Detroit Regional Chamber > Advocacy > Growing Michigan Together Council Report: Resolve, Unity, Vision Essential to Reverse Michigan’s Population Crisis

Growing Michigan Together Council Report: Resolve, Unity, Vision Essential to Reverse Michigan’s Population Crisis

December 14, 2023


Jeff Donofrio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Business Leaders for Michigan, Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber, and Brian Calley, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Small Business Association of Michigan, as leaders of Michigan’s business community and members of the Growing Michigan Together Council, have released a statement in response to the Council report issued today.

Jeff Donofrio, Sandy K. Baruah, and Brian Calley's headshots

Left to right: Jeff Donofrio, Sandy K. Baruah, Brian Calley

“The Growing Michigan Together Council Report makes the compelling case that Michigan is in crisis. It is an urgent call to action to unite behind a common vision for our state’s growth that will improve the lives of current residents as well as those who will return home or choose to live in this great state.

 

“We, as business leaders, have long advocated for cohesive, holistic solutions to address Michigan’s population crisis that can withstand disruptions, transcend politics, and initiate lasting improvement. Getting population trends back on track is critical to ensuring our state’s economic prosperity, political influence, and competitiveness. The risk is greatest if we do nothing.

 

“We are encouraged by the report’s focus on three interwoven and visionary strategies around education, the economy, and our communities. These are a set of guiding principles that, when developed and implemented, have potential to impact and change Michigan for the better.

 

“This is a unique opportunity to chart the course of our collective future, one that values and supports all Michiganders. The status quo is not going to get us where we need to be. We must approach these challenges differently and come together focused on creating the Michigan we want for today, tomorrow, and generations to come.”