Former speaker of the Michigan House Lee Chatfield is responding to criticism of his new role as CEO of Southwest Michigan First.
Chatfield says he will work with local leaders in a nonpartisan role.
The Kalamazoo County Commission will revisit a proposal at their next meeting on whether to pull their support for the organization.
The Kalamazoo City Commission pulled $10,000 in funding by withdrawing their support