Community News & Updates

Sep 11, 2023 | Email

Friends and Neighbors,  

On the 22nd anniversary of September 11, 2001, I reflect with many of you on the lives stolen, injured and upended that day. Today, we also honor the public servants and private citizens who put their duty and compassion before their safety.

There’s no fade to our memories of that day. Let’s also remember and be inspired by the humanity and unity that 9/11 summoned from our nation.

Kristen McDonald Rivet
State Senator
District 35
(517) 373-1725
PO Box 30036
Lansing, MI. 48909
SenKMcDonaldRivet@senate.michigan.gov

 

 

In This Edition  
  • Governor’s Address: What’s Next?
  • Additional Legislative Updates
  • Community Investments 
  • In the Community 
  • Helpful Resources and Links  
  • Contact Us    . 
Governor’s Address and Senate Priorities: What’s Next?  
During her August 30 address, Gov. Whitmer highlighted key legislative priorities for the fall session grounded in the principle of health — health of our people, economy, planet and democracy.
 
Consistent with our focus since day one, my Senate colleagues and I aim to move legislation that makes meaningful differences in Michiganders’ lives. We will work to align our objectives with these “What’s Next?” priorities shared by our Governor:
  • Codify the Affordable Care Act so its common-sense, cost-saving measures are protected through state law.
  • Ensure the freedom to make personal, reproductive health decisions without government interference. Roll back harmful, burdensome restrictions related to accessing and providing reproductive care.
  • Establish an independent, nonpartisan Prescription Drug Affordability Board that would use data and research to lower prescription drug costs, hold bad actors in the supply chain accountable and encourage research and development for new treatments and cures.
  • Enact paid family and medical leave that makes sense for businesses of all sizes and their workers.
  • Streamline our permitting process to pick up the construction pace in advanced manufacturing, infrastructure, housing and other sectors.
  • Enact a 100% clean energy standard for Michigan that lowers utility costs, expedites clean energy project construction and ensures safe drinking water and clean air for future generations.
  • Protect election integrity. While the implementation of voter-passed Proposal 2 measures makes voting in Michigan more accessible and secure, there are additional safeguards we can adopt to protect the will of the people.
Additional Legislative Updates 
Detroit Regional Chamber Joins Support for “Buy Michigan” Bills
The Detroit Regional Chamber is the latest organization to join a diverse coalition of business, labor and local governments backing the “Buy Michigan” legislation I introduced earlier this year. The Chamber is encouraging state lawmakers to pass it “so our businesses are better positioned for growth and success.” 
Senate Bills 316–317 would provide Michigan-based businesses a second chance to offer a better deal for taxpayer-funded state contracts which would otherwise go to out-of-state vendors. While this bipartisan measure would give local businesses a crucial advantage, it preserves the state of Michigan’s ability to choose the most qualified bidder in its procurement process, ensuring taxpayers get the highest quality of products and services at the best price. 
New Report Details Childcare Impact on Michigan’s Workforce, Economy 
Michigan’s economy loses nearly $3 billion annually as a direct result of childcare issues, according to a new report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF), in partnership with the Grand Rapids Chamber, Michigan Chamber and the Early Childhood Investment Corporation (ECIC). 
This Untapped Potential in Michigan report details that cost and other consequences of childcare breakdowns and gaps. Michigan must improve its childcare infrastructure to reach our economic potential as a state and help our young families do the same. That’s why I’m prioritizing legislation this fall to improve affordability and remove barriers around opening and maintaining childcare facilities.
Community Investments 
Nexteer, NorthStar Clean Energy “Solarbration” Groundbreaking 
We love celebrating business investments in our region, and it’s all the better when they also invest in our environmental future. I was glad to join Nexteer Automotiveand NorthStar Clean Energy as they broke ground on a 25-acre solar field in Buena Vista Township. Using this renewable energy source will ultimately reduce Nexteer’s operational costs at this site with a fraction of the emissions compared to traditional sources. WNEMTV5 coverage has more on what this project means to our district.
EGLE Grant Helps Open Business, Create New Jobs in Monitor Twp.
A $300,000 grant will help convert a vacant and contaminated former gas station site in Monitor Township into a Tim Horton’s coffee shop. The new business is expected to draw $1 million in capital investment and produce 17 new full- and part-time jobs.
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) awarded this Brownfield Redevelopment Grant to pay for the removal and disposal of contaminated soil at the site and for a vapor mitigation system in the building being built at 1912 South Euclid Avenue. Construction is scheduled to finish by year’s end.
Brownfield redevelopment projects like this are economic and environmental wins. I’m proud to have one of the bills signed into law this summer which, together, allow Michigan’s Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act to support residential housing and community revitalization, as well as larger business developments.
Bay County, City of Saginaw Police Get Federal Funds Secured by Congressman Kildee
I’m pleased to share that our Congressman, U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee (MI-08), recently secured federal funds for the Bay County, Michigan Sheriff’s Office and the City of Saginaw Police Department, among several other Michigan law enforcement departments.
According to Bay County Sheriff Troy Cunningham, this funding will help them make critical equipment upgrades — including body cameras, a patrol vessel and an airboat. Saginaw Police Chief Robert Ruth said his department will use the funds to acquire technologies and equipment to assist in investigating, responding to and preventing crime.
In the Community  
DuPont Performance Building Solutions  

