The House Transportation Committee took up HB 5304 for testimony only on March 14. This bill among other things would amend Public Act 51 to provide that local road agencies that receive less than $50,000 in 2012 would have their funds shifted to their respective counties starting in 2015.

Michigan Municipal League staff, joined by Ralph Ochs of Wolverine Village, Bill Carson of Boyne Falls, Meg Mullendore-Cluckey of Cassopolis, Randy Zenk of Pewamo, Michelle Harrington and Tina Eastman of Applegate, Mary Howard of Hopkins and Dennis Ritter of Clarkston testified in opposition. They testified that HB 5304 would take away local control and by transferring this money to the County, it would make the road service less effective and efficient. In addition, other testimony was given to describe how essential this money is for the local communities expected to be affected by this legislation. Over 100 communities would be affected by this legislation. Click Here to view the cities and villages receiving less than $50,000 in 2012.

The County Road Association and the Michigan Townships Association also testified in oppostion to the legislation. The Michigan Department of Transportation testified in support of the legislation and said that this is a very small amount of money that these communities are currently receiving and the money would be better spent if pooled together. The bill did not receive a vote, and the League will continue to work with the sponsor of the bill (Rep. Ouimet) in the coming weeks. No other action is expected on this bill for the immediate future.

Jason Mancini works for the Michigan Municipal League as a Legislative Associate and handles transportation issues. He can be reached at 517-908-0303 or by email at [email protected].