The Southeast Michigan Chamber of Commerce continued its dynamic 2025 programming with a well-attended March luncheon, bringing together 450 business and community leaders for an afternoon of valuable insights and meaningful connections. The event, held on March 27, featured newly elected Clinton Township Supervisor Paul Gieleghem as the keynote speaker. Supervisor Gieleghem, previously the Clinton Township Treasurer and a Certified Public Funds Investment Manager (CPFIM), shared his journey to office and his vision for the township’s growth. He discussed Macomb County’s population expansion since 1950, the resulting infrastructure challenges, and the longstanding funding hurdles impacting road maintenance and development. Despite these challenges, he highlighted Clinton Township’s many completed road projects since 2018 and outlined his administration’s key priorities, including economic redevelopment, revitalization of the Gratiot Downtown Development Authority, and the construction of an inclusive playground for children with disabilities.

 

In addition to Gieleghem’s address, Utica Mayor Gus Calandrino introduced attendees to the upcoming Utica Puppy Parade, an event supporting National Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Month. The parade benefits local animal welfare nonprofits and will serve as the first official event for the newly launched Sterling Heights Chamber of Commerce, a sub-chamber of SMCC.

 

CEO John Johnson took the stage to inform members about two major initiatives: MCREST’s plan to renovate a newly acquired building into a dedicated Men’s Shelter and the Chamber’s support of the Mt. Clemens School Bond Proposal. Johnson, who also serves as MCREST’s Board President, detailed how the renovation would provide a permanent space for men experiencing homelessness, replacing the rotating shelter model. He also emphasized the importance of the Mt. Clemens School Bond Proposal, a $91.8 million investment in local schools that would enhance facilities, increase property values, and strengthen the community’s economic foundation. With absentee ballots mailed the same day as the luncheon and the vote set for May 6, the Chamber reinforced its advocacy for the bond’s passage.

 

The luncheon also celebrated the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to philanthropy. Women in Business Alliance Co-Chair Claire Imbrunnone shared the success of “Hearts for Hope,” a Valentine’s Day fundraiser that drew 200 attendees and raised $20,000 for Turning Point, a nonprofit assisting survivors of domestic violence and human trafficking. A check for the full amount was presented on stage. Additional donations included $1,000 from Michigan Schools & Government Credit Union to Neway Works, which supports underserved youth, and $1,000 from Santoro Services to the Evident Church food pantry.

 

The event concluded on a heartfelt note as John Johnson honored longtime public servants Flo Hayman and Harvey Curley with the Chamber’s inaugural Elected Official Lifetime of Service Award. Hayman, a New Baltimore City Council member, and Curley, an Eastpointe City Council member, were recognized for their decades of dedicated service to their communities.