AGP Executive Report

Immigrant Heritage Month: Michigan’s Human Rights Council-backed proclamation spotlights immigrants’ role in the state’s economy and civic life, as national debate over immigration stays heated. Transportation & Infrastructure: Detroit City Council urged MDOT to complete a “road diet” on Fort Street in Southwest Detroit, aiming to improve safety and neighborhood access. Manufacturing & Tech: Formlabs launched the Fuse X1, a large-format SLS system priced from $84,999 and shipping in Q4 2026, targeting faster, lower-cost industrial-grade 3D printing. AI & Mobility: AT&T and Derq are teaming up to push Derq’s roadway-safety AI into AT&T’s Intelligent Transportation Platform, with a Detroit conference presentation set for June 11. Auto & Energy: GM rolled out vehicle-to-grid capability across its EV lineup and is expanding sodium-ion and second-life battery plans, including Michigan-linked storage and battery reuse efforts. Cross-border trade: Canada’s PM Mark Carney says the Gordie Howe Bridge will open this week despite Trump-era threats, keeping a key Michigan-Ontario corridor on track. Local Business & Community: Alpena Township approved a site plan for Alpena Alcona Area Credit Union’s new headquarters, a multi-story investment tied to traffic and site-impact review. Legal/Policy: A Michigan Supreme Court ruling clarifies where some state lawsuits must be filed, affecting how DHHS can pursue Medicaid overpayment claims. Health & Food Safety: A Salmonella outbreak tied to moringa supplements expanded to 119 cases across 36 states, prompting additional FDA recalls.

Energy & Industry: GM says it’s developing sodium-ion battery tech at its Wallace Battery Cell Innovation Center in Warren, partnering with Peak Energy to build a lower-cost, longer-life storage option aimed at commercialization by 2028—targeting the growing electricity needs of AI data centers. Auto Supply Chain: Magna’s CEO says the company is open to assembling Chinese vehicles in Canada, but only with truly long-term plans. Cross-Border Trade & Infrastructure: Canada’s and Michigan’s Gordie Howe Bridge is set for a ribbon-cutting this week, with traffic expected to start later this month—an economic boost for Detroit-Windsor commerce. Local Business Growth: Outdoor Adventures in Bellaire rebranded and launched new guided tours and custom bus trips across northern Michigan. Sports Business: The PGA Tour’s Rocket Classic will end after the 2026 event in Detroit, after Rocket declined its 2027 option. Women’s Hockey: Hilary Knight signed with PWHL expansion Las Vegas in a deal that will send her to Detroit via sign-and-trade. Public Health & Consumer Protection: Michigan AG Letitia James secured $36.5 million from CVS over Medicaid insulin overbilling, with money going to state Medicaid programs. Cybersecurity & Defense Tech: Brighton’s BrightlineIT achieved CMMC Level 2 certification, positioning it for regulated government and defense work. Workforce & Education: Aquinas College added AI literacy, cybersecurity, and esports/gaming administration majors for fall 2026 as Michigan schools race to match tech job demand.

PWHL Detroit Deal: Women’s hockey star Hilary Knight is headed to PWHL Detroit in a sign-and-trade with Las Vegas, with the trade set to become official after the league’s June 16 freeze ahead of the Detroit draft. NHL Trade Watch: Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin has requested a trade, submitting a three-team list limited by his no-trade clause to Vegas, Minnesota and Florida—raising pressure on GM Steve Yzerman as Detroit chases a turnaround. Michigan Unemployment Changes: Starting July, Michigan will require at least three work-search activities weekly to keep benefits, with added rules for appeals and more frequent repayment waivers. AI IPO: OpenAI has confidentially filed for a U.S. IPO, joining the rush to cash in on AI growth as investors look for the next trillion-dollar debut. Energy & Costs: AAA reports Michigan gas prices continue to fall, with the state average down 21 cents from a week ago to $4.17. Local Nonprofit Expansion: Read Muskegon is opening a new Muskegon Heights location and is using a matched crowdfunding push to close a remaining funding gap.

Data Center Backlash: A new report says over half of planned U.S. data centers sit in disaster-prone, high-risk states, raising fresh pressure as Michigan communities keep pushing back on new builds. Local Governance: In Lowell Township, a Microsoft rezoning request would add data centers as a permitted use in a light industrial district, after earlier moratorium talks stalled. Cross-Border Trade Infrastructure: The Gordie Howe International Bridge is nearing a potential Friday ribbon-cutting, with officials still working through final approvals and customs readiness. Public Health Funding: MDHHS is seeking proposals for elder and vulnerable adult abuse prevention services, with applications due July 1. Business & IP: Harvest Nano and Dr. Aharon say they issued notice confirming termination of goodwill and license rights tied to a West Michigan textile-recycling effort. Sports Business: Hilary Knight is set to anchor PWHL Detroit via a sign-and-trade involving Las Vegas. Energy & Costs: Michigan fuel prices fell to about $4.15 a gallon statewide as oil prices react to renewed Middle East tensions.

