Whitmer, Gilchrist, Kildee celebrate GM’s $795 million Michigan investment
Kildee, D-Flint Twp., stood witness as General Motors said it’s bringing V-8 engine manufacturing back to Flint, investing $579 million at Flint Engine Operations and another $216 million in its Bay City engine components plant. “GM’s $800 million investment in Michigan will retain good-paying jobs and enable us to build on our legacy as the place that put the world on wheels,” said Gov. “Just one year ago, we announced GM’s historic, $7 billion investment growing its electric vehicle manufacturing capabilities in our state. “This investment makes a return of the V-8 engine to GM’s birthplace of Flint, Michigan,” Gilchrist said. In Flint, the company plans to spend $579 million to prepare Flint Engine to assemble the new V-8 along with related block, crank and head machining.
mlive.comNew Central Michigan University hub opens in downtown Saginaw
SAGINAW, MI — Central Michigan University officials will host a ribbon-cutting ceremony for a new downtown Saginaw hub at 5 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 19. University officials now operate the Innovation and Outreach Hub in the SVRC building, 203 S. Washington. The office is housed in the CMURC (Central Michigan University Research Corporation) suite on the facility’s second floor. CMU students enrolled online also can use the office space as a collaborative space, officials said. The university has maintained a presence in downtown Saginaw via the CMU College of Medicine facility since 2015.
mlive.comGM to make ‘positive plant manufacturing announcement’ at Flint Engine
FLINT, MI -- General Motors isn’t saying much about a planned “positive plant manufacturing announcement” at Flint Engine Operations on Friday, Jan. 20, but the guest list suggests it’s something more than an employee-of-the-month presentation. More than 700 employees are based at the plant, roughly the same number as when it began production, soon after GM closed its old Powertrain Flint V-8 Engine Plant. Flint Engine was built south of the Flint V-8 Engine Plant, which was demolished by GM, and UAW leaders speculated then that the company could eventually build a second engine plant at the V-8 site in the future. Flint Journal files say GM officials refused to discuss that future possibility publicly at that time. Read more at The Flint Journal:GM’s Flint Engine Operations will build Chevy Silverado turbo-diesel engine17 file for 2 seats on Genesee County Board of Commissioners.
mlive.comOld Saginaw County fairgrounds demolition plan regains momentum, officials say
SAGINAW, MI — Political “power hitters” in Washington, D.C., are providing momentum in the nearly 20-year effort to repurpose one of the city’s most prominent eyesores, Saginaw City Hall officials said. In 2001, the Saginaw Housing Commission sought HUD approval to use funds to secure a loan to buy the property. The Saginaw Housing Commission leaders responsible for those decisions two decades ago no longer serve on the organization. Saginaw City Manager Tim Morales said HUD officials continue to review that plan. “This (meeting) will be really helpful for us and will help us plan for the next stages of that property,” Morales said.
mlive.comKildee camp says he won’t run for Stabenow Senate seat in 2024
FLINT TWP., MI -- U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Twp., won’t be a candidate to replace U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow in 2024, a spokesman for the congressman said Thursday, Jan. 5. Stabenow announced earlier on Thursday that she won’t seek reelection after her current term expires, ending more than 20 years in the Senate. Kildee, who won reelection in the Nov. 8 general election, was apparently not the first prominent Democrat to rule out a 2024 Senate run. After her retirement announcement, Kildee issued a statement calling Stabenow “an incredible champion for Michigan,” a trusted legislative partner and friend. Read more at The Flint Journal:Judges broke state law by picking Genesee clerk-register in secret, lawsuit claimsWoman to lead Genesee County commissioners for first time in 30 yearsFormer Genesee County Drain Commissioner Ken Hardin dies at 81
mlive.comFederal funding bill includes 8 Flint projects requested by Kildee
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Flint area agencies will receive more than $15 million from the new $1.7 trillion federal omnibus spending package signed into law this month. These programs will help children in Genesee County have access to science, technology, engineering, arts and math education. More than $2 million to Mott Community College to expand language and literacy services programs for Genesee County children through Latinx and the Flint Genesee Literacy Network. $4 million to the Genesee County Land Bank Authority to demolish up to 240 dangerous and vacant residential and commercial structures. Read more at The Flint Journal:Whitmer grants clemency to Flint area man 38 years after he scared woman to deathGenesee Valley Center reopening Tuesday after water line breakGenesee County considers buying old McDonald Dairy in Flint
mlive.comSaginaw buses, Buena Vista hotel demolition among projects funded by $1.7T federal bill
The federal omnibus bill also will provide $2.4 million to the Saginaw County Land Bank Authority for demolition projects that include tearing down the defunct Welcome Inn Motel in Buena Vista Township. The following is a complete list and summary of community projects included in the omnibus package:$4.3 million: Funding for mid-Michigan law enforcement agencies. $2.8 million: Investment for home repair projects overseen by the Habitat for Humanity hubs in Bay, Genesee and Saginaw counties. $2.4 million: Support for the Saginaw County Land Bank Authority to demolish vacant properties, including the Welcome Inn & Suites in Buena Vista Township. · $2 million: Investment for the Bay County Health Department to build a facility that centralizes the agency’s services, including primary care and substance use treatment resources.
mlive.comNew Saginaw buses, downtown investment included in $1.7T federal omnibus proposal
If passed in its current form, the proposal would include 15 mid-Michigan-based community projects Kildee included in the omnibus package. $4 million: Funding for the Genesee County Land Bank Authority to demolish up to 240 dangerous and vacant residential and commercial structures. $2.4 million: Support for the Saginaw County Land Bank Authority to demolish vacant properties. $1 million: Funding for Flint-based New Paths, Inc. to upgrade its treatment center and recovery housing facility. $750,000: Support for the Genesee County Road Commission to improve roads in Flint, Fenton as well as Grand Blanc.
