MEMBERS: Antrim County Economic Development Corporation

MEMBERS:
Mike Allison Term expire 12-31-21 Sherry Comben Term of elected office Peter Garwood Term expire 12-31-19 Dave Heeres Term of elected office Andy LaPointe Term expire 12-31-20 Kathleen Peterson Term expire 12-31-20 Bonnie Robbins Term expire 12-31-22 Veronica Welter Term expire 12-31-22 (Vacancy) STAFF
Pete Garwood Administrator email: [email protected] Janet Koch Associate Planner email: [email protected] Tina Schrader Administrative Assistant email: [email protected] Margie Thomas-Boyd Secretary email: [email protected] OFFICE ADDRESS
203 East Cayuga Street P.O. Box 187 Bellaire, MI 49615 PHONE: 231-533-6265 FAX: 231-533-8111 SPECIAL ASSISTANCE If you wish to attend this Meeting & require special assistance, please contact the Administration and Planning Office by writing P.O. Box 187, Bellaire, MI 49615; emailing: [email protected]; or calling 231-533-6265.
Antrim County Economic Development Corporation
Mission Statement: Retain, expand, and promote County-wide economic growth and stability.
To: Antrim County Economic Development Corporation From: Janet Koch, Associate Planner Date: April 14, 2017 Re: Meeting Notice
The Antrim County Economic Development Corporation meeting is scheduled for:
Tuesday, April 18, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.
Meeting Room 211, 2nd Floor, County Building, Bellaire.
Agenda
Public Comment Approval of Minutes – February 21, 2017 (attached pgs. 2-4) Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) Update
NLEA Annual Report 2016 (attached pgs.5-8) NLEA Annual Luncheon (attached pg. 9)
Promotional Brochure Update Traverse City to Charlevoix Trail Update US-131 Fundraising Summit (attached pgs. 10-11) Google Technology Grant (attached pgs. 12-13) Asian Carp letter/resolution (attached pgs. 14-18) Strategic Planning (attached pgs. 19-20) USDA Rural Development (attached pgs. 21-31) Various Matters / Public Comment Adjournment
If you have any questions, concerns or are unable to attend this meeting, please contact the Administration and Planning Office at 231-533-6265.
Thank You.
Mission Statement: Retain, expand, and promote County-wide economic growth and stability.
February 21, 2017 Minutes
Members present: Andy LaPointe, Mike Allison, Sherry Comben, Pete Garwood, Dave Heeres,
Kathy Peterson, Veronica Welter Members Absent: Bonnie Robbins Others Present: Janet Koch, Rachel Krino, Patty Savant, Melissa Zelenak
1. Call to Order The meeting was called to order at 9:04 a.m. by Andy LaPointe, Chair.
2. Public Comment Patty Savant, Executive Director of the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce, showed a copy of the Chain of Lakes Water Trail brochure. She said the Paddle Antrim concept was originally facilitated by the County, who brought the chambers together to discuss the event. Ms. Savant told the EDC that Paddle Antrim was funded through donations, with a budget of approximately $60,000. She added that the EDC could recommend that the BOC make an appropriation to Paddle Antrim. Pete Garwood, County Administrator, said the County can’t make donations, but that it might be possible for the County to enter into an agreement with Paddle Antrim that would enable an appropriation. Motion by Mike Allison, seconded by Kathy Peterson, to recommend the Board of Commissioners provide ongoing support for the water trail. Motion carried- unanimous.
4. Approval of Minutes Motion Dave Heeres, seconded by Kathy Peterson, to approve the minutes of January 17, 2017 as presented. Motion carried – unanimous.
5. Traverse City to Charlevoix Trail Mr. LaPointe had contacted the Administration Office and requested that the trail be added as an agenda item. Mr. Garwood said a number of property owners had noted their concerns at the February Board of Commissioner meeting regarding the proposed trail.
Motion by Mike Allison, seconded by Veronica Welter, to recommend the Board of Commissioners support the concept of the Traverse City to Charlevoix Trail. Motion carried – unanimous.
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Economic Development Corporation 4/18/17
6. Strategic Plan 2017 Mr. LaPointe asked the EDC about updating their strategic plan. Motion by Veronica Welter, seconded by Mike Allison, to table an update of the strategic plan until the April meeting, to have staff rearrange the existing strategic plan and add completion years, and to bring any new points to add to the strategic plan to the April meeting. Motion carried – unanimous. Janet Koch, Associate Planner, reminded the EDC that if any 2018 projects were to be considered that had associated costs, those costs would need to be included in the County’s budgeting process, which would start in the summer.
7. Promotional Brochure Update Ms. Koch showed the EDC a design of draft brochure, a “rack card,” sent to her by Rachel Krino, Associate Director of the Bellaire Chamber of Commerce and owner of Bailey Designs and Consulting. The EDC discussed other topics to include in the brochure. Ms. Krino said she believed the goal of the brochure was to grab the attention of people who aren’t familiar with Antrim County. Ms. Welter suggested that a second rack card could be designed to present dining and lodging options in the county. EDC members were asked to submit any comments to Ms. Koch by the end of the week; she will work with Ms. Krino to finalize the brochure and send an email copy back out to the EDC for final approval.
8. Bellaire Chamber Community Coffee Ms. Krino and Ms. Savant said this was an annual event that included more than just chamber members. About 20 people showed up to discuss events, education possibilities, and economic development issues for Bellaire. Ms. Savant said affordable housing was a concern for many.
9. Various Matters / Public Comment Mr. Allison said US 131 Corridor project’s tagline is “Explore 131” and they are working toward the creation of a website. He also said the Village of Mancelona and Mancelona Township had recently approved the creation of a joint planning commission. He added that Mancelona was looking to install an internet camera in the downtown area. Ms. Zelenak noted the importance of keeping a public camera functional at all times. Mr. Garwood said there had been a broadband meeting at the County that had discussed the possibilities of building a fiber optic line from US 131 to Bellaire. The creation of a consortium was a possibility, which would spread out the cost of construction. Mr. Garwood said the advantages, especially financial, needed to be explored before any recommendation could be made. Mr. Allison said one advantage was the increased upload speed. Another possible advantage would be the ability to broadcast WiFi capabilities across a downtown area. Ms. Peterson said an Elk Rapids incubator business site now had a number of occupants. Mr. LaPointe asked that the EDC minutes be sent to the village managers in addition to the area chambers of commerce. Mr. Garwood said he had received an email from Dawn LaVanway, a former member of the EDC who was now a County Commissioner. The email had asked Mr. Garwood to tell the EDC that
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she would have liked to attend the EDC meetings even if she wasn’t a member, but the time and date coincides with the Road Commission Board meeting to which she is liaison. Motion by Veronica Welter, seconded by Mike Allison, to adjourn the meeting. Meeting was adjourned at 10:34 a.m.