Data Center Backlash in Michigan: Local officials are pausing data center plans across Michigan, with temporary limits now covering more than 1,500 square miles—about the size of Rhode Island—after residents raised concerns about power, water use, and land impacts. State Water Funding Push: Michigan Sen. Sam Singh introduced the Michigan Water Trust Fund Act, proposing a 25-cent-per-gallon royalty on bottled water companies to raise about $300 million annually for drinking-water and water infrastructure, modeled after the Natural Resources Trust Fund. Border Trade Readiness: Sen. Gary Peters pressed DHS on whether Customs and Border Protection is staffed for the Gordie Howe International Bridge; DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin said CBP is “prepared” and ready. Connected-Car Security Bill: Michigan Democrats Haley Stevens and Elissa Slotkin unveiled federal legislation to block Chinese-connected vehicles from entering the U.S. through Canada and Mexico, citing data-collection and tampering risks. Consumer Pressure: Retailers say shoppers are still spending, but are starting to rethink purchases as fuel and broader costs bite—especially once tax refunds fade. Local Business & Community: Fob’s Restaurant in Crystal Falls reopened June 1 in its original location; and Marquette celebrated new accessible playground equipment at Giant’s Foot Park via Rotary and community partners.

Michigan Labor: A new forecast says teen unemployment in Michigan could hit 18% this summer, with about 45,400 teens expected to be out of work even as participation rebounds since the Great Recession. Courts & Corrections: A Jackson inmate is suing Michigan Department of Corrections staff, saying he was wrongly denied books about investing and that the denials violated his First Amendment rights. Energy & Infrastructure: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asked President Trump for a major disaster declaration after April storms and tornadoes damaged homes, businesses and roads across 43 counties; separately, MDOT is closing the Jackson US-127 rest area for about a month for $7.3 million parking lot repairs. AI & Politics: OpenAI CEO Sam Altman met with Sen. Bernie Sanders to discuss public ownership in AI, echoing Trump’s interest in letting Americans benefit from AI success. Auto & Manufacturing: TechCrunch Mobility reports GM’s $900 million EV battery push, banking on new battery chemistry and a Michigan-linked cell development effort to cut EV costs. Consumer Pressure: Retailers say shoppers are already adjusting spending as prices stay high, with gas costs acting like a budget “catalyst.”

AI & Industry: OpenAI broke ground on its $16 billion “The Barn” data center in Saline Township, a Related Companies project for Oracle, as Governor Gretchen Whitmer and major business leaders attended—another sign Michigan is positioning itself for the next wave of AI infrastructure. Local Economic Development: Gov. Whitmer highlighted MEDC placemaking support for redevelopment projects in North Branch, Albion and Monroe, including turning a former hardware store into new housing and commercial space. Consumer Pressure: Retail executives say shoppers are still spending, but are quietly changing habits—especially around gas and discretionary purchases—raising the odds of a broader pullback once tax-refund boosts fade. Great Lakes & Jobs: Michigan’s Great Lakes and Fresh Water Week kicks off with a focus on stewardship and the lakes-based “blue economy,” including a free fishing weekend. Sports Business: The Dylan Larkin trade request is driving major NHL speculation, with Detroit’s captain’s next-team odds and potential deal logic dominating hockey talk.

Gordie Howe Bridge Readiness: DHS Secretary Markwayne Mullin told a Senate hearing his agency is staffed and ready to facilitate trade and travel, but the contractor missed a May 1 sign-off deadline, leaving an opening date still unclear. Detroit Business Leadership: New SEC filings show some of the highest-paid board members at Michigan’s remaining public companies, with GM directors pulling in roughly $300,000-plus in cash and stock. Michigan Economy & Costs: GasBuddy reports E85 at $3.16 in Shiawassee County (vs. a Michigan average of $3.76), underscoring how fuel volatility is shaping summer plans. Housing Enforcement: A new Arizona law aims to speed up squatter removals to about five days, a reminder that property-rights fights are increasingly moving from courts to fast-track rules. Detroit Civic Spotlight: The Detroit Association of Women’s Clubs’ historic clubhouse is on the National Trust’s “Most Endangered” list, seeking about $500,000 to reopen after major pipe damage. Juneteenth in Detroit: Journalist Bankole Thompson will deliver the opening keynote at the National Civil Rights Conference in Detroit, tying media power to economic justice.

