West Branch Businesses, Organizations and Visitors Bureau Members,
The budget battle over a variety of issues has escalated in Lansing. Because of this escalation the Michigan Travel Bureau and the Pure Michigan Campaign has become an innocent victim of this political battle. Governor Whitmer cut the Pure Michigan promotion using the line-item veto when signing the budget Monday, September 30. As a result, $37.5 million in Pure Michigan marketing dollars were slashed from the 2020 state budget.
The next step is either supplemental funding bills being introduced in the legislature or adjustments to the budget through the State Administrative Board. Either way the budget adjustment may well be reshaped through negotiations with the Governor's office and a supplemental appropriations bill.
In addition, MEDC (Michigan Economic Development Corporation) community revitalization programs received a devastating cut. Without the thriving, growing communities, it is hard to have thriving, growing tourism.
Both of these programs are essential to the continued growth of northern Michigan. As small businesses are supported by investment by entrepreneurs and support from agencies like MEDC, the expansion of these businesses makes a strong impact here in our area. Add in the marketing dollars from Pure Michigan and you have a perfect combination of marketing and small business development.
The quickest and most effective way to reach your senators and representatives is through e-mail. We encourage you to contact your legislators immediately and request "Investment in the economic development of our communities and Support of the Pure Michigan campaign."
Thank you,
Emil Rousseau, Visitors Bureau, President
Representative Daire RendonS-1387 House Office BuildingP.O. Box 30014Lansing, MI 48909Phone: (517) 373-3817Email: DaireRendon@house.mi.gov
Senator Curt VanderwallState Capitol201 Townsend StreetLansing, MI 48933Phone: (517) 373-1725Fax: (517) 373-0741SenCVanderWall@senate.michigan.gov
Governor's office517-373-3400gretchen.whitmerPmichigan.gov
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