Many of Michigan Governor Rick Snyder’s top cabinet members will receive a pay increase relative to their counterparts under the previous administration, according to documents released by the Snyder team. Department of Technology, Management and Budget Director John Nixon and Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) President & CEO Michael Finney will be the highest paid at $250,000 annually.
Consensus Revenue Estimating Conference (CREC) Says Budget Hole at $1.8B
Although State revenues are rising, because of an increase in the Medicaid budget, the projected budget deficit for the 2012 Fiscal Year (FY) remains at $1.8 Billion. Individual income tax, sales tax and Michigan Business Tax (MBT) revenues are expected to increase, placing the General Fund projections at $7.227 billion for FY 2011 and $7.294 billion for FY 2012.
Benson Out for MDP Chair – Anuzis 2nd in RNC Chair Race
After speculation and urging by some party faithful, former Democratic Party nominee for Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson announced she will not seek the position of Chair of the Michigan Democratic Party (MDP) at the Party’s February convention in Detroit. In other party leadership news, Wisconsin Republican Party Chair Reince Priebus became the new Chair of the Republican National Committee (RNC) over Michigan Republican Committeeman Saul Anuzis. This was Anuzis’ second attempt at the position, finishing third in 2008 to outgoing Chair Michael Steele.
Wayne State University President Named
The Wayne State University Board of Governors announced that interim President Allan Gilmour will take the position permanently following a unanimous vote by the Board. Former President Jay Noren resigned in August of 2010.
Hoisington Named Top Lobbyist
In the recent edition of Inside Michigan Politics, the results of the Most Effective Lobbyist survey conducted every five-years were announced, naming Public Affairs Associates President Tom Hoisington as the top overall lobbyist and multi-client lobbyist. Additionally, Bill Wortz and Becky Bechler were recognized among the top 20 professional lobbyists. And finally for the 24th year Public Affairs Associates, Inc. was rated one of the most effective lobbying firms in our state. Thank you to all who participated in the survey and to our clients who make it possible for everyone at PAA to do what we do!