Dear Friends,

I hope you have enjoyed our Pure Michigan summer. I know I have! I went on runs, took my dog for walks around the district, enjoyed our waterfront in the Downriver area, attended several community events and worked on legislative matters that impact you. I’ve kept busy serving our communities, and I’m excited to finally share with you all the work I’ve been doing.

I spent the first half of summer attending our community’s vibrant events. The first weekend of June, I attended the Grosse Ile Islandfest Parade, where I met with constituents like you and talked about issues that matter most. I was also honored to speak about the history and importance of Flag Day, alongside U.S. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, at the Trenton Historical Commission’s Flag Day Ceremony. On June 22, I attended the Amateur Radio Field Day in Riverview at Young Patriots Park. There, I got the chance to speak with radio aficionados and experts about the significance of radio broadcasting and just how important radio can be for our everyday lives. In July, I had such a great time walking with my team and other local leaders in Wyandotte’s 4th of July Parade, celebrating our nation’s independence.

Also in August, I attended Southgate’s City Council meeting alongside state Rep. Tullio Liberati and state Sen. Darrin Camilleri, where we presented the city with $6.5 million in funding for the soundwall along I-75. I’m happy to have been able to be a part of this moment. The community is beyond excited for these investments to help reduce noise pollution from the highway.

Back in June, we passed the School Aid and general government budgets. These budgets further cement our commitment to putting the people of Michigan first. With our budget, we put an emphasis on ensuring that our communities are safe, our main streets are strong, our houses are affordable and our costs are getting lower.

I believe that no student should have to learn on an empty stomach, which is why this budget continues to fund the universal school breakfast and lunch program for all public school students. We believe everyone deserves a fair shot at higher education, which is why we made community college free for everyone who lives in the same district as the school for those that qualify for the Michigan Achievement Scholarship. Those who don’t will receive the in-district tuition amount and be responsible for the difference between in-district and out-of-district tuition. We’ve also expanded the Great Start Readiness Program, to increase access to  a preschool education for Michigan’s children.

These programs and more are helping working families save more of their hard-earned money. People should have the freedom to pursue a college or technical education without worrying about breaking the bank, and now they don’t need to. Families shouldn’t have to worry about whether or not their kids are able to eat at school, and now they don’t have to, all while saving an average of $850 per- year, per child. We are investing in the people of our state and helping them save money while we do it.

Lastly, I passed my bill (House Bill 5779) to improve state law surrounding local infrastructure ownership and management. Currently, residents and visitors making their way to Grosse Ile Township only have two ways on and off the island – either the Wayne County/Grosse Ile Parkway (“Free”) Bridge or the privately owned Toll Bridge. This legislation would allow the township the autonomy to purchase the toll bridge and maintain it as a public entity, which is important for the quality of life and public safety of the community and its visitors.

My office is open and welcomes any questions, concerns and ideas. Our team is eager to be a resource for you and your families however we can. Please feel free to reach out to our office here, sign up for our newsletter and stay connected on social media. I appreciate your feedback and thoughts.

Mailing Address: Michigan House of Representatives, P.O. Box 30014, Lansing, MI 48909-7514

Phone: (517) 373-0478

Email: JaimeChurches@house.mi.gov

Sincerely,

Jaime Churches

Representative, District 27