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Innovation in Michigan — especially right here in our district — greatly influences our success. Last month, I toured the Larkin Labs site of DuPont Performance Building Solutions. They’re “using building science to innovate as if our future depends on it,” making sustainable products to increase energy efficiency for homes and businesses. It was great to get this behind-the-scenes look at a business doing such valuable research and developing such beneficial products.  
Local Government 101 Q&A 
What do your state legislators actually do? What are the best ways to reach us whether it’s about statewide policy or help navigating personal issues involving the government? I joined State Rep. Amos O’Neal to answer those questions and more. Thanks to Saginaw Mayor Pro Dem Annie Boensch for the chance to participate in this Local Government 101 Q&A; watch our video here.
Tribute for Pawsitivity 

There was no better way for me to mark National Dog Day than recognizing one of Bay City’s finest, furriest residents. For years, Moose has shared his sweetness with Regent Floral & Mercantile shoppers. At his retirement party, I presented Moose and his owner with a tribute honoring his dutiful pawsitivity and service and wished him well as he embarks on a new chapter with more naps and treats.

Connecting Indoors, Outdoors, And on the Doors! 

Continuing our dedication to keep a pulse on what matters most to our residents, our team’s schedule these past few weeks has been full of conversations with constituents.

In our most recent coffee hour, nurses, educators, union workers and community leaders were among those bringing thoughtful perspectives forward. We had gorgeous weather for a driveway “porch talk” where neighbors shared the issues on their hearts and minds. Our latest canvassing crew went door to door in the Bay County part of our district, connecting with constituents on their concerns, the good work already accomplished in the Legislature and our upcoming priorities. 

You may read more about how Senate Democrats across Michigan have used the summer to connect with their constituents and communities here. 

Additional Events, Meetings  


Senator McDonald Rivet’s other events included visiting Bay-Arenac Community High School; speaking at the Kiwanis Club of Saginaw’s August meeting; discussing community violence prevention with the Saginaw African American Pastors (SAAP); and joining in on the fun at the Mid-Michigan Area Labor Council’s Labor Day Picnic. 

Director of District and Constituent Services Kevin Hayes delivered a state tribute to the Kochville Twp. Fire Department for their 50th Anniversary; led multiple canvassing efforts throughout the district; held office hours in Monitor Twp.; and attended the Bay County Supervisors Breakfast Meeting and several of the Senator’s events listed above. 

Legislative Director Stephen Prince delivered a state tribute to the Kawkawlin Twp. Fire Department for their 75th Anniversary. 

 

Community Communications  


AUG 25, WJR RADIO: Guy Gordon Morning Show, Podcast # E3972 at this link: www.wjr.com/guygordon Topic: Buy Michigan legislation 

AUG 30, MICHIGAN SENATE DEMOCRATS: “Sen. McDonald Rivet Brings A Lifetime of Policy and Passion To Fixing Child Care” 

Upcoming Events 

Bay County Coffee & Conversation  
WHEN: Friday, September 22, 2023, from 3:00 – 4:00 p.m. 
WHERE: Bay Veterans Foundation, 1009 N Madison Ave. Bay City, MI 48708 

Conversation With Parents of Children With Disabilities    
WHEN: Friday, September 29, 2023, from 10:00 – 11:00 am  
WHERE: *Midland 

*This event is specifically for parents and guardians of children (of all ages) with disabilities. For questions or to RSVP, please email themidlandfridaygroup@gmail.com to receive the hosting location in Midland. 

 

Helpful Resources and Links    

September Is National Recovery Month 
National Recovery Month is dedicated to raising awareness, reducing stigma and promoting understanding of the recovery process from addiction and mental health challenges. We can all help prevent suicide. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources. 

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration offers related events and virtual programs for Recovery Month, as well as ongoing pathways to support and treatment resources.

Affordability Programs from the Michigan Public Service Commission 
National Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week is Sept. 11-15, 2023. Lifeline is both a federal and state program providing income eligible subscribers a discount on qualifying monthly telephone service, broadband internet service or bundled voice-broadband packages. Lifeline support is available at 1-800-234-9473 or lifelinesupport@usac.org. 

The Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP) is another way income eligible customers can save on broadband bills. This federal program provides customers up to $30 a month toward their broadband service, up to $75 per month for households on qualifying Tribal lands and a one-time discount of up to $100 to purchase a desktop computer, laptop or tablet through participating providers. You may contact the ACP Support Center at 1-877-384-2575 or ACPSupport@usac.org. 

Scrap Tire Cleanup Grant Applications – Open Through Sept. 29 
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has grants to support the cleanup and reuse of scrap tires. Online applications are open through Sept. 29 (no paper submittals) and linked here: Community Cleanups APPLICATION and Cleanups at Privately Owned Properties APPLICATION. Click this link for Application Instructions and FAQ or email questions to EGLE-ScrapTire@Michigan.gov.   

 

Here are additional resources you may find helpful: 

 

Contact Us and Stay Informed 

  • Website Contact Form:  This is the best, fastest way to reach us.  
  • Website News Page:  This page archives our official press releases and statements.  
  • Past ENewsletters: This page archives our prior enewsletter editions.
  • Social Media: Social media sites are neither official government websites nor are they well suited for constituent correspondence. However, since we post frequently, social media can be a very timely way to access news and information. Visit Senator Kristen McDonald Rivet’s Facebook page here.