We all know the auto industry, and thus the entire state, is in trouble.
After decades of Detroit hosting the North American International Auto Show, it has outgrown the beloved Cobo Hall. In 2009, the North American International Auto Show generated more than $500 million to Michigan’s economy. It hosted more than 650,000 people, including nearly 5,500 journalists from more than 40 countries. Fifty-three products were unveiled, including 34 worldwide debuts and 19 North American debuts. More than $2.6 million was raised for children’s charities at the annual black tie Charity Preview. The auto show was covered by all of the major television networks. It’s a world-class event that provides jobs and revenue to local exhibit companies, service companies, restaurants, hotels, transportation companies, charities, and our residents every year. There is no question we need to keep the auto show in Michigan. Competition is fierce from Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. As a state representative from the Oakland County, I say that if it can’t be at Cobo Hall, our doors are open in Oakland County. As we work to find a suitable solution to prevent the NAIAS from leaving our state, politics have clearly gotten into the way. If we continue down this path, it will be at our own expense. The auto show not only creates jobs and stimulates the economy it gives our state the chance to highlight some of our greatest assets – our auto ingenuity, our natural resources, and our work ethic. Preserving the NAIAS is about doing what is needed as a state legislator to protect our state as a whole. This is why I will support state Sen. Michael Bishop’s initiative to move the North American International Auto Show to Oakland County, possibly at the Rock Financial Showplace in Novi. The Rock Financial Showplace is highly motivated to work with the NAIAS and local community leaders. It has plans to expand to support the auto show and let it grow, and bolster our regional and state economy.
This is not about bashing Detroit or saying their path is wrong. This is about preserving a regional and state treasure. The state’s role is clear: We need to preserve the show.