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Legislators Who Promote Transparency Should Start by Disclosing Corporate Welfare Deals
MEDC secrecy patronizes lawmakers and public
… Corporation to more sunshine.
The MEDC is the state’s department of … bureaucracy.
The failure of MEDC programs to create and maintain … to keep its records secret. MEDC officials routinely stymie … I’ve recommended before, the MEDC should be shut down in its … spends their tax dollars.
The MEDC employs a dark methodology … more
MEDC Testimony a Reminder That More Transparency is Needed
New legislation would make the MEDC more transparent and accountable
… reminded this viewer why the MEDC needs more transparency and accountability. The MEDC’s chief operating officer, Amanda … described reviews of the MSF-MEDC by the Michigan Office of the Auditor General of Michigan.
The MEDC has made a history of cheering … her opening statement, the MEDC’s COO said, “To date the Good … more
The Real Problem With ‘Economic Development’ Programs
Michigan should end the MEDC
… suffer if the state sacked the MEDC. The reality is that the states … admits in the piece, “[The MEDC’s] overall impact on job creation … their core mission. While the MEDC and MEGA started as small, … harm than good. It’s good that MEDC has shrunk – but that doesn’t … it will stay that way.
The MEDC does more political development … more
Pure Michigan Scare Tactics
MEDC deploys 'Washington Monument syndrome'
… transportation infrastructure.
The MEDC is the state’s corporate welfare … construction and maintenance. The MEDC does not want its funding cut … Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), said the plan "severely limits … the press release from the MEDC, the media reports soon followed. … not nearly as valuable as the MEDC says, but it is undoubtedly … more
Three Cheers for Michigan House Democrats
Questioning MEDC transparency is the right thing to do
…
The latest salvo against the MEDC was inspired, at least in part, … obtain information from the MEDC. “I don’t think the Legislature … Joseph Rivet actually argued the MEDC should lose its funding over … try to hold these guys at the MEDC accountable to taxpayers, they … who also are troubled by the MEDC's lack of transparency and accountability. … more
MEDC's New Program: Government Funding Government
City of Ypsilanti will benefit from MEDC's $50,000
… enterprises will receive any of the $50,000 MEDC is kicking in to a “crowdfunding” project … anymore.”
In response to questions MEDC Spokesman Mike Shore referred to an … of Ypsilanti.”
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See also:
MEDC Boss Says Agency Changing; Has Long … Companies
There is No Good Reason the MEDC Should Exist
Beer Website Provides … more
MEDC Boss Says Agency Changing; Has Long History of Backing Bad Companies
A look back at five MEDC-backed failures
… original jobs projected by the MEDC came to fruition. Finney said … 21st Century Jobs Fund, which the MEDC oversees, was created by the … of what is possible."
"The MEDC of today is a very different … said in a press release.
The MEDC has a long history of making … last few years made by the MEDC on unproven technologies. … more
MEDC Consultant Busted for ‘Recycling’ Reports
… need for more investment in MEDC programs. Specifically, the … of Kentucky involving the MEDC’s winning bidder, a firm called … submitted in response to an MEDC request for proposal looks … a recycled version of the MEDC’s own deeply flawed RFP. There’s … conforming to those sought by the MEDC.
Pleasing a client is not … more
A Uniquely Overqualified Candidate
LaFaive's satirical cover letter for MEDC job
… Authority, which was run by the MEDC. We found that for every $123,000 … companies declared “winners” by MEDC jobs wizards, only one construction … included a broader analysis of the MEDC itself, found an empirical … the other programs run by the MEDC for the purpose of creating … delighted by the generosity of the MEDC’s pay. A salary range of between … more
Bonfire of the Bureaucratic Vanities
MEDC should publicize its failures, too
… and investment to our state,” then-MEDC president Michael Finney noted in a … addition to recommending this loan, the MEDC also supported, in the same year, an … happened. But that didn’t stop the MEDC from recommending in 2014 the company … fails to perform as expected, the MEDC should issue a press release announcing … more
State's Corporate Welfare Agency Tone Deaf to Requests for Transparency
MEDC treats transparency 'as an annoyance'
… much-needed transparency at the MEDC, companies accepting tax credits … conclusion of the hearing, the MEDC's chief executive, Steve Arwood, … a longstanding belief that MEDC presumes the public can't expect … with business interests.
“The MEDC should have insisted that the … the Mackinac Center. “But the MEDC has treated basic transparency … more
Beer Website Provides More Information About Taxpayer Investment Than The State
Deals that never materialize are not reported by the MEDC
… "American Badass" beer. The MEDC doesn't mention anything in … business.