mlive.comHere’s a minute-by-minute account of Biden’s 3-hour Tuesday trip to Michigan
The capstone of his visit involved a rally event at SK Siltron, an expanding Monitor Township-based plant that produces polysilicon components used in electric vehicles. Among them was U.S. House Reps. Dan Kildee and Elissa Slotkin, who represent Congressional districts in Michigan. Within 20 minutes, the group rolled into its destination at SK Siltron, less than three miles north of Delta College’s campus. At the plant, Biden met first with a dozen SK Siltron workers, who greeted the president inside a warehouse-sized room where a 40-foot-long American flag hung from the rafters. The motorcade departed SK Siltron at 4:45 p.m. and raced back toward MBS International Airport.
mlive.comKildee defeats Junge, re-elected to sixth term in Congress, AP projects
FLINT, MI -- U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee is returning to Congress for a sixth term, defeating Republican challenger Paul Junge in the general election on Tuesday, Nov. 8, the Associated Press has projected. Kildee holds a 34,000-vote lead over Junge, a former criminal prosecutor and television news anchor. “Thank you to mid-Michigan voters for placing their trust in me to be their voice in Congress,” Kildee said in a statement issued after the AP projection. His campaign portrayed Junge as extreme on the issue of abortion rights and highlighted his having spent decades living outside Michigan. In addition to Kildee and Junge, the race included candidates David Canny of the Libertarian Party of Michigan and Kathy Goodwin of the Working Class Party.
mlive.comKildee pulls ahead of Junge in congressional race with 55% of vote counted
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee has pulled ahead of Republican challenger Paul Junge in the hotly contested race to represent the new 8th congressional district that includes Flint, Saginaw, Bay City and Midland. With 55 percent of the vote counted on Tuesday, Nov. 8, Kildee had collected 98,068 votes while Junge had 91,874. The congressional race between Junge and Kildee has been fueled by millions in campaign spending by the candidates and their supporters. In the closing days of the campaign, Junge has said he will defeat Kildee because of the failing policies of Democrats. In addition to Kildee and Junge, the race includes candidates David Canny of the Libertarian Party of Michigan and Kathy Goodwin of the Working Class Party.
mlive.comKildee-Junge neck and neck in race for Congress with 26% of vote in
With just 26% of the vote counted on Tuesday, Nov. 8, Junge had collected 45,864 votes compared to Kildee’s 44,511. The congressional race between Junge and Kildee has been fueled by millions in campaign spending by the candidates and their supporters. Kildee’s campaign reporting having spent more than $5 million as of Oct. 19 and Junge reported having spent $2.4 million as of the same date. In the closing days of the campaign, Junge has said he will defeat Kildee because of the failing policies of Democrats. In addition to Kildee and Junge, the race includes candidates David Canny of the Libertarian Party of Michigan and Kathy Goodwin of the Working Class Party.
mlive.comLabor Secretary Marty Walsh visits Flint, discusses high-paying trade jobs
FLINT, MI - Trade jobs are the future in mid-Michigan. That was the message from Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh during his visit to Flint’s Mott Community College’s Regional Technology Center on Tuesday, Nov. 1. Walsh discussed the value of workforce development in supporting the nation’s economy and to underscore the Biden-Harris administration’s commitment to reducing costs for American families. Walsh and U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Twp., toured Mott Community College’s Regional Technology Center with college students and staff. Kildee credited MCC’s Regional Technology Center for molding the future generation.
mlive.comMillages, marijuana and more: Here’s what’s on the ballot in Bay County this November
Coonan is a lifelong Bay City resident and the owner of Coonan’s Irish Hub in Bay City. Read more: Bay County commissioner facing off against incumbent Beson for 96th House seatBay County GovernmentThe Bay County Building is the seat of Bay County's day-to-day operations and government. The Bay County Clerk position is currently up for election as well as each district on the Bay County Board of Commissioners. Read more: Democrat incumbent facing Republican challenger for Bay County Clerk seatBay County Board of CommissionersThe Bay County Board of Commissioners is made up of elected individuals who represent the county’s 7 districts. Read more: Marijuana, fire trucks and more: See what Bay County’s townships are voting on in NovemberSchool Boards and ProposalsA view of a Bay City Public Schools bus in Bay City on Tuesday, Aug. 23, 2022.
mlive.comSaginaw-area businesses have roundtable discussion with SBA administrator, U.S. Rep. Kildee
SAGINAW, MI – Saginaw-area business representatives sat down with U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman and U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee for a roundtable discussion Thursday, Oct. 27. “We were able to help over 1,000 businesses right here in mid-Michigan,” Kildee said. “Doing nothing was not an option.”Afterward, they sat down with representatives of SVRC Industries Inc., MI Small Business Development Center, Saginaw Children’s Zoo, Bavarian Inn Lodge & Conference Center and SVRC Marketplace vendors, to name a few. Denise Hicks, owner of SVRC Marketplace vendor Blinging Jewels Boutique, participated in the discussion. “So I haven’t used SBA yet; not saying I won’t use them or won’t need their services, but right now, I’m funding it on my own.”Hicks said she appreciated Thursday’s discussion.
