EDRA marks three years with statewide focus on development policy
The Economic Development Responsibility Alliance (EDRA), founded three years ago, has expanded its focus from local opposition to statewide advocacy against industrial developments, including data centers. The Michigan-based group works with communities on land use, energy policy, and criticizing state economic development incentives. EDRA is increasing its engagement with state lawmakers and considering political endorsements to influence policy related to development.
Marjorie Steele, founder of the Economic Development Responsibility Alliance (EDRA), advocates for preserving Michigan's natural environment and ensuring local control over land use. Formed three years ago in response to local opposition to the Gotion battery materials project in Big Rapids, EDRA has since broadened its mission to support communities across Michigan grappling with land use issues, energy policy, and the rapid expansion of data centers.
The organization actively challenges large-scale industrial developments, including battery plants, renewable energy projects, mining proposals, and AI data centers. EDRA is particularly critical of state economic development incentives, such as a 2024 tax incentive law that exempts large-scale data centers from Michigan's sales and use tax until 2050, arguing these policies often bypass local input.
Operating as a non-partisan 501(c)(4), EDRA provides resources and support to over two dozen communities statewide, helping them navigate development proposals. Steele highlighted the group's increasing engagement with lawmakers in Lansing to track legislation and influence policy. While traditionally avoiding campaign involvement, EDRA is now considering endorsing political candidates whose platforms align with their goals of protecting Michigan's land, water, and taxpayer rights, and promoting local self-determination amidst rising development pressures.