The transparency of the MEDC is a concern, said James Hohman, … Center for Public Policy.
The MEDC only tracks deals when the … are not reported on by the MEDC.
For example, in 2008 the MEDC approved an estimated $827,000 … more
In 20 Years, Only Two Corporate Welfare Recipients Created 1,000+ Jobs
MEDC projections rarely come true
… recently, had the governor, MEDC, local agencies, etc., with … it was created in 1995, the MEDC has approved benefits for just …
Both projects came under the MEDC’s former flagship program, the … created just seven.
Many of the MEDC's announcements were made with … online advertising program. The MEDC authorized $38 million worth … more
What Would it Mean to Unleash the MEDC?
… its best, but it would be one way to unleash the MEDC.
The state’s already doing some of that. Two programs … economy and justify taxpayer costs. Unleashing the MEDC is not about creating a conducive business environment … taxpayers have gotten for them. No, unleasing the MEDC is about politicians delivering money to select … more
Secretive Bidder Wins Pure Michigan Contract Over Transparent One
Auditor General, not MEDC, should hire reviews of corporate welfare programs
… centerpiece of its proposal. The MEDC has a reputation for obfuscation … Legislature should strip from the MEDC the right to review its own … investment from Pure Michigan. The MEDC has appeared perfectly comfortable … apparently unaware of the MEDC’s reputation for preferring … department itself.
Because MEDC officials have incentives to … more
Every Corporate Welfare Incentive Means New Jobs, Except for Most of Them
MEDC says 'every' subsidized project 'means jobs'
… only met 19 percent of their projected job totals. The report found that one company only created 14 of the 200 jobs it was projected to create.
The MEDC has offered selective benefits to companies many, many, many, many, many, many times (you get the picture) that created few or no jobs. more
According to Beneficiaries, All Government Spending Is Worth the Investment
… awarded a refundable tax credit to a convicted embezzler who had promised to develop water and electrical modules for use by third-world countries. The MEDC’s analysis showed that there were going to be 1,048 jobs created in the surrounding area because of the project, which was used to justify state support. … more
Job Numbers Vary Widely for Taxpayer Funded Electric Car Battery Maker A123 Systems
MEDC reported hundreds of jobs just prior to company's bankruptcy
… dynamics of how payroll was distributed and to how many employees is unclear to state and federal government officials.
Kathy Fagan, spokeswoman for the MEDC, said the jobs number for A123 Systems was taken directly from A123's payroll records.
"The feds may break out their numbers differently, but we don't … more
Tourism Promotion Study Criticism Absurd, Ironic
… inform public policy decisions, MEDC officials keep this methodology … to “check the work” of the MEDC’s consultants because their … multiple no-bid contracts from the MEDC, and whose current chair is a former MEDC official. When challenged on … hallmarks of valid scholarship.
MEDC officials have strong incentives … more
State's Corporate Welfare Arm Says Ex-Attorney General Approved Being Less Transparent
MEDC: AG gave 'informal verbal advice' about not disclosing tax information
… general's office.
In 2009, the MEDC stopped disclosing the names … on three questions posed to MEDC Vice President of Communications … the determination?
2 — Did MEDC ask for the ruling?
3 — Has … office.”
To the question, “Did MEDC ask for the ruling?,” Shore … explanation for this particular MEDC step away from transparency. … more
State Agency Has 52 Employees Who Earn More Than $100K
State Rep.: 'The MEDC's track record in picking winners is poor'
… percent increase over the 31 MEDC employees that topped $100,000 … newsletter, reported the new MEDC salary numbers, which it said it obtained from the MEDC. In its article, MIRS made … distinction between the 12 "public" MEDC employees who made $100,000 … Corporate employees at the MEDC are primarily paid from Indian … more
State Agency Says '#MichiganIsAuto,' But the Economy Has Changed
The MEDC is #outoftouch with Michigan's economic diversity
Democrat Contradictions: Corporate Tax Breaks Bad, But Incentives for Hollywood Good
Dems criticize MEDC, but want to give more money to millionaire movie moguls
… referring to when mentioning the tax giveaways.
"The MEDC is a slush fund the governor uses to funnel tax … programs that actually work, not empty promises. The MEDC for far too long has wasted tax dollars on proposals … Begnoche confirmed that her office is part of the MEDC.
"Politicians of both parties score points with … more
Senator Says MEDC Should Stop Believing Its Own Press Releases
… senate hearing, Cassis told MEDC CEO Greg Main, "The press releases …
Michael Shore, spokesman for the MEDC, didn't respond to an e-mail seeking comment.
