Livingston Today

State Representative Ann Bollin has expressed support for the state of Michigan's decision to hold Gotion, an electric vehicle battery manufacturer, in default on its state incentive agreement. Bollin stated that this move is an important step toward increasing accountability in Michigan's economic development system.

Bollin, who has consistently opposed the $175 million incentive package granted to Gotion, said she had warned about potential risks associated with using taxpayer funds for the project. "In 2022, I voted against sending $175 million in public funds to Gotion because the deal lacked transparency, strong safeguards, and meaningful accountability," said Bollin, R-Brighton Township. "Two years later, the company has missed construction deadlines, failed to create jobs, and broken the promises made to the people of Michigan. This outcome is exactly why I spoke out against the project from the start."

Gotion received incentives from the state through the Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) program for a planned $2.3 billion battery plant near Big Rapids. The initiative was projected to generate 2,350 jobs but has not met its commitments.

The Michigan Strategic Fund notified Gotion on September 17 that it was being placed in default on its agreement. The notification indicated that if Gotion did not address these issues within 30 days, the grant would be terminated and all distributed funds would need to be repaid—including $23.6 million already allocated for site preparation. The deadline expired last week without resolution.

"The state made the right call by holding Gotion accountable," Bollin said. "Taxpayers deserve to know that their money is being used wisely and that companies must live up to their promises. This situation underscores exactly why I’ve been fighting for more transparency, audits and claw backs in our economic development programs, especially through the SOAR fund."

Through her work on the state budget process, Bollin contributed to reforms intended to better protect taxpayers by changing how budget earmarks are distributed; payments are now issued as reimbursements after work is completed or benchmarks are achieved instead of as upfront lump sums.

Bollin continues to push for similar reforms across Michigan’s economic development programs. "Michigan can no longer afford to gamble with taxpayer money," Bollin said. "We need a system that rewards real results, not false promises. I’m committed to making changes that will return these dollars to the taxpayers and help restore trust in how Michigan does economic development."