Lansing invites Michigan to answer the call at Mackinac Policy Conference
When the Mackinac Policy Conference took place in early summer on Mackinac Island, hundreds of legislators, lobbyists, journalists and others took to the island to discuss key issues facing the state and hear from various panels, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and more. Speakers — including businessman and philanthropist Mark Cuban and former U.S. Rep Liz Cheney — offered their takes on this year’s conference theme, “The Power of &.”
Lansing was more than prepared to demonstrate the positive changes in the city’s development with its Lansing Reception on the island under the reception theme of “Lansing is Calling.” Among highlights:
- Grewal Hall 224, which will hold up to 900 patrons and be a destination for bringing in talent and entertainment in the heart of downtown.
- The MSUFCU Ovation Music and Arts Center, a venue seating 2,000 concertgoers, will be completed in two years.
- The Saginaw Corridor east of MLK Boulevard is being revived, including the opening of Moneyball Sportswear; DRM International Learning Center; and the former Park’s Furniture building becoming new office, commercial and residential space.
One of the conference’s main focuses was the future of electric vehicle manufacturing in the Lansing area. Mayor Andy Schor said the city is poised to be a player in that area.
“Lansing is perfectly situated and ready to help build the next generation of cars, including EV battery components,” Schor said. “Working with our economic development partners, we stand ready to recruit more of these projects and create more jobs for our residents. The investments already underway can be a catalyst for more growth for our entire region.”
In the meantime, the Detroit Regional Chamber has announced Suzanne Shank, president, CEO and co-founder of Siebert Williams Shank & Co. LLC, as the 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference chair.
The next conference runs May 28-31. Registration opens in November.
