The city of Lansing has received over $25 million in earmarks from the 2025 state budget. This funding will go towards city elections, infrastructure projects, and entertainment, among other things. Critics of the grants argue that there is a lack of transparency and competition in the allocation process.
Specifically, Lansing has been granted $1 million for election activities, $1 million for local infrastructure, and $2.5 million for school infrastructure. Additionally, $11 million will be used for city entertainment and recreation, with $1 million allocated for improvements to Jackson Field, the home of the Lansing Lugnuts Minor League Baseball team.
Potter Park Zoo, owned by Lansing and operated by Ingham County, has also received $10 million for the restoration of the historic Feline and Primate Building. The zoo credits Sen. Sarah Anthony and Rep. Angela Witwer for their support in obtaining this funding.
While the budget does not name specific sponsors for the earmarks, critics argue that the process allows lawmakers to prioritize their pet projects over more pressing public needs. James Hohman of the Mackinac Center for Public Policy believes that district grants do not effectively serve the public interest.
Overall, the funding from the state budget will have a significant impact on various projects and initiatives in Lansing, although concerns remain about the transparency and fairness of the allocation process.
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