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Annual ACTIVITIES
REPORT 2016
CORE PARTNERS
NLEA summer interns were able to create 30 career profiles focusing on in demand “Hot Jobs” in Northwest Michigan thanks to a grant from DTE Energy Foundation. These profiles will be used to address the shortage of workers with the skills required to fulfill market needs. Check out the full profiles at www.northernlakes.net/hotjobs
NLEA collaborated with MI Works!, North Central Michigan College, Baker College
and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to identify and facilitate 13 local
company applications for training funds. Companies committed to investing over $5,600,000 to train 513 employees and
receive over $463,000 in state grant funds.
EJ, a global leader in manufacturing, is dedicated to keeping production in Northern Michigan by building a new $125,000,000 state of the art, environmentally friendly foundry in Warner Township, Antrim County. Keeping the foundry in Northern Michigan will allow for the retention of 350 family supporting base jobs.
A“one year snapshot” of Economic Development projects is an unrealistic expectation.
Often these projects are long term
and span multiple years. We commend
those communities and companies
community expansions and recognize
organizations that collaborate and
both public and private projects. Over
the past five years:
development projects completed;
nn $11,178,234 in local unit of
government investment;
nn $278,203,298 increase in taxable value;
nn 729 new jobs; and
nn 2,257 retained jobs.
increased from 89% to 96%
“Providing resources for communities and entrepreneurs to create and retain jobs in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan and Emmet Counties.”
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Tim Petrosky 2017 Board Chair
Stephanie Baldwin Vice Chair
Jessica Lovay Office Manager
Hannah Sanderson Business Attraction and Growth
Amanda Baker Downtown Development Coordinator
2016 IMPACT INDICATORS 37 Successful Economic Development Projects 19 Business Development Projects
18 Community Development Projects
$7.3 M in Grant Funds
$3.1 M in Local Unit of Government Investments
146 New Jobs & 455 Retained Jobs 96% NLEA Region Employment Rate
NLEA Outreach: Produced 18 monthly publications for 2,605 stakeholders;
Presented 24 workshops and events with 982 participants;
Assisted 133 business and community clients;
Maintained 10 Local Business Resource Centers
PO Box 8 Boyne City, MI 49712
231-582-6482
[email protected]
www.northernlakes.net
2016 HIGHLIGHTS nn Provided ongoing assistance throughout the year on 41 potential community and business projects which anticipate 843 new/retained jobs, and investment of over $350 million over the next several years.
nn Implemented pro-active retention visits with 84 area manufacturers and major employers with various partners from organizations including Michigan Economic Development Corporation, MI Works!, Michigan Department of Transportation, and Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
nn The NLEA Broadband Consortium continued to collaborate with community leaders to coordinate projects that encourage greater broadband capacity. In 2016, the consortium assisted with various fiber projects throughout Emmet and Charlevoix Counties, and began engineering plans for future projects.
nn As part of the Regional Prosperity Initiative, NLEA worked with our regional planning organization and core partner, Networks Northwest, on various projects including: US-131 Economic Strategy, facilitating DDA Forums throughout the region, and providing administrative services to the M-119 Heritage Route committee.
nn Eleven businesses participated with the MEDC Exporting Assistance Program receiving $63,000 in financial resources leading to $10,238,424 in annual export assisted revenue.
Votorantim Cimentos’ St. Marys Cement plant, located in Charlevoix Township, is an excellent example of growth and
retaining base job employers. The company is currently implementing a $130,000,000 facility upgrade while
providing over 100 family-supporting jobs and increasing tax base.
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For the first time in NLEA history, we were able to provide DDA Professional Services to three (3) communities in our region. The services encompassed all the daily and ongoing activities of a DDA director including building relationships with stakeholders, communications through print and social media, and individual activities from Development and TIF plans to move the downtowns forward.
NLEA took to the streets this summer hosting a luncheon roadshow for stakeholders in each of our four (4) counties. Representatives from the local municipalities, government, businesses and community members enjoyed a hotdog cookout while learning more about NLEA programs and resources.
NLEA assisted the City of Cheboygan in the MEDC Redevelopment Ready Communities Program in identifing three desired sites and developing a unique vision for each. They now have a strong marketing tool to encourage targeted development in their community.
Catt Development completed a $4,000,000 renovation of four commercial spaces on S. Lake Street in Boyne City with the help of a $500,000 CDBG grant. With two new businesses on the horizon, the project is currently home to 7 Monks Taproom and Northern Michigan Sports Medicine Center.
NLEA leads regular retention visits to local employers to discuss opportunities, challenges and potential future projects. The program targets 130 companies providing base jobs in our region. Agencies involved in the visits are NLEA, MI Works! and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
NLEA, in partnership with Chemical Bank, coordinated and facilitated quarterly Growth Company CEO Forums hosted by local employers. Each forum included peer-to-peer networking, a facility tour, and keynote speaker on topics of interest to growth stage company CEO’s. In 2016, 33 executives participated, representing 19 companies.
Provided leadership to MSU Extension Connecting Entrepreneurial Programs; CEC Bootcamp in Sault Ste. Marie and the state- wide CEC Conference in Port Huron. The CEC conferences welcomed over 180 people from more than 50 Michigan communities, five states, and two countries.
NORTHERN MICHIGAN COMMUNITIES
Bellaire East Jordan Elk Rapids
Four hundred people gathered to celebrate the economic development partnerships that thrive throughout the NLEA region. Local and state government officials, community and business leaders, area entrepreneurs, chamber members, educational leaders and everyone involved in the economic vitality of our region came together for networking and the presentation of exciting awards and special recognition.
It only takes one push to serve as an economic catalyst in a community, and with over $4,000,000 invested, Cannonball Development in East Jordan has done just that. Leaning on Blue Smoke Restaurant as their anchor tenant and two more retail spaces available for lease, the project is bringing dozens of new jobs and growth downtown.
NLEA assisted communities in three (3) successful MEDC crowdfunding grant projects totaling $143,700 in private and community investment, matched by $113,000 in grant funding. The projects included a new boathouse for the Village of Alanson’s Sanctuary Park; a life-size bronze sculpture in the Boyne City river called “The Last River Draw”; and 9.5 miles of new mountain biking and hiking trails at Boyne City’s Avalanche Mountain nature preserve.
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Northern Michigan will soon be home to a $25,000,000 state-of-the-art, 500 seat performing arts center. The Great Lakes Center for the Arts in Bay Harbor will offer year-round performances in music, theater, film, and dance. Look for the Grand Opening in July 2018.
INVESTORS/MEMBERS AKT Peerless
Little Traverse Township
McLaren Northern Michigan
Mackinaw City Chamber
Northwest MI Industrial Association
Petoskey Regional Chamber
The Brook

The NLEA is excited to present this year’s Annual Lunch in the new Petoskey Northmen Stadium. This state of
the art facility will play host to our tailgate style gathering of over 700 of our closest friends and colleagues
from across the state and region for the celebra on and recogni on of economic development projects and
people in Northwest Michigan.
