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Michigan, Illinois Secure First Construction Contract for Great Lakes Nuisance Species

2024-12-10

Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the joint efforts of Michigan, Illinois, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers are making significant progress in safeguarding the Great Lakes from invasive carp. This crucial project, which aims to prevent the spread of these nuisance species, has now secured its first construction contractors and is one step closer to its kickoff.

Protecting the Great Lakes - A Collaborative Effort Against Invasive Carp

Project Overview

A collaboration between Michigan, Illinois, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is focused on keeping invasive carp and other nuisance species from entering the Great Lakes. The Brandon Road Interbasin Project is a key part of these efforts, with the awarding of a $15.5 million contract to Miami Marine Services for site preparation and riverbed rock removal. Miami Marine will partner with Michels Construction, Inc. for the completion of this contract. This project is one of three construction increments and will address a critical pinch point at Brandon Road Lock and Dam near Joliet, Illinois.Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasizes the importance of this step, stating, "This contract award is an important step forward as we get shovels into the ground on the Brandon Road Project. The Great Lakes define Michigan. They support tens of thousands of good-paying jobs and drive tens of billions of dollars in economic impact. Building Brandon Road will help us protect local communities, grow our economy, and ensure future Michiganders can enjoy these incredible natural resources for generations to come."

Economic and Ecological Impact

If invasive carp move into the Great Lakes, they could have a significant impact on the local ecology and economy. These fish can outcompete native species and harm the $20 billion fishing and boating industries. They can grow up to 60 pounds and eat 40% of their body weight each day. A single female can produce one million eggs, and with only 10 females and 10 males crossing into the Great Lakes, a population can be established.Earlier this year, Whitmer pledged $64 million in support of the project, matching a $50 million commitment from Illinois and unlocking $274 million in federal funding. This shows the collective commitment to protecting the Great Lakes.

Progress and Future Steps

The awarding of the first construction contract is a major milestone in the project. With Miami Marine Services and Michels Construction, Inc. on board, the work can now begin. The next steps will involve the completion of the site preparation and riverbed rock removal, followed by the construction of the engineered channel. This will help to prevent the invasive carp from entering the Great Lakes and protect the delicate ecosystem.As the project progresses, it will serve as a model for other similar efforts to protect the Great Lakes from invasive species. It highlights the importance of collaboration between states and federal agencies in addressing environmental challenges and safeguarding our natural resources.

Turner Construction Company, in collaboration with Sea Breeze Properties and Safdie Rabines Architects, has achieved a significant milestone with the topping off of 222 North City. This mixed-use development is set to reshape urban living in North San Diego County, California. It will bring 460 residential units and retail spaces to San Marcos, aligning with North City's goal of creating a dynamic, walkable neighborhood that integrates art, culture, and innovation.

Redefining Urban Living with 222 North City

Key Milestone: Topping Off Ceremony

More than 600 people, including city officials, project partners, and community members, attended the topping-off ceremony. This event marked a crucial stage in the project's progress. Turner Construction Company's vice-president and general manager, Martine Sanders, emphasized the significance of Sea Breeze Properties' vision. He stated that from design to amenities, this building sets a new standard for urban living in North County and that the company is proud to be a part of this transformative community milestone.The project, expected to be completed in late 2025, will feature two 12-storey towers offering breathtaking views of the local landscape, Palomar Mountain, and the Pacific Ocean. The design by Safdie Rabines Architects focuses on enhancing resident well-being, promoting social engagement, and ensuring environmental sustainability.Among the amenities to be provided are a deck with gardens, pools, and outdoor cabanas, a fitness centre, a yoga room, and creative office spaces. All these facilities are within easy reach of dining, retail, and entertainment venues, creating a vibrant and connected community.Safdie Rabines Architects' principal, Taal Safdie, highlighted the project's role as a catalyst for community-focused urban living. He mentioned that it integrates green spaces with dynamic retail opportunities to form a lively hub of interaction.The 222 North City development is conveniently close to California State University, adding to its appeal and convenience for residents.This mixed-use development is not just about providing housing and amenities; it is about creating a sustainable and vibrant community that enriches the lives of its residents. With its unique design and focus on various aspects of living, 222 North City is set to make a lasting impact on North San Diego County.

Emotion was high as farmers gathered in Chicago over the weekend for the 110th Annual Meeting of the Illinois Farm Bureau (IFB). President Brian Duncan and Vice President Evan Hultine expressed frustration with the American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) over the ongoing membership dispute.

Unraveling the Turmoil at the Illinois Farm Bureau Annual Meeting

Leadership Replacement Attempt

During Monday's business meeting, some members' distrust of state leadership became evident. Ben Hugenberg from Adams County moved to amend the agenda, seeking to add new business for the removal and replacement of Duncan and Hultine. However, outside counsel Paul Winters and parliamentarian Nancy Sylvester determined the motion was "out of order" as 20 days' written notice to the membership is required. A motion to appeal the decision led to over two hours of tense procedural discussion and a secret paper ballot vote. After the ballots were tallied, it was announced that the prevailing side agreed with the chair's ruling that the vote on removing the president was out of order and would not be placed on the agenda. The delegate body decided that the president and vice president would remain in their roles for the second year of their two-year terms, and the rest of the meeting continued shortly before lunch. In other action, four of the nine district directors up for reelection did not win their races. New district directors were elected in Districts 6, 8, 12, and 14. District directors also sit on Country Financial's board of directors.

Vice President as IFB Employee

Later in the meeting, two bylaw changes were proposed. The first was a proposal from the IFB board to reclassify the vice president as a part-time employee, allowing IFB to compensate the vice president via a salary instead of a per diem. Jennifer Vance, IFB general counsel, explained that Iowa Farm Bureau was under audit by the Internal Revenue Service and there was a provision indicating that anyone who is an officer of the organization and doesn't provide minimal services or is only paid for expense reimbursement must be classified as an employee. The IFB board had already voted to reclassify the position starting January 1, 2025. A delegate questioned why the board was putting the cart before the horse and not allowing delegates to vote. Vance responded that they had to follow the law regardless of the bylaws. The proposal was defeated with just 38% support. In a press conference immediately following the annual meeting, Duncan expressed confidence in "other options." He said they would analyze what options they had the next day, as they are an organization that follows the law and would look for a way to comply with both the law and the bylaws. He had smart people working on the issue.

Shorter Officer Terms

Secondly, a proposal from Kane County to reduce the terms of the president and vice president to one year effective in 2025 was presented. A Kane County delegate explained that IFB leaders were elected annually before 1994, and the terms were extended to two years due to the time elections consume. However, there have only been five contested elections over the last 30 years, making the argument for the two-year term moot. Most counties elect their leaders annually, added the Kane County delegate. A Tazewell County delegate spoke against the proposal, saying a lot of time would be spent on campaigning and it would change how one could do their job. Another delegate echoed that a person with two years to work could get things started and be more likely to complete them and that they were pushing for betterment for the Illinois Farm Bureau. They all needed to come together and do what was best for the organization. A Clark County delegate responded that the issue was accountability, as many felt left out and ignored. They needed to listen more when up for election every year. The proposal to shorten the terms of the top IFB leadership positions was defeated with just 34% support.