Oakland County: Time for Change at the Top?

Home to a bundle of thriving industries that span manufacturing, medicine, education, and new technologies, Oakland County has always been known as the place to kick-start a business, settle down, educate and work. However, there’s been a worrying downturn in recent years.

After transitions in governance and sadly losing some key figures, the county has witnessed a bit of a slump. Under current guidance, there have been certain mishaps that have undercut the county’s potential to grow. The focus and goals of those in power now haven’t resulted in concrete rewards for our community.

Let’s take a peek at where we’ve lost our footing: growth in manufacturing has not moved; housing is far too pricey; there are constant construction delays; the sector focusing on new technologies has become static; there’s economic struggle; public safety seems to be decreasing; education appears to be on a downward trend; and the population is on a decline. Quite evidently, the time is ripe for a brave and big change in direction.

If there’s a change at the top, the county can expect a shake-up to bring back its former glory as the top spot to live, work, and invest. Here’s a rough blueprint on how it could progress:

Increase Support for Business and Families: Plans that aren’t so friendly to businesses and families need to be done away with. The focus should be on cultivating a supportive climate for businesses to spring to life.

Reduce Property Tax: By cutting property tax by 25%, a quick relief would be offered to residents and businesses, countering the damage done by inflation caused by ineffective government policies.

Boost Construction and Housing: By bringing in construction experts to shape policies that stimulate a construction surge, it would make housing more affordable and strengthen our infrastructure.

Invest in Trades Education: A new trade school is needed in Pontiac to prep the workforce for the future.

Revamp Key Programs: The Emerging Technologies and Medical programs need a shot in the arm to support businesses in these sectors and encourage investment in our community.

Uplift Manufacturing: By dropping taxes and easing regulations, businesses can adopt forward-thinking tech and improve productivity.

Stand by Small Businesses: With tax cuts and relaxed regulations, that much-needed stability for small businesses can finally happen.

Increased Focus on Public Safety and Education: Even though it may not be directly under the purview, it’s important to make sure that resources and technologies are used wisely to tackle crime and improve educational results.

What’s really important to take note of is whether we are seeing progress. Or is our crime rate going up, taxes getting steeper, government spending rising, people not reading well, manufacturing on a decline, population shrinking, housing prices skyrocketing and inflation going unchecked?

All indicators point to a lack of real progress. It’s very clear that Oakland County needs fresh ideas to ignite growth, create opportunities, and ensure safety in our neighbourhoods.