1. United States
2. Mich.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to **exclude the $50 million infrastructure grant for Wakefield Township**, currently proposed to support the Copperwood (Wakefield) Mine, from the 2026 state budget. As a concerned citizen, I believe this taxpayer-funded proposal represents corporate welfare for a foreign-owned mining venture rather than a sound public investment. Critics highlight the high cost per job, approximately $132,000 for each of the projected 380 positions. In contrast, other recent economic development incentives have achieved far lower costs per job created. Moreover, Protect the Porkies, a broad grassroots organization with strong local support, argues this funding jeopardizes sensitive natural areas near the Porcupine Mountains and threatens water quality. There are significant environmental risks that may endanger Lake Superior and nearby watersheds. Historical assessments have shown that sulfide-based copper mining has a poor record on containing toxic runoff. The infrastructure improvements: roads, power grids, and telecommunications upgrades are certainly needed, but they should be funded through broader regional development initiatives, not as a subsidy directed to stimulate a private mining enterprise. If the mine proponents truly believe in the project's viability, they should secure private financing, not rely on taxpayer backing masked as “infrastructure grants.” Thank you for considering my request. Please stand with Michigan residents and our shared environmental heritage by opposing the inclusion of this line item in the upcoming 2026 budget.