February 2024 | Top Stories:
Data Corner: GDP | EDU2B Tech Collaboration Series | MiTechCon | Celebrate Oakland County Reception | Revolving Loan Fund | SBA 504 Loan Program | Downtown Rochester’s Big Bright Lights | Historic Preservation Project and Tour | Alex Huff Joins Planning Division | Maintain and Plan Sidewalk Networks | Landing A Dream Job in Three Months | Oakland County Joins the Country in Celebrating Black History Month | Selfridge Air National Guard Base Hosting KC-46A Refueling Planes | Veterans Resource Fairs
A Message From Sean Carlson
Oakland County Deputy Executive
Each year, Oakland County joins the rest of the country in celebrating Black History Month. Black History Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the impactful contributions of the African American community throughout U.S. history, both past and present.
As I look over our latest stories, I can’t help but notice themes consistent with the values of Oakland County Economic Development as a whole. Namely, creating new opportunities for Oakland County communities, businesses and residents to grow in prosperity and advance toward a better future—while preserving our culture and history as a county.
We are working to create new opportunities for businesses through data-driven decisions, collaboration and inclusive financial programs. This month’s Data Corner focuses on the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis’ recently released county-level Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data. This data can be used to compare the size and growth of county economies across the country and help in making data-informed decisions for the good of our economy. I am proud to announce a new opportunity for our IT, RED (Research, Engineering & Design), and Robotics companies. The EDU2B Tech Collaboration Series is focused on bringing together business and education leaders to learn from one another and forge partnerships. If you are a business owner looking to grow but need funds to do so, then consider our Business Finance Corporation's (BFC) SBA Loan Program or our Revolving Loan Fund. These small business and gap financing loan programs could be the perfect fit for your business.
Thanks to our Workforce Development team and our team at Veteran Services, we’ve been able to help provide a better future for our Oakland County residents as well. This month we present an example of the success stories that result from Workforce Development’s dedication to improving our residents' quality of life through employment and education. Additionally, Oakland County Veterans have the opportunity to attend two upcoming Veteran Resource Fairs and learn about all the well-deserved benefits available to them. Last but not least, each February, Oakland County joins the entire country in celebrating Black History Month. Learn how Veterans Services is celebrating below.
I also want to give a special thanks to the Oakland County Planning & Local Business Development team for their dedication to preserving the history and culture of Oakland County, all while improving the quality of life of our residents. Read more on how our very own Ron Campbell is doing his part to preserve the historic Masonic Lodge in Farmington, originally built in 1876. And, welcome to our new staff member, Alex Huff, who will be helping Ron preserve our county’s past. Additionally, you have the opportunity to take part in the upcoming Planners Gathering: Hear Two Different Approaches to Maintain and Plan Sidewalk Networks and the Transit Division's partner event series SMARTer Mobility: Shape the Future of Transportation in Oakland County. Both these events help us ensure safe and effective travel in Oakland County whether it is by foot or public transportation.
Finally, it’s hard to believe that this Economic Development Newsletter is in now entering its fourth year. As part of the new year and new strategies, we’ve decided to change this newsletter to a bi-monthly format. As before, expect each bi-monthly newsletter to be filled with useful insights, events and news.
|
 Data Corner
County-Level Gross Domestic Product (GDP)
The U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis recently released updated county-level Gross Domestic Product (GDP) data for 2021. GDP is a comprehensive measure of the economy of the geography and estimates the value of goods and services produced in that area. This data can be used to compare the size and growth of county economies across the country.
Real GDP increased in 2,404 counties across the country, decreased in 691 counties and was unchanged in 17 counties in 2021. The percent change in real GDP among Michigan counties ranged from 13.7% in Ionia County to -6.9% in Montmorency County.
Michigan, Gross Domestic Product (GDP): All Industry Total, 2022
 Real GDP: Percent Change for Counties, 2021-2022
 Oakland County GDP by Industry (2022)
Gross Domestic Product in Oakland County
$127.3 billion – Total GDP in Oakland County in 2022
1st – In 2022, Oakland County had the highest GDP of all Michigan counties, followed by Wayne County ($112.9 billion) and Kent County ($53.6 billion)
7.3% – Growth in Oakland County GDP from 2021 to 2022
20.4% – The share of Michigan’s total GDP in 2022 attributable to economic activity in Oakland County
14 – In 2022, Oakland County had a larger GDP than 14 states
$122,974 – GDP generated per job in Oakland County in 2022
Interactive resources and related information:
Source: U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis
 Business
 EDUCATION-TO-BUSINESS (EDU2B) Tech Collaboration Series
Oakland County is hosting a series of events designed to connect business leaders with higher education institutions. The events will include presentations from local colleges or universities and a networking session for decision makers to build deeper ties and foster collaboration within the following industries:
- IT/Computer Services
- Robotics Integration
- Engineering & Design, R+D
Upcoming Event details are below:
VISIT OAKLAND UNIVERSITY
One of the Nation’s Top-Ranked Engineering & Computer Science Universities
Feb. 27, 2024 | 9 - 11:30 AM
Oakland University School of Engineering & Computer Science | Room 254 115 Library Drive, Rochester
- Take advantage of this unique opportunity to meet all five department heads of Oakland University’s School of Engineering and Computer Science.
