Dear Neighbor,
I hope you and your loved ones are enjoying the summer sun and taking the necessary precautions to stay cool and healthy amid the high temperatures. As we recognize July as National Lakes Appreciation Month, it’s a perfect excuse to get out and enjoy one of Michigan’s many freshwater lakes.
In this newsletter, I want to take a moment to catch you up on the many things our team has been working on both in Lansing and District 27. With the summer finally here, we have more time to be out in the community, connecting with residents, and listening to their thoughts and ideas for how we can move our state forward.
As always, if you or someone you know would like to provide any feedback about what’s happening in Lansing or needs assistance of any sort, please feel free to reach out to my office. You can contact me at 517-373-0142 (Lansing office), 810-233-9853 (District office), or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov.
Sincerely,
John Cherry
State Senator
District 27
Featured in This Newsletter
- In Recent News
- Legislative Updates
- Community Events
- Resources
In Recent News
In Memoriam of a Life Well Lived: Tim Sneller
The magnitude of one’s legacy speaks volumes to how they lived their life. For former State Representative Tim Sneller, who sadly passed away on July 11, we can be sure of one thing: Tim’s legacy is one of monumental character, having set in motion ripple effects for years to come.
Tim was a dear friend to many and a grounded public servant. His dedication to public service and unwavering commitment to our community have left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege of knowing him.
His passing is a tremendous loss to many, including myself, colleagues, and the Genesee County community. Over the course of his life, Tim worked whole-heartedly for several Flint area legislators, including my father, whose staff he dedicated nearly 20 years to when he was a state legislator. As a lifelong friend whom I have known since I was born, I was incredibly proud to serve alongside Tim in the Michigan House. Tim was my closest friend and colleague in the House, and I saw everyday his passion for serving his constituents.
He was a beloved mentor to many of us — always eager to listen and willing to impart wisdom acquired through his rich life experiences and decades of working in the legislature and in service to his community. That guidance and wisdom has been a profound source of inspiration for me and countless others, something that we’ll not only cherish, but will undoubtedly propel us forward in our lives and work each day.
Throughout his career, Tim exemplified the true spirit of leadership. From sunup to sundown, Tim had unwavering focus on doing his very best for the people he served in Genesee County and for Michiganders across the state. He was quick to gain the respect of all those he interacted with, rising above the divisiveness of partisan politics and always advocating for what was right and just.
As we mourn this significant loss, we also celebrate the tremendous legacy he leaves behind — one of servanthood, humility, and integrity.
Rest in peace, Tim. Your memory will forever be cherished, and your contributions will never be forgotten. You have left this corner of the world a better place than you found it, and that is truly a beautiful thing. For all you were and all you’ve done, thanks for showing us a great example of what it means to have a life well lived.
My heartfelt condolences go out to Tim’s family and loved ones during this difficult time.
Learn more about our dear friend’s life here.
Celebrating Michigan’s Many, Many Lakes During National Lakes Appreciation Month!
Here in Michigan, we take pride in being known as the Great Lakes State. Our five Great Lakes are the source of 20% of Earth’s total fresh water. In addition to these, Michigan is also home to more than 11,000 inland lakes (You can find one near you using this interactive map).
Our lakes and various waterways are integral to the health of our families and our economy. The Great Lakes system is invaluable as the source of drinking water for more than 40 million people in the U.S. and Canada, and the Great Lakes shipping industry generates more than $36 billion in economic activity and supports more than 664,000 jobs. Our lakes also provide families with unmatched recreational opportunities.
Since taking office, my colleagues and I have:
- Secured $600 million in the 2024 state budget for statewide water infrastructure projects, replacing lead service lines, rebuilding sewers and more.
- Championed the historic Clean Energy Future package which sets clean energy standards, promotes energy efficiency, and creates the Office of Community and Worker Economic Transition.
- Passed legislation to require environmental protection and cleanup standards to ensure bad actors pay to clean up their pollution, rather than having taxpayers foot the bill.
- Repealed a harmful law that restricted Michigan officials from implementing environmental and public health safeguards beyond federal standards, empowering Michigan to protect its natural resources and environment more effectively.
During National Lakes Appreciation Month, Michigan Senate Democrats remain committed to building on this work and advancing legislation to strengthen environmental protections, so future generations of Michiganders can enjoy our state’s lakes for years to come.
Legislative Update
Senate Democrats Pass State Budget Dedicated to Building Up Michigan
Last year marked a significant milestone for Michigan Democrats as we capitalized on their first trifecta in 40 years to spearhead a transformative budget — directing vital resources into historically neglected sectors like infrastructure, education, and local communities.
Recently, Senate Democrats successfully finished negotiations with the House on the state budget. The Fiscal Year 2025 State Budget builds on last year’s transformative budget by continuing to invest in children and families, students and workers, public safety, community development, and more.