mlive.comNew law gives VA benefits to veterans exposed to toxins, Peters and Kildee say
FLINT, MI – Michigan Sen. Gary Peters and U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee today held a news conference at the Flint Public Library to raise awareness about the PACT Act, an expansion of VA health care benefits. The PACT Act is a new law that expands VA health care and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. Signed by President Joe Biden on Aug. 10, it is one of the most significant expansions of VA health care in the past 30 years. Flint resident and veteran Shekinah Wagner is planning to file a claim under the PACT Act after serving in Afghanistan. They can also file claims to apply for PACT Act-related benefits by calling the Veterans Administration (VA) at 800-698-2411 or filing a claim online for disability benefits and/or VA health care.
mlive.comMichigan’s closest U.S. House races report lopsided fundraising
Of the first three districts, RealClearPolitics considers all to be toss-up races, while FiveThirtyEight’s predictive model has them all tilting toward wins for Democrats. She has again found herself embroiled in one of the most expensive U.S. House races in the country in a hotly contested race against Republican state Sen. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte. Slotkin has spent aggressively since the primary, about $4.5 million, while taking in just about $1.9 million since mid-July. While the fundraising is lopsided and Barrett is being outspent on advertising overall, outside groups have spent slightly more bolstering Barrett’s challenge with attack ads. Related: John James and Carl Marlinga vie for Michigan’s open 10th district congressional seatThere James has raised $5.8 million to Marlinga’s $735,000.
mlive.comProposed congressional funds designated to remove Buena Vista hotel and other blighted properties
BUENA VISTA TWP, MI— Former Buena Vista Township Community Development Officer Latrice Goodwine said in August 2019, “Down by the end of the year, that’s our goal,” when discussing the demolition of the former Welcome Inn Hotel at 3425 E. Holland and 1180 S. Outer Drive. Just over three years later, funds to remove the run-down building have been announced to finally remedy the eyesore, pending Senate approval. At a Tuesday, Oct. 18, press conference outside the hotel’s main lobby, Buena Vista Township Superintendent Torrie L. Lee said incoming money will be going towards building demolition after past funding sources petered out. By restoring this land to productive use, we can create new opportunities for economic development and community renewal.”Those include the hotel, vacant buildings and vacant properties surrounding the campus of Covenant Healthcare. medical center hosting drug takeback eventSaginaw’s SVRC Marketplace to hold flu and COVID-19 vaccine eventFederal funds coming to Saginaw for new water tower
mlive.comFederal funds coming to Saginaw for new water tower
SAGINAW, MI— Saginaw will be receiving $15 million for the construction of a water tower in an effort to improve its water distribution system. The funds come as part of a larger $212,885,000 grant in new federal funds to improve water infrastructure and ensure clean drinking water across the state of Michigan. The $212M grant is the second installment of five yearly installments to Michigan to update water infrastructure, remove lead pipes, and protect drinking water from harmful per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) contamination. Morales said that the $15 million grant will allow plans for the water tower construction proposed by city engineers to move forward and ensure the safety of the local water system, which serves roughly 170,000 people in the Saginaw region. When asked why the city needs a water tower, Morales said that while the city does have emergency plans in place to provide water during a power outage the tower will significantly supplement those plans.
mlive.com$350K to aid Saginaw Community Foundation, city schools and police to fight against violent crime
SAGINAW, MI— A nearly $350 thousand dollar federal grant has been announced as awarded to the Saginaw Community Foundation in order to form a community task force in partnership with the Saginaw Police Department. Funding was announced at the Saginaw Community Foundation building Friday, Oct. 7, by Saginaw Police Chief Robert M. Ruth, Saginaw Public Schools Superintendent Ramont Roberts, Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint), Saginaw Prosecutor John McColgan, and Community Foundation President and CEO Renee Johnston. Roberts said the school district is glad to continue and grow its partnership with both the Saginaw Community Foundation and the Saginaw police, especially if it means keeping residents and students safe. “The awarding of the Project Safe Neighborhoods grant will allow Saginaw Public Schools to continue its commitments to safety and social-emotional support for students,” said Roberts. “This will help the Saginaw Police Department and its partners reduce the incidents of violent crime in the Saginaw region,” Ruth said.
mlive.comAll lanes of I-69 in Flint open from Fenton Road to Dort Highway, Whitmer announces
FLINT, MI – Governor Gretchen Whitmer visited Flint this afternoon to announce the official reopening of I-69 through the heart of the city after a two-year, $100 million construction project. All lanes of I-69 in each direction between Fenton Road and M-54 (Dort Highway) officially reopened today, with local and state leaders calling it a “critical artery” for Flint and mid-Michigan economy. The entire project, including on and off ramps from I-475, is expected to be completed by the end of this year, Whitmer said. “As much as we all make jokes about orange barrel season here in Michigan, we all know that they are a good sign – a sign of progress,” Ananich said. Neeley called I-69 a critical artery for economic development and growth in the state of Michigan.
mlive.comFederal funds bring high-speed internet to almost 68,000 Michigan households
Michigan is one of three states approved for high-speed internet funding. In Michigan, it’s expected to reach an estimated 67,857 households or 23% of those currently lacking high-speed internet access in the state. “[High-speed internet] is a part of being able to move forward and be successful,” she said. The Biden Administration secured commitments from 20 leading internet service providers, covering more than 80% of the country, to offer eligible households high-speed internet plans for no more than $30 per month, effectively making the program free to those who are eligible. In total, the American Rescue Plan has $25 billion dedicated to high-speed internet funding.
mlive.comEPA begins demolition, cleanup of former Flint business
FLINT, MI -- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency will begin demolition of a former corner store on the city’s east side. Following a November 2020 fire that damaged the building, its current owner, the Genesee County Land Bank Authority, requested the EPA’s assistance. U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint) announced federal funding for the demolition and clean-up of the blighted corner store. “This federal assistance with demolition and cleanup will help improve the health and vitality of Flint’s East Side. After the EPA’s cleanup is completed, the Genesee County Land Bank will be able to safely evaluate the property for potential redevelopment.
