Senator Meekhof offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 172.

            A resolution recognizing 2016 as the 90th Anniversary of the International Economic Development Council and as the Year of the Economic Developer.

            Whereas, The International Economic Development Council is celebrating its 90th Anniversary in 2016; and

            Whereas, Economic developers promote economic well-being and quality of life for their communities by creating, retaining, and expanding jobs that facilitate growth, enhance wealth, and provide a stable tax base; and

            Whereas, Economic developers stimulate and incubate entrepreneurism in order to help establish the next generation of new businesses, which is the hallmark of the American economy; and

            Whereas, Economic developers are engaged in a wide variety of settings, including rural and urban; local, state, provincial, and federal governments; public-private partnerships; chambers of commerce; universities; and a variety of other institutions; and

            Whereas, Economic developers attract and retain high-quality jobs, develop vibrant communities, and improve the quality of life in their regions; and

            Whereas, Economic developers work in every county within the state of Michigan; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That we hereby commend the International Economic Development Council and its officers, staff, and members on its 90th Anniversary.We also recognize 2016 as the Year of the Economic Developer in the state of Michigan, and remind individuals of the importance of this profession in creating career opportunities and improving quality of life; and be it further 

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the International Economic Development Council and the Michigan Economic Developers Association.