The need for emergency dredging in Michigan’s harbors and marinas was addressed this month by the Michigan House with the approval of legislation providing funding and making the dredging process more affordable.
State Rep. Jon Bumstead voted for emergency funding to dredge public harbors and marinas throughout the state, as well as bills easing restrictions and permit fees for some dredging. Pentwater Municipal Marina will receive emergency funding from the legislation.
“We need to make sure that dredging projects can get underway soon so that our local communities can get ready for the tourism season, ” said Bumstead, R-Newaygo. “ Approving this legislation eliminates red tape and streamlines the permit process, while at the same time protecting Michigan jobs.”
Bumstead also voted for the creation of an emergency loan program for private marinas to borrow funds for dredging their facilities. The legislation allows the state to partner with financial institutions to help make loans available to marinas that need financial assistance to dredge. This program mirrors a loan program that was offered to Michigan farmers last year, after an unseasonably warm spring damaged crops and threatened the agriculture industry.
“ We have a limited window of opportunity to help prepare our harbors for a prosperous Pure Michigan spring and summer, which our local communities rely on, ” Bumstead said. “ This legislation will make it more affordable and easier to dredge in the short time we have and I know these efforts will go a long way in our area.”
House Bills 4398, 4399 and 4400 and Senate Bills 252 and 233 now head to the governor for consideration.
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Press Release, March 25, 2013