Fixing Lansing demands that we break out of the old ways of doing business and chart a new course. We can’t remain mired in the same old ways of doing things.
As a leader in Oakland County government, I have championed innovative, cost-saving initiatives such as competitively bidding jail food service. Likewise, during my campaign for governor, I have offered a number of reforms that would stretch every tax dollar further so taxpayers get the most bang for their buck.
This week, I proposed that Michigan should pursue public-private partnerships for the state rest areas. Under my plan, a private enterprise would invest in improving our rest areas and creating service plazas. They would be responsible for maintaining the facilities, which would result in savings for the state, and enhance the service options available to Michigan residents and visitors. The operator of the rest area would be able to open restaurants to better serve travelers.
My plan would generate tax revenues for critical budget purposes such as road and bridge repair. Plus, a percentage of tax revenues would be used to expand training and technology for those with disabilities.
Because state and federal laws require that concession operations on state property be run by a person who is blind, I will work with members of Michigan’s disability community to ensure the state follows all applicable laws. And I will seek the necessary waivers from the federal government in my first 90 days as a governor to accomplish this.
Other states already have created similar public-private partnerships. In Connecticut, for example, a private-equity firm will rebuild and operate the state’s 23 rest stops in return for a share of their revenues. The facilities also will begin housing restaurants and fueling stations.
To fix Lansing and get Michigan back to work, we must act boldly and creatively. Michigan can’t afford another eight years of Lansing doing business as usual.
As governor, I will lead the charge for greater efficiency and effectiveness in government. Taxpayers deserve nothing less.
Mike
Idea is all well and good but I never stop at these places in other states simply because the prices they charge are rediculos andI refuse to pay them. For instance gas might be $259 a gasl. off the x-way but $279 on. No reason to have these types of increases.