As we ponder conflicting accusations of who is to blame for the water disaster in Flint and the financial crisis in Detroit’s public schools, let’s also take a moment to consider some of the root causes that led to these emergencies and how to fix them.
Phil Power
Former newspaper publisher and University of Michigan Regent Phil Power is a longtime observer of Michigan politics and economics. He is also the founder and former chairman of the Center for Michigan which publishes Bridge Michigan and BridgeDetroit.
Posted inPhil's Column
Iowa is dealt a hand with three wild cards, no aces
The fact Trump, Cruz and Sanders are all contending indicates conventional wisdom isn’t anymore, so all bets are off
Posted inPhil's Column
Flint water and Detroit Schools raise doubts about emergency manager law
Emergency managers threaten the trust local residents have in government. They should be used carefully, with concern for the health and welfare of those affecte
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A friend’s death, a community’s loss
The death of a former school superintendent underscores the importance of leaders who can bind a community together
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In search of competent government
The state’s slow response to lead poisoning in Flint and school debt in Detroit shows a government unable to execute important tasks in the public interes
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With record interest in state parks, let’s take steps to protect them
Bold public-private partnerships could offer a model for conserving Michigan’s ecologically important landscapes and the wildlife that live on the
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Donald Trump and America’s new political path
Envisioning a future in which nativist know-nothings duke it out against an elite political establishment
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Supporting Bridge Magazine’s nonpartisan journalism
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How technology can disrupt divide over government’s role
Ordinary citizens now trapped in endless pro- and anti-government arguments may suddenly be able to escape from that sterile maze, thanks to technology.
Posted inPhil's Column
Road deal made by politicians who won’t face the consequences
Fully half of the $1.2 billion road deal will have to be diverted from the state’s general fund, which means inevitable cuts to education, safety net benefits and the like. By that time, most of the architects of this deal will be out of office.