LANSING, Mich. (July 3, 2026) — Today, the Michigan Legislature passed a bipartisan state budget for the 2027 Fiscal Year that centers investments that deliver economic relief and stability when it’s needed most. Also included in the final budget agreement was over $1 million Sen. Kevin Hertel (D-St. Clair Shores) secured for his lakeshore district, including several key programs and projects that will help expand learning opportunities for young learners.
“Education remains one of the greatest investments we can make in our future. It expands opportunity, improves health outcomes, strengthens our economy, and so much more,” said Sen. Hertel. “Every investment we make in our schools and our students today will pay dividends for decades to come by preparing the next generation with the knowledge and skills they’ll need to thrive in tomorrow’s economy. That’s why I fought to secure funding for projects that help more young learners get the education they need and deserve.”
Included in the $1 million Sen. Hertel successfully secured for communities in Senate District 12 is:
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$500,000 for the Chesterfield Fire Department to construct a boat hoist and dock at Brandenburg Park, helping improve emergency response and save lives.
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$250,000 for Dutton Farms to renovate their new Clinton Township campus, which will help the organization provide more adults with disabilities with meaningful, enriching opportunities after high school.
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$150,000 for Mount Clemens Community Schools to restore the high school’s auditorium, which serves as a central space for student performances, assemblies, academic programming, and community events.
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$115,000 for Grosse Pointe Public Schools to make needed updates to their communication systems and strengthen emergency preparedness.
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$75,000 to help establish the Grosse Pointe Robotics and Innovation Center, which aims to provide year-round opportunities for students to excel in STEAM.
These investments come shortly after Sen. Hertel played a critical role in securing the final $152 million needed for Selfridge Air National Guard Base to expand and reroute their runway and ensure the timely arrival of their new fighter mission beginning in 2028.
To learn more about previous investments Sen. Hertel has brought back for his lakeshore district, click here.