Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel took it upon himself to sign up southeast Michigan for the refugee program without notifying the people who pay his salary - the taxpayers. Last time I checked we were a democracy that votes on issues as small as Parks & Recreation millage. Yet, when it comes to much bigger issues like public safety and the financial burden of refugees, Mark opted to make the decision for everyone, providing no details. According to the Federation for American Immigration, the cost per refugee to American taxpayers is just under $79,600 in the first five years after a refugee is resettled in the U.S. This is not including the security and law enforcement costs associated or the vetting and screening expenditures. In case you haven’t noticed, Macomb County has it’s own financial problems to worry about without taking on more.  Over eight roads were closed due to flooding after just one winter storm because Macomb County does not have an adequate drainage system in place. Red Run was overflowing. Raw sewage, PFAS and Hexovalent Chromium have been entering our lakes and streams for decades and officials in Macomb County are too cheap to pay the $30 million to upgrade our infrastructure or request Superfund cleanups (Candice Miller is the only environmental advocate right now). Yet, public officials have no problem spending money on refugees or a sculpture dubbed “the Golden Butthole.” It seems they need an awakening and I am calling for a moratorium on all refugees until a proper public meeting can be held to address serious financial and safety concerns. Contrary to popular belief, Mark had the option to opt out as we saw with what was done in Texas. He instead choose to use his position in the government to overpower the people. 

The State of Michigan has a responsibility to dedicate resources to problems already here, including failing infrastructure, pollution sites, and roads that need fixing. At some point, if you’re fiscally responsible, you have to say enough. Until you can meet your current needs you can’t take on additional ones.