Earlier today Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer released her proposed 2020-21 municipal budget. The budget represented mixed news for the Michigan Municipal League and our members. Here’s the media statement we released today in response:
Dan Gilmartin, CEO and Executive Director, Michigan Municipal League
The following statement regarding the 2020-21 proposed budget from Governor Gretchen Whitmer can be attributed to Michigan Municipal League CEO and Executive Director Dan Gilmartin.
“While the 2.5-percent increase in statutory revenue sharing is appreciated, it is important that policymakers recognize it is still about $50 million less than it was nine years ago, when Gov. Rick Snyder took office. It is $700 million short of full funding under the statutory formula, which is repeatedly ignored by the Legislature and Administration.
Michigan’s cities are battling to provide the vital services needed to retain our talent, create jobs, and attract new residents and businesses to Michigan. This budget and our overall state and local revenue picture continues to need work so that we can stem the population losses Michigan is experiencing when compared to other states.
The Michigan Municipal League is pleased to see that Governor Whitmer has heard our members’ concerns and is supporting $40 million for high lake level and shoreline erosion grants. This is extremely important, but we encourage the Legislature and Administration to consider accelerating access to those grants to help protect critical infrastructure that is at risk today.
Lastly, our members remain concerned about the state’s inability to find additional revenues for local road maintenance and repair, instead focusing all new bonding revenue on the state road network.”
Check out related Inside 208 blog posts:
- State transportation commission approves $3.5 billion bonding program for state roads – by John LaMacchia
- Governor Whitmer delivers 2020 State of the State Address – by John LaMacchia
- Transportation Reform Bills Pass Senate – by John LaMacchia
- League members testify about high water levels in Great Lakes – by Herasanna Richards