mlive.comWatch U.S. Rep. Kildee, Junge debate in race for U.S. House District 8 seat
KOCHVILLE TOWNSHIP, MI — U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee in a debate Monday, Oct. 3, faced his 2022 election opponent, Paul Junge. Voters will decide between Kildee (D-Flint Township) and Junge (R-Grand Blanc) in the race for the U.S. House District 8 seat on Tuesday, Nov. 8. The 60-minute debate, hosted at Saginaw Valley State University, was recorded and uploaded to the Internet. The Saginaw Township Business Association will host a forum featuring 13 candidates at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, at White Pine Middle School, 505 N. Center in Saginaw Township. The forum will include the following candidates:SVSU will host another forum at 6:45 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, in the Rhea Miller Recital Hall.
mlive.comSaginaw County election forums to focus on candidates in U.S., state, local races
KOCHVILLE TOWNSHIP, MI — Over the next seven days, a trio of election 2022 candidate forums across Saginaw County will highlight candidates in local, state and national races. U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (D-Flint Township and his opponent in the race for the U.S. House District 8 seat, Paul Junge (R-Grand Blanc), will participate in a 6:45 p.m. Monday, Oct. 3, forum at Saginaw Valley State University in Kochville Township. The event is scheduled in the Rhea Miller Recital Hall in SVSU’s Curtiss Hall. Then the Saginaw Township Business Association will host a forum featuring 13 candidates at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4, at White Pine Middle School, 505 N. Center in Saginaw Township. The forum will include the following candidates:SVSU will host another forum at 6:45 p.m. Monday, Oct. 10, in the Rhea Miller Recital Hall.
mlive.comFlint to receive $1.5M federal grant to help cut down on gun violence
FLINT, MI — The city of Flint is set to receive a $1.5 million federal grant officials are hoping can be used to reduce crime. The goal of the program will be to address ongoing gun violence in the city, according to the release. “This federal grant will help our community come together behind a shared plan to reduce violent crime and gun violence,” Kildee said in a statement. During the same timeframe in 2021, the city had reported 174 non-fatal shootings and 50 fatal shootings, according to the data. “We are committed to securing grant funds in response to the highest needs of our community,” Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley said.
mlive.comKildee announces $2.2M in new funding for early childhood education
GENESEE TWP, MI - U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee announced new federal funding for Genesee County early childhood education programs on Wednesday, Aug. 31 in Genesee Township. Kildee (D-Flint Township) announced the $2.2 million in funding for the GCCARD Head Start program during a news conference at Kearsley Pumpkin Patch Early Childhood Center at Thelma Buffey Elementary. “Having worked tangentially in this field, I know a little bit about it, and know that quality early childhood education is just one of the most important investments that we can make,” Kildee said. “In addition to providing high quality education services, they’re also providing family wellbeing services,” said Christa Melton, associate program specialist at GCCARD Head Start. She added that families who participate in Head Start, as opposed to no early childhood education, children are 93% less likely to end up in foster care.
mlive.comSaginaw Fire Department to receive $40K in federal funds
SAGINAW, M I— New federal funding has been announced to help support the Saginaw Fire Department and its public safety efforts. The federal grant, totaling $40,639 is being awarded through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Assistance for Firefighters Grant Program and will enable the Saginaw Fire Department to train 11 new fire inspectors. “Every day the courageous men and women of the Saginaw Fire Department help keep our community safe,” said Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint), who first announced the funding approval on Aug. 29. “This federal grant will ensure the Saginaw Fire Department is prepared and can train new inspectors to better protect our community. A year prior to that in Aug. 2018, funding was granted for the department to install 2,000 smoke alarms in Saginaw residents’ homes.
mlive.comMore than $260K in federal funding aims to help SVSU retain and grow student body
KOCHVILLE TWP, MI—A new federal grant for Saginaw Valley State University by U.S. Rep Dan Kildee (D-Flint) aims to help with the retention and graduation rates of mid-Michigan college students. Totaling $261,888, the grant awarded through the U.S. Department of Education’s Student Support Services Program (SSS), will help low-income, first-generation or disabled college students receive better access to academic opportunities and complete their postsecondary education. SVSU President Don Bachand said that the grant will allow the university to grow the portfolio of programs and services they provide for students from rural communities. “We will use these funds to expand our outreach into rural areas of Michigan and then support students’ graduation from SVSU through peer student success coaches and other resources,” Bachand said. “By expanding access to higher education, we can help more local students grow, learn and excel in today’s economy,” Kildee said.
mlive.comUM-Flint researcher documenting Flint River’s ecology as century-old dam removed
FLINT, MI – Researchers at the University of Michigan-Flint are studying the Flint River’s ecology as a century-old dam is removed, opening a 25-mile stretch of fish passages. Dawson first came up with the idea to do this study on the Flint River because she was looking for opportunities to serve students’ interests. “You see the Flint River as sort of this much maligned river with a bad reputation and a lot of it is undeserved,” Dawson said. You do not want the river to just get ignored.”When comparing the Flint River to other urban rivers, Dawson was actually surprised at how it compared. Read more at The Flint Journal:Wildlife, kayaking returning to 25-mile stretch of Flint River after dam removalFunding secured to remove hazardous Hamilton Dam on Flint RiverThree Flint boxers from same gym to compete at national Golden Gloves tournamentCrews begin demolishing Hamilton Dam in downtown Flint
mlive.comU.S. Attorney Secretary of Agriculture discusses Inflation Act, farm programs in Frankenmuth
FRANKENMUTH, M I— On what turned out to be a perfect day for farming, the United States Secretary of Agriculture stopped by the Michigan State University – Saginaw Valley State Research and Extension Center to discuss the Inflation Reduction Act and how it will impact local farmers through the USDA’s Natural Resources Conservation Service. U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack, joined by U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) and Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint), focused on the proposed act on how farmers around the Great Lakes Bay Region and across the country can utilize funds that have been designated.
