AGP Executive Report

Child Care Access: Michigan communities now have an updated Child Care Mapping Tool from MSU to spot supply, demand, and gaps—aimed at guiding planning and investment. Higher Ed & Rights: In Detroit, defense lawyers pushed for bond for pro-Palestinian activists charged in a federal case tied to alleged threats against University of Michigan leaders and a Jewish federation; the fight comes ahead of a detention hearing. Local Pride: Southgate’s Pride event is back after a library network stepped in to cover a vendor cost that city funds wouldn’t. Economy Watch: U-M consumer sentiment inched up in June as gas prices eased, but worries about inflation remain and sentiment is still near record lows. Cross-Border Infrastructure: The Gordie Howe Bridge opening was delayed again as the U.S. and Canada work through unresolved issues, putting another wrinkle in the timeline for Michigan-Canada traffic. Sports (Detroit): Tigers ace Tarik Skubal is set to start Saturday vs. Cleveland, with Casey Mize a possible option Sunday. Auto Safety: Ford recalled 255,404 Focus models (2012-2018) after repair issues can cause unexpected stalling.

Canada-U.S. Bridge: The Gordie Howe International Bridge opening between Detroit and Windsor has been delayed again as the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority says both countries need time to resolve “outstanding issues,” after Trump previously threatened to block the project. Auto Labor: UAW and American Axle reached a tentative contract deal in Three Rivers, ending a 10-day strike, with wages rising to $30 an hour by 2030 and healthcare premium freezes. Immigration & Courts: Michigan AG Dana Nessel is celebrating a federal court ruling vacating Trump’s $100,000 H-1B visa tax, a move she says helps hospitals, universities, and employers. Higher Ed & Speech: Michigan State University removed DEI language from registered student organization requirements after College Republicans objected, reigniting debate over campus rules. Local Economy & Streets: Detroit’s Greektown Streetscape Project is set to open its first pedestrian stretch next week, aiming to bring more foot traffic after construction disruptions. Health Care Access: A community forum in Keokuk, Iowa, focused on Insight Health Services’ planned rural emergency hospital and what services will be offered. Business & Energy: GM is shifting toward sodium-ion batteries for energy storage, signaling more grid-focused battery investment. Public Safety/Crime: Four men received life sentences in the murder of a Detroit-area business owner, according to prosecutors.

Disaster Aid Push: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and Michigan’s congressional delegation asked the federal government for a major disaster declaration covering Lake, Manistee, Oceana and other counties hit by April storms, flooding and tornadoes—aimed at unlocking FEMA Individual Assistance for residents, businesses and local governments. Cross-Border Update: The Gordie Howe International Bridge opening between Detroit and Canada was delayed again as the Windsor-Detroit Bridge Authority cited “outstanding issues,” after Trump had previously threatened to block it. Inflation Watch: U.S. inflation jumped to 4.2% in May, the highest in three years, driven largely by energy costs—while Trump blamed the Iran war for the spike and predicted prices will fall after hostilities end. Michigan Cannabis Travel Confusion: TSA guidance says medical marijuana may be allowed in flights under certain conditions, but Delta says it still follows federal law—leaving Detroit-area travelers with conflicting answers. Construction Outlook: CAM and the Home Builders Association of Southeastern Michigan plan a June 24 mid-year forecast breakfast in Novi, focusing on labor and material cost uncertainty. Detroit-Area Business: Oxford Commercial Finance says it has topped $275M in working-capital facilities for U.S. small and mid-sized firms since 2022, including Michigan manufacturers.

Federal Court & Civil Rights: Detroit officials are disappointed after a federal judge rejected the city’s challenge to the Census Bureau’s “county cap” method, which city lawyers say has systematically undercounted Detroit and could affect funding. Public Safety & Health: Michigan’s overdose death rate fell 47% since 2021, with MDHHS citing prevention efforts and naloxone as key drivers. Local Economy & Cost of Living: Metro Detroit restaurant prices keep climbing; a Michigan Restaurant and Lodging Association survey finds most owners report higher menu prices since 2025, driven by staffing, weather disruptions, and food costs. Auto Supply Chain: Ford’s aluminum supplier Novelis restarted its Oswego hot mill after last fall’s fires, a step that could help stabilize F-Series production. Politics & Courts: A Michigan Court of Appeals panel vacated the conviction of Joseph Morrison tied to the Whitmer kidnapping plot, saying jury instructions improperly treated kidnapping as a “violent felony”; AG Dana Nessel vows to appeal. Higher Ed & Security: The DOJ unsealed indictments charging eight people tied to the University of Michigan with a conspiracy to threaten officials and Jewish institutions over alleged Israel-divestment demands. Infrastructure: Sources say the Gordie Howe Bridge ribbon-cutting may be delayed, though officials stress it’s a minor hiccup. Energy & Industry: GM may shift away from LFP EV batteries toward lithium manganese-rich chemistry, while data-center expansion debates continue across Michigan.

