State Rep. Curt VanderWall today announced the budget proposal approved by the House on Tuesday includes funding for Shelby’s new community pool, one of the local projects he requested state dollars for on behalf of the people he represents.

Earlier this year, VanderWall worked to infuse tax dollars back into the area by making a formal request for funding to help propel the community pool project forward. In partnership with Shelby Public Schools, the facility will offer a swim lesson program, addressing a regional shortage as no such programs currently exist within a 60-mile radius. The project is already in the works thanks to community philanthropy in Shelby.

The representative testified before a House appropriations subcommittee weeks ago in support of the project:

“The pool will provide residents with a much-needed recreational hub and host a variety of public programs,” VanderWall said. “It will also serve local seniors through dedicated water aerobics classes, making it a valuable asset to the small, tight-knit farming community.”

VanderWall said he was proud to vote in support of the balanced, responsible budget plan this week. The proposed budget – called the “Value for MI Dollar” plan – prioritizes the needs of Michigan families by investing in what they care about most while respecting taxpayer dollars.

The $56.6 billion General Fund budget provides necessary funding for all state departments outside of education, which is funded by its own budget. Earlier this year, the House approved a $21.9 billion School Aid budget, investing into Michigan classrooms at record levels. Together, the two budgets total $78.5 billion, a 3.7% reduction from the current year’s budget. It’s also 6% smaller than the governor’s 2025-26 spending plan, and 7.2% smaller than the Democrat-controlled Senate’s proposal.

“Our plan not only spends less, it also spends better,” VanderWall said.

VanderWall is pleased to report that the budget addresses local crumbling roads. The plan dedicates $9.1 billion to Michigan’s roads, with $3.4 billion going directly to local communities across the state without raising taxes.

“This budget reflects the priorities of our Northern and West Michigan communities and puts taxpayer dollars to work in ways that matter most,” VanderWall said. “As negotiations with the Senate and governor press on, I am committed to ensuring the final budget is balanced, responsible and prioritized.”

The House budget proposal moved to the Senate for further consideration following House passage on Tuesday.