PETOSKEY NORTHMEN STADIUM
Lunch Networking Keynote Address Awards & Recogni ons Live Entertainment
TICKET RESERVATION FORM (we will invoice for payment at a later date)
Tickets are $20/person. Group rate 10 ckets $180
Please reserve ________ ckets for my organiza on

Guest 10: ________________________________________
Ques ons? Fax: 2315823213 Call: 2315826482 Email: [email protected] Mail: P.O. Box 8, Boyne City, MI 49712
SPONSORED BY:
D Z O N E
EN D ZO
From: Koch, Janet To: Boyd, Margie Subject: For EDC packet (email and the attachment) Date: Wednesday, April 12, 2017 5:11:53 PM Attachments: US-131 Crowdfunding Summit May 10.pdf
From: Elise Crafts [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, April 04, 2017 12:38 PM To: Elise Crafts Subject: Registration Open: May 10th US-131 Fundraising Summit US -131 Stakeholders, Registration is open for the US-131 Community Fundraising Summit held on Wednesday, May 10th, from 1-4 p.m. at the Mancelona Township office (9610 S M 88 Hwy, Mancelona, MI 49659). This event is a result of the US-131 corridor economic development project, which is bringing together US-131 communities, businesses, non-profits, and economic development partners to create and implement local economic development strategies in the US-131 region. Kate Redman, Commonplace Law, and Megan Olds, Parallel Solutions, will speak regarding strategic fundraising campaigns, donation and investment crowdfunding, and other fundraising tools. A working session will follow, during which participants will apply this information to specific project(s) prioritized in their community. There is no fee to attend this event, but registration is required in order to organize the working session. Please register by April 28 by completing the short survey linked below.
Register here: www.surveymonkey.com/r/131Fundraising More details are available in the attached flier. Please feel free to distribute this email/flier to your networks. Thank you, and we hope to see you on May 10th! If you have any questions in the meantime, please contact Elise Crafts at (231) 929- 5057 or [email protected]. -- Elise Crafts Regional Planner (231) 929-5057 [email protected]
This communication, including attachment(s), is intended only for the use of the designated recipient(s). Any dissemination, copying, or disclosure of this communication is prohibited without express written consent. If you received this communication in error, please immediately notify the sender by telephone at (231) 929-5000, destroy the original message and all copies, then permanently delete any electronic copies. Thank you.
Page 10
US-131 community leaders, businesses, non-profits, residents, and other stakeholders are invited to the May 10 Regional Fundraising Summit to learn about fundraising tools and campaigns and how these can be used strategically to market and accomplish a project. The summit will conclude with a facilitated working session, at which participants will apply their fundraising knowledge and strategy to a specific project in their community.
1 p.m. Community Fundraising Presentations Megan Olds, Parallel Solutions, and Kate Redman, Commonplace Law, will speak regarding strategic fundraising campaigns, crowdfunding as both a funding and marketing tool, and other fundraising options - including millages, private donations, and partnerships between local units of government and non-profits.
2:30 p.m. Small Groups Working Session Participants will explore how to apply various fundraising tools and strategies to projects in their communities.
Wednesday, May 10
Mancelona Township Hall 9610 SM 88 Hwy
Mancelona, Ml 49569 Cost: Free
Registration is required! Please register by April 28 using
the short (1 min) survey below: surveymonkey.com/r/131 Fundraising
Questions? Contact: Elise Crafts, Networks Northwest
231-929-5057 e I ise. craf ts@networksno rthwest. o rg
The US-131 Economic Development Strategy is a collaborative economic development approach that will build on local and regional strengths to address important economic needs. The project is funded by the Michigan Prosperity Initiative, US Economic Development
Administration, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, in partnership with Networks Northwest, Northern Lakes Economic Alliance, and Venture North. For more information on the Regional Prosperity Initiative or the US-131 Economic Strategy,
please visit www.networksnorthwwest.org/us131 .
Northwest 1/ BUJin ... /
VENTURE NORTH
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From: Andy LaPointe [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Wednesday, March 15, 2017 12:31 PM To: Garwood, Peter; Koch, Janet Subject: Fw: Google Technology Grant Hi Pete and Janet,
This may be something for the EDC to head up across the county.
You may already be aware of this, but Google offers grants to communities in increase technology advancement and growth.
Below is an email from Tom at ConnectMi.org.
I'll see about having Tom attend the meeting? Could you please add this topic to the upcoming agenda?
Thanks,
Andy
PS, Do you know if we have a quorum for the upcoming meeting?
----- Forwarded Message ----- From: "Stephenson, Tom" <[email protected]> To: Tom Kern <[email protected]>; Andy LaPointe <[email protected]> Sent: Wednesday, March 15, 2017 8:22 AM Subject: RE: Google Technology Grant Good Morning Andy and Tom, Our organization has worked some with Google and we are well aware of their programs. They have a couple of good programs for communities but their selection process favors more urban areas. The grant you are referring to Google has an office in Ann Arbor and each year that office is allowed to grant $10,000/$15,000 to promote technology in a
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Like Us on Facebook: Connect Michigan From: Tom Kern [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, March 14, 2017 12:42 PM To: Andy LaPointe Cc: Stephenson, Tom Subject: Re: Google Technology Grant Andy that's great news. I would suggest that you talk with Tom Stephenson from connect Michigan. I have copied him on this email. Tom
Sent from my iPhone
Haven Date: Thursday, April 13, 2017 8:24:00 AM Attachments: image002.png
From: Andy LaPointe [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 2:26 PM To: [email protected]; [email protected]; Koch, Janet; Garwood, Peter Subject: Asian Carp prevention efforts - Joshua M. Brugger, Councilman, City of Grand Haven Hi Josh, It was great to speak with you regarding your Asian Carp prevention efforts. Your Letter to the Editor in the Elk Rapids News was a powerful reminder confronting all water communities throughout Michigan. http://www.elkrapidsnews.com/letters-to-the-editor.html As we discussed, I am the Chair of the Antrim County EDC (Economic Development Corporation) and we have the Upper and Lower Chain of Lakes in Antrim county. In April, the EDC will be discussing our strategic plan. Could you please forward any information you have regarding your Asian Carp prevention efforts. I would like to include this information for EDC members to discuss at our next meeting. Thank you in advance for being so proactive on such a vital topic for all of Michigan, especially waterfront communities. Andy LaPointe Chair - Antrim County Economic Development Corporation 1-231-533-8788 PS, I also copied Pete Garwood, County Administrator, and Janet Koch, Associate Planner, from Antrim County. PPS, here is link to a map where Antrim County is located: Google
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kochj
Rectangle
From: Koch, Janet To: Boyd, Margie Subject: For EDC agenda packet (email and attachments) -- FW: Asian Carp Letter Date: Thursday, April 13, 2017 8:24:00 AM Attachments: Asian Carp Letter to the President for Personal Editing by Signers.docx
Draft Resolution to Support the Restoration of Funding for the Great Lakes Initiative.docx
From: Josh Brugger [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 10:40 AM To: [email protected] Cc: Garwood, Peter; Koch, Janet; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Asian Carp Letter Hi Andy,
Thank you for your call yesterday and for your efforts to bring attention to a tremendously important challenge at our doorstep. I was happy to learn that my Letter to the President ran in the Elk Rapids News. http://www.elkrapidsnews.com/letters-to-the-editor.html . Our local Grand Haven Tribune was gracious enough to run the letter with a story. Here's a link so you can check it out. http://www.grandhaventribune.com/Environment/2017/03/07/Grand-Haven-councilman-circulates-letter- urging-Asian-carp-fight . I believe that despite the partisan divided that is the tenor of our day, we can all agree that an aggressive invasive species entering our Great Lakes and the waters that surround them would be detrimental, even catastrophic to a way of life that has financially sustained our region since the dawn of our nation.