U.S.-Israel protest crackdown: Federal prosecutors unsealed indictments charging eight pro-Palestinian activists tied to an alleged terror-and-intimidation campaign aimed at University of Michigan officials, police, and local businesses, including vandalism and threats. Local sustainability: Sixty-eight Michigan communities earned Michigan Green Communities Challenge seals for work on energy efficiency, recycling, mobility, and climate resilience. Severe weather: The National Weather Service confirmed two tornadoes in Genesee and Saginaw counties and warned of more damaging storms Wednesday and Thursday across Michigan. Higher ed affordability: Michigan Democrats reintroduced tuition reimbursement bills offering a “Make It In Michigan” tax credit that could cover up to 50% of qualifying student loan payments for graduates who stay and work in-state. Detroit-area health access: Monroe OBGYN is hosting a free Women’s Wellness Day June 16 with Oakland Hills Dermatology covering hormones, menopause, pregnancy, skin health, and wellness. Cross-border infrastructure: Canada’s PM Mark Carney said the Gordie Howe International Bridge ribbon-cutting is set for Friday, though traffic may open later than expected. Food safety: A new report finds synthetic dyes still show up in nearly 1 in 5 U.S. packaged foods, with kids’ products hit hardest.

Michigan Courts & Public Safety: The Michigan Court of Appeals vacated Joseph Morrison’s terrorism-related convictions tied to the 2020 plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, ruling kidnapping doesn’t qualify as a “violent felony” under the state anti-terrorism law; AG Dana Nessel called the decision “nonsensical” and vowed to appeal. State Government & Funding: AG Dana Nessel won a preliminary injunction blocking the Trump administration from enforcing certain USDA funding conditions tied to immigration and DEI-related requirements, and a separate federal ruling vacated a $100,000 H-1B fee policy. Local Governance: Hazel Park enacted a six-month moratorium on new short-term rental licenses after a deadly May shooting at a rental property. Energy & Industry: OpenAI is in talks to lease a massive 10-GW AI data center in Ohio backed by Nvidia, underscoring the Midwest’s fast-moving power demand race. Detroit-Area Economy: A $10 million investment was announced to support continued Detroit River restoration work. Sports: The Tigers beat the Twins 10-4 with Dillon Dingler’s two homers.

Bridge Watch: Canadian PM Mark Carney says the Gordie Howe International Bridge will open soon, with a ribbon-cutting Friday and traffic expected later this month after Trump’s earlier threats. Auto Training: Ford and Bloomberg Philanthropies are putting $5M into Detroit-area schools to modernize auto-tech classrooms and train 300 new technicians over three years. Utilities & Costs: Consumers Energy is seeking a $456M annual electric rate hike; Michigan AG Dana Nessel says she’ll challenge it, warning of another hit to household bills. Data Center Backlash: Lyon Township residents packed meetings to oppose a proposed 1.8M-square-foot data center, joining broader Michigan resistance and calls for moratoriums. Healthcare Expansion: Marathon Health is expanding advanced primary care into the Detroit region with four new health centers. Local Business Loss: Kositchek’s, a Lansing retail staple for 160 years, is closing permanently after a 2024 roof collapse. Detroit Sports/Community: The Rocket Classic is ending after 13 years as a PGA Tour stop in Detroit, with the final event set for July 30.

