Pontiac Times

State Rep. Donni Steele has proposed a plan aimed at bringing transparency to the state budgeting process to prevent the abuse of taxpayer dollars. Steele emphasized the importance of the plan, stating, “This plan is about fairness and transparency across the board.” She highlighted the need to prevent individuals from exploiting the budgeting system for personal gain.

The call for transparency comes in the wake of recent allegations of financial mismanagement involving a $20 million grant awarded to Global Link International, a metro Detroit businesswoman. Steele expressed concern over the misuse of taxpayer funds, pointing out extravagant expenses such as an $11,000 flight to Budapest and a $4,500 coffee maker, funded by the grant.

Steele criticized the lack of oversight in grant spending, particularly noting the conflict of interest in having individuals who sit on executive committees overseeing the funds they receive. She emphasized the need to hold accountable those who abuse taxpayer dollars, stating, “Abuse of taxpayer dollars like we see at Global Link International is a perfect example of everything wrong with our budgeting process.”

The representative drew attention to the disparity in how taxpayer dollars are spent, contrasting the $4,500 spent on a coffee maker with the significant impact that money could have on everyday families. Steele highlighted the struggles faced by working-class individuals and the need for responsible budgeting decisions.

Steele's proposal aims to prevent such misuse of funds and restore trust in state government. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that taxpayer dollars are used responsibly and effectively, rather than being wasted on unnecessary expenses.