I must admit that It's awkward when folks call "bringing attention to this issue on a grass roots level" 'my movement'." Truly, if we are to carry a loud message to the President that he will hear, it must be "OUR" voices and not "my" voice. If it's the latter, the effort will surly fail.
With this in mind, I'm openly sharing an editable version of my letter with you and those who you included with your email to me. I have also attached a draft copy of the City of Grand Haven's "Resolution to Support the Restoration of the Funding for the Great Lakes Initiative." We anticipate adopting this at our next City Council Meeting and sending it to the President along with the individual and organization letters that we've been collecting since the "letter the President" was first published.
The easiest way for you to act now is to share these documents with those who share our concern and encourage them to literally "sign on" to this effort and send copies to "The City of Grand Haven, Re: Asian Carp, 519 Washington Avenue, Grand Haven, MI 49417" or by electronic copy to [email protected]. Whatever is easiest! Just do it.
I've included the email address' of our Lower West Michigan's elected State Officials with this email. Craig Petersen, assistants to Jim Lilly (Representative of the 89th District) and Amanda Price, assistant to Arlan Meekhof (30th State Senate District), in this email. Please feel free to pass this on to anyone you feel would appreciate the opportunity to get on board with this effort.
As I type this, our draft City Resolution is being shared with the Michigan Municipal League leaders in Lansing at the MML Capital Conference. I am hopeful that they'll pass these letters along to their Municipal and Business Alliance members yet this week.
With Gratitude,
Asian Carp
A letter from a small-town Councilmen to the President of the United States.
Dear Mr. President,
I am writing you in great hope that this letter and the signatures of those small-town councilmen and women who have joined me in this cause, will encourage you to designate the financial resources necessary to stop the invasive species known as the Asian Carp, from entering the Great Lakes and destroying the ecosystem and the multi-billion-dollar fishing industry that operates from Chicago, Illinois to Buffalo, New York and beyond.
To date, funding for the bulk of Asian Carp prevention efforts has come through the EPA.
Regardless of our individual beliefs in the need for greater or lesser regulation of the use of our natural resources, we stand united in the belief that an aggressive, non-native, apex predator such as the Asian Carp must not gain access to the pristine waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie. Without the full financial support of the Federal Government, we will not succeed.
Please join us in preserving an American way of life on the Great Lakes that has financially sustained us for generations. Indeed, since before the dawn of the American Nation, no greater non-human threat to our way of life has ever existed on the Great Lakes. Please fund this initiative and ask your Canadian counterparts to join in this effort. Together, we can save the Great Lakes.
Respectfully Yours,
(Name)
(Title)
(Address)
(Email)
Resolution to Support the Restoration of Funding for the Great Lakes Initiative
Whereas Due to their voracious appetites for plankton (also consumed by native fish), their rapid rate of reproduction, and their relatively large size, Asian carps have had devastating impacts on native fish populations, and
Whereas Today, bighead and silver carp are the dominant fish species in the Illinois River, which connects the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, and
Whereas There is concern that if bighead and silver carp enter the Great Lakes, they may cause significant ecosystem damage, and
Whereas In addition to ecosystem damage, the threat may devastate the Great Lakes fisheries, currently valued at $7 billion per year supporting 75,000 jobs in the region, and
Whereas Proposed cuts in President Trump’s first budget would eliminate federal support for Great Lakes restoration efforts that have made a tremendous difference in the health and vitality of this worldwide resource, threatening not only funding to combat the Asian Carp menace, but also threatening the world’s largest surface water supply of fresh water, and
Whereas Our Great Lakes are too important to our Nation to divest at the Federal level in the hopes that local and state government and non-profit entities will find the means to effectively protect this irreplaceable treasure.
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that the City Council of the City of Grand Haven urges Congress to restore all funding to the EPA and NOAA, including $300,000 for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and
Be It Further Resolved that the importance of our Great Lakes as a shipping channel is very important, but the City of Grand Haven places a higher priority on the overall protection of the ecosystem, and
Be It Further Resolved that our representatives in Washington are implored to place the highest level of importance on the protection of our water resources as we rely on these waters for our very existence.
Proposed for the March 27, 2017 City Council Agenda
4 Elk Rapids News March 16, 2017
Elk Rapids News is published weekly and serves the Elk Rapids, Kewadin,
Alden, Rapid City, Eastport, Torch River Bridge, and
Williamsburg areas.
TO TALK TO OUR NEWSROOM For questions or comments about
news coverage call 264-6670 or email
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YOURLETTERS
The Elk Rapids News welcomes Letters to the Editor. Please limit length to 200 words and two submissions per topic. Endorsement letters limited to 100 words and one time submission. No personal attacks are allowed and letters are subject to editing for content and clarity. All letters must be signed, with complete contact information provided for editorial follow up, but only your name and community in which you live will appear in Elk Rapids News. Deadline is Monday 12 p.m. to be considered for that week’s edition. As your only locally owned and operated local news source, we strive to be your local newspaper of choice and welcome your comments, suggestions. – Editor
LETTERS TO THE EDITOR: [email protected] MAIL TO: P.O. Box 176, Elk Rapids, MI 49629
Volunteers for coaches, assistant coaches and umpires are always welcome. The pay isn’t great (there is none), but the rewards are priceless!
Questions? Jason Merchant 231-360-1405 OR [email protected]
FORMS AVAILABLE AT: -Lakeland Offi ce -Mill Creek Offi ce -Cherryland Middle School Offi ce -Huff ord Vision, DOWNTOWN E.R.
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SHOWING DAILY MARCH 17 THRU THURS MARCH 23
“PATRIOTS DAY” STARRING: MARK WAHLBERG, J.K. SIMMONS, JOHN GOODMAN, KEVIN BACON
RATED: R
Small-town councilman writes to the president Dear Mr. President,
I am writing you in great hope that this letter and the signatures of those small-town councilmen and women, who have joined me in this cause, will encourage you to designate the fi nancial resources necessary to stop the invasive species known as the Asian Carp, from entering the Great Lakes and destroying the ecosystem and the multi-billion-dollar fi shing industry that operates from Chicago, Illinois to Buffalo, New York and beyond.
