Clint Eastwood brings film to Michigan

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

E-mail at: [email protected]

We should entice film companies
As many of you know, I am not only your Macomb County commissioner, but I am also an actress and a dues-paying member of the Screen Actors Guild union. Recently, I had the opportunity to work with legendary actor-director Clint Eastwood on a new movie being filmed in the metro Detroit area.
A couple of months ago, the Michigan Legislature enacted legislation that provides a tax credit for production companies if they film in the state of Michigan. There are certain criteria that must be met, some of which include using Michigan talent and vendors during production. This leaves Michigan as one of the highest tax credit states in the country. Already many movies are slated to be filmed here, with estimated spending budgets of almost $200 million.
What does that mean for us? For starters, it means economic growth. Many local actors are being auditioned and hired. These actors live, work and spend money in our area. Many local companies in the construction, security, catering, equipment or rental categories are employed to support production. This, in turn, helps to stimulate our local economy.
I know firsthand. I was paid to work on this production. Does this mean that Michigan will become the next Hollywood? Maybe not in the near future, but as time goes on, I believe that Michigan will be a hot spot for film production. I also believe that Macomb County should entice producers to film in our area. We have many different things to offer and these things must be promoted to producers. All local heads of government should jump at this opportunity.
Even during these tough economic times, there is hope. If our local, county and state officials push hard enough and entice these producers to come to Michigan, it will benefit all of our residents.
CAREY TORRICE
Macomb County
commissioner
District 16