Brad Williams, the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Vice President of Political Affairs, testified in support of House Bill 6088 during the Michigan House Local Government and Municipal Finance Committee meeting on Nov. 14.
HB 6088 is designed to modify public transportation authority millages and end the ability of political subdivisions to solely opt out of public transportation authorities. They must gain approval from voters through a ballot proposal before the expiration of any authorized tax and cannot amend or appeal the decision.
“We’ve been without streetcars in Detroit for decades, but [the Chamber’s] advocacy for mobility options for Detroiters hasn’t swayed,” Williams said. “Business can only succeed when we can get our products to market, but more importantly for this conversation, when we can get workers and customers to [businesses’] doors.”
Transit is a key issue hampering the Detroit Region and state in growing population and attracting talent, as identified in the Chamber’s September 2023 poll of Michigan voters under 30 years old. Accessible, viable transit is also essential to ensure equitable opportunities for all residents.
“We have had – for too long – a patchwork of transit services throughout our Region,” Williams said. “Bringing Wayne County into the fold will only improve our regional transit services.”
The Chamber will continue to monitor this situation.