mlive.comSaginaw riverfront could recieve $3M investment for economic development
SAGINAW, MI— A $3 million dollar investment from the federal government is set to help transform a span along the Saginaw Riverfront. The funds proposed by Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint), will highlight new plans for economic development in the area around 507 S. Washington Ave.
mlive.comJunge wins GOP congressional primary, to face Kildee in November
GENESEE COUNTY, MI -- Paul Junge, a former criminal prosecutor and television news anchor, has won the Republican primary election in the 8th Congressional District, setting up a head-to-head battle with U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee in the November general election. Junge was projected by The Associated Press as the winner of a three-candidate GOP field in the newly redrawn district, defeating fellow Republicans Candice Miller and Matthew Seely on Tuesday, Aug. 2. With 44.5 percent of the vote counted, Junge had received 25,968 votes in the primary (54.8 percent) compared to 11,056 (23.3 percent) for Seely and 10,397 votes (21.9 percent) for Miller. Republicans have gained strength in their battle to unseat Kildee from Congress thanks to redistricting. In addition to much of the area that the congressman currently represents, including the Flint and Saginaw areas, the new 8th District added parts of Midland County, including Midland, which leans Republican.
mlive.com$52B semiconductor package is a ‘big freakin’ deal for Michigan’
The legislation will promote domestic semiconductor production and research. “America’s economy [and] Michigan’s workers should not have to rely on foreign semiconductor chips,” Kildee said. However, only 12% of the assembly happen in America, according to the 2021 Semiconductor Industry Association report. Asia is home to about 75% of the world’s total semiconductor manufacturing capacity. Biden reflected on when the auto industry was in dire straits in the wake of the 2008 recession.
mlive.comWildlife, kayaking returning to 25-mile stretch of Flint River after dam removal
FLINT, MI -- It is only a matter of time until wildlife returns to the Flint River after the removal of the Hamilton Dam. Partly demolished in 2018, the dam now poses a threat to public safety and the environment, according to Flint River and government officials. The deconstruction of the dam will restore fish passages for about 25 miles and will facilitate and enhance the lake sturgeon population in the Flint River. The work is part of the Flint River Restoration project, a $36.8-million project to “naturalize” the Flint River and improve amenities along the river through the downtown area. Read more on MLive:Funding secured to remove hazardous Hamilton Dam on Flint River15 candidates will vie for five Flint school board seats in NovemberSwartz Creek superintendent Ben Mainka leaves for Novi school districtMasks recommended, not required at Flint schools’ first dayBoard member walks out as tempers flare at Flint schools meeting
mlive.comYour guide to what’s on the Aug. 2 primary election ballot in Genesee County
Read more: 2 Democrats, 3 Republicans running for 3rd District seat on Genesee County BOCDistrict 4 Genesee County commissionerTwo Republicans and two Democrats are all vying for a spot on the Genesee County Board of Commissioners with the hopes of a two-year term representing District 4. Read more: 3 Republicans, 2 Democrats face-off in Genesee County District 5 Commissioner raceDistrict 7 Genesee County commissionerThe Genesee County District 7 Board of Commissioners seat is sure to change next year. District 8 Genesee County commissionerMeredith Davis, who currently represents District 7 on the county commission, is running in District 8 in the Republican primary because of redistricting. Read more: Commissioner Davis challenged by Republican, Democratic candidates in Genesee County District 8 primaryDistrict 9 Genesee County commissionerFive newcomers are fighting to take over the Genesee County District 9 commissioner seat after incumbent Gary Peppin announced he is not seeking re-election. Jona May Kean, who currently holds the seat, is opposed in the Democratic primary by Corey Bellomo and Brian Baxter.
mlive.com$10M grant to fund Saginaw Head Start program
SAGINAW, MI— A new $10,008,644 federal grant has been awarded to the Saginaw Intermediate School District (ISD) through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Announced earlier this week by Congressman Dan Kildee (D-Flint), the added funds aim to improve early childhood education across mid-Michigan. The funding will support high-quality learning, as well as nutritious meals, health and developmental screenings, oral and mental health support, and behavioral and special needs services in-part through the Saginaw Head Start program. Kildee said the funding was granted because childhood education is one of the most important investments America can make in its children. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, more than $20 million in federal grants for Head Start and Early Head Start programs have been dispersed in the area so far, including $23.8 million for early childhood education programs in Genesee County, according to Kildee.
mlive.comMeet the GOP candidates aiming to knock Dan Kildee out of Congress
ECONOMY: What federal policies do you support for a healthy economy and to help Americans without financial security improve their economic positions? Empowering people rather than Washington DC politicians and bureaucrats will improve our economy and help people who are living paycheck-to-paycheck. ELECTIONS: What federal policies do you support regarding elections, campaign funding and voting rights? ENVIRONMENT & ENERGY: What policies do you support to meet U.S. energy needs while protecting our water, air and land for current and future generations? Legal immigration can help our economy and society, but uncontrolled illegal immigration leads to more crime, drugs, and lower wages.
