MichiganRadio

West Michigan businesses want some state changes GRAND RAPIDS, MI (MPRN) - A new study released today outlines things the Michigan Economic Development Corporation should do to help the state compete for jobs in a global
economy. The study was commissioned by a number of West Michigan economic
development groups who worry the coming political transition could hold back
efforts to retain, attract, and create jobs.

One of the suggestions is setting clear rules on how tax breaks are awarded to
businesses. Birgit Klohs is President of The Right Place - one of the groups that helped pay for the study.

"Let's say a 25 million dollar project with a 150 jobs that pay "x". We should be able to say "for that, you get this". Without having to say "well no you can only do it in 6-and-a-half years - oh now we need to go check with 3 other people and you know, now we've got to do 5-zillion other things" before you can give them some answer that's definitive," Klohs said.

The study also recommends a smaller board of directors for the MEDC and more independence from politicians.



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