Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel tonight delivered his 11th State of the County address at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts. The event, which was presented by Stellantis, covered a wide-range of topics, starting with several key community metrics:
- Population - The County’s foreign-born population is close to 100,000, which shows that now more than ever, people from around the world are choosing to make Macomb their home.
- Housing - To meet increasing demand, 2,400 new homes have been built over the last two years, and values continue to rise, outpacing state averages.
- Jobs - Employment numbers are strong, with more than 460,000 residents in the workforce and an unemployment rate of 3.9%.
- Education - Residents are increasingly pursuing education. More than 60% of Macomb County’s population has some form of post-secondary education, degree or certification.
- Income - Average earnings are up 15% over the past five years, with increases across all industry segments.
- Fiscal stability - For 13 consecutive years, the County has built a structurally balanced budget, creating a healthy fund balance and resulting in a AA+ bond rating.
“These and many other reasons are why people make Macomb their home,” Hackel said.
The County Executive then touched on Macomb’s mindful approach to County government. “Government works best when it is aware of - and directly responds to - what is on the minds of the people,” he said. “That is exactly what we have been doing in Macomb County, and I believe that has been the foundation for our success.”
Hackel proceeded to cover five issues that have been top-of–mind for the community, including public safety, neighborhood stability, the economy and talent attraction, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. He also discussed ways the County is addressing those concerns and making an impact.
“We are developing transformational projects which will positively impact criminal justice, mental health and substance use challenges for years to come,” he said while addressing public safety. Two examples of this work in action include the new $230 million Central Intake and Assessment Center at the County jail, which was announced this summer, and the $10 million Sheriff Marine Division headquarters along Lake St. Clair, which opened this week.
In describing neighborhood stability, Hackel shared: “Together, Macomb Community Action, the Health Department, and our Office of Senior Services are working to steady home values, develop vibrant communities, support economic empowerment, promote wellness and help residents age in place.” Several metrics and programs demonstrate this work, including:
- The Macomb County Head Start program expanding to full day service for children and families
- The formation of the Macomb County Child Care Coalition
- The distribution of 2.7 million pounds of food through a network of more than 60 pantries
- The formation of the new Macomb Regional Housing Partnership to help those facing housing challenges. The partnership aims to provide more safe, healthy, affordable, accessible and attainable housing for everyone
Other notable announcements came during Hackel’s comments on the economy. “Last year Macomb County boasted a $46 billion economy, and today, it’s forecasted to be $48 billion,” he said. “This is a testament to the more than 19,000 businesses that serve our community.”
In terms of infrastructure, Hackel shared a positive update regarding Mound Road. “I’m proud to say that this project that began in August of 2021 is on budget and on time, and will be open just before Christmas,” he said.
To close the address, Hackel spoke about the County’s commitment to improving overall quality of life. This includes the care and well being of animals housed at the Macomb County Animal Control shelter, which will see a major update in the future. “We are fortunate to have already had the Board of Commissioners approve the funding for us to begin preliminary work on a new shelter, to replace the outdated facility,” he said. “We are committed to building a modern facility that will meet the needs of our community and more importantly help us better care for our animals.”
The entire State of the County address can be found on the Make Macomb Your Home YouTube channel. It can also be accessed at www.macombgov.org/2023-state-macomb-county.
