Dear Friends,
This spring has been a busy time for me both at home in Ypsilanti and at the Capitol in Lansing. I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on some of the recent goings on.
Auto Insurance
Last week, the Legislature hastily passed an automobile insurance reform package which the governor signed into law, surrounded by elected officials and some of the state’s top business leaders, at the annual Mackinac Policy Conference on Mackinac Island. While there were some positive reforms in the legislation such as eliminating the use of credit ratings and zip codes to set insurance rates, overall, I felt that it was weighted too heavily in favor of the insurance industry, to the detriment of Michigan families, and I voted against the bill. Moving forward, I will continue to seek alternative solutions that will mitigate the potential negative effects of this new policy.
The State Budget
On Tuesday evening, I hosted a Town Hall Meeting on the ongoing state budget negotiations with special guest House Democratic Vice-Chair of Appropriations, State Representative Jon Hoadley. The event was held at the Ypsilanti Community and Senior Center on N. Congress Street and, despite having to compete with the Ypsilanti Community Schools high school graduation ceremonies, an Ypsilanti City Council meeting and a very well attended little league game, we had a nice turnout and a fantastic conversation. Thank you to Rep. Hoadley for sharing his expertise in such a dynamic and engaging style.
On Thursday in Lansing, as Democratic Vice-Chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, I was present when the House Transportation Budget was advanced to the full appropriations committee. While I could not support the Republican authored plan, I am pleased that the process is moving forward and I look forward to future negotiations to arrive at a real, meaningful compromise to finally fix our doggone roads.
The Thompson Block Building
On Wednesday afternoon, the historic Thompson Block Building in Depot Town was dedicated in anticipation of its reopening later this year. I was proud to speak at the event and be recognized for the work I have done at the state level to help bring this exciting project to our community. The Thompson Block Building was for many years a blighted reminder of the tough times Ypsilanti has endured. Now it stands as a symbol of rebirth for our city and a reminder of the power of hard work and perseverance. Congratulations to everyone who worked to make this project a reality.
Collaboration for Change Breakfast
For over a year I have been working with Ypsilanti Community Schools, Eastern Michigan University and Washtenaw County to strengthen the collaborative efforts between these three institutions to improve educational outcomes for our students.
Our children deserve a first-class education and it is the responsibility of all of our community partners to work together to ensure positive results. The Collaboration for Change Breakfast, scheduled for June 15, will formally present to the public the collaborative efforts that are underway and outline the opportunity for future interaction.
Please join me Saturday, June 15 to learn more about the Ypsilanti Community Schools, Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw County Collaboration for Change.
Where: EMU Student Center Ballroom (free parking vouchers provided)
When: Saturday, June 15. Doors open and breakfast available beginning at 8:15 a.m. Program begins at 9 a.m.
Who: Open to the public. The event is free but you must RSVP by the close of business on June 10 to attend. RSVP to my office by responding to this email.
Thank you all.
Sincerely,
Ronnie Peterson