Cassis said the MEDC didn't seem too concerned that … legislation that would require the MEDC to state in its news releases …
MIRS News researched the MEDC's job claims under Gov. Jennifer … more
Lawmakers Looking At MEDC Transparency
… Although the amount of funds the MEDC spends annually has been significantly … millions of taxpayer dollars.
The MEDC has a history of investing … Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)."
"Economic development and … pronounced with entities, like the MEDC, that are involved with promotion.
Over the years, the MEDC has acquired a reputation for … more
A Case Study in Ineffectiveness for the MEDC
Lawmakers pass a budget cutting the agency
… businesses and industries. The MEDC has a dreadful track record. … $16 million. Predictably, the MEDC was not happy, saying this … money saved by cutting the MEDC budget will have a greater … have been some changes at the MEDC, two recent cases raise questions … “responsibly balances” the MEDC’s programs with other items … more
Pressure Mounting For MEDC Transparency
House Democrats call for scrutiny of corporate welfare programs; accountability for tax dollars
… allies — House Democrats.
The MEDC is a government authority that … of Michigan. For years, the MEDC has been criticized for a lack … right to find out whether the MEDC is spending tax dollars wisely … that is supposed to make the MEDC more transparent.
In fact, … provisions to recover the money the MEDC spends on poorly performing … more
Cut Corporate Welfare Before Social Welfare to Fund Roads
Michigan debates spending MEDC or EITC money on transportation
… transfers $187 million from the MEDC's corporate welfare programs … plan, however, does not touch MEDC funding.
Leaders in both bodies … point would be to embrace the MEDC cuts of the House plan.
“Michigan … Center for Public Policy. “The MEDC consumes hundreds of millions … unlikely to budge, cutting MEDC subsidies might be another … more
Spotty Track Record Doesn't Stop State Agency From Doling Out Deals
General Motors has 'created' fewer jobs than promised on 5 of the last 6 MEDC-partnered projects
… create jobs in the state.
The MEDC's most recent beneficiary is … company's Warren Tech Center. The MEDC is planning to amend an existing … job projections involving the MEDC has not been good. In five … Motors got a tax deal with the MEDC in May 1999 for retaining 1,511 … facility, according to the MEDC.
Not all the deals the MEDC … more
Commentary: 'Corporate Welfare' Hype Yields Few Economic Results
The companies promoted by the MEDC on Youtube are in financial trouble
… crony capitalism failures.
The MEDC video on car battery assembler … CEO, David Vieau, praising the MEDC and former Gov. Jennifer Granholm … million government loan.
The MEDC video on a film studio proposal … as high as $100 million.
An MEDC video on converting the former … and thanks Gov. Granholm, the MEDC and local governments for their … more
MEDC Still Using Questionable Benchmarks
'What they are about is trying to find press release opportunities for politicians'
… jobs that were reported by the MEDC were actually created. In April … reality.
Despite that, the MEDC is using "jobs committed" on its 2012 MEDC MIScorecard Performance Summary … success.
It is unclear why the MEDC would continue to use a benchmark …
Michael Shore, spokesman for the MEDC, was asked how "jobs committed" … more
MEDC Questioned About Its Transparency
Questions about how tax dollars spent could warrant new legislation
… Michigan budget. On June 13, 2011, MEDC sent him a document that was … the costs of supplies."
The MEDC describes itself as "a public-private … the most recognized of the MEDC's responsibilities is Pure Michigan. … things going on in Michigan.
The MEDC website also has a section … Genetski and others say the MEDC often doesn't fulfill that … more
MEDC's Priority: Defend Its Budget
When faced with criticism, it's discredit first, read the critique second
… and leisure industry.
The MEDC's response has been to seek … articles in this series, the MEDC has granted several no-bid … provide evidence that the MEDC’s programs are not only unfair … contradicted claims by the MEDC and Longwoods that the campaign … according to emails from the MEDC obtained in response to a Freedom … more
The MEDC’s Pure Michigan Puffery: Part II
Reforms could make agency more credible
… percent in one year.
If the MEDC (and Travel Michigan) ever … would the work of a reshaped MEDC look like?
First, an independent … Legislature’s auditor general — not the MEDC itself — should be responsible … impact studies. Officials at the MEDC currently have too much incentive … (For more, see “Meet the New MEDC, Same as the Old MEDC.”)
Second, … more
Thirty-One MEDC Salaries Top $100K
… Information Act request, the MEDC has 31 employees making $100,000 or more. The MEDC has 351 positions.