Bridge & Cross-Border Trade: The Gordie Howe International Bridge is “essentially complete,” but an opening date is still unclear as legal fights and final certifications drag on, keeping Detroit-Windsor commerce in limbo. Retail & Real Estate: Clinton Township is moving ahead with a major shopping-center redevelopment that will add a 76,000-square-foot Meijer grocery store in the former Big Lots space, signaling fresh jobs and investment along the Gratiot corridor. Auto & Manufacturing: Ford says prototypes of an affordable 2027 all-electric midsize pickup are being built in Michigan and tested on roads, even as it works through F-Series inventory disruptions tied to a supplier fire. Housing Finance: Wayne County Treasurer Eric Sabree is urging homeowners to enroll in the IRSPA delinquent-tax interest reduction program before the June 30 deadline, warning it could end without state action. Labor & Politics: The UAW endorsed Abdul El-Sayed for Michigan’s open U.S. Senate seat, boosting a progressive bid as the campaign heats up. Local Business Watch: Customers allege Great Lakes Dog Training took thousands for services they say were never delivered, adding another consumer-protection headache for metro Detroit.

Red Wings Shake-Up: Dylan Larkin has reportedly requested a trade after Detroit’s 10-year playoff drought, raising fresh questions about Steve Yzerman’s next rebuild move. Disaster Relief: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer asked President Trump for a major disaster declaration for April storms, flooding and tornadoes, seeking FEMA Individual Assistance for 37 counties (including Oakland and Washtenaw). Labor & Politics: The UAW endorsed Jocelyn Benson for governor and Abdul El-Sayed for the U.S. Senate seat, signaling a major push in Michigan’s high-stakes Democratic primaries. Cannabis Industry Pressure: TerrAscend’s exit from Michigan—plus subsequent cultivation closures—has intensified concerns that the state’s cannabis market is too competitive for many operators to survive. Data Centers & Water: Google pledged to replenish more water than it uses at data centers by 2030, including Michigan-focused watershed work. Housing & Growth: A new push argues Michigan needs fewer barriers to homebuilding, as supply constraints keep prices high. Sports Business: GM’s new Battery Cell Development Center is positioned as a key step toward lower-cost EV batteries and faster commercialization.

Auto & Energy Policy: Ford is testing prototypes of an affordable all-electric midsize pickup for a 2027 launch, with camo-covered vehicles expected to hit Michigan roads soon, while CATL says energy storage could reach half of global battery sales by 2030—an important signal for Michigan’s EV and grid buildout. Manufacturing Tech: Siemens is partnering with HighByte to expand its Industrial Edge ecosystem, aiming to make it easier for manufacturers to connect factory data to AI tools. Environment & Infrastructure: EGLE’s tire recycling efforts earned national recognition, with Michigan partners using recycled rubber in Ann Arbor road paving pilots. Coal Push: The Trump administration announced nearly $700M to support coal plants and exports, including a new export terminal project in Oakland, California. Detroit Business: Atwater Brewery is being reacquired by former owner Mark Rieth, returning the brand and operations to local control. NHL Economics: Dylan Larkin has requested a trade from the Red Wings, raising questions about roster rebuilding and draft-lottery odds. Housing & Inclusion: Oakland County broke ground on Auburn Oaks, a new “neuro-inclusive” community in Rochester Hills with 55 homes for adults with disabilities. Legal/Consumer: Michigan AG Dana Nessel marked Elder Abuse Awareness Month and highlighted resources and a June 15 5K walk.

Michigan Economic Development: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced state-backed redevelopment support for Monroe’s long-blighted 111 E. Front St., aiming to bring commercial space and two residential units back to downtown. Workforce & Industry: Moran Iron Works is expanding hiring across welding, skilled trades, project management and admin roles as the Northern Michigan fabricator ramps up marine, power, industrial and hydro work. Tourism & Community: Grand Haven’s historic Entrance Light won a $60,000 renovation grant, while Manistee’s First Street Beach was named the nation’s best lake beach by USA TODAY readers—both boosts for local business and visitors. Local Land-Use Fight: Fayette Township denied a special land use permit for Ranger Power’s proposed solar expansion, citing concerns about farmland conversion and the scale of the project. Energy & Tech Infrastructure: A Michigan lawmaker, Sen. Jim Runestad, proposed a one-year pause on new data center projects amid worries about rates and environmental impacts; meanwhile, Google and Intersect began building a 1-GW-plus co-located data center and generation complex in Texas. Sports Business: Detroit Red Wings captain Dylan Larkin reportedly requested a trade as the team misses the playoffs again, adding uncertainty for the franchise’s near-term direction.

