State Rep. Donni Steele (R-Orion Township) today again voiced strong concerns over the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) fund as the House Appropriations Committee heard testimony on a plan to hand out $120 million in taxpayer dollars to another large corporation.

“The controversial SOAR program continues to operate like a blank check for large corporations while our local infrastructure crumbles,” Steele said. “A large portion of this handout would fund water and sewer infrastructure for one company, while the needs of our local communities are neglected.”

Steele believes that instead of handing out corporate incentives, the state should be investing in infrastructure improvements that directly benefit Michigan communities.

“We need to focus on fixing what really matters — making sure our infrastructure can handle the challenges we face,” Steele said. “In Oakland County, that means upgrading the sewer and drainage systems to prevent sewage overflows and protect our natural resources, particularly the Clinton River and Lake St. Clair. This is what our taxpayer dollars should be going toward — not padding the pockets of corporations.”

Steele called for greater transparency and oversight of the SOAR program, urging her colleagues to reevaluate how taxpayer dollars are being spent.

“If we continue to prioritize corporate giveaways over critical infrastructure improvements, Michigan residents will keep paying the price,” Steele said. “It’s time for us to get our priorities straight.”

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