LANSING, MI — State Representative Gina Johnsen (R-Portland) testified before a House appropriations subcommittee yesterday in support of two key infrastructure investments in the 78th District: replacing the Odessa Township Fire Hall and funding bridge repairs across Ionia County.

Johnsen spoke directly on the Odessa Township request, citing the current fire hall’s outdated and undersized condition as a threat to public safety. She was joined by Treasurer Sharon Rohrbacher and Fire Chief Chad Perkins, who detailed the facility’s growing limitations. Estimated project costs range from five to nine million dollars. “This is not just a building. It is a lifeline,” Johnsen said. “Our firefighters deserve a safe, functional space to serve our community.”

Legislative Director Phillip Eckert testified in support of a $2.1 million request for the Ionia County Road Department to repair 54 of the county’s 67 public bridges. Many are under weight restrictions, forcing emergency vehicles and school buses onto costly detours. “Detours may seem like an inconvenience, but in emergency response situations, they can be the difference between life and death,” Eckert said. He introduced Linda Pigue of the Ionia County Road Department, who spoke to the project’s readiness.

Representative Johnsen returned to the subcommittee today to testify in support of a $9.2 million funding request for the City of Portland’s wastewater infrastructure. She was joined by City Manager Andrew Dymczyk to highlight the need for replacing aging lift stations, repairing structurally deficient sewer lines, and completing essential upgrades to the city’s wastewater treatment plant. Johnsen emphasized the urgency of protecting public health and the Grand River watershed.

Representative Johnsen has also submitted requests for several additional projects to address critical infrastructure needs across her district. These include major road repair investments in Barry County to improve transportation access and safety, and support for the construction of a new Barry County Jail and Justice Center to replace outdated facilities and strengthen public safety and judicial operations.

Johnsen said all these proposals reflect the Legislature’s renewed commitment to transparency and community-focused budgeting. “These are taxpayer dollars going to roads, bridges, water systems, and public safety,” she said. “This is exactly what responsible government should fund.”