a new 150,000-square-foot office building. The project will generate $24.2 million in private investment and is expected to create up to 173 new jobs and to retain 50 jobs (investment amount and new jobs previously announced in June 2010). The city of Wyoming is considering an abatement with an estimated value of $75,000 in support of the project.

• Hallite Seals Americas Inc. – A high-performance sealing devices manufacturer to companies in the agriculture, marine, transportation, medical, alternative energy, construction, forestry, and mining markets plans to invest $7.4 million to expand its operations in Wixom. The project is expected to retain up to 152 total jobs, including 60 directly at the company. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by the project has the potential to retain an additional 92 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $475,445 over five years to help convince the company to expand in Michigan over a competing site in Texas. The city of Wixom is considering an abatement in support of the project.

• KOSTAL Kontakt Systeme Inc. – The developer and manufacturer of electric components for a variety of industries, including components for renewable energy vehicles and hybrid vehicles, was founded as a separate legal U.S. entity in 2010 and belongs to KOSTAL Group – an independent German family-owned business. The company plans to invest $27.1 million to relocate the existing production of its solar connector systems, used in the renewable energy sector, from Germany and Mexico to Rochester Hills. The company is expected to create up to 642 total jobs, including 247 directly by the company. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by the project may create an additional 395 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $3.9 million over seven years to convince the company to expand in Michigan over a competing site in Mexico. The city of Rochester Hills is considering an abatement of up to 12 years in support of the project.

• Link Engineering Company – A leading designer and manufacturer to the global transportation industry of advanced test equipment and provider of comprehensive engineering testing services, plans to invest $9.8 million to expand and consolidate test operations in Dearborn. The project is expected to create up to 112 total jobs, including 59 directly at the company. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by the project has the potential to create an additional 53 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $789,787 over seven years to convince the company to expand in Michigan over a competing site in Ohio. The city of Dearborn is considering an abatement in support of the project.

• Metalsa Structural Products Inc. – The global supplier of structural components in the light and commercial vehicle markets plans to invest $1.9 million to relocate their global commercial and research and development operations to Novi. The project is expected to create up to 132 total jobs, including 65 directly at the company. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by the project has the potential to create an additional 67 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $1.9 million over seven years to convince the company to expand in Michigan. The city of Novi is considering local assistance in support of the project.

• Premier Tool & Die Cast Corporation – The global supplier of metal castings companies in the automotive, electronics, appliances, furniture, transportation and defense sectors plans to invest $3.2 million to establish a new zinc and aluminum die cast and assembly operation in Dowagiac. The project is expected to create up to 179 total jobs, including 100 directly at the company. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by the project has the potential to create an additional 79 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $862,227 over five years to convince the company to expand in Michigan over a competing site in New York. The city of Dowagiac is considering an abatement valued at approximately $4 million over 12 years in support of the project.

• Wausaukee Composites – The producer of fiberglass products and leading manufacturer of engineered composite components for the construction, agricultural equipment, medical, mass transportation and wind energy industries plans to invest $1.9 million to expand and renovate its existing facility and purchase a new facility, both in Owosso Charter Township. The project is expected to create up to 361 new jobs, including 156 directly at the company. The MEDC estimates increased economic activity created by the project has the potential to create an additional 205 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $783,909 over five years to help convince the company to expand in Michigan. The charter township of Owosso is considering an abatement valued at up to $40,000 in support of the project.

• Wolverine Assemblies LLC – The assembly company serving the automotive, heavy truck, defense, agriculture and health care markets plans to invest $8.4 million to establish a new operation in Wixom that will perform value-added assemblies, sub-assemblies, testing, sequencing and warehousing for various products. The project is expected to create up to 418 total jobs, including 174 directly at the company, some of which are coming from the company’s Southeast Asia operations. The MEDC estimates the increased economic activity created by the project has the potential to create an additional 244 indirect jobs. Based on the MEDC’s recommendation, the MEGA board today approved a state tax credit valued at $785,166 over five years to encourage the company to expand in Michigan over competing sites in Ohio and Indiana. The city of Wixom has approved an abatement to support the project.

