LANSING, Mich. – In an unprecedented move, House Republicans unilaterally canceled $645 million in previously approved Michigan funding last week.
Detroit Blight Busters, a cornerstone community development organization with nearly 40 years of service, found itself among dozens of organizations caught in the political crossfire.
The nonprofit, which has been instrumental in transforming blighted neighborhoods into vibrant communities, now faces uncertainty about its ongoing projects.
“I would really like a clear understanding of where we stand with the state,” said John George, founder of Detroit Blight Busters. “What’s available? What’s not? What do we have to reapply for? Do you want blueprints? Whatever you want, we would be more than glad to give it to you.”
The immediate concern is the fate of several ongoing projects, including:
- A kids camp
- Housing for veterans
- A community center
“Every dollar we get, we spend it on where it’s supposed to be spent,” George said. “I invite all the Republicans to come down here. I would love to show you what we are doing and the impact that we are having.”
Political Battle Over Budget
House Speaker Matt Hall defended the controversial cuts, stating, “This thing is on autopilot and it’s out of control. I hate to say it, but the COVID spending is over.”
Hall acknowledged that “not everything that the Appropriations Committee cut was waste, fraud and abuse” but described the move as a negotiating tactic for future spending bills.
Democratic lawmakers strongly opposed the decision. Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks said, “There’s a special place in hell for someone willing to yank money away from moms and babies 15 days before Christmas.”
Widespread Community Impact
The funding cuts extend beyond Detroit Blight Busters, affecting several prominent institutions including:
- Detroit Zoo
- Motown Museum
- Jimmy Johns Field
- Wigs for Kids ($56,600 for cancer patients)
- RxKids program ($18.5 million for pregnant women and new mothers)
- Holocaust Memorial Center
- Various community development projects
Click here to watch the full interview with Bridge Michigan reporter Jordyn Hermani.