The Senate Economic Development and Regulatory Affairs committee took up HB 6243, which would create new Town Gown partnerships. This legislation, crafted by the League and Rep. Ed Clemente, would allow communities to create new DDA’s that are partnerships between local governments and institutions of higher education. These new DDA’s would focus on the economic development advantages created by universities and colleges, and the investments made in the districts surrounding these institutions (businesses, incubators, etc). Several communities and higher educational institutions indicated interest and support for this legislation, which is a major part of the League’s Prospperity Agenda and a major asset for the Center for 21st Century Communities.
League Director of State Affairs Summer Minnick was joined by Linden Mayor David Lossing (who also works for the University of Michigan, Flint) in testifying in support of this legislation which passed committee unanimously. The bill is expected to be passed by the Senate when they reconvene the week of November 30th, and more information will be provided by League staff .
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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