Hello Friends,
Lansing has been active and energized over the past few weeks. This energy has been translated into new bills, productive committee meetings and many exciting district events.
The budget season is now in full swing since Gov. Whitmer’s Executive Budget Proposal. While that process continues, I have kept busy working on re-introducing legislation that would allow local governments to expand broadband internet to underserved areas of their communities.
It’s important to remain engaged in the legislative process and keep our office updated if you have any questions or opinions about our state or community. My office is reachable by phone at (517) 373-0828, by email at DonnaLasinski@house.mi.gov or by coming to one of our upcoming district events. As always, please find upcoming coffee hours, celebrations and town halls listed below. I would love to see you there and I always look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
Donna Lasinski
Legislative Updates
Victory for Our Water Resources
After a protracted legal battle, a Michigan Court of Appeals ruled this week that Nestle cannot build additional pumps in Osceola County for water removal. Nestle has issued a statement saying that they will not appeal the decision. This victory for our state and natural resources was achieved thanks to the tireless advocacy of concerned citizens.
Broadband Internet Access
Over the last few months, I have been working tirelessly to re-introduce my legislation with more support that would allow local governments to create special assessment districts to fund broadband access. Not having internet access affects thousands of us in our community of Northern and Western Washtenaw County. Internet access is critical to everything – from running a business, to learning and completing everyday tasks like paying your bills.
2020 Census
The 2020 Census is one of the largest and most important undertakings in the U.S. The results 2020 Census will affect billions of dollars in federal aid to our state, so we cannot afford to have any area undercounted. This is why the U.S. Census Bureau is looking for workers. The Census Bureau offers competitive rates of about $23 per hour. To apply, visit this link: https://2020census.gov/en/jobs
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Upcoming Time With Donna
Coffee Hours
We will continue to host coffee hours this year, with my first one coming up later this month! I look forward to meeting with you in the community to give legislative updates and discuss the issues that are most important to you and the community.
Manchester Coffee Hour
When: Saturday, Feb. 22, from 11 a.m. to noon.
Where: Manchester Village Room, 912 City Road in Manchester.
Saline Coffee Hour – With Saline Mayor Brian Marl
When: Friday, March 13, from 10 to 11 a.m.
Where: Saline City Hall, 100 N. Harris St. in Saline.
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What to Do in 52
Have some winter fun by attending great local community events! Here are a few to check out.
Saline Indoor Farmers Market
Every Saturday till April, Saline has their Winter Indoor Farmers Market.
When: Saturday, Feb. 22, at 9 a.m.
Where: Liberty School,7265 N. Ann Arbor St. in Saline.
Webster Township Euchre Tournament
Euchre Tournament with cash prizes! Registration fee of $10 includes games and light refreshments. Bring your friends for a fun and wholesome night out!
When: Saturday, Feb. 22, at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Crossroads Community Center, Historic Webster Village, 5501 Webster Church Rd. in Dexter
Young Outdoor Explorer: Color of Nature
Through hands-on exploration, your child will search and play with colors to learn how color is used in nature. This outdoor program is designed to give your three to six-year-olds a sensory-exploration of nature. This month, we’ll get outside to search for colors as well as create colors in the snow. Please pre-register by calling (734) 426-8211.
When: Saturday, Feb. 29, at 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Where: Hudson Mills Metropark, 8801 North Territorial Rd. in Dexter
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Resources
Registering to Vote
We are having elections this year, and it is important that we vote. Since the passing of Proposal 2, you can now vote by mail, register to vote online and vote early. Follow the links for all your information about voting in Michigan:
Register online Voting By Mail
United Way of Washtenaw County Free Tax Preparation Help
As the new year begins, we also need to start preparing to file our 2019 taxes. The United Way of Washtenaw County offers free tax preparation help to those who are eligible. To see if you are eligible for their tax preparation help, please visit the website below. If you are eligible, you can schedule your appointment online or call the phone number below.
Please note that they will only be able to help with the 2019 tax filing year. Prior years will be on hold until spring 2020 (after this tax season).
Phone: (734) 677-7235
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I hope that this information has been helpful and that we will see you at future events this year.
Sincerely,
State Representative Donna Lasinski