Greg Main, president and CEO of the MEDC, had the top salary, at $200,000. … salary, at $150,000.
"The MEDC was structured to incorporate … and non-state funds," wrote MEDC Spokeswoman Bridget Beckman … more
MEDC: The Same Old Run Around On Jobs Numbers
… Granholm was in office, the MEDC dodged questions about the … researchers and even lawmakers, the MEDC typically responded by sending data … those seeking answers from the MEDC were, in essence, being told … brought some changes to the MEDC, which is a quasi-governmental … transparency for which the MEDC acquired a reputation under … more
What Would it Mean to Unleash the MEDC?
Lawmakers should keep the state's administrators on a tight leash
… short-term thinking at its best, but it would be one way to unleash the MEDC.
The state’s already doing some of that. Two programs passed last year … tested way to grow the economy and justify taxpayer costs. Unleashing the MEDC is not about creating a conducive business environment to foster broad-based … more
MEDC Programs Consistently Fall Short of Initial Claims
Michigan's 'corporate welfare' arm perpetually exaggerates its numbers
… investment, but the trend of failing to meet expectations exists instead.
The MEDC oversees the 21st Century Jobs Fund. In a 2008 press release, then-Gov. … Jobs Fund programs. Other economic development programs overseen by the MEDC have not lived up to claims made by state officials.
The Renewable Energy … more
A Plea for Skepticism about the MEDC: An Open Letter
Lawmakers should take a closer look at economic development programs
… exempt data in a way that make MEDC programs look more successful than they really are. The MEDC should not be allowed to hire … added.)
In other words, the MEDC’s consultants eliminated from … sleight-of-hand exercise is not an MEDC one-off.
The MEDC has hired consultants in the … more
Company Defaults on $300,000 From State For Project, Repays $45,827
MEDC had boasted grant proved ‘the success of our strategy’
… Southfield.
In a contemporaneous report by Crain’s Detroit Business, then-MEDC CEO Michael Finney praised the grant to NEMO, and two other grants as well. … Southfield. The company did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
MEDC spokesman Otie McKinley said, in response to an emailed request for explanation, … more
Giving Taxpayer Dollars to Some Corporations A Lucrative Business For These Nonprofits
The MEDC, the state’s corporate welfare agency, has local partners
… total revenue of $7.14 million that year.
Quintin L. Messer, the CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, collects $287,000 annually. The MEDC is the state government agency that cooperates with local corporate subsidy agencies by helping steer state tax revenue to projects in their own region. … more
There Is No Good Reason the MEDC Should Exist
… and CEO (and current Chair of MEDC Executive Committee) of the … that exists (none from the MEDC) offers little evidence that … promises. Seen through this lens, MEDC operations make far more sense. … Here’s a taste:
In this clip, MEDC Executive Committee member … Legislature should keep the MEDC and the Michigan Economic Growth … more
What Happens When the Michigan Economic Development Corporation Ends?
State could save millions by stopping ineffective subsidies
… development policies.
The MEDC is an “interlocal agency,” … economic development programs, the MEDC ought to go away. There is … quasi-state agency do it.
The MEDC is not a third party entity … have an agreement with the MEDC to delineate each party’s responsibilities. … economic development programs. The MEDC gets additional income from … more
MEDC Downplayed Pure Michigan Return On Investment Claims? Oh Really
Secretive numbers used in claims have headlined many tales told to reporters and lawmakers
… updated with a comment from the MEDC.
David Lorenz is the Michigan … Michigan ads is used wisely.
The MEDC recently ended its relationship … in 2010, Longwoods and the MEDC were claiming just an extra … catch: The company and the MEDC refuse to divulge the methods … Detroit Business article.
The MEDC spokeswoman Michelle Grinnell … more
Politicians Want to Review State Agency that has 1 in 5 Jobs Track Record
… to favored businesses.
Rep. Earl Poleski (R-Jackson) was asked about the MEDC and said, “I think we need to be looking at whether that model is working … far to get an answer. Michigan's auditor general issued a report on the MEDC’s 21st Century Jobs Fund program in September of 2013, finding only 19 percent … more
MEDC’s Pure Michigan Puffery: Part I
Agency claims about success deserve more scrutiny
… Lorenz, the vice president of the MEDC arm in charge of the subsidies … benefits of Pure Michigan, the MEDC is seeking to justify not only …
The latest product from the MEDC’s vendor, Longwoods International, … reports are then used by the MEDC as evidence of its program’s … the implausibility of the MEDC’s claim was actually provided … more
MEDC Response
… Recycling a $5.1 million tax incentive for a 280,000 square foot facility in Sterling Heights that was projected to generate 396 jobs.
