(FLINT, MICH. – December 12) The I-69 International Trade Corridor Next Michigan Development Corporation (NMDC) recently voted to include Vienna Township as a member of its board. The township joins 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.
“I am pleased that Vienna Township is now part of the I-69 NMDC,” said Paul Brake, NMDC Board Chair and City Manager for the City of Grand Blanc. “The township’s assets are a welcome addition to the host of advantages that make the I-69 International Trade Corridor a great place to do business.”
According to Randy Taylor, Supervisor for Vienna Township becoming part of the NMDC is a great growth opportunity for the township.
“We are pleased to join the I-69 NMDC,” said Taylor. “Joining forces with the 35 other communities in the NMDC broadens our scope in terms of how we market ourselves. I look forward to the collaborative opportunities.”
Janice Karcher, Vice President of Economic Development for the Flint & Genesee Chamber of Commerce says it is great to have a new Genesee County community join the NMDC.
“The addition of Vienna Township to the I-69 NMDC strengthens our economic development message of collaboration,” said Karcher. “It’s great to have the township on board.”
Larry Eaton, Chair of the Vienna Township Business Development Authority says this is a good thing for economic growth in the township and the region.
“It is a great thing for Vienna Township to have a seat on the NMDC board,” said Eaton. “Our participation opens the door for business development tools and information that will help spur our economic growth.”
The I-69 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 benefits to qualifying multi-modal businesses.
There are five designated Next Michigan Development Corporations including I-69 Corridor, metro Detroit, Lansing, 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.