Regardless of our individual beliefs in the need for greater or lesser regulation of the use of our natural resources, we stand united in the belief that an aggressive, non-native, apex predator such as the Asian Carp must not gain access to the pristine waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake Ontario, and Lake Erie. Without the full fi nancial support of the Federal Government, we will not succeed.
Please join us in preserving an American way of life on the Great Lakes that has fi nancially sustained us for generations. Indeed, since before the dawn of the American Nation, no greater non-human threat to our way of life has ever existed on the Great Lakes. Please fund this initiative and ask your Canadian counterparts to join in this effort. Together, we can save the Great Lakes.
Joshua M. Brugger, Councilman, City of Grand Haven
Free foreclosure Prevention Counseling
Residents who seek foreclosure prevention assistance in northwest Michigan can fi nd help with the Northwest Michigan Community Action Agency (NMCAA). Free Foreclosure Prevention Counseling is available in their Traverse City offi ce. Homeowners can fi nd out how to avoid foreclosure and the different foreclosure programs that are available. NMCAA will also educate homeowners about the foreclosure process and counsel families on budgeting for their personal fi nancial situation. Homeowners do not have to be within the actual foreclosure process to access these services – many are available to assist before a crisis actually occurs to keep the clients out of the foreclosure process altogether. For details or more information please call 231-947-3780 or 800- 632- 7334 or www.nmcaa.net.
Bogus e-mails sen t to postal customers
Some postal customers are receiving bogus e-mails about a package delivery or online postage charges. The e-mails contain a link or attachment that, when opened, installs a malicious virus that can steal personal information from your PC.
The e-mails claim to be from the U.S. Postal Service and contain fraudulent information about an attempted or intercepted package delivery or online postage charges. You are instructed to click on a link, open the attachment, or print the label. But Postal Inspectors warn: Don’t do it!
Like most viruses sent by e-mail, clicking on the link or opening the attachment will activate a virus that can steal information – such as your user name, password, and fi nancial account information. What to do? Simply delete the message without taking any further action. The Postal Inspection Service is working hard to resolve the issue and shut down the malicious program.
If you have questions about a delivery or wish to report spam, please call 1-800-ASK-USPS or email [email protected].
Have a story idea? Call 264-6670
Page 16
Asian Carp
A letter from a small-town Councilmen to the President of the United States.
Dear Mr. President, I am writing you in great hope that this letter and the signatures of those small-town councilmen and
women who have joined me in this cause, will encourage you to designate the financial resources
necessary to stop the invasive species known as the Asian Carp, from entering the Great Lakes and
destroying the ecosystem and the multi-billion-dollar fishing industry that operates from Chicago,
Illinois to Buffalo, New York and beyond.
Regardless of our individual beliefs in the need for greater or lesser regulation of the use of our natural
resources, we stand united in the belief that an aggressive, non-native, apex predator such as the Asian
Carp must not gain access to the pristine waters of Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, Lake Superior, Lake
Ontario, and Lake Erie. Without the full financial support of the Federal Government, we will not
succeed.
Please join us in preserving an American way of life on the Great Lakes that has financially sustained us
for generations. Indeed, since before the dawn of the American Nation, no greater non-human threat
to our way of life has ever existed on the Great Lakes. Please fund this initiative and ask your Canadian
counterparts to join in this effort. Together, we can save the Great Lakes.
Respectfully Yours,
Resolution to Support the Restoration of Funding for the Great Lakes Initiative
Whereas Due to their voracious appetites for plankton (also consumed by native fish), their rapid rate of reproduction, and their relatively large size, Asian carps have had devastating impacts on native fish populations, and
Whereas Today, bighead and silver carp are the dominant fish species in the Illinois River, which connects the Mississippi River to Lake Michigan, and
Whereas There is concern that if bighead and silver carp enter the Great Lakes, they may cause significant ecosystem damage, and
Whereas In addition to ecosystem damage, the threat may devastate the Great Lakes fisheries, currently valued at $7 billion per year supporting 75,000 jobs in the region, and
Whereas Proposed cuts in President Trump’s first budget would eliminate federal support for Great Lakes restoration efforts that have made a tremendous difference in the health and vitality of this worldwide resource, threatening not only funding to combat the Asian Carp menace, but also threatening the world’s largest surface water supply of fresh water, and
Whereas Our Great Lakes are too important to our Nation to divest at the Federal level in the hopes that local and state government and non-profit entities will find the means to effectively protect this irreplaceable treasure.
Now, Therefore Be It Resolved that the City Council of the City of Grand Haven urges Congress to restore all funding to the EPA and NOAA, including $300,000 for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, and
Be It Further Resolved that the importance of our Great Lakes as a shipping channel is very important, but the City of Grand Haven places a higher priority on the overall protection of the ecosystem, and
Be It Further Resolved that our representatives in Washington are implored to place the highest level of importance on the protection of our water resources as we rely on these waters for our very existence.
Proposed for the March 27, 2017 City Council Agenda
Page 18
Actions Status
Promotion/Collaboration Review current community promotions To do in 2017 Medium Priority Regional/State Funding Communicate new information of funding opportunities with the local units Ongoing
Develop Financial Plan Prepare an EDC budget in July for the following year’s County budget To do in 2017 Look for funding sources outside of County Ongoing
Broadband Educate Commissioners and community Ongoing
US-131 Corridor Stay connected and active Ongoing Low Priority County Master Plan Review Chapter 6: Economic Development in the master plan To do in 2017
Page 19
Actions Year completed
High Priority Understand Review master plan goals throughout Communities Antrim County 2016 Design a survey to gather needs/wants across the county 2016 Choose the survey’s targets 2016 Conduct the survey & compile answers 2016
Promotion/Collaboration Choose appropriate County-wide promotional efforts 2016 Medium Priority Regional/State Funding Share “Redevelopment Ready” information with the local units of government 2016 Develop Financial Plan Prepare an EDC budget in July for the following year’s County budget 2016 Broadband Frontier presentation October 2016
Low Priority
Page 20
Summary of Major Programs
USDA Rural Development is committed to future of rural communities. Through our programs, we touch rural America in many ways and help to improve the economy and quality of life for rural Americans.
Rural Development contacts and funding notices are at http://www.rd.usda.gov/. The Contact Us menu tab has office addresses and phone numbers, or use our toll-free number at 1 (800) 670-6553 to be connected.
USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
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Objective Applicant Uses Population Loan/Grant Terms/Conditions Single-Family Housing Direct Loans (including Self-Help Loans)
Safe, well-built, affordable homes for very-low- and low- income rural Americans.
Families and individuals. Buy, build, improve, repair or rehabilitate a rural home as the applicant’s permanent residence.
Rural areas with populations of up to 35,000.
Direct loan. Up to 100% of market value or cost. Loan term of 33/38 years. Applicant may be eligible for payment assistance (subsidy) on the loan.
Single-Family Housing Loan Guarantees
To assist low- to moderate- income applicants/household in buying their homes by guaranteeing loans made by private lenders.