Michael Shore, MEDC spokesman, provided this response in an e-mail:
Thanks for the opportunity to address your concerns regarding the Michigan Economic Growth Authority … more
Corporate Subsidies Appear To Work Sometimes — Or Firm Was Coming Anyway
Firm got $130,000, not the $430,000 first offered, still built new plant
… list any repayments of the grant funds, either. An MEDC spokesman declined to provide additional information … defended the deal in a telephone interview.
The MEDC’s assistance “was a success,” he said. “It helped …
“This is actually a great success story. (The MEDC) has been really good to work with.”
Some economists … more
Don't Extend Granholm's 'Blown Away' Program
Demand accountability instead
… grants and loans in 2007? After six years, the MEDC still does not report how much taxpayer money was … much does the state own and what is it worth? The MEDC has not reported on whether there have been any … simply gives the political appointees who run the MEDC's parent agency, the Michigan Strategic Fund, discretion … more
Failed Company Skipped On $2.1 Million State Loan, Wants More
Michigan corporate subsidy officials support extended benefits for firm’s successor
… Development Corporation. The MEDC, which runs the state’s business … Marquette-area employees in an email to MEDC officials in May 2018 that … RNFL to National Carbon, the MEDC documents show.
MEDC spokesman Otie McKinley said … the first place, he said.
MEDC “thinks they can pick winners … more
State Corporate Welfare Agency Picks Winners That Turn Out To Be Losers
Program officials subsidize Cherry Growers, Inc., company goes bankrupt
… Traverse City. In 2012, the MEDC recommended that Cherry Growers … "profit-participation." The MEDC projected at the time that … then president and CEO of the MEDC, used a press release to announce … the “winner” picked by the MEDC has since closed and is in … otherwise. With each deal, the MEDC or MSF prepare a forecast of … more
The 'M' in MEDC Should No Longer Stand For 'Mystery'
… agency will disclose.
The MEDC hands out millions of dollars … other relevant factors, the MEDC should explain them. But the … late 2008 or early 2009, the MEDC did at least disclose how much … information. From that point on, the MEDC has only disclosed how much each … coincidentally, not long after this the MEDC inked deals with Ford, GM and … more
Bills Would Ban Keeping Taxpayer Handouts To Corporations Secret
A handful of companies are getting billions, but citizens are forbidden to know who or how much
… much the incentives were worth.
For much of MEGA’s 15-year existence, the MEDC did disclose which companies were cashing in credits as well as the value … a $1.7 billion cap, according to The Detroit News. In February 2015, the MEDC valued General Motor’s remaining tax credits at $2.1 billion.
According … more
Taxpayer Backlash Coming Over Billions In Amazon Subsidies
But the rebellion against corporate handouts hasn’t reached Michigan
… company building a distribution center in Shelby Township.
In June 2017, the MEDC approved a $5 million grant for Amazon for a distribution center in Romulus.
The MEDC approved a $7.5 million business subsidy in December 2016 for another distribution … more
Does ‘True Success’ for Michigan Business Mean Government Handouts?
Step 1: Sen. Debbie Stabenow introduces you to state corporate welfare agency
… site MLive.
MLive reports, “It began with U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow” introducing the owner to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. The MEDC then approved a $200,000 grant to the company, which was launched in 2016.
ForTheRecord states: Michigan is indeed filled with small businesses that … more
Q&A With the MEDC: Verifying Jobs Resulting From Special Government Favors
State Reps call for greater transparency or elimination of program
… after that, in April 2013, the MEDC reported to the state legislature … Sept. 30, 2012 total.
When the MEDC responded in July to questions, … issued that found that the MEDC had not been reporting on the … submitted four questions to MEDC, three of which were the same … new question. This time the MEDC responded.
Q: Could a company … more
After Billions in Subsidies, Just 918 Michigan Car Battery Jobs
In 2010, Granholm predicted 62,000 jobs
State Corporate Welfare Winner Released from Prison
Convicted Embezzler Once Shared Stage with Gov. Granholm
State Business Subsidy Recipients Get, Keep Taxpayer Dollars
Half the beneficiary firms failed to meet targets or created zero new jobs
State Loses 200,000 Jobs, MEDC Finds 2,185
Why tax cuts are better than corporate welfare
… similar figures are released by BLS every quarter. The magnitude of those MEDC job promises also is typical. What the contrasting figures starkly illustrate … Michigan's economy.