Energy & Utilities: Michigan’s Consumers Energy is seeking a $456 million electric rate hike, with the Michigan AG (Dana Nessel) stepping in to challenge the proposal as lawmakers scrutinize how bills could rise. Data Centers & Power: Gov. Gretchen Whitmer addressed the state’s data center rollout amid criticism, while separate reporting highlights how other states are weighing moratoriums and local impacts as hyperscale projects expand. Work Visas & Farm Labor: A new H-2A rule change is putting the spotlight on the work visa program, with research suggesting some farmers could cut costs by moving guestworker pay toward a lower minimum wage. Health Care Fraud: Michigan officials are urging residents to watch for Medicare fraud, errors and abuse during Medicare Fraud Prevention Week, warning scammers target older adults and vulnerable populations. Michigan Politics & Appointments: Whitmer also announced two attorney appointments to her staff, adding legal talent with Michigan and federal court experience. Business Growth & Innovation: Blaize and Winmate are bringing rugged edge AI to the global stage after debuting solutions in Detroit.

Energy & Rates: Michigan’s summer “time-of-use” electric rates kick in for DTE and Consumers customers, raising bills for households that run big loads like air conditioning and EV chargers during peak demand. Utility Regulation: Michigan AG Dana Nessel is challenging Consumers Energy’s $456 million electric rate hike request before the MPSC. Banking Consolidation: Fifth Third will shutter 75 Michigan branches after its Comerica deal, continuing a wave of metro-area bank cutbacks. Auto Supply Chain: An American Axle strike at a Michigan supplier threatens GM pickup production, adding pressure to already tight truck output. Local Government & Costs: Mackinac Island voters will decide whether the city can regulate “all aspects” of ferry service, including priority boarding, parking, and baggage fees, after residents say total passage costs jumped. Public Safety & Fraud: Oakland County investigators are probing an armed Jimmy John’s robbery in Independence Township; separately, two former USPS employees were sentenced in a $63 million stolen-check mail fraud scheme. Business Growth: Sharrow Marine, building its Detroit manufacturing facility, named new sales and manufacturing leadership to scale operations.

Municipal Finance: Kingsford is reviewing its city fee schedule as it weighs how to limit water and sewer rate increases after a prior proposal was rejected; the city manager says a new fee schedule could take effect Jan. 1, alongside bulk purchases of water meters to cut costs. Retirement Security: Michigan AG Dana Nessel joined a 24-state coalition opposing a Trump administration rule that would steer more retirement savings into riskier alternative assets, arguing it would expose workers to losses. Community Development: Main Street Oakland County will co-host the Main Street Now Conference in Detroit in May 2027, aiming to draw thousands of local economic development and historic preservation leaders. Auto Labor: The UAW strike at GM axle supplier Dauch/American Axle continues without talks, with workers picketing in Three Rivers as the union presses for wage and healthcare improvements. Energy & Environment: Michigan released its first annual progress report under the updated Domestic Action Plan to cut phosphorus runoff feeding harmful algal blooms in western Lake Erie, targeting a sustained 40% reduction from a 2008 baseline. Food Safety: Champion Foods recalled certain Motor City Pizza Co. 5 Cheese Bread batches due to a Salmonella risk.

Childcare Affordability: Michigan lawmakers Mai Xiong and Julie Rogers unveiled bills to codify and expand MI Tri-Share and Care-Share with $10 million in supplemental funding, framing childcare as a workforce and economic issue. Utility Rates: Consumers Energy filed for a $456 million annual revenue hike—its biggest request in 20+ years—seeking about a 9.8% residential bill increase, alongside grid modernization and tree-trimming. Data Centers & Local Control: A Joliet-area lawsuit challenges approvals for a massive data-center campus, alleging the city fast-tracked rezoning without proper public review and environmental scrutiny. Transportation Infrastructure: MDOT will widen shoulders on M-28 in Chippewa County with a $2.9 million project starting June 8, including traffic restrictions. Sports Business Watch: Tigers ace Tarik Skubal addressed trade rumors as Detroit’s season struggles continue, while MLB chatter points to a possible deadline move. Workforce & Community: A Veterans Benefits Fair in East Tawas connected veterans with education, employment, healthcare and housing resources. Local Business: Traverse City’s Milk & Honey Café and Ice Creamery earned top statewide honors from Foodie.com.