• City of Grand Rapids – State and local tax capture valued at $561,700 will support a brownfield project to redevelop property at 248 Williams that will allow the Founders Brewing Company to expand its existing facilities. The project is expected to generate $6.6 million in new capital investment and create up to 15 new jobs.

“Our innovative economic development toolbox and competitive business climate continue to draw jobs and investment to Michigan despite tough international competition,” MEDC President and CEO Greg Main said.

The Michigan Economic Growth Authority, the state’s response to interstate competition for company expansions and relocations, may provide a refundable tax credit against the Michigan Business Tax (MBT) to companies expanding or relocating their operations in Michigan. Since January 2010, more than 67,000 new and retained jobs have been announced as a result of the MEGA program.

For more information on the MEDC’s incentive programs, visit http://www.michiganadvantage.org/.

Here is some video from today’s announcement:

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Senator Basham Urges Citizens to Attend License Application Meeting for Former EDS Facility

News from the Michigan Senate Democrats - Tue, 08/17/2010 - 1:00am

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Categories: Michigan Headlines

Radio Address: Lt. Governor Cherry Says There’s Still Time to Apply for Pure Michigan Hunt

Gov. Jennifer Granholm's Blog - Fri, 08/13/2010 - 2:06pm

Lt. Governor John Cherry fills in for this week’s radio address, and reminds Michigan citizens about the Pure Michigan Hunt, and that the state’s new “Recreation Passport” starts on Oct. 1st - $10 a year will get you into 98 state parks and recreation areas, down from the previous $24 sticker fee. Get out there and enjoy!

Hello, this is Lt. Governor John Cherry.

As I and other anglers in Michigan begin packing up our fishing gear, we start looking ahead to hunting season and being out in the woods with our families and friends.

Hunting is a proud tradition for many of us in Michigan. It challenges us to perform at our best while appreciating Michigan’s matchless forests, wildlife and environment.

My work as lieutenant governor doesn’t allow me to hunt as much as I’d like. But whenever the opportunity arises, I try to get out and appreciate the great outdoors and what our state has to offer. I’m proud that my family has a legacy of enjoying and conserving Michigan’s natural resources.

Hunters still can purchase applications for the Pure Michigan Hunt now through December 31. The Pure Michigan Hunt drawing on January 24 will award three lucky individuals the opportunity to hunt for elk, bear, spring and fall wild turkey, and antlerless deer.

The three winners also will have first pick of hunting sites at managed waterfowl areas during the reserved hunt period. Hunters can purchase as many applications for the Pure Michigan Hunt drawing as they wish. Applications are $4 and sold at license retailers.

This is an outstanding way to continue Michigan’s great hunting and conservation heritage. Through one application, the Pure Michigan Hunt allows individuals an additional chance to participate in our most in-demand, limited-access hunting opportunities and enjoy an unparalleled hunting experience.

The three Pure Michigan Hunt winners will be able to participate in any open season until they fill their tags. And they can hunt in any unit or hunt period that is open for hunting that species, except for bear on Drummond Island.

Also, for everyone who enjoys visiting our state parks, remember that starting October 1, the Recreation Passport replaces the park sticker that you normally buy. At $10, it’s a bargain for regular park visitors who’ve been paying $24 a year for the sticker.

So beginning October 1, when you renew your license plates, check “yes” on your license plate renewal form for the Recreation Passport and support outdoor recreation in Michigan.

The Recreation Passport does more than give you entry to all 98 state parks and recreation areas in Michigan. It also helps to preserve 133 state forest campgrounds; nearly 1,000 miles of hiking, biking and skiing trails; more than 1,000 boat launches; and historic and cultural sites in state parks.

Thank you for listening, and I hope you take advantage of everything Michigan has to offer in the great outdoors.

Categories: Michigan Headlines

Senate Passes Prusi Bill to Ensure Students Receive Proper Credit for Native American Culture and Language Class

News from the Michigan Senate Democrats - Thu, 08/12/2010 - 1:00am

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Categories: Michigan Headlines