Unemployment Overhaul: Michigan’s unemployment insurance rules change in July, including a new requirement to document at least three work-search activities each week when certifying for benefits, plus updates to domestic-violence eligibility, combined appeal hearings, and more frequent repayment waivers. Prison Accountability: U.S. Rep. Debbie Dingell is pressing Gov. Gretchen Whitmer for answers after a third death at Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility in a month, calling conditions “alarming” and demanding transparency on health and safety issues. Data Center Fight: Lyon Township residents packed meetings again as they push back on a proposed data center near South Lyon, with opponents warning it’s harming nearby property values and quality of life. Politics & Ballot Access: Michigan’s Supreme Court rejected GOP pastor Ralph Rebandt’s bid to get on the August governor ballot, leaving four candidates on the primary line. Local Economy Watch: AAA says Michigan gas prices keep sliding, down 21 cents from a week ago to an average of $4.17 a gallon. Auto Safety: Stellantis announced a recall of more than 1 million Jeep Wranglers and Gladiators over a wiring issue that could lead to overheating and fire risk.

Data Centers & Energy Costs: A new report warns that “behind-the-meter” gas plants for data centers could push up energy bills for Michigan households and small businesses, as projects increasingly build their own power instead of relying on the grid. Local Politics: Michigan towns are pausing data center plans as resistance grows, with moratorium zones expanding and lawmakers debating how far to go. Housing Law: Michigan tenants may be able to withhold rent for needed repairs, but it’s complicated—courts treat it as a defense and tenants may need to escrow the money. Public Safety: Michigan is bracing for thunderstorms this week, with heat and humidity raising the risk of severe storms. Sports (Detroit): The Tigers’ Kevin McGonigle delivered a walk-off single to end a losing streak vs. the Mariners. NHL Trade Talk: Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin reportedly has a short list of teams he’d accept a trade to. NASCAR (Michigan): Denny Hamlin won at Michigan International Speedway, tying Kyle Busch on the all-time wins list.

NASCAR in Michigan: Denny Hamlin won the FireKeepers Casino 400 at Michigan International Speedway, celebrating Kyle Busch with an “18-8” tribute flag after tying Busch for ninth on the all-time Cup wins list. Detroit sports: Kevin McGonigle’s late hit and Detroit’s rally beat the Mariners 5-4 to take the series 2-1. Great Lakes outdoors: U.S. Fish and Wildlife will survey Great Lakes tributaries for invasive sea lampreys, while Michigan DNR reports walleye are now the top harvested species in Michigan waters. Courts & access: A Michigan-based nonprofit published live, 50-state data on community service completion, highlighting gaps tied to geography, disability, and supervision needs. Local safety: Livonia police arrested a suspect in an attempted home invasion after reports of a man in a white protective jumpsuit. Community life: Thousands turned out for the Motor City Pride parade in downtown Detroit, with residents and allies celebrating queer joy and unity. Data center backlash: Michigan lawmakers and residents keep pushing back against new AI data center plans, citing electricity and quality-of-life concerns.

Prison Oversight: A third inmate has died in less than a month at Michigan’s Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility near Ypsilanti, with officials saying the cause is still under investigation after the woman was transferred to a hospital. Storm Recovery: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is seeking a major disaster declaration for April storms and flooding across 43 Michigan counties, which would unlock FEMA help for families and local governments. State Politics: Michigan lawmakers are pushing a new Upper Peninsula-only natural resources commission to set hunting and fishing policy, challenging the statewide commission’s fit for U.P. needs. Local Community & Culture: A free Juneteenth Freedom Day concert is set for June 13 in Detroit, aiming to promote unity through music. Public Safety & Immigration: An ICE-related crash in Detroit left a man impaled by a fence pole; ICE says he’s stable and the incident is under review. Business/Tech: GM is detailing its $900 million EV battery push, banking on new battery cell development to cut costs and protect range.

Prison Oversight: Michigan officials say a third inmate has died in less than a month at Women’s Huron Valley Correctional Facility, with the cause under investigation—adding fresh pressure on state corrections leadership. Detroit Public Safety & Community: Hundreds gathered for Detroit’s “Silence the Violence” rally, with organizers and community violence intervention groups urging prevention and support for families affected by gun violence. Local Housing & Development: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced MEDC placemaking support for redevelopment projects, including turning a former North Branch hardware store into housing and commercial space. State Politics: Michigan lawmakers’ first attempt to change how major university boards are selected failed to win enough Democratic support, keeping the current structure in place for now. Great Lakes Stewardship: Michigan’s Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week kicks off June 6–14, highlighting fishing access, education, and water-focused stewardship across the state. Detroit Culture: Nicole Curtis will open the renovated Ransom Gillis house in Detroit’s Brush Park to the public for the first time in more than a decade, with Sunday admission benefiting a local family.