mlive.comFlint Bishop Airport awarded $3.5M federal grant to make terminal roof more sustainable
FLINT, MI -- Flint Bishop International Airport will receive a $3.5 million grant from the Federal Aviation Administration, U.S. The funding comes from the Airport Terminal Program, a section of the bipartisan infrastructure law that allocates $5 billion in competitive grants to address aging infrastructure at airports. I am proud to announce this federal grant to help Flint Bishop International Airport make necessary improvements,” Kildee, D-Flint Township, said in a Thursday, July 7 news release. “In Congress, I will continue working to bring federal resources back home to improve mid-Michigan infrastructure.”Nino Sapone, CEO of Flint Bishop, said the investment is “crucial” to maintaining its facility. “Flint Bishop Airport is growing and it’s important the terminal has up to date infrastructure to support the growth.
mlive.comSaginaw transit leaders OK study that could move operations to Potter Street train depot, Civitan
Glenn Steffens, the executive director for Saginaw Transit Authority Regional Service (STARS), said his organization hired Spicer Group for the task. “This study and vision is about more than just a bus station,” Steffens said. “I am proud to have secured federal funding to help STARS redevelop Potter Street Station,” Kildee said. The Potter Street Station could provide STARS with additional office and parking space, a new transfer plaza, a vehicle maintenance facility, and retail shops. The Civitan Recreation Center, 445 N. 2nd Ave. in Saginaw on April 25, 2018.
mlive.comNearly $24 million secured for early childhood education in Genesee County
FLINT, MI -- Two new federal grants will help fund Head Start education programs in Genesee County through a combined $23,808,091. announced the two federal grands that were awarded through the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services on Tuesday, July 5. The grants will support high-quality early childhood education for children in Genesee County, including meals, health screenings, mental health support and special needs services, according to a news release from Kildee’s office. Genesee County will receive $10,421,276 and the Genesee Intermediate School District will receive $13,386,815, according to the release. “Head Start is a life changing early education program that gives children and their families a brighter future,” Kildee said.
mlive.com$750K in funding toward community health efforts secured, Kildee announces
FLINT, MI -- Accessing community resources to mental health support just got easier. U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Township, announced Tuesday, June 28, that $750,000 in funding was secured in a recent federal spending bill that will go to the Greater Flint Health Coalition’s mental health services program. The program is a “community-based medical home improvement program” that seeks to address barriers that community members face in seeking and navigating medical services, including mental health. Janée Tyus, senior program director of the Genesee Community Health Access Program, said these funds will allow the organization to expand in behavioral health areas. Kildee announced the funding was secured at the Greater Flint Health Coalition building in downtown Flint, alongside Dr. Lawrence Reynolds, President and CEO, Tyus, and Dan Russell, CEO of Genesee Health System.
mlive.comBay County Child and Senior Citizen Center praised for work during pandemic
But thanks to some financial assistance, a Bay County facility stayed strong and is continuing to offer services to area families. On Monday, June 27, Congressman Dan Kildee toured the Bay County Child and Senior Citizen Center at 1001 Marsac Street in Bay City. The Bay County Child and Senior Citizen Center received financial assistance during the pandemic including $440,000 in child care stabilization grants as a part of the American Rescue Plan. “We wouldn’t have survived,” said Peggy Condon-Watson, executive director of the Bay County Child and Senior Citizen Center. In coordination with the Bay County Health Department, the center had to temporarily shutter its senior citizen programming during the pandemic for months.
mlive.com$1.2M to help rural mid-Michigan college students
FRANKENLUST TWP, MI—Congressman and Chief Deputy Whip of the House Democratic Caucus, Dan Kildee (D-Flint), has announced a new federal grant program to help rural mid-Michigan students prepare for and succeed in college. The new $1.2 Million federal grant was awarded to Saginaw Valley State University through the U.S. Department of Education’s Rural Postsecondary and Economic Development (RPED) program and will support students from rural communities as they prepare for and attend college. He says the federal grant will help more students from the rural communities in the area graduate with the skills they need to secure good-paying jobs. The federal funding will help expand existing programs, like career services, and develop new programs to improve college preparedness, access and success. By meeting the unique needs of rural students, these programs will help increase rural enrollment and graduation rates and long-term career success.
mlive.comSVSU transit center, Flint road work included in Kildee’s $46.8M budget proposal
The projects’ funding is far from a certainty, although Kildee officials noted the Democrat’s previous wish list was included in its entirety when lawmakers signed off on the 2022 budget. The November elections, though, may alter the voting dynamic of Congress, which is controlled today by Kildee’s political party. “This funding would allow the Genesee County Road Commission to reconstruct a part of Carpenter Road that is the site of increasing development in an economically depressed area,” Eric Johnston, the road commission’s director of engineering, said in a statement. For example, Bay County Sheriff Troy Cunningham said the funding would finance body cameras, a patrol vessel and airboat for his agency. The project would help officials build a new community center for YMCA of Greater Flint; renovate the YMCA of Saginaw; and build an outdoor center for Dow Bay Area Family YMCA in Bay City, officials said.
mlive.com$650K in federal funds to go to Flint afterschool, mentorship programs
FLINT, MI -- More than half a million dollars in federal funding is coming to Flint through afterschool and mentorship programs at the Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village and Berston Field House on the city’s north side. U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Twp., announced Tuesday, May 3, that $650,000 in federal funds were secured to support a STEM education program for students at the Sylvester Broome Empowerment Village alongside youth mentoring programs at Berston Field House. The funds were secured through a Community Project Funding Request routed through the appropriations committee. Sylvester Broom Empowerment Village and Berston Field House filed a joint request, and the full amount was awarded, Kildee said. Alongside this funding, nine other local programs including the Flint Registry and Genesee County Habitat for Humanity had funding secured last month.
