LANSING – State Representative Vicki Barnett (D-Farmington Hills) held a coffee hour this past weekend at the Family Buggy Restaurant in Farmington Hills, which gave residents the chance to talk about the issues that matter to them and their families. More than 40 people were on hand to discuss issues ranging from the Michigan Promise Scholarship to extending unemployment benefits for workers.
"I hold these coffee hours to hear about what residents and their families are discussing over the kitchen table," Barnett said. "People are understandably concerned about what's going on up in Lansing, and I am committed to ensuring that their voices are heard loud and clear. It was a pleasure to meet with so many members of our community and listen to their thoughts and concerns."
Questions at the coffee hour included the state budget deficit and the potential impact in the community, rate increases proposed by Blue Cross Blue Shield and reforms to public employee health care.
"I came here for the opportunity to understand what Vicki is dealing with in Lansing," said Joy Gaines-Friedler of Farmington Hills, who attended the coffee hour. "I don't always trust the news and want to get the truth first hand. Vicki is impressive and articulate. You don't just get sound bites from her."
Barnett's next coffee hour will be held on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 10:30 a.m. at Luigi's Trattoria, 23360 Farmington Road in Farmington.
Barnett holds regular coffee hours, town halls and other events throughout Farmington and Farmington Hills. If your business or organization would like to schedule an event with Barnett, please contact her office toll-free at (888) MICH-037 or e-mail her at VickiBarnett@house.mi.gov.