KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – State and local officials met in Kalamazoo Monday Morning to work on the task of spending the billions coming to the State of Michigan from the American Rescue Plan.
Officials view it as a real chance to make a difference, and one they do not want to fumble. The State and each separate local unit has their own grant to spend, and they don’t want to duplicate efforts.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, our state budget director is saying this is a ‘once’ opportunity,” State Labor Director Susan Corbin said. “But I think Michigan is really poised for a once-in-a-generation comeback.”
She says spending must be equitably targeted at COVID recovery, noting the chance to improve the lives of every Michigander by working together.
The state has $2.1 billion from “ARPA” to spend, with $800 million to be distributed back to local communities, in addition to the individual local grants.
Local business, labor and agency leaders put an emphasis on childcare and education to expand and upgrade the workforce. Municipal officials stressed infrastructure and anti-violence efforts.
State Representative Julie Rogers says they are working on finishing the U.S. 131 business Loop.
Meetings like this are being held all over the state this week, including Grand Rapids later on Monday. Many more will follow over the coming weeks and months.
— Copy written by John McNeil —