Families and individuals. Purchase new or existing homes and refinance existing Rural Development guaranteed or direct loans.
Loan guarantee. 30-year, fixed. The interest rate is negotiated between lender and borrower. Loans up to 100% of market value plus the amount of the up-front guarantee fee being financed.
Single-Family Repair Loans and Grants
To help very-low-income applicants remove health and safety hazards, or repair their homes.
Families and individuals who currently own their home.
Repair/replace roof, winterizing, purchase or repair heating system, structural repair, water/sewage connect fees, etc.
Direct loan and grant.
Loans up to $20,000 up to 20 years at 1%. Grants available to very low- income applicants 62 years or older unable to pay 1% loan.
Self-Help Technical Assistance Housing Grants
Assist lower-income families in building their own homes.
Non-profits and public bodies.
Technical assistance to help small groups of families to build each other’s homes.
Grant. Grant agreement.
Safe, well-built, affordable rental housing for very-low-income individuals and families.
Individuals, trusts, associations, limited partnerships, for-profit and non-profit entities, tribes, public bodies.
New construction or substantial rehabilitation of rental housing.
Direct loan. Up to 100% of total development cost (non- profits); 97% (for-profits); 95% (for-profits with Low-Income Housing Tax Credits). 30-year term with up to 50-year amortization.
Rural Rental Housing Loan Guarantees
Provides loan guarantees on loans to build or preserve affordable housing for very-low to moderate-income tenants.
For profit and non-profit lenders.
Build or rehabilitate affordable rental housing.
Loan guarantee. At least 25-year term with fixed interest rate. Loan guarantees up to 90% of the principal.
Housing Preservation Grants Repair and rehabilitate housing owned or occupied by very-low- and low-income rural families.
Public bodies and non-profit organizations.
Operation of a program which finances repair and rehabilitation activities for single-family and small rental properties.
Grant. Grant agreement.
Safe, well-built affordable rental housing for farmworkers.
Individuals, public and private non-profit organizations.
New construction or substantial rehabilitation of rental housing.
Not applicable. Direct loan and grant.
Up to 102% of total development cost. Up to 33 years to repay at 1% interest.
Community Facilities Loans and Grants
Improve, develop, or finance essential community facilities for rural communities.
Public bodies, non-profits, and Federally recognized Indian Tribes.
Construct, enlarge or otherwise improve essential community facilities, such as public safety, fire and rescue, telecommunications, schools, libraries, hospitals, other healthcare facilities, etc. This may include furnishings, fixtures and other required equipment.
City, town or unincorporated area of not more than 20,000 in population. Facilities must primarily serve rural residents.
Direct loan, loan guarantee, or grant.
Up to 100% of market value. Term is for useful life of the facility or equipment, the State statute, or 40 years. Maximum grant 75% of project cost. Grant eligibility based on income, population, and need.
Rural Community Development Initiative
To facilitate housing, community facility and community and economic development projects.
Private non-profit or public organizations, philanthropic foundations, low-income communities.
Technical assistance grants of $50,000 to $300,000 to develop the capacity and ability of the awardees to carry out needed projects.
City, town, or unincorporated area of not more than 50,000 in population.
Grant. Matching funds required for grant.
For Direct Loans and Grants, apply to Rural Development. For Loan Guarantees, apply to participating intermediaries such as approved banks, mortgage companies, etc.
Page 22
Objective Applicant Uses Population Loan/Grant Terms/Conditions Business and Industry Loan Guarantees
Create jobs/stimulate rural economies by providing financial backing for rural businesses.
Lenders/Businesses. Real estate, buildings, equipment, supplies, working capital, and some debt refinancing.
All areas except cities over 50,000 and their contiguous urbanized areas.
Loan guarantee. Lender and borrower negotiate terms. Up to 30 years for real estate, 15 years for machinery and equipment, and 7 years for working capital.
Rural Business Development Grants
Assist the startup or expansion of small and emerging private businesses and/or non-profits in rural communities. Note: This program combines the former Rural Business Enterprise Grant and Rural Business Opportunity Grant programs and was created through the 2014 Farm Bill.
Public bodies, government entities, non-profit entities, and Federally recognized Indian Tribes.
Acquire or develop land, buildings, plants and equipment; build or improve access roads, parking areas, utility extensions, and water and waste disposal facilities; provide technical assistance; establish revolving loan funds; and to support rural distance learning programs that provide educational or job training.
All areas rural in character except cities over 50,000 and their contiguous urbanized areas.
Grant. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis.
Intermediary Relending Program Loans
Public bodies, non-profit corporations, Native American Tribes, and cooperatives.
Community development projects, establishment or expansion of businesses, creation or saving of rural jobs.
Rural areas and incorporated places with populations of less than 50,000.
Direct loan. The intermediary makes loans to businesses from its revolving loan fund on terms consistent with security offered. Intermediary pays 1% for 30 years.
Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program
Establish revolving funds to target assistance to small rural enterprises.
Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs).
Loans, technical, and capacity- building assistance to businesses with 10 or fewer employees and sole proprietorships.
Loans, grants. Rural microenterprises apply directly to the intermediary.
Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants
Finance economic development and job creation in rural areas.
Rural Utilities Service- financed electric and telephone utilities.
Business startups or expansion projects that create rural jobs.
Rural areas with priority to places with populations of 2,500 or less.
Direct loan or grant to establish revolving loan fund.
Intermediary makes loans to for-profit or non-profit businesses and public bodies. Loans are 0% for 10 years.
Rural Cooperative Development Grants
Non-profits and institutions of higher education.
Establish centers to provide technical assistance, training, applied research, and collection and interpretation of data, for the purpose of cooperative development.
Grant. Minimum 25% fund match (5% for 1994 Institutions). Grants awarded competitively.
Socially Disadvantaged Groups Grants (formerly called Small, Socially Disadvantaged Producer Grants Program)
Provides funds to eligible cooperatives, co-op associations, or co-op development centers to provide technical assistance to small, socially disadvantaged groups in rural areas.
Cooperatives and co-op development centers that serve socially disadvantaged groups where a majority of the board of directors or governing board is comprised of individuals who are members of socially disadvantaged groups.
Technical assistance. All areas, except cities over 50,000 and their contiguous urbanized areas.
Grant. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis. There is no matching requirement.
Value-Added Producer Grants Help independent agricultural producers enter into activities that add value to their crops.
Independent producers, farmer and rancher cooperatives, producer groups, majority-controlled producer-based business ventures.
Feasibility studies, business plans; working capital.
All areas. Grant. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis. Funds cannot be used to build facilities or purchase equipment. Funds must be matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis.
Page 23
Objective Applicant Uses Population Loan/Grant Terms/Conditions Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) Loan Guarantees and Grants
Provide assistance for energy efficiency improvements or purchase of a renewable energy system for operations.
Rural small businesses and agricultural producers.
Energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy systems, land acquisition and working capital.
Cities, towns, unincorporated areas with population less than 50,000. (Population limits do not apply to agricultural producers)
Loan guarantee and/or grant.
