Shelby Review

State Representative Ron Robinson (R-Utica) appeared before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor and Economic Opportunity to advocate for two significant budget proposals. These proposals aim to enhance public safety and improve infrastructure in Macomb County.

Robinson is supporting a $250,000 grant for the Utica Police Department. This funding would be allocated for essential public safety equipment to improve officer preparedness and community protection. The equipment includes police drones, tasers, ballistic vests, helmets, shields, and assault training gear.

“Utica is a small-town community with big city problems,” stated Robinson. “Despite only being two and a half square miles in area, the community sees many visitors, traffic, and at times, crime due to our many tourist attractions. This investment would ensure the safety of our officers and the public alike.”

In addition to this proposal, Robinson is advocating for a $2.5 million grant aimed at addressing a longstanding infrastructure issue in Macomb County. The proposed funding would support the construction of a new odor control facility as part of the Oakland-Macomb Interceptor Drain Drainage District (OMIDDD). This facility aims to address sanitary sewer odor problems along specific corridors that have been problematic for residents over decades.

“In short, the odor hurts our community, and we can take steps towards resolving the issue,” said Robinson. “From the Sterling Heights Fire Station to the Sterling Heights High School, this issue negatively affects nearly 50,000 citizens, and I’m aiming to fix that. This is a smart investment in both quality of life and long-term infrastructure sustainability.”

Robinson hopes these critical grants will be included in the final state budget.