Kevin Elsenheimer

Representative Kevin A. Elsenheimer was born and raised in Northern Michigan.  Kevin earned his associates of arts degree from Northwestern Michigan College, a bachelor of arts degree from Michigan State University, and then went on to obtain a law degree from Wayne State University Law School.  While in law school, Kevin served as a student attorney for Legal Services of Northern Michigan and Lakeshore Legal Services.  He was also a founding member of the Wayne State University Environmental Law Society.  After serving as an assistant prosecutor for Antrim County where he handled a variety of criminal and civil cases, Kevin partnered with two former Antrim County prosecuting attorneys to form Graham, Elsenheimer & Wendling PC, which focuses on the representation of municipal entities throughout Michigan.  Kevin remains an active member of the State Bar of Michigan.  

In 2006, Kevin was re-elected to the Michigan House and was chosen by his Republican colleagues to serve as the Assistant Minority Leader, the second highest leadership position within the caucus. 

Contact Information
kevinelsenheimer@house.mi.gov
1-877-536-4105

Monday

July 21, 2008

Visiting Downtown Boyne City

Today, I will be making a trip to Charlevoix County to visit the Boyne City area.  This is a great community that has been very progressive and pro-active in making its downtown area an attraction for area residents.  It has 11 miles of lake frontage, as well as six parks, a municipal beach, and a boardwalk on the Boyne River.

I have a lunch meeting at a new restaurant downtown called 220 Lake Street.  From there I will be making various stops in and around the area.  I have been working on pushing language in the transportation budget to make the Boyne City to Charlevoix Road a state trunk-line.  I will be speaking with various individuals about this road, its condition and my efforts.

Tuesday

July 22, 2008

Airline merger perfect time to add service to Gaylord

The proposed combining and restructuring of Northwest Airlines and Delta Airlines into one company will undoubtedly change air travel in many regions, but it should be an opportunity for finally adding service in Gaylord and assisting the local community. 

The state of Michigan agreed to provide a $65 million grant for Northwest Airlines in 1999 to help the company construct a terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport.  Part of the agreement was expanding new daily flight service to other regions of the state, which Northwest has complied with, except for service in Gaylord.

My predecessors in the 105th District and I have repeatedly tried to get Northwest and the state to complete the terms of the original agreement, but there’s always been a circumstance or situation in the way.  Now that the two companies may join and restructure their services, they will have the perfect opportunity to include a Gaylord route in the requirements for their future plan.

Wednesday

July 23, 2008

Bellaire snowmobile trail is key for winter downtown commerce

The local Bellaire snowmobile council, myself, and Senator Jason Allen have been working with the DNR to create the 10.25 mile trail into the village, but there has been no agreement on the route location.  For the last two years Allen and I have successfully introduced measures for the state to continue working on the project with the local organization.  Once again, language has been adopted in the MDNR budget concerning this trail. 

The more attention and commerce we can bring to cities and villages through recreational opportunities like this the better.  I will continue to work with my local villages in Antrim County to make this a reality.

Thursday

July 24, 2008

Per-capita revenue sharing will assist most northern Michigan communities

As you know, our constitution mandates some revenue from the state be shared with local governments.  The Legislature also provides for discretionary revenue sharing, or “statutory” revenue sharing. 

Currently, under a formula in place for some time, approximately 52 percent of all statutory revenue sharing dollars go to the City of Detroit.  Detroit has less than 10 percent of the state’s population.  I believe that we should move to a system which provides revenue sharing on a per capita basis.

I think it’s time to fight for northern Michigan’s fair share.  If you agree, I would appreciate your support.  People can share their views by contacting the governor and other state representatives and the senators.  As always, please contact me with any questions or concerns.

Friday

July 25, 2008

Office hours invitation

Over the past few years, I have held countless office hours at local municipal buildings, community centers, and restaurants.  These are often the best way for me to listen to residents’ thoughts and concerns about state government, learn about local issues, and meet the people I am privileged to represent in Lansing.  I invite everyone to stop in if they can when they see a schedule of upcoming office hours.  If people would like me to visit their community for an office hour session and know of a potential host site, please don’t hesitate to call my office as I am always looking for new locations to meet with more residents.  My e-mail is kevinelsenheimer@house.mi.gov and my toll-free number is 1.877.536.4105.