State Rep. Ron Robinson (R–Utica) today applauded the House-approved budget for including two of his proposals that will enhance public safety and address longstanding infrastructure concerns in Macomb County: a $250,000 grant for the Utica Police Department and a $2.5 million grant for the Oakland-Macomb Interceptor Drain Drainage District (OMIDDD).

The Utica Police Department’s request, included in the House budget passed this week, would provide critical public safety equipment to strengthen officer preparedness and community protection. The grant would allow the department to purchase drones, tasers, ballistic vests, helmets, shields, and assault training gear.

“Utica may be a small community, but we welcome countless visitors and deal with heavy traffic and crime risks because of the tourist attractions in our area,” said Robinson. “This investment will help ensure our officers have the tools they need to keep families and visitors safe.”

Robinson also championed funding to resolve a decades-old infrastructure problem affecting tens of thousands of residents. The proposed $2.5 million grant for OMIDDD would fund construction of a new odor control facility to address persistent sanitary sewer odor problems along the 15 Mile Road and ITC corridors. The facility would not only reduce or eliminate the odor but also help preserve critical sewer infrastructure.

“This funding is a huge step forward in fixing an issue that impacts nearly 50,000 residents,” said Robinson. “This has been a quality-of-life concern in our community for decades, and it is past time we deliver real solutions. By investing in this project, we’re improving both infrastructure and the daily lives of Macomb County families.

“I’m glad to see two issues I’ve been fighting for included in the House budget,” said Robinson. “As negotiations continue with the Senate and governor, I’ll keep working to make sure these priorities remain in the final plan for the people of Macomb County.”