Rep Fox Says No to DNR Trust Fund Projects

State Representative Joseph Fox (far right) helping out at a recent ribbon cutting for the Birding Trail, the latest addition to the area's recreational offerings Pictured with him from left are Newaygo County Tourism Council President Julie Burrell and Newaygo County Administrator Chris Wren

One of two in the House to oppose recreational initiatives 

In 1984 the Legislature enacted the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) Act established in the State Constitution and providing for not less than 25% to acquire land or rights in land and not less than 25% for the development of public recreation facilities.

The MDNR Trust Fund money comes from gas and oil leases and royalties on State land. It was created in a vote by Michigan residents through Proposal B, which amended the State Constitution. Since 2011, it has been solely funded by the interest and earnings of the invested funds that are managed by the Department of Treasury.
It has been a boon for public recreation with grants available to units of government and recreational authorities from $15,000 to $300,000 with a 25% match required.
​
The grant applications are reviewed and scored by DNR staff and the Independent MNRTF Board makes recommendations in December for the coming year. Locally, the  Trust Fund  grants over the years  have led to improvements at Sandy Beach, support in the building of  The Dragon Trail, expansion at the Bridgeton Boat Launch, development at Fremont parks, additions to the Coolbaugh Natural Area  and many other projects aimed at enhancing our recreational opportunities

As these approved projects are funded by the Trust Fund and do not rely on money from the state’s coffers, the recommendations from the independent committee are overwhelmingly approved by both parties when they reach the Legislature. This year the vote was 104-2.
One of the two dissenters was our area’s State Representative Joseph Fox.

Curious as to what the reasoning might be behind his half of the Nays, we reached out to Rep. Fox posing that question.
We have not had a response in the week since our request. 
Should we hear from him we will pass along his comments 

​