Water & Public Safety: Madison Heights crews are repairing six water main breaks after ruptures hit Friday night, with one location still being fixed Saturday and others expected back online by Sunday; no boil-water advisory is in effect, though residents may see temporary outages or discoloration. Civic & Historic Preservation: The Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs’ historic clubhouse—honored as one of America’s 11 Most Endangered Historic Places—needs about $500,000 in repairs and is seeking funds to reopen after damage from a 2024 pipe burst. Local Governance & Education: MSU trustees vote June 12 on the university’s operating budget and tuition rates, plus a $27.7 million expansion to its anaerobic digester and a renewable natural gas facility. Politics & Community: UAW endorsements in Michigan’s top races continue to shape the campaign landscape, including support for Jocelyn Benson for governor and Abdul El-Sayed for Senate. Economy & Industry: Michigan’s cannabis market is generating far less wholesale tax revenue than expected, raising questions about projections and policy impacts. Sports & Detroit Interest: Detroit’s sports scene stays busy as Tigers coverage continues and Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin’s trade request fuels offseason chatter.

Local Politics & Policy: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asked President Trump for a disaster declaration after April storms, flooding and tornadoes hit 43 Michigan counties, seeking Individual and Public Assistance to help residents, businesses and local governments recover. Housing & Aging: The Detroit News will host a free June 10 discussion on aging in Metro Detroit, focusing on how the region’s fast-growing 65+ population will strain health care, housing and city services. Labor & Auto Supply Chain: UAW members at Dauch (formerly American Axle) remain on strike as talks stall, with the union demanding higher wages and better healthcare/vacation terms than the company’s latest offer. Business in Michigan: Thirteen fully Michigan-based companies made the Fortune 500 list, down from last year, as some firms dropped after acquisitions. Detroit Sports: The Tigers beat the Mariners 7-3 with homers from Kerry Carpenter and Spencer Torkelson; J.P. Crawford is day-to-day after being hit by a pitch. Community & Culture: Marquette’s Wednesday Night Farmers Market returns June 10 with a weekly downtown street closure and local vendors. Education & Tech: A Marquette startup, Athena Global Learning, is rolling out AI-focused workshops for students, parents and small businesses, emphasizing ethics and responsible use.

UAW Endorsements: The UAW backed Abdul el-Sayed for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat and Jocelyn Benson for governor, a major boost for the most progressive lane in the Democratic primaries. State Politics & Safety: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer is seeking a presidential disaster declaration for April flooding that hit 43 counties, while a Honolulu man faces federal charges for allegedly threatening to kill Whitmer and attack the Michigan Capitol. Michigan Business & Courts: The MEDC asked a judge to dismiss Global Link International’s $20M grant lawsuit, calling it baseless as the grant director faces felony charges. Local Economy & Infrastructure: Suttons Bay Public Schools kicked off demolition and upgrades for a new athletic facility, plus safety and utility improvements. Detroit-Area Media/Marketing: Tombras named Matt Hytinen senior director of commerce media in Detroit to expand retail media capabilities. Sports: Lions RB Jahmyr Gibbs is set to become the “bell cow,” and reports say Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has requested a trade.

Fraud Crackdown: A new push to uproot government-linked fraud is framed as a major shift in fiscal conservatism, with the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and state AG roundtables leading the charge. Local Schools: Alpena Public Schools won relief on weather-related snow days after Gov. Whitmer signed HB 5797, extending the year to June 15 and forgiving 12 of 16 cancellations. Michigan Politics & Gun Safety: Whitmer re-established the Gun Violence Prevention Task Force in Kalamazoo, moving from research to action and renewing June awareness efforts. Housing & Growth: Lansing-area leaders warn population growth will skew older, stressing housing and school capacity, while Housing North says it helped enable nearly 2,000 units across Northern Michigan in 2025. Flood Recovery: Michigan submitted a request for a Presidential Disaster Declaration after historic flooding in the Cadillac area, setting up possible FEMA aid. Business/Legal: A real estate company told a federal court its title insurer owes about $6.4M tied to a Detroit River property dispute involving Ambassador Bridge foundations. Sports: Justin Verlander began a rehab start with Toledo, and Michigan landed 2027 four-star CB Blake Jenkins.