The Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance celebrated yesterday’s signing of the Fiscal Year 2023 budget by Governor Gretchen Whitmer, which included $3.5 million to launch the new Office of Rural Development.
“We are thankful that Gov. Whitmer and our legislative leaders recognize this opportunity to support rural communities as they work to address unique needs,” said NMCA Director of Government Relations Henry Wolf. “The Alliance looks forward to working with the ORD on critical issues facing rural Michigan, including workforce development, infrastructure, and access to health care.”
In January 2022, Governor Gretchen Whitmer established the Office of Rural Development within MDARD to focus on the strategic needs of rural Michigan, including economic and workforce development, infrastructure, and public health.
Former Alliance member Sarah Lucas was selected to lead the ORD in March.