mlive.comFunding secured to remove hazardous Hamilton Dam on Flint River
FLINT, MI -- A century-old dam deemed hazardous due to structural deficiencies will soon be coming down in the Flint River with an $855,000 federal grant secured by U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee. The Hamilton Dam, which was partly demolished in 2018, poses a threat to public safety and the environment, according to Flint River and government officials. This is a really good example of how we can restore vitality to this beautiful river,” Kildee said. “A lot of people wrote this river off.”Patrick Scanlon, executive director of the Flint River Watershed Coalition, said removing the last part of the dam has long been a priority for his organization. “I’m the new director but this is something that I have been aware of for quite some time.”The work is part of the Flint River Restoration project, a $36.8-million project to “naturalize” the Flint River and improve amenities along the river through the downtown area.
mlive.comU.S. House passes Kildee bill to cap monthly cost of insulin at $35
GENESEE COUNTY, MI — The Affordable Insulin Now Act, a bill introduced by U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee to cap insulin costs at $35 a month, passed in the U.S. House of Representatives. “Michigan families and seniors are paying too much for insulin,” Kildee said in a statement Thursday. “Today, with bipartisan support, the House passed my legislation to cap the cost of insulin at $35 per month. Verdier, who has Type 1 diabetes, helped call attention to the need for insulin price-capping legislation. “As a person living with Type 1 diabetes, my life literally depends on my ability to afford insulin,” Verdier said.
mlive.comMichigan lawmakers react to Trump’s historic 2nd acquittal
FILE - In this Wednesday, Jan. 20, 2021, file photo, President Donald Trump waves as he boards Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House, in Washington, en route to his Mar-a-Lago Florida Resort. Former President Donald Trump is welcoming his second impeachment acquittal and says his movement “has only just begun.”Democratic senators from Michigan were among the U.S. lawmakers who cast “guilty” votes on Saturday in hopes of charging Trump with incitement. “Former President Donald Trump spent months pushing a big lie – that the November election was stolen from him. Today, 57 Senators – including a record 7 Republicans – voted to find former President Trump guilty for inciting that deadly insurrection on our very democracy. The Senate vote followed the bipartisan vote to impeach him by the House of Representatives.
Michigan members of Congress react to riot at US Capitol
WASHINGTON – Michigan’s congressional delegation either evacuated or was told to shelter in place in their offices Wednesday when a group of supporters for President Donald Trump stormed into the US Capitol. Congressman Dan Kildee (MI-05) was on the House floor when rioters overran the Capitol police. Kildee and his colleagues were evacuated, and he blames the president for inciting the riot. READ: Pro-Trump mob storms US Capitol in bid to overturn electionCongresswoman Lisa McClain (MI-10) was also in the House along with Kildee, and she was also evacuated. McClain said she would still consider an objection to some state’s electoral votes but found the president’s response to the riot to be not enough.
Michigan lawmakers call on Pence to invoke 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office
Read: Experts: Capitol riot product of years of hateful rhetoricIn response, lawmakers are calling on Vice President Mike Pence to invoke the Constitution’s 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office. Learn more: What is the 25th Amendment and how does it work? The Vice President and Cabinet should invoke the 25th Amendment, or Congress should impeach and remove the President. — Brenda Lawrence (@RepLawrence) January 7, 2021Rep. Haley Stevens, Michigan’s 11th DistrictI encourage those with the authority to invoke the 25th Amendment to exercise that power. pic.twitter.com/5VK8DLTLn4 — David Cicilline (@davidcicilline) January 7, 2021Speaker of the U.S. House Rep. Nancy Pelosi, from California, previously introduced legislation in October requesting Congress to intervene under the 25th Amendment to remove Trump from office.
House Democrats prepared to defend Michigan election results in Congress
LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s house Democrats said they plan to defend Michigan’s election results if there is an objection Wednesday in Congress. President-Elect Joe Biden, who won the Electoral College 306-232, is set to be inaugurated Jan. 20. WATCH: Congress holds Electoral College confirmation vote for BidenThe process is ceremonial and is typically a smooth and easy process. Some members of congress who may object were on the ballot in the same election,” said Michigan Rep. Dan Kildee. “As they continue to sow doubt in Michigan’s election results when it comes to the presidential election, they have no issue taking their own oath of office a few days ago.
Biden, Obama make a final appeal to Michigan's Black voters
The Democratic presidential nominee is teaming up with his former boss, Barack Obama, for a swing through Michigan on Saturday. “I think that helps.”R&B legend Stevie Wonder will perform in Detroit on Saturday after Biden and Obama speak. The press for Michigan’s Black voters comes after voting was down roughly 15% in Flint and Detroit four years ago — a combined 48,000-plus votes in a state Trump carried by about 10,700 votes. Jonathan Kinloch leads the 13th Congressional District Democratic Party, which includes parts of Detroit, and expressed confidence that Black voters will turn out for Biden. While Biden is expected to win the vast majority of Black voters in next week’s election, Trump has also courted them and hopes to shave into Democrats’ historic advantage in the community.
General Election results for Michigan U.S. House District 5 on Nov. 3, 2020
The 2020 General Election will be held on November 3. You can find results for Michigan U.S. House District 5 here. r10881 U.S. House District 5 - Michigan Candidate Votes % *Incumbent 0% of Precincts Reporting (0 / 0)Find more election results and news on the Decision 2020 page. 🌟 Become an Insider 🌟Introducing WDIV Insider: A new way for loyal Local 4 fans to gain access and customize your ClickOnDetroit news experience. Learn more about WDIV Insider - and sign up here!
