Chamber Also Encourages Support for Proposal 1, MTA Millage Renewal

(FLINT, MICH. – July 28) Today, the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce Public Policy Committee (PPC) announced the  endorsement of seven candidates in the August 5 primary election for the Genesee County Board of Commissioners and the 34th District Michigan House of Representatives, as well as support for two ballot initiatives.

“The County Commission plays a critical role in the future growth and prosperity of our region,” said Steve Landaal, President of Landaal Packaging and Co-chair of the Chamber’s PPC.  “The candidates we are choosing to endorse showed a commitment to growing and strengthening the region’s business environment and improving the quality of life for residents.  We encourage support for these candidates, as well as support for two important ballot initiatives.”

The Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce PPC made the following endorsements based on responses to a Chamber PPC survey and in-person interviews:

Genesee County Board of Commissioners

District 1                              Councilman Bryant Nolden

District 2                              Commissioner Brenda Clack (incumbent)

District 3                              Commissioner Jamie Curtis (incumbent)

District 5                              Commissioner Mark Young (incumbent)

District 7                              Mark Cousineau

District 9                              Frederick Rappuhn

 

Michigan House of Representatives

District 34                            Commissioner Omar Sims

“Our Public Policy Committee led the way throughout this process and I appreciate the effort they put into assessing candidates and proposals for endorsements,” said Tim Herman, CEO of the Flint & Genesee Chamber.  “These endorsements are meant to serve as a guide for our members and other voters interested in continuing the momentum in Flint & Genesee.”

As part of the endorsement process, all County Commission and 34th House District candidates were invited to complete a questionnaire and to participate in an interview process.  Participants were evaluated for endorsement consideration.  Candidates who chose not to participate in the process were not evaluated.

The Chamber PPC is comprised of local leaders from business, government and education, as well as representation from the Chamber.  They work to identify candidates and initiatives that support the Chamber’s public policy priorities, strengthen the business environment and provide benefit to the community at-large.

The Ballot Initiatives earning the Chamber’s support include:

  • Statewide Proposal 1
  • Mass Transportation Authority Millage Renewal Proposal

According to Landaal, the PPC is supporting a Yes vote for Proposal 1, which is designed to stabilize funding for local government services and help local small businesses without raising taxes, as well as support for the MTA Millage Renewal Proposal.

Media contacts:              

Elaine Redd, Flint & Genesee Chamber, (810) 600-1418

Regina Strong, APR, Flint & Genesee Chamber, (810) 600-1421