The Senate Commerce Committee this week began taking testimony on the Next Michigan package of bills (also called the Aerotropolis legislation). Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano and Washtenaw County Administrator Robert Guenzel testified about the importance of economic development and maximizing the Metro Detroit and Willow Run airports. Also testifying was a representative of Oakland County, who said that they are in final negotiations with Wayne County over the makeup of the bills.
The legislation creates the Next Michigan Act which allows five regions (counties and communities) to join together in an interlocal agreement that allows them to use core community economic development tools to attract businesses that are multi-modal. The bills also grant new renaissance zones for these Next Michigan Authorities. Oakland County has asked for language to be added to create 10 new floating renaissance zones, and that is being drafted.
The Michigan Municipal League provided support for all the bills except the renaissance zone bill (of which we are neutral as the language gets worked out). The interested parties have asked the Senate to move these bills by the end of April.
Andy Schor is the Assistant Director of State Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. Contact him at (517) 908-0300 or by email.
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