Michigan postal workers express concern about current working conditions
Tlaibs spoke in response to the recent statement from Postmaster General Louis DeJoy about concerns of current conditions inside post offices nationwide and worries about mail in ballots. DeJoy released a statement stating, The postal service is ready today to handle whatever volume of election mail it receives this fall.But the changes were already made. We stand before the United States Postal Service to say, heroes work here and we have your back, said Rep. Haley Stevens. People who work for the United States Postal Service have come to work, have put themselves at risk, in order to meet the commitment, said Rep. Dan Kildee. Several voters are concerned that the ballots wont be counted but Benson said theyre working to make sure that wont happen.
Aluminum tariffs could impact Michigan manufacturing
Its the latest development in a new trade feud sparked by President Donald Trumps decision to reimpose aluminum duties on the U.S. ally. Trade groups believe the decision to reimpose the aluminum duties puts Michigan manufacturing at a disadvantage. Trump announced hes renewing tariffs on imported metal -- 10% on aluminum and 25% on steel. The decision has riled trade groups including those that represent major automakers who warned the White House the move would put American manufacturing at a disadvantage. Kildee disagreesThats not a policy, Kildee said.
Rep. Dan Kildee: Its dangerous to take these polls at face value, after poll shows Biden up in Michigan
I think its dangerous to take these polls at face value, Kildee, who represents Michigans fifth district said Friday. Thats a snapshot of how people feel on a particular day. Kildee had just finished an event for the Biden campaign and warned fellow supporters. 40 percent said they would vote for President Trump. Kilee said he also wouldnt be surprised by a last ditch effort from the Trump campaign to win over voters. A spokesperson for the Trump campaign did not immediately respond to questions for comment about the poll.
Tim Kelly wins Republican nomination for U.S. House in Michigans 5th congressional district
Tim Kelly has won the Republican nomination for U.S. House in Michigans 5th congressional district. Kelly defeated Early Lackie for the nomination. He will go up against incumbent Rep. Dan Kildee in November. Related: Latest Election newsMore: Election resultsMichigan Primary Election Results 2020Primary Election Results by county:
Despite COVID crisis, Congress seeks to do its day job
On Friday, the House passed a $259 billion funding bill for foreign aid and the Interior, Agriculture, and Veterans Affairs departments along party lines. The measure is the first annual spending measure to pass either the House or Senate this year, but it has scant chance of becoming law, serving instead as a springboard for negotiations down the line. And if Trump loses the election, Democrats are likely to wait until the Biden administration is in place before wrapping up the annual bills, which fund the annual operations of federal Cabinet agencies. The Senate Appropriations panel canceled plans for drafting its 12 annual bills after Democrats served notice they would offer amendments on COVID relief and policing reform that Chairman Richard Shelby, R-Ala., deemed too politically troublesome. As a result, Congress is likely to return to Washington in September to handle a stopgap funding bill that would last until December to prevent a campaign season government shutdown.
White House, GOP at odds over jobless aid in virus bill
Outraged Democrats warned that time is wasting on GOP infighting as the virus worsens, jobless aid expires and the death toll rises. Plans shifted after Trump was forced to abandon his push for a payroll tax break, which his party opposed, and the White House turned to the new priorities. One sticking point for Republicans trying to resolve their differences with the White House is how to cut the $600 weekly jobless benefit boost that is expiring. An administration official granted anonymity to discuss the private talks said the White House viewed the Senate GOP's proposal as too cumbersome and the $200 boost as too high. Next steps are uncertain after days of closed-door GOP negotiations at the Capitol with top White House officials, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin and Mark Meadows, the White House chief of staff.
Remembering John Lewis: Michigan leaders pay tribute to iconic civil rights leader
DETROIT Congressman John Lewis, a civil rights icon, has died at the age of 80 on Friday after a six-month battle with stage four pancreatic cancer. The youngest and last surviving member of the Big Six civil rights activists, Lewis dedicated his life to fighting for equality. Leaders react to passing of civil rights iconMichigan Governor Gretchen WhitmerCongressman John Lewis was a civil rights legend who stood firmly on the front lines of our nations history. He touched the hearts of America as a Civil Rights icon in this country for decades. I will forever remember his stories of the Civil Rights movement, constant words of encouragement and the reminder to get into good trouble.
'Slap in the face: Michigan lawmakers want Kroger to extend workers $2 raise beyond this weekend
DETROIT A group of Michigan lawmakers is calling on Kroger to extend the $2 pay raise it gave to workers during the pandemic, saying it would be a slap in the face to let the Hero Pay expire this weekend while the coronavirus (COVID-19) remains a threat. LATEST: Kroger opens drive-thru coronavirus testing site in YpsilantiKrogers Hero Pay is set to end nationwide Sunday. Michigan lawmakers are saying because the state still has among the most confirmed COVID-19 cases in the nation, Kroger workers are still at risk. As long as this health crisis persists and Kroger is open for business, Kroger has a duty to continue Hero Pay for its brave workers, the lawmakers wrote in the letter. Ending Hero Pay while Kroger employees continue to put themselves at great risk is a slap in the face to everyone who has enabled your doors to remain open.
Here are the Michigan Democrats supporting Trump impeachment hearings
WASHINGTON - Calls for impeachment hearings from U.S. House Democrats are increasing after President Trump's latest scandal. More than 140 House Democrats have now called for impeachment hearings to begin amid fallout from the reported call between Trump and the Ukraine, where the president allegedly threatened to withhold financial aid in exchange for an investigation into the Biden family. Many Democrats had previously called for impeachment hearings following the Mueller report. We do not arrive at this conclusion lightly, and we call on our colleagues in Congress to consider the use of all congressional authorities available to us, including the power of 'inherent contempt' and impeachment hearings, to address these new allegations, find the truth and protect our national security." Rep. Justin Amash of Michigan, a former Republican who has since become an independent, has also called for impeachment proceedings, bringing the total number of representatives to 146.