(FLINT, MICH. – October 8) Today, the I-69 International Trade Corridor Next Michigan Development Corporation (NMDC) elected Paul Brake, City Manager of Grand Blanc to chair the corporation during their regularly scheduled board meeting. Brake previously served as the treasurer of NMDC Board.
The I-69 NMDC includes 35 municipalities in Genesee, Lapeer, Shiawassee and St. Clair counties. The board governs the NMDC and consists of members from the participating governments and one member from each governmental unit.
“We are pleased to have Paul take on the lead role on our NMDC Board,” said Janice Karcher, Vice President of Economic Development, Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce. “His previous experience as board treasurer will help us maintain consistent leadership as we work to stimulate economic growth along the corridor.”
Brake is an experienced local government leader with more than 25 years of service. He currently serves as City Manager for the City of Grand Blanc. Prior to his current position, he served as Assistant Township Manager for Meridian Charter Township. Brake replaces previous Chair Margaret McAvoy, formerly of Shiawassee County.
The I-69 Corridor NMDC board has the authority to recommend various tax incentives to stimulate business growth or establish a new location within the NMDC territory. The Next Michigan Development Act allows the NMDC, on a project-by-project basis, to recommend a Renaissance Zone, real and personal property tax exemptions and other tax credits to qualifying businesses.
There are five designated Next Michigan Development Corporations including metro Detroit, Lansing, I-69 Corridor, Western Michigan and Grand Traverse. The Next Michigan Development Act allows for up to five NMDCs in the state to be granted by the Michigan Strategic Fund in cooperation with the MEDC.