September 2011
Shining Light Regional Cooperation Awards
Shining Light Awards Honor Four For Outstanding Commitment to Region
May 2011
Metropolitan Affairs Coalition Comments on Governor Snyder’s Tax Proposal
As legislation to make significant and controversial changes to the state’s tax code is taken up in the State Senate, the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) offers this perspective. See Opinion Editorial.
Action Alert: Drastic cuts to public transportation funding proposed
MAC Tax Issues Board Advisory Team Opinion on Tax Reform Proposals
April 2011
SEMCOG/MAC citizen survey results:
Core services important; consolidation, user fees have significant support
February 2011
MAC and SEMCOG regional survey provides citizens a voice in shaping the future of their local communities
Southeast Michigan residents have a unique opportunity to shape the future of their communities through a regional online survey sponsored by the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) and SEMCOG, the Southeast MIchigan Council of Governments. Local governments face serious economic challenges due to declines in property values, property taxes, and state-revenue sharing. Citizens can provide support for the difficult service and budget decisions ahead by sharing their opinions and ideas.
Click here for more information. Click here for the online survey.
Metropolitan Affairs Coalition Elects Officers and Board Members
Click here for media release
November 2010
Management and labor work together to bring new jobs and business to Southeast Michigan
Positive, data-driven and fact-based messages to help attract businesses and jobs to Michigan were unveiled by the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) and Detroit Regional Chamber at Crain’s Detroit Business Job Creation and Workforce Development Conference.
The Chamber and MAC recently formed a task force of labor and business leaders who are working together to promote the value of the state’s workforce and positive labor/management relations. This effort is intended to help attract employers, grow jobs, and improve the region’s image to site selectors and companies considering a move to Michigan.
Click here for media release
Job conference speakers: Improving Detroit's image is job one.
October 2010
Metropolitan Affairs Coalition elects board members
September 2010
MAC supports wildlife habitat along Detroit River shoreline
A 67-acre coastal wetland restoration at the Brancheau Unit of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge (DRIWR) was recently dedicated by conservation groups and many partners, including Ducks Unlimited, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, DTE Energy, and the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC). Congressman John Dingell, who spoke at the ceremony, introduced legislation that established the DRIWR in 2001. Such coastal wetlands are critically important for wildlife, water quality, and recreation. Read more…
August 2010
Metropolitan Affairs Offers Challenge to Candidates
MAC urges candidates in the upcoming election to focus on the issues and present new approaches and solutions. Now, more than ever, we need thoughtful, civil debate and a healthy discussion of innovative ideas for moving the region and state forward.
Click here for MAC commentary.
Regional Economic Development Strategy Approved
The Metropolitan Affairs Coalition Board and Directors and SEMCOG’s General Assembly approved Increasing Jobs and Prosperity in Southeast Michigan – a regional comprehensive economic development strategy. The report includes 11 broad-based strategies and associated action steps that encompass and build upon the region’s human capital, business climate, and community assets. The project and report also were approved, and funded in part, by the U.S. Economic Development Administration.
See complete Report (PDF)
Next steps will focus on a collaborative effort to implement the strategy and priority actions.
The Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) is urging a YES vote on the .59 mill renewal for SMART on the August 3 Primary ballot. Click here for opinion editorial.
July 2010
Metropolitan Affairs Coalition & Detroit Riverfront Conservancy Receive 2010 Clean Waters Award From Michigan Outdoor Writers Association
The Michigan Outdoor Writers Association has selected the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition and Detroit RiverFront Conservancy to receive its 2010 Clean Waters Award for the organizations’ work toward reclaiming the Detroit Riverfront for public use.
Read media release.
MAC Board of Directors Supports DRIC (Detroit Regional International Crossing)
The Metropolitan Affairs Coalition (MAC) Board of Directors has voted unanimously to support the Detroit Regional International Crossing (DRIC) project based on its powerful economic impact to the region.
Read media release here.
Compromise is Key to Moving Michigan out of Crises
State and local governments are in fiscal chaos, and many thoughtful, smart and committed civic groups, business and political leaders have made suggestions for reform and transformation. Unfortunately, in this partisan and divisive climate, few of these recommendations have been executed. That is why the Metropolitan Affairs Coalition is entering the conversation.
Read MAC’s Opinion Editorial in the Detroit Free Press from July 1, 2010.
December 2009
Metropolitan Affairs Coalition a partner in restoration project at Refuge Gateway
The completion of a major wetland restoration project was announced in Trenton by Wayne County Executive Robert Ficano and Congressman John Dingell on Wednesday, December 2. The project is part of the transformation of a former industrial brownfield along the Detroit River to a world-class center for conservation, environmental education and sustainability, with positive economic impact as well. MAC is a partner in this $750,000 project. Read more…
Read the press release (PDF) from December 2, 2009.
