“Focus Macomb: A Partnership for Economic Development”

Background

Focus Macomb is a group of approximately 100 leaders representing business, education, healthcare and government in Macomb County. The group is charged with the task of examining issues that impact the county and making recommendations for improvements. The group will present their strategies to the Macomb County Board of Commissioners.

Ideas for areas to focus on come directly from a marketing identity study commissioned by the Department of Planning & Economic Development. Lead by Gyro Creative Group, the project used feedback from several focus groups (representing business, education, nonprofit agencies, government, faith-based organizations and real estate) to discuss county strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats (SWOT analysis). The group found that four main perceptions – not necessarily realities - are hindering Macomb County’s image. They are (in no particular order):

1. The county is perceived as non-welcoming to persons of diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.

2. The county grew in parallel to the manufacturing industry – as that declines, so is the local economy.

3. The low percentage of college graduates in the county (currently 19.8% for those 25 and older) is an issue.

4. Getting from place to place in the county is difficult (transportation/roads).

These perceptions seemed a logical starting point for discussion and action by community leaders. Focus Macomb will form four committees to examine each issue, focus on something specific that is relevant and achievable and then present a strategy for tackling the issue to the Macomb County Board of Commissioners as a recommendation.

These solution driven committees will be:

1. Quality of Life
2. Business Development
3. Education/Workforce Development
4. Transportation

Each will be lead by a chair and vice chair. The Focus Macomb Co-Chairs will each sit as ex-officio on two of the four. These ten individuals will meet quarterly as an “executive committee” to monitor overall progress.

Meetings:

• Each focus group will establish a meeting pattern.
• For the first year, the Executive Committee will meet on a quasi bi-monthly basis (May, July, September and maybe twice in October) culminating in a presentation to the Board of Commissioners in November

County staff will provide administrative support including RSVP tracking, mailings, meeting minutes, logistics, additional information/speakers as requested.

Leadership

Focus Macomb Co-Chairs

Roy Rose, President; Anderson, Eckstein and Westrick, Inc

Don Torline, President; Baker College of Clinton Township

Business Development Co-Chairs

Rick Kincaid; K & F Electronics

Ron Reed; Community Central Bank

Education Co-Chairs

Barb Rossman; St. Joseph Mercy of Macomb

Frank Blowers; Lakeside Community Bank

Quality of Life Co-Chairs

Paul Socia; Citizens State Bank

Karen Parenteau; Health Alliance Plan

Transportation Co-Chairs

Anthony Lombardo, Lombardo Development

Anthony Viviano, Sterling Heights Dodge