That's 200,728 jobs needed vs. 2,185 jobs promised by the MEDC. If this is the best we have, we're in deep trouble.
Thankfully, it isn't. … more
Commentary: Meet the New MEDC, Same as the Old MEDC
… the scoop:
In September, the MEDC issued a request for proposals … Michigan government (and/or MEDC) should spend to “be competitive … this, of course, is to use MEDC’s preferred tools of discriminatory … critique, and/or validate the MEDC’s method of defining an optimal … the answer could be “no.” The MEDC has little incentive to ask … more
MEDC vs. Kentucky
Michigan offers tax incentives worth five times the competition's
… in Saginaw. At the time, the MEDC stated that GlobalWatt was … pulled off the table before the MEDC offered its incentives.
“My … Granholm administration and the MEDC is desperate for any good news … Michael LaFaive said.
The MEDC knows their press releases … there were instances where the MEDC took largely cut-and-pasted … more
MEDC Feeling the Heat for Corporate Welfare Deals Coming Home to Roost
$9 billion in special deals projected
… Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) as incentives for businesses … claiming the credits.
“The MEDC made an interpretation of tax … Policy has been a critic of MEDC programs, and the MEGA tax … results.
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See also:
MEDC Boss Says Agency Changing; …
There is No Good Reason the MEDC Should Exist
Beer Website … more
Michigan House Wise to Shift Corporate Welfare Spending to Roads
Programs shown to be ineffective and wasteful
… Incentives” was a review and analysis of the academic literature on the subject of MEDC-type programs. The authors categorized and reviewed hundreds of other academic … conclusion from Brumm’s findings is that when a state department like the MEDC encourages corporate rent-seeking, it may actually limit a state’s growth … more
Tax Cuts Beat Selective Favors in Economic Growth
Only broad changes will improve the state's economy
… is the unheralded business gains and losses that drive the economy. Across the state, businesses are constantly adding and shedding jobs. While the MEDC was announcing 4,420 jobs, Michigan gained 222,000 jobs and lost 187,000, according to the latest data.
So even if the happy announcements were in … more
MEDC Is a Moth to a Failure Flame
Suniva bankruptcy lights up program shortcomings
…
In 2009 the Michigan Economic Growth Authority — the state’s chief business incentive program at the time — approved, with the recommendation of the MEDC, a “photovoltaic credit” subsidy to Suniva. The company, in turn, was supposed to create a new facility and 500 new jobs in Saginaw County. Then-Gov. … more
Analysis: MEDC Letter an Admission of Failure
… specifically references the MEDC's Michigan Economic Growth Authority … on average. If this is the MEDC's idea of success, we would … of failure.
In March, the MEDC offered a refundable tax credit … possess a credit card, the MEDC placed him on stage with Gov. … testimony before a House committee, MEDC CEO Greg Main acknowledged … more
MEDC Removes Video of Obama, Top Dems Praising Failed Battery Company
YouTube promotion showed Obama, Granholm, Levin and Stabenow promising thousands of jobs
… rumored a few weeks ago, the MEDC made all of its promotional … have been raised about the MEDC’s lack of transparency.
The … failures.” Michigan Advantage, the MEDC’s (now defunct) YouTube channel, … dollars for their operations. The MEDC previously promoted dozens … of millions of dollars. The MEDC now has a new YouTube page, … more
MEDC asks $5,700 for nondisclosure agreements
Government-by-NDA has been business as usual in Michigan. But the Mackinac Center insists on transparency
… agreements exist on corporate welfare deals? The MEDC’s preliminary response to the FOIA request offers … window, but it leaves many questions unanswered.
The MEDC refers to 5,572 “sides” of paper that need to be … agreements, when, and why? Whitmer? Lawmakers? MEDC staff? Who, specifically? What did they attest … more
Emails Show Shaky Grounds for Corporate Welfare Agency’s Transparency Shutdown
… emails from an exchange between MEDC officials are dated Feb. 13, … ostensible purpose of increasing MEDC transparency. What follows are three emails among MEDC officials, with the names of … legislative affairs for the MEDC. He is now the manager of the … Strategic Fund, which is the MEDC's parent agency.
At 10:06 AM, … more
Thirty-One MEDC Salaries Top $100K
… Information Act request, the MEDC has 31 employees making $100,000 or more. The MEDC has 351 positions.
Greg Main, president and CEO of the MEDC, had the top salary, at $200,000. … salary, at $150,000.