- Learn how you can plug into the valuable resources (scientists, testing facilities, labs, programs, projects) of OU’s School of Engineering and Computer Science.
- Experience the new OU Augmented Reality Center.
- Network with local companies in the Tech industry.
Learn more and register at: Oakgov.info/Edu2B
Cost: Free | Space is limited, so registration is required
Beverages and light snacks included
Note: Events are for Oakland County firms only
Partner Event - Michigan Technology Conference 2024
March 21 - 22, 2024
UWM Sports Complex | 867 S Boulevard E, Pontiac
Unlock the future of technology at MITechCon24! Immerse yourself in cutting-edge trends across coding, AI and cybersecurity. Network with industry leaders, gain invaluable insights and be part of groundbreaking discussions. Don't miss this chance to be at the forefront of tech innovation.
|
Celebrate Oakland County 2024: Business Spotlight & Reception
March 20, 2024 | 5:30 - 7:30 PM
Royal Oak Farmer's Market | 316 E 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
Join Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter, Oakland County Economic Development and Oakland Thrive for an enriching evening at the Royal Oak Farmer's Market focused on celebrating small businesses. Celebrate Oakland County 2024: Business Spotlight & Reception promises an atmosphere of networking and camaraderie, highlighting the vibrant tapestry of Oakland County's business community.
Oakland County Revolving Loan Fund Available for Disadvantaged Small Businesses
The Oakland County Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) places a special focus on providing gap financing to Oakland County small businesses that are: woman- or minority-owned, located in economically disadvantaged areas and/or negatively impacted by COVID-19. However, all Oakland County small businesses are welcome to apply.
Loan Source: Oakland County RLF
Can be Used for: Financing the acquisition and modernization of commercial real estate, the acquisition of machinery/equipment, facility renovations and working capital
Eligible Businesses: For profit, small businesses located in Oakland County
Loan Amounts: $50,000 minimum to $200,000 maximum
-
Amortization up to 10 years
-
Competitive fixed rates set at funding
-
Assets acquired with loan proceeds
-
Personal guarantees of the principal owners
-
Provides gap funding to help the bank/credit union say “approved”
- Finances up to one-third of project costs
- Minimum of 10% owner’s equity based on project
-
Bank/credit union loan combined with owner’s equity make up two-thirds of project cost
Questions? Contact: Belinda Turner-DuBois, Manager, CEED Lending bdubois@miceed.org | (248) 460-3973
|
SBA 504 Loan Program – Statewide Financing Available for Buildings and Equipment
The Oakland County Business Finance Corporation (BFC) has been certified by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) since 1982. The BFC's non-profit mission is to help businesses expand and stimulate economic growth in the community. The BFC serves all of Michigan and has funded 500+ loans in 13 counties.They are open and available to discuss new projects.
|
 Community Development
Downtown Rochester’s Big Bright Lights in Wall Street Journal: “The Small Town that Turned Christmas Lights into Economic Miracle”
Each year the Big Bright Light Show brings thousands of people to downtown Rochester, boosting business and bringing the community together. The Big Bright Light Show is a great example of how applying the Main Street 4-Point Approach – Organization, Promotion, Design and Economic Vitality – results in place-based economic development.
“Congratulations to Kristi Trevarrow, DDA executive director, the DDA Board, and the City of Rochester,” from the MSOC Team. Main Street Oakland County is a program of the Oakland County Economic Development Department.
Historic Preservation Project and Tour: The Farmington Masonic Lodge—What Would George Washington Say?
First opening in 1876 to house the Masonic Temple, the town hall and public library, the Farmington Masonic Lodge at the corner of Grand River Avenue and Farmington Road in Downtown Farmington has been going through some renovations.
Oakland County’s historic preservation architect Ron Campbell has been working with the Lodge’s representative, John Lecznar, on a master plan to identify the buildings physical condition and code deficiencies and make recommendations on corrective measures. They will develop a restoration plan to enhance the building and grounds within the principles of the Secretary of the Interior Standards for Historic Preservation.
The priority was the roof, as it was in such poor condition. The project included a total tear off and replacement for $150,000 which was complicated by the steep slope of the Mansard roof, a characteristic of the building. All the money came from the Masons.
The first floor was rehabilitated and just opened as the Blue Hat Coffee House. The business utilized a $2,500 grant from Genisys Credit Union and Main Street Oakland County to help with their renovation expenses.
“As stewards of our community, our fraternity has undertaken a mission to restore the ‘Old Town Hall’ to our lady’s original architectural magnificence and eventual placement into the National Register of Historic Places,” says John Lecznar, representative, Farmington’s Masonic Lodge 151. “We could not hope to attain our mission without the invaluable support and needed expertise provided by Oakland County’s Ron Campbell and the Farmington DDA’s Kate Knight. For their assistance and on behalf of our Freemason’s fraternity, we are grateful.”
