Friend to Many, Bruce McDonald, Passes
PAA lost a good friend this week with the passing of Bruce McDonald. Many of our clients will remember Bruce for his gracious hosting of our annual cocktail cruise at Bay Harbor aboard his yacht, Trilogy. Bruce was a successful businessman, a true MSU supporter, and a great friend. He will be missed.
NITC Announcement Expected After State of the State
Governor Rick Snyder continues to review options for moving forward on the New International Trade Crossing initiative for an additional bridge from Detroit to Windsor. Sources have been speculating when the Governor may bring forward his intentions with regard to the proposed new structure. Signs now indicate that an announcement is to be made after the State of the State address next week.
Long-time Chamber Executive to Retire
After 34 years with the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, long-time vice president and general counsel Robert “Bob” LaBrant will be retiring at the end of March. LaBrant’s career in chamber management began in 1972 at the Appleton, Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce.
Budget Presentation February 9th
Governor Rick Snyder will unveil his recommendations for the 2012-2013 and 2013-2014 fiscal year budgets on February 9th at a joint hearing of the House and Senate Appropriations committees. The Governor will be joined by Michigan Department of Technology, Management & Budget Director John Nixon, CPA.
December Revenues Fall Slightly
State revenues dipped a bit in December, largely due to lower than estimated income tax withholding collections. The Senate Fiscal Agency reported that December revenues were $12.6 million below estimates; however, other taxes, such as the state’s sales tax, were up and help to offset the lower withholding numbers.
Stabenow Continues Fight for FRIB
Following comments from the U.S. Department of Energy that it may consider breaking earlier commitments to fund the Facility for Rare Isotope Beams (FRIB) at Michigan State University, U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow issued a statement regarding the bipartisan commitments to the project and the facility’s potential economic impact. The University estimates the facility will create nearly 6,000 temporary jobs during construction, 400 full-time positions once operating, and generate nearly $200 million in tax revenue.
Santana Loses Committee Role
State Representative Harvey Santana (D-Detroit) is no longer the Minority Vice Chair of the House Agriculture Committee after House Speaker Jase Bolger (R-Marshall) removed him from the position following the December altercation on the House floor. Rep. Charles Brunner (D-Bay City) will assume the post.