“The MEDC was structured to incorporate … and non-state funds,” wrote MEDC Spokeswoman Bridget Beckman … more
MEDC Approves Corporate Welfare for Dealership
LaFaive: Special favors unfair to competitors, taxpayers
State ‘Pure Michigan’ Agency Refuses to Debate Ad Program's Cost Effectiveness
Think tank's independent research suggests taxpayers get back $2 for every $100 Pure Michigan spends
… internal discussions between MEDC officials and agency vendors … findings” unfavorable to the MEDC and state government spending … Center has also accused the MEDC and its paid consultants of … co-authors issued their challenge to MEDC officials to debate the effectiveness …
Dave Lorenz, who directs the MEDC bureau that manages the campaign, … more
MEDC's Magic Act: Make Taxpayer Money Disappear With Little Return
… about the debate over whether MEDC should be eliminated. Chances … encourage recognition of what MEDC actually is.
As the state’s corporate welfare arm, MEDC is supposedly tasked with enhancing Michigan’s economy. In reality, MEDC is an advertising and promotional … relatively minuscule byproduct.
MEDC spends the public’s money, … more
Dodgy Metrics, No Real Accountability At Tax-Funded Tourism Marketing Program
Agency may have good reason to prefer Pure Michigan’s fluff to real transparency
… afternoon of March 16, the MEDC responded in part to our request. … Development Corporation. The MEDC administers the state’s corporate … has long been a critic of the MEDC and its programs, as well as … ongoing example. Recently, the MEDC denied significant portions … costs to taxpayers. Until the MEDC becomes more transparent, the … more
MEDC-Endorsed Bet on Horse Track Now Under Investigation by Wayne Co.
… racecourse employees. However, an MEDC memo dated Sept. 23, 2008, … independent contractors." The MEDC memo states the course would … working at the racecourse.
The MEDC estimated that the project … $6.5 million in tax credits.
MEDC spokesman Michael Shore stated … Pinnacle Race Track property, the MEDC briefing memo on Post It Stables … more
State Economic Development Group Has Little To Do With Job Success
Analyst: 'Right-to-work’s success will be determined by Michigan’s overall economic performance'
… already been ringing at the MEDC since we passed that legislation. … James Hohman warned that the MEDC has little say in how successful … with the activities of the MEDC."
Companies opening in a state … Statistics. By comparison, the MEDC announced in March 2013 that … direct jobs announced by the MEDC eventually came to fruition. … more
Michigan Legislature gave cover to GM, MEDC on tax credits
Transparency is Mackinac work. How the Mackinac Center Legal Foundation spoke up in favor of the public’s right to know.
… ensure the amount given to GM remained a secret.
A lawsuit against the MEDC by Detroit resident David Sole challenged this secretive arrangement and … influencing whether the agreements get modified and in what matter?”
The MEDC must report to the Legislature on how much the company receives. Only a … more
State Agency Approves Subsidy Deals Despite Repeated Shortcomings
… Program (which is part of the MEDC), with the state supporting … short of its projections.
"The MEDC should know these things rarely … Fagan, spokeswoman for the MEDC, didn't respond to a request … also:
CapCon Coverage of the MEDC
Rosy Solar Jobs Projections … a Campaign Tool
MEGA, the MEDC and the Loss of Sunshine
Job … more
Pure Michigan Spent $295 Million and Even Hotels Only Got Scraps Back
Researchers find taxpayers pay big to ring resort cash registers just a little
… industries most directly benefitted by the spending, MEDC has claimed that Pure Michigan is successful, recently … tax revenue.
But LaFaive and Hicks dispute the MEDC’s methods for determining whether the spending is … beneficiary of successive no-bid contracts from the MEDC. Yet the firm refuses to meet basic transparency … more
Cut Corporate Welfare to Help Balance State Budget
Tenuous relationship between corporate welfare and economic health
… corporate-welfare bureaucracy.
The MEDC takes money from many people and businesses … canceled in 2015. Even one of the MEDC’s own paid consultants found that the … probably ineffective.
Worse, the MEDC may actually harm economic growth. … search of favors, like subsidies. The MEDC hands out such favors.
The state needs … more
Michigan’s Corporate Subsidy Board Faces Tough Questioning
There’s a better way to help small business
… getting involved in the private economy.
"The MEDC's mission is to facilitate programs that grow the …
Tellier focused her response on small business.
