Shelby Review

State Representative Ron Robinson (R-Utica) has voted in favor of Michigan’s final budget for Fiscal Year 2025-2026, highlighting its focus on veterans, the Selfridge Air National Guard Base, and Macomb County.

“This budget makes strategic investments in Michigan’s future,” said Robinson. “It ensures that our veterans have the resources they need, our taxpayers know where their money is going, and our communities have the infrastructure and public safety support to thrive. We are also funding veteran service facilities and water infrastructure grants for lead line replacements and sewer upgrades to address the needs that directly impact public health, safety, and Michigan’s long-term readiness. The budget also requires full transparency on all earmarks, so taxpayers know exactly how their money is being spent."

Robinson added: “By funding Selfridge Air National Guard Base and veteran service facilities, we are strengthening Michigan’s role in national defense while taking care of those who have served our country. This budget is about putting Michigan residents first and making sure our state is prepared for the future.”

The approved budget includes $26 million allocated to Selfridge Air National Guard Base for critical infrastructure upgrades and runway replacement. This investment aims to prepare the base for a new fighter jet mission and secure Michigan’s continued role in national defense.

An additional $4 million will be used for competitive grants to upgrade aging infrastructure at veteran service facilities throughout the state.

To promote accountability, the budget mandates that every special project must go through an open public process. For-profit companies are barred from receiving earmarks, with these transparency rules set as permanent requirements for all future budgets.

Water infrastructure receives attention with a grant program including $17.4 million dedicated to replacing lead water service lines. A revolving loan fund of $34 million will help local communities provide matching funds necessary to qualify for federal assistance on water projects.

Three projects led by Robinson were also approved:

- $2.5 million will fund construction of a new odor control facility along 15 Mile Road and ITC corridors to address persistent sanitary sewer odor issues.

- The Utica Police Department will receive $250,000 for equipment such as drones, tasers, ballistic vests, helmets, shields, and assault training gear.

- Another $250,000 supports Helmets to Hardhats—a nonprofit organization helping veterans transition into civilian careers in building trades. Since 2003, Helmets to Hardhats has assisted nearly 50,000 service members and veterans in finding skilled training and employment opportunities in construction.

“These projects represent real, tangible improvements for our community and for our state,” said Robinson. “The odor control facility will finally address the persistent issues along 15 Mile Road, improving the quality of life for families and protecting critical sewer infrastructure. The grant for the Utica Police Department ensures our officers have the modern equipment they need to respond safely and effectively. And by funding Helmets to Hardhats, we’re honoring our veterans by helping them transition into strong, successful civilian careers. These investments will strengthen our community, support our veterans, and keep Macomb County moving forward.”