Grants up to 25% of project costs not to exceed $250,000 for energy efficiency projects and $500,000 for renewable energy. Loan guarantees up to 75% of project cost not to exceed $25 million.
REAP Audit/Development Grants Provide grant to entity to pass through to a small business or agricultural producer for 75% of the cost of an energy audit or renewable energy development assistance.
State, tribal, or local government institutions of higher education; rural electric cooperatives; or public power entities.
$100,000 grant to entities, smaller ones to small business and agricultural producers for 75% of energy audit or renewable energy development assistance.
Cities, towns, unincorporated areas with population less than 50,000.
Grant. $100,000 to entities and up to 75% of the cost of energy audit for renewable energy development assistance.
Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program Loan Guarantees (formerly called Biorefinery Assistance Program)
Provide loan guarantees for the development and construction of commercial-scale biorefineries or to retrofit facilities using eligible technology for the development of advanced biofuels.
Individuals, Indian Tribes, State or local governments, corporations, farm cooperatives, associations of agricultural producers, national laboratories, higher learning institutions, rural electric co- ops, public power entities, consortiums of any of the entities.
Loan guarantees to develop and construct commercial-scale biorefineries or retrofit facilities to use eligible technology for the development of advanced biofuels.
No restrictions. Loan. 90% (maximum) guarantee on loans up to $125 million; 80% (maximum) guarantee on loans less than $150 million; 70% (maximum) guarantee on loans of $150 million but less than $200 million; 60% (maximum) guarantee on loans of $200 million up to $250 million.
Repowering Assistance Program Provide payments to biorefineries to replace fossil fuels with biomass.
Biorefineries. Grant to biorefineries, including ethanol and biodiesel plants that use electricity generated from natural gas and coal and require this for the fermentation process.
No restrictions. Grant. As funds are available. Complete applications submitted to National Office for review.
Advanced Biofuel Payment Program
Eligible producers of advanced biofuels.
Grant to producers of advanced biofuels (non-cornmercial-based).
No restrictions. Grant. As funds are available. Complete applications submitted to National Office for review. Grant awards determined by National Office.
For Direct Loans and Grants, apply to Rural Development. For Loan Guarantees, apply to participating intermediaries such as eligible banks, etc. For Revolving Funds (IRP, REDLG, RMAP), intermediaries apply to Rural Development, others to the intermediaries.
Page 24
Water and Waste Disposal Loans and Grants
Provide infrastructure for rural areas.
Public entities, Indian Tribes and non-profit corporations.
Build, repair and improve public water systems and waste collection and treatment systems.
Rural areas, and towns with up to 10,000 population.
Direct loan and grant.
Repayment period is a maximum of 40 years. Grant funds may be available.
Water and Waste Disposal Loan Guarantees
Provide infrastructure for rural areas.
Public entities, Indian Tribes and non-profit corporations.
Construct, repair and improve water supply and distribution systems and waste collection and treatment systems.
Loan guarantee. Eligible lenders obtain up to a 90% guarantee on loans they make and service.
Solid Waste Management Grants
Provide technical assistance and/or training to those who operate and maintain active landfills.
Public bodies, private non- profit organizations, Indian Tribes, academic institutions.
Technical assistance and training to improve landfill conditions and protect against threats to nearby water resources.
Grant. Applications accepted year-round. Complete applications submitted to National Office for review.
Technical Assistance/ Training/Circuit Rider
Public, private, and non- profit organizations.
Provide technical assistance and training to assist with management of water and waste projects.
Rural areas and towns with up to 10,000 population.
Grant. As funds are available. Complete applications submitted to National Office for review.
Rural Broadband Direct Loans and Loan Guarantee
Deployment of broadband service to eligible rural communities. Note: The 2014 Farm Bill revises program provisions. An interim rule was published in published in FY 2015.
Entities seeking to provide broadband services in rural areas.
Finance the construction, improvement and acquisition of facilities and equipment to provide broadband service in eligible rural communities.
Refer to the new rules, when available, for population limits.
Refer to the new rules, when available, for loan details.
Refer to the new rules, when available, for loan terms and conditions.
Electric and Telecommunications Loans
Generation, transmission facilities and distribution of electric power, including alternative, renewable, conservation and energy efficiency programs. Enhance 911 emergency service, digital switching equipment, and fiber optic cable, along with traditional main system telecommunications service.
Electric: areas served by an existing rural electric borrower, or rural areas other than a city or town of more than 20,000. Telecommunications: areas cities with population under 5,000.
Direct loan or loan guarantee.
Interest rates are established in accordance with 7 CFR 1714. Contact RUS at www.rd.usda.gov or 1 (800) 670-6553.
Distance Learning and Telemedicine
Incorporated entities, including municipalities, for- profit, and non-profit corporations that operate rural schools, libraries, healthcare clinics and other educational or healthcare facilities.
To provide end-user equipment and programming that delivers distance learning and telemedicine services into eligible areas.
Rural areas outside incorporated or unincorporated cities with populations up to 20,000.
Grant. Awards range from $50,000 to $500,000. A minimum of 15% in matching funds is required.
Community Connect Grants Provide public access to broadband in otherwise un- served communities.
Public bodies, tribes, cooperatives, non-profits, limited dividend or mutual associations; corporations and other legally organized entities
To build broadband infrastructure and establish a community center that offers free public access to broadband for two years.
A single community outside incorporated or unincorporated cities with population over 20,000 which does not have broadband.
Grant. Minimum: $50,000; Maximum: $1 million. Amounts are published in Notices of Funding Availability and may vary.
Electric and Telecom Programs: Contact the Rural Utilities Service Administrator; Water Programs: Contact the Rural Development State Office. CFR refers to Code of Federal Regulations.
Page 25
Land & Bldgs. Mach. & Equip. Working Capital Infrastructure Tech. Asst./Train. Rural Housing and Community Facilities Programs
Single Family Housing Direct Loans (including Self-Help Loans) ♦ Single Family Housing Loan Guarantees ♦ Single Family Housing Repair Loans/Grants ♦ Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants ♦ Rural Rental Housing Direct Loans ♦ ♦ Rural Rental Housing Loan Guarantees ♦ ♦ Housing Preservation Grants ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Farm Labor Housing Loans/Grants ♦ ♦ Community Facilities Direct Loans, Loan Guarantees, Grants* ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Rural Community Development Initiative ♦
Rural Business and Cooperative Programs Business and Industry Loan Guarantees ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Rural Business Development Grants ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Intermediary Relending Program Loans ♦ ♦ ♦ Rural Microentrepreneur Assistance Program ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Rural Economic Development Loans and Grants ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Rural Cooperative Development Grants ♦ ♦ Socially Disadvantaged Groups Grants ♦ Value-Added Producer Grant ♦ ♦ ♦ Rural Energy for America Program Loan Guarantees/Grants ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦ Biorefinery, Renewable Chemical, and Biobased Product Manufacturing Assistance Program Loan Guarantees
Repowering Assistance Program Advanced Biofuel Payment Program
Rural Utilities Programs Water and Waste Disposal Direct Loans, Loan Guars., Grants ♦ ♦ ♦ Solid Waste Management Grants ♦ Technical Asst./Training/Circuit Rider ♦ Rural Broadband Direct Loans and Loan Guarantees ♦ ♦ Electric and Telecommunications Direct Loans/Loan Guarantees ♦ ♦ ♦ Distance Learning and Telemedicine Loans/Grants ♦ ♦ Community Connect Grants ♦ ♦ ♦ ♦
* Initial operating expenses are eligible in conjunction with the financing of an eligible Community Facility project. However, grant funds may not be used to fund initial operating expenses.
