GRAND RAPIDS – Local members of the public safety and government community turned out in large numbers today to praise State Representative Robert Dean (D-Grand Rapids) for his support of a state budget plan that moves Michigan forward and invests in vital services such as health care, education and public safety.
"I'd like to thank Representative Dean for his tough decision to pass a budget solution that ensures we have the resources we need to build stronger communities throughout Grand Rapids and that the state has the capabilities to move Michigan forward," said Grand Rapids' Mayor George Heartwell. "Representative Dean didn't take the easy way out. He could have supported additional revenue-sharing cuts that could have eliminated the jobs of many of our firefighters and police officers, as well as jeopardizing our schools and our seniors. This was the right answer for Michigan."
The budget plan that passed October 1 will give the state a long-term savings of hundreds of millions of dollars through cuts and reforms. Some of the cuts and reforms include cutting lawmakers' salaries and eliminating free lifetime health care benefits for lawmakers.
"Representative Dean's courageous decision to invest in Grand Rapids and the state of Michigan's public safety officers should be applauded by all of the state's residents," said John VanSolkema, Grand Rapids' Fire Chief. "Fire fighters and police officers are critical components in our communities as they are the first line of defense against crime and terrorism, and they are essential to keeping are neighborhoods secure. We applaud his vote to pass a budget that invests in our neighborhoods and helps make the entire state of Michigan a great place to live, work and raise our families."
Michigan's budget plan also contains provisions for a continuation budget, which will halt a state government shutdown until the Senate approves the final budget.
"The bipartisan budget plan includes the right mix of cuts, reforms and restructuring that Michigan needs to get back on track," Dean said. "I am grateful for the support I have received throughout the community, including Mayor Heartwell and Fire Chief VanSolkema. There is still much work to do, but Michigan is on the right path."