Last night, Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel took to the stage at the Macomb Center for the Performing Arts to deliver his 12th State of the County address, highlighting a vigorous uptick in economic indicators and the collective push behind the community's advancements. As per the Macomb County government's release, Hackel emphasized the foreign-born community surpassing 100,000 members and the county's income levels hitting nearly $79,000 — a figure proudly standing $11,000 higher than the state average. The county executive underscored these numbers as evidence that "the State of Macomb County is strong."
Mark Hackel stressed the importance of community partnerships in fostering progress across various sectors. In a statement obtained by Macomb County's news release, the county's fiscal stability was a bright spot, boasting a structurally balanced budget for an unbroken span of 14 years and maintaining an AA-1 bond rating, thanks to a hefty fund balance eclipsing $120 million. Additionally, Hackel credited collaborations for spurring successes in economic development initiatives, like the revamping of Lakeside Mall and the $5 million Cherry Street Mall overhaul in downtown Mount Clemens.
The address also shined a light on Macomb County's innovation in key areas including education, public safety, and health and community services. For instance, Hackel lauded the Innovate Mound project, brought to life through federal and local partnerships, and the Macomb County Juvenile Justice Center's strides in regional collaboration. Additionally, more than 500,000 Meals on Wheels deliveries were made possible through joint efforts between the county, volunteers, and care providers, weaving a support network for the local community's elders.
Hackel didn't shy away from acknowledging the significance of the county’s partnerships with the MISD and Macomb Community College. These alliances have been instrumental in programming that nurtures the talent pipeline essential for regional prosperity. Acknowledging the collective ethos, Hackel noted, "Macomb County is a place where collaboration turns ideas into realities," as reported by the county news release. It’s a sentiment that lays bare an approach woven deeply in the fabric of its community — togetherness as the cornerstone of development and prosperity.
