The Conference Committee on the general government budget just finished. They passed the conference report, which will now go to the Senate for passage then will be added to the House omnibus bill.

The Business Attraction and Economic Gardening line, which is the line item containing the dollars for the Brownfield, Historic, and MEGA credits replacement, ended up with $100 million!

The Governor had originally called for $50 million, but the House and Senate each passed this with only $25 million.  After negotiations, the deal was struck to add another $50 million to the budget.  In the end, though, there was $75 million added to the original $25 million for a total of $100 million!

The breakdown looks like this:
- $25 million from the 21st Century Jobs Fund
- $25 million from general fund expected
- $50 million from the new revenue increases due to the revenue estimating conference

There is also language requiring that at least $20 million goes to former Brownfield and Historic projects.  While this is not as much as we had hoped for (the House had an amendment requiring 85% for this), it is a step in the right direction.  Now, the League will work to create a program to spend this money on redevelopment and revitalization projects, creating jobs and private investment in Michigan communities.

Thanks to all League members who talked to, phoned, and emailed their legislators and the Governor. It clearly paid off!

Andy Schor is the Assistant Director of State Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. Contact him at (517) 908-0300 or by email at aschor@mml.org.

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