Representative Hillary Scholten

Dear Neighbor–

What an eventful week, for West Michigan and the world. I am humbled beyond words that you have chosen me again to be your representative in Congress, and by such a huge margin. I know that many read this newsletter who may not have voted for me, and I want you to know, that I’m your representative too–whether you voted for me or not. I’m here to serve. The work we are doing together transcends so many divisions in our world, and I can’t wait to get going on term two!

I’m also aware that many in our community have mixed reactions to the presidential election result. As I have always promised, I will work with whoever is in power to deliver for the people of West Michigan. This means deploying my signature style of compromising without compromising our values. I’ll be looking for ways to help ease the financial burden on working families, including lowering taxes, protecting healthcare savings protected by the Affordable Care Act, and also making sure that the vulnerable in our community are protected from harassment and discrimination. We have our work cut out for us, but I know this, I’m up to the job because I have you to help me. No one can do this work alone – it requires responsive representatives and engaged constituents. More than ever, I’ll need to hear from you.

If you are interested in coming to Washington either before, after, or during the inauguration, please let my team know. Every member of Congress gets a certain number of inauguration tickets and we’re collecting interested names now. You can sign up here.

The Week in Review

While the election certainly took up a big chunk of the week last week, and we spent a lot of time traversing the district making sure that our neighbors could cast their votes freely and fairly, I did not let that stop me from delivering for West Michigan as well!

Building Bridges

We started the week with a HUGE announcement–I helped secure $11.7 million to fix the long-stalled reconstruction of the Smith's Bayou Bridge in Ferrysburg. For five years, the city of Ferrysburg has been struggling without a critical piece of infrastructure. The price tag to fix the superstructure the right way is simply too large for a local community to carry on its own–it’s up to state and federal partners to prioritize these types of projects, and that’s exactly what I did. I have tirelessly advocated for this federal assistance and I am thrilled that help is finally on the way, to ensure the safety and economic prosperity not only for Ferrysburg and the tri-cities region but the entire West Michigan economy. Fortifying our bridges is one way to build a better, safer future for the next generation of Michiganders. You can read more in my press release here.

Pursuing Climate Solutions

I was so honored to join West Michigan Environmental Action Council, Michigan Climate Action Network, and Great Lakes Business Network to continue our work to pursue climate solutions and create green jobs in MI-03. These groups are committed to preserving our environment – our air and water, and our continued collaboration will be vital as we head into a new administration.

Ground Breaking

A huge priority of mine in this next term is going to be making sure we are working with our state and local partners to help deliver more affordable housing here in West Michigan. Folks who have called this region home for generations – as well as those who want to come here and start a new chapter in their lives – deserve to have access to affordable and high-quality housing. That’s why I am so excited about the role that our team played and helping to bridge a funding gap for the Southtown lofts. We broke ground this week. This mix-use unit will include affordable housing and a community media center that keeps our region informed and engaged while helping to empower the next generation of storytellers.

Celebrating Our Puerto Rican Community

I had an amazing time celebrating the 10th annual El Encuentro de Dos Culturas Celebration, a day to honor West Michigan’s vibrant Puerto Rican community! I was honored to present Lea Toba with a Congressional proclamation to honor a decade of service. Puerto Ricans make up the second largest Hispanic origin group in our nation, and West Michigan is made more beautiful and vibrant by our Puerto Rican neighbors.

Rep. Scholten at Encuentro de Dos Culturas

The Week in Preview

I head back to Washington next week. While the balance of power for the 119th Congress still hangs in the balance, I’m remaining focused on the things that matter to West Michigan. Make sure to follow along on my social media to see what we're voting on in Washington.

ICYMI

I’m so proud to have helped deliver $11.7M to fortify the Ferrysburg Smith’s Bayou Bridge. You can read more about the federal grant I helped secure here.
Monday is Veterans Day – and I want to extend my most sincere gratitude to our nation’s servicemembers. We are the land of the free because of the brave. Check out the events happening tomorrow to celebrate our veterans.
Michigan has announced a new home energy rebate program that would keep $ in our neighbors' pockets AND help our environment — a win-win! Read more here to see if your household is eligible.

It is the honor of my life to serve you, West Michigan.

With Gratitude,

Hillary Scholten
Member of Congress