Page 26
Caro Area Office 1075 Cleaver Rd. P.O. Box 291 Caro, MI 48723 (989) 673-8173, Ext. 4 West Branch (Sub-Area Office) 240 W. Wright St. West Branch, MI 48661 (989) 345-5470, Ext. 4 Service Area Arenac, Bay Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Huron, Iosco, Isabella, Lapeer, Midland, Ogemaw, Roscommon, Saginaw, Sanilac, St. Clair and Tuscola counties
Gladstone Area Office 2003 Minneapolis Gladstone, MI 49837 (906) 428-1060, Ext. 4 Sault Ste. Marie (Sub-Area Office) 2847 Ashmun Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 (906) 632-9611, Ext. 4 Service Area Alger, Baraga, Cheboygan, Chippewa, Delta, Dickinson, Emmet, Gogebic, Houghton, Iron, Keweenaw, Luce, Mackinaw, Marquette, Menominee, Ontonagon, Presque Isle, Schoolcraft counties
Grand Rapids Area Office 3260 Eagle Park Dr. Suite 107 Grand Rapids, MI 49525 (616) 942-4111, Ext. 6 Paw Paw (Sub-Area Office) 1035 E. Michigan Ave. Suite A Paw Paw, MI 49079 (269) 657-7055, Ext. 4 Service Area Allegan, Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Ionia, Kalamazoo, Kent, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Ottawa, St. Joseph, Van Buren counties
Mason Area Office 525 N. Okemos St. Suite B Mason, MI 48854 (517) 676-4644, Ext. 4 Flint (Sub-Area Office) 1525 North Elms Rd. Flint, MI 48532 (810) 230-8766, Ext. 4 Service Area Clinton, Eaton, Genesee, Hillsdale, Ingham, Jackson, Lenawee, Livingston, Macomb, Monroe, Oakland, Shiawassee, Wayne, Washtenaw counties
Traverse City Area Office 1501 Cass Street Traverse City, MI 49684 (231) 941-0951, Ext. 4 Service Area Alcona, Alpena, Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Crawford, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Lake, Leelanau, Manistee, Mason, Missaukee, Montmorency, Osceola, Oscoda, Otsego, Wexford counties
On the Web: www.rd.usda.gov/mi
Michigan State Office 3001 Coolidge Road, Suite 200 East Lansing, MI 48823 517-324-5190 TDD/TTY (517) 324-5169
Michigan Offices
Page 27
http://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants
Does the project support local/regional food efforts to increase consumption of such products and develop, improve, or expand local/regional markets?
YES NO Project is ineligible for both FMPP and LFPP. Check www.grants.gov for other federal opportunities.
Qualifies for the Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP) if project involves intermediary non-direct-to-consumer supply chain activity:
Qualifies for the Farmers Market Promotion Program (FMPP) if project is promoting direct-to- consumer marketing:
Project moves/promotes product from the origin of the product to a distributor (e.g. food hub)
Project moves/promotes product from the distributor (e.g. food hub) to the retail outlet (e.g. store, CSA, farmers market, etc.)
Organization is in the planning stages of establishing or expanding a local/regional food business in a community (e.g. market research, feasibility studies, business planning, and providing technical assistance)
Marketing project directly to consumers at food outlets (e.g. farmers markets, roadside stands, CSAs, agritourist, etc.)
Marketing products directly to consumers via information campaign (e.g. farmers market promotional activities, etc.)
Project provides outreach, training, and technical assistance for direct-to-consumer marketing (e.g. assistance with market establishment and design, working with experts to market specific products, etc.)
OR
OR
OR
OR
Federal-State Marketing Improvement Program (FSMIP) http://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/fsmip
Does the project explore new market opportunities for U.S. food and agricultural products, and encourage research and innovation
aimed at improving the efficiency and performance of the U.S. agricultural marketing system and have an applied research and
marketing focus?
YES NO Project is ineligible for FSMIP. Check www.grants.gov for other federal opportunities.
Are you a state department of agriculture, a land grant institution, an agricultural experiment station, a state university or college, another appropriate state agency as determined by AMS including a state department of forestry, natural resources or energy?
Eligible to apply for FSMIP grant opportunities.
YES NO Not eligible to apply directly for FSMIP but may apply in partnership with an eligible entity.
Page 29
SCBGP - http://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scbgp SCMP - http://www.ams.usda.gov/services/grants/scmp
Does the project solely enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops (fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture)?
YES NO Project is ineligible for both SCBGP and SCMP. Check www.grants.gov for other federal opportunities.
Are you a state department of agriculture?
Qualifies for SCMP if:
One or more state impact/scope
Application meets both the federal and state requirements as outlined in the RFA.
Not eligible to apply directly to the USDA for either program but may apply through your local State department of agriculture for SCBGP and a participating State department of agriculture for the SCMP.**
YES NO Qualifies for SCBGP if:
Regional or national impact/scope
Meets the definition of a multi-state project ***
Does not duplicate a project submitted to or funded by SCBGP
Application meets both the federal and state requirements as outlined in the RFA.
Application is in one of the following areas: food safety; research; crop-specific issues; pest and disease; or marketing and promotion?
Page 30
Do you want assistance in offsetting your organic certification costs?
YES
An organic producer An organic handler Transitioning to organic Other
Not eligible for NOCCSP or AMA at this time but may apply when you become fully certified.
Not eligible for NOCCSP or AMA
Do you live in the eligible 16 states listed here?
CT DE HI
Eligible for AMA
Contact State agriculture department point of contact for instructions and procedures for how to submit the required information, get certified and reimbursed for up to 75% of allowable certification expenses.
Eligible for NOCCSP
4-18-17 NLEA Reservation Form-fillable ATTACH 1
4-18-17 US-131 Fundraising Email ATTACH
4-18-17 US-131 Crowdfunding Summit ATTACH
4-18-17 Google Technology Grant ATTACH
Strategic Plan 2017 Draft
4-18-17 Asian Carp Letter to the President for Personal Editing by Signers ATTACH
4-18-17 Draft Resolution to Support the Restoration of Funding for the Great Lakes Initiative ATTACH
ADP2C64.tmp
4-18-17 USDA AMS Farmers Market Promotion Programs-Decision Tree ATTACH 2.pdf
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MEMBERS: Antrim County Economic Development Corporation