Thread by @GovWhitmer

Today at #MPC23 we’re talking about my favorite topic: Michiganders.

Michiganders are the drivers of:

💵 Our economy
💡 Our innovative businesses
🤝 Our strong communities
🛞 Our spirit of grit and grace

That's why I'm creating the Growing Michigan Together Council.

We MUST ensure our state can attract talent and provide opportunities for families. But over the last few decades, we've seen Michiganders find opportunity elsewhere because jobs and talent have been pushed out of the state.

Since taking office, I’ve made it a priority to change that, and this council is the latest effort to reverse the trend.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 People: The Council will identify a specific population goal for 2050, rooted in a comprehensive economic development strategy that aims to build safe, vibrant communities with affordable housing and the chance at upward mobility for every Michigander.

🥇 Talent: Growing Michigan together requires us to attract and retain a skilled workforce. We'll work to remove barriers to career advancement, alleviate workforce shortages, and we'll measure ourselves against other states and nations.

📍 Places: Part of the Council's job will be to develop long-term funding solutions for water and transportation infrastructure. And it will strategize how to harness the influx of federal resources from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support our growing population.

📚 Education: A good education is key to success. The Council will also develop recommendations to track and improve student outcomes from pre-K through post-secondary school and will measure our progress against other top states.

We’ve got the power, and we’ve got the potential. Together, we’re going to grow Michigan to new heights.