On February 19 from 6:30-8 p.m., Campbell and Carol Bacak-Egbo will make a presentation at the Blue Hat Café on the architecture, history of the lodge and its impact on the early settlement of the Farmington community. A tour of the Temple Room will provide the history of the Masons and a rare look in the Lodge. All are invited. Space is limited. RSVP to (248) 835-6641. Free cherry pie will be included to celebrate George Washington’s birthday (February 22), who was a Mason.
The Lodge design is Second Empire Style, also known as General Grant style. The original two-story brick building and addition each measured 30 ft. by 60 ft.—the same dimensions as King Solomon's Temple, symbolic to the Masons.
The Lodge was chartered in 1865, with most of the members founders of Farmington. Downtown Farmington is a Main Street Oakland County community.
Alex Huff Joins Planning & Local Business Development Division to Meet Design Assistance Demand in Main Street Oakland County Communities
Alex Huff brings additional planning and architectural expertise to the Economic Development Department. Working with Historic Preservation Architect Ron Campbell, she will utilize her passion for preservation, adaptive reuse, and community engagement to help meet the pent-up demand for design assistance from the Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) communities.
“We really should be saying ‘welcome back’ to Alex,” says Bret Rasegan, manager, Planning & Local Business Development Division. “She started as a planning intern with us over ten years ago and returns to us as a senior planner with great experience from the SmithGroup and Carlisle Wortman Associates.”
Huff is a Certified Planner with the American Institute of Certified Planners and has a Master’s Degree in Urban and Regional Planning and a B.S. Degree in Architecture from the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor. She sits on the Charter Township of Plymouth’s Downtown Development Authority Board, Brownfield Redevelopment Authority Board, and the Zoning Board of Appeals.
While her work is often focused on the design of the physical environment, she cares deeply about fostering inclusive and resilient communities through policies, procedures, and storytelling. She has written two articles for Michigan Planner magazine: “What Does it Mean to be a Teen-Friendly Community” (July/August 2023) and “The Path to Success: Master Plan to Zoning to Development” (September/October 2021). She was also part of the consultant team to develop the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Redevelopment Ready Communities Resiliency Toolkit: Miplace.org/programs/resiliency/
“Historic preservation, sustainability, and reuse are important components of placemaking and economic vitality in our MSOC communities,” says John Bry, administrator, MSOC Coordinating Program and Local Business Development. “We are so pleased to have Alex on our team.”
|
Virtual Planner's Gathering: Hear Two Different Approaches to Maintain and Plan Sidewalk Networks
Feb. 28, 2024 | 10 - 11 AM
 Are your sidewalk networks safe for pedestrians?
“Sidewalk System Maintenance Programs” are the focus of Oakland County’s Planning, Zoning and Land Use Unit’s virtual Planners Gathering on February 28, 10-11 a.m.
Sidewalks are an integral part of many community transportation systems, allowing people to walk to and from their destinations. However, as with any infrastructure, maintenance and adjustments to sidewalk networks are necessary to keep them safe and responsive to changes in pedestrian demand.
Holly Donoghue, P.E., city engineer, City of Royal Oak; and Sean Ballantine, director, Department of Public Services, City of Madison Heights will share the programs they have developed to keep their extensive sidewalk networks connected and serviceable.
Register at: tinyurl.com/6mywkcas
Cost: Free | Advance registration required to receive the Zoom Link
 Workforce Development
WIN Press Release: Landing A Dream Job In Three Months
Student lands dream opportunity after completing Oakland Community College's (OCC) short-term training program.
Read the Workforce Intelligence Network story, on how Oakland County Michigan Works! and OCC helped Breia Roberts, Pontiac resident, to become a CNC Machine Operator.
Interested in learning more about CNC careers in Oakland County? The next CNC Machine Operator training program starts April 2024. Contact Program Coordinator, Jessica Knapik at (248) 232-4527 or jaknapik@oaklandcc.edu
|
 Veterans
Oakland County Joins the Country in Celebrating Black History Month
Each February, Oakland County joins the entire country in celebrating Black History Month. During this month, we celebrate all Black Americans, Black VA colleagues and the Black Veterans who have served and sacrificed for this nation in every conflict since the American Revolution. The founder of this celebration, Carter G. Woodson, believed that truth could not be denied, and that reason would prevail over prejudice.
Selfridge Air National Guard Base Chosen to Host Squadron of KC-46A Refueling Planes
Selfridge Air National Guard Base will host a new squadron of KC-46A refueling tankers from the Air Force, according to U.S. Sen. Gary Peters.
Join Us at Upcoming Oakland County Veterans Resource Fair
Thursday, March 14 | 9am - 12pm
WB Parks Connect Senior Center | 33230 W 14 Mile Road, West Bloomfield
Register at: tinyurl.com/yckdtn52
All Veterans and their families are welcome to learn more about the benefits available to them, including housing counseling, career planning, training programs, boxes of food, information on community resources, and more.
Did you find this publication helpful? Subscribe at:
public.govdelivery.com/accounts/MIOAKL/subscriber/new?topic_id=MIOAKL_950
|
