LANSING, Mich., Jan. 25, 2023 — Gov. Gretchen Whitmer delivered the State of the State address tonight before a joint session of the Legislature at the Capitol in Lansing. In the speech, the governor discussed her legislative agenda for the new term, which includes bolstering the economy, increasing public safety, lowering costs for families, protecting fundamental rights, supporting Michigan workers, investing in early childhood education and attracting talent to Michigan. After the event, State Rep. Veronica Paiz’s (D-Harper Woods) issued the following statement on Whitmer’s address:
“It was an absolute honor to attend my first State of the State address and hear our governor speak about this year’s statewide goals. It left me feeling invigorated to bring home what I promised my constituents: a clean environment, affordable health care and all the best for our day-to-day living. Unfortunately, due to inclement weather, my guest, Harper Woods Mayor Valerie Kindle was unable to attend. I would be remiss if I didn’t say a few words about Mayor Kindle. She is an integral part of the Harper Woods community and has provided a lifetime of selfless community service to her city and Detroit’s east side — I am excited to work alongside her to cultivate a greater House District 11.”
Kindle is the first elected woman and Black mayor of Harper Woods. She started a neighborhood food bank and is a former member of the Harper Woods Friends of the Library, Planning Commission and Ordinance Committee. She currently serves on the boards of the local NAACP, Lions Club and Grosse Pointe League of Women Voters. She is a past president of Michigan Women in Municipal Government.