Say yes to transit, education proposals

We all want to live in a vibrant community. How we vote on two important millage propositions — transportation and education — onnovember 3 will have a significant impact.

Access to transportation is essential to the success of a community, ensuring its citizens can get to work, to school, to shop, to recreation, and be healthy.

St. Louis, Ithaca and Pine River township residents, please vote in favor of themillage to expand public transportation.

If the millage passes, existing coverage will expand. If it fails, we will lose much of what we have already accomplished and future efforts to restart robust public transportation will be much less likely to be successful. Please vote yes! Accessible transportation leads to a prosperous community.

Education directly correlates to a lifetime of personal financial security and meaningful contributions to the community all around us. We are so fortunate to have three excellent colleges/universities in central Michigan — Alma College, Central Michigan University and Midmichigan College. But students attending Midmichigan College from Gratiot and Isabella counties are “out of district” meaning they pay higher tuition. By voting in favor of the Midmichigan College annexation proposal, more students from our community will have access to a high-quality education at a lower cost.

Midmichigan College teaches the skills and programs needed for jobs right here in central Michigan. Getting a great education locally increases the likelihood that students will stay local upon graduation to work and live, giving back to the community that supported their education. Please vote yes on the MidMichigan College annexation proposals.

I’m one of those former students who got a great education in central Michigan. My husband and I love living and working here. When I was a student, this community “paid it forward” to give me the chance of a great future. Now we are the community called to do the same for those who will follow us.

Please vote yes on transportation and college annexation proposals. Your vote will improve our community and ensure a vibrant future.

Marita Hattem-schiffman President - Central Region

Midmichigan Health