This Democratic majority views the state budget as both a values statement and a financial plan. Our cornerstones for the 2025 budget — transformational, innovative, equitable, and intentional — reflect the priorities established last year.
Read more here.
Creating an Environment Where Workers and Businesses Can Thrive
Recently, CNBC ranked Michigan as No. 9 on their list of America’s Top States for Business in 2024 list. This marks the third time since the list was launched that Michigan has cracked the top 10. This announcement comes after Michigan’s unemployment rate fell below the national average, remaining at 3.9% for the fourth consecutive month in May. With all this news, the message to workers and businesses is clear: whether you’re looking for a good-paying job or a place to start a successful small business, Michigan is a state where you can thrive.
Since taking office, our Majority for the People has championed legislation to make this reality possible. Here’s just a few of our legislative highlights:
- Expanded the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), benefiting 750,000 Michigan workers and boosting local purchasing power to add an additional $553 million to our economy;
- Rolled back the unfair and unpopular retirement tax, putting an average of $1,000 back in the pockets of 500,000 seniors;
- Created a process for small businesses to claim a personal property tax exemption for a property with a true cash value between $80,000-$180,000, helping alleviate the financial strains small business owners may face;
- Expanded the Transformational Brownfield Plan program and made housing development projects eligible to receive tax increment financing (TIF) when transforming obsolete and vacant properties, helping to increase access to affordable housing; and
- Provided additional flexibility to businesses to establish Business Improvement Zones, increasing the tools that business owners have at their disposal to build more vibrant, cohesive community centers.
Additionally, in our 2025 State Budget, we secured the resources necessary to build up workers and small businesses throughout our state, including funding to:
- Continue Michigan Reconnect, providing a tuition-free pathway to adult learners 25 and older.
- Expand access to free community college for students in every part of the state with the Community College Guarantee. Beginning Fall 2024, students from the Class of 2023 and beyond are eligible for this funding.
- Support Michigan’s current and future workforce needs and population growth, including specialized economic assistance to businesses locating or expanding in Michigan to meet their talent and workforce needs.
- Uplift Minority-Owned Businesses.
- Establish an Innovation Fund to invest in scalable startups and help launch hundreds of new Michigan-based companies, creating thousands of jobs.
Read more about our Building Up Michigan Budget here.
Community Events
Rediscover Flint & Genesee: Be A Tourist Returns on 810 Day!
Join Explore Flint and Genesee on August 10, 2024 for the return of “Be a Tourist in Your Hometown”! After a five-year hiatus, this one-day event invites you to explore Flint and Genesee County’s hidden treasures for just $1.
Tickets can be purchased in advance at ExploreFlintandGenesee.org/bat or on-site at Brush Park in downtown Flint or the FIM Whiting. Your ticket includes the Be a Tourist passport, granting access to over 20 area attractions.
Enjoy five unique tours designed for every interest, from leisurely walks and historical journeys to family-friendly activities and artistic experiences. Complimentary transportation by Mass Transportation Authority (MTA) makes exploring easy and convenient. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover the magic of your hometown on 810 Day!
District Office Hours
Did you know that in addition to our Lansing office, we also have a district office in Downtown Flint? At this office, two dedicated staff members manage constituent inquiries, oversee developments within the city, and monitor ongoing progress within the 27th District. We would be glad to meet with you to discuss any pertinent issues, especially those related to Flint and Genesee County.
You can reach our Flint district office at (810) 233-9853 or via email at SenJCherry@senate.michigan.gov. Constituents are also invited to schedule appointments with my district staff for assistance with state issues or to discuss important legislation. Appointments are typically available on Mondays and Fridays from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. To schedule an appointment, please click here.
Resources
Free Hearing and Vision Screenings for Incoming Kindergarteners
As the new school year approaches, we want to remind parents about the importance of hearing and vision screenings for incoming kindergarteners. Michigan law requires these screenings, and the results must be submitted to school officials by the first day of school. To help parents meet this requirement, the Genesee County Health Department is offering free screenings throughout the summer at various locations. For the complete schedule, click here. For more information, call 810-257-3193 or email gchdhearingvision@geneseecountymi.gov.
Free Summer Meals for Students
It can be a challenge for families to keep food on the table while school is out for the summer. One in six kids in Michigan face food insecurity, and more than 850,000 Michigan children rely on free public school lunches. That’s why organizations and local school districts are working with Meet Up and Eat Up and providing those ages 18 and under with delicious, nutritious meals.
All summer long, children 18 and under can eat healthy, satisfying meals in their own communities at no cost. No application forms required, no registration needed, and no proof of residency asked for — just show up and enjoy a meal! All meals must be eaten at the site. Visit the interactive map for locations near you. You can also text “FOOD” or “COMIDA” to 304-304 to find free meals in your neighborhood.