Tri-City Sun

State Representative Bill G. Schuette is continuing his efforts to secure vital infrastructure funding needed for Midland and Gladwin counties to aid in the ongoing rebuild following the 2020 flood. Schuette emphasized the importance of this funding, stating, "It is vitally important to the future of Midland and Gladwin counties that we rebuild these dams and bring back our lakes."

In his advocacy for state funding, Schuette highlighted the need to ensure that the financial burden of restoring the dams does not disproportionately impact local property owners affected by the disaster, saying, "As long as I am in Lansing, I will fight for state funding so that the cost of restoring a regional treasure that is enjoyed by many throughout our state does not fall disproportionately on property owners who were devastated by a major disaster in 2020."

Despite his efforts, Schuette's proposed amendment to allocate $50 million for dam reconstruction through the Four Lakes Task Force was not included in the budget plan put forth by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. Expressing disappointment in this outcome, Schuette remarked, “Proposed budgets for the next fiscal year are approaching $80 billion. The money is there, but it is a matter of priorities."

Schuette also criticized the allocation of state funds by pointing out instances of what he viewed as misplaced priorities, stating, “It is frustrating to see state money wasted by the MEDC on $4,500 coffee makers and first-class ticket flights, while Michigan Democrats refuse to prioritize the safety of families and communities." He further expressed his dismay at the committee's decisions, noting, “I am disappointed in the committee’s short-sighted actions, avoiding funding for critical infrastructure – which has supposedly been a pillar of the governor’s agenda."

The need for dam restoration is underscored by the catastrophic structural failures that led to the disappearance of Sandford Lake and Wixom Lakes in May 2020, causing significant damages to over 2,000 structures in Midland County.