"MEDC and the Strategic Fund's role is in funding small … large corporations – not small businesses. The MEDC and MSF have recently redirected money away from … more
State’s MBDP Job Creation Claims an Inconvenient Fiction
Just because government says its effective doesn’t mean it is
… companies are shown to have had their deals revoked. A spokesperson for the MEDC said that at least eight more revocations will be included in the 2018 report. … agreement with the state may ask for their deals to be amended. In the MSF-MEDC fiscal 2016 report to the Legislature, 38 amendments are offered up and … more
Michigan to Write $1 Billion in Secret Corporate Welfare Checks in 2016
Which firms get the money? Taxpayers kept in the dark
… allowed to be told which ones are collecting,” said James Hohman, the assistant director of fiscal policy for the Mackinac Center for Public Policy.
The MEDC didn’t respond to an email seeking comment. more
Michigan Employers Create Thousands of Jobs without the Aid of Politicians
Economic development programs just transfer money to a lucky handful
… the total amount of job creation that happens statewide. Over the same three-month period in which Michigan companies added nearly 200,000 jobs, the MEDC announced that it had awarded support to companies to create just 425 jobs.
Not only is this less than 1 percent of all the jobs created, but these … more
What’s Old is New Again: Another Subsidy Program Being Considered by Legislature
Good for politicians and well-connected businesses, bad for Michigan
… cost; all benefits.”
Similarly, the MEDC also pays a consultant to calculate … figures it reports. Nevertheless, MEDC bureaucrats implicitly demand that … (and agency) salaries involved, the MEDC also uses sophisticated tools itself … such products produced by and for the MEDC are basically empty public relations … more
State’s Business Subsidy Cherry-Pickers Failed In Handout To Cherry Picker
Picking corporate subsidy winners and losers not like choosing fruit
… say their handouts will deliver. Research shows these programs tend to be ineffective. Each time one of its winners fails to perform as expected, the MEDC should issue a press release announcing as much.” more
Another MBDP Jobs Subsidy Project Doesn’t Work
State officials can’t pick economic winners from losers and shouldn’t try
… Corporation.
“These projects reflect each private companies’ long-term commitment to the economic viability of Detroit,” said Steve Arwood, then the MEDC’s chief executive. But clearly, the very economic viability of Adient itself prevented the company from keeping any long-term commitment to Detroit, … more
Summertime, And The Spending Is Easy For Tax-Funded Tourism Ads
But some analysts say the programs are unfair and ineffective
… promotions will appear in 20 different markets, including Minneapolis, St. Louis, Louisville and Pittsburgh, and are also streamed on Pandora radio.
MEDC spokesman Otie McKinley said, “This particular piece focuses on the hidden gems around the state. Not unlike Long Live Summer or Fall Filter, these … more
Snyder Orders a State Economic 20 Year Plan
'Whereas, government can help ...'
… receive its tax breaks and subsidy checks. A report from the state auditor general in 2013 found that only 22 percent of the projected jobs that the MEDC reported had materialized. In one example, a company projected 600 jobs but created just seven.
In 2010, then-Gov. Jennifer Granholm declared that … more
Pure Fiction: State Tourism Cost-Benefit Analysis Ignores Costs
The full cost of the Pure Michigan advertising campaign is ignored
… funded convention and visitors bureaus.
This latest report is not the first example of a state-paid consultant leaving costs out of its analysis. The MEDC hired Michigan State University’s Center for Economic Research to examine the state’s film incentive subsidy program, for example. The MSU scholars … more
Need A Microscope to Find the Corporate Welfare Jobs in Michigan's Economy
Press releases roar, subsidies bring forth a mouse
… promise numbers are probably overstated too: A September 2013 report by the Office of the Auditor General said that only 19 percent of those projected MEDC jobs ever came to fruition. more
Mystery Project Almost Got $5.5 Million From Taxpayers
Funding for P20 project tied up with money losing real estate offering, corporate welfare
… R-Midland, voted against an amendment offered by the Democrats on Feb. 20 to take it out of the final bill.
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See also:
CapCon Coverage of the MEDC more
Tech Company Gets $2M in State Money, Fails Performance Test
After failing employment targets, Rigaku repays $825k
… default of its agreement. In July of that year, MEDC staff proposed, and the MSF board approved, a plan … in installments from 2018 to 2022.
According to MEDC annual reports on the performance grant program, … “repayment” status in the 2018 annual report.
MEDC officials declined to discuss what happened to … more
State Government Playing Favorites With Food Providers
Marquette co-op receives hundreds of thousands from state taxpayers
… grant was community investment."
The MEDC stated it projects the expansion, which … the number of jobs predicted by the MEDC and what have actually materialized …
Commentary: There Is No Good Reason the MEDC Should Exist
A Bipartisan Disaster: … Welfare Program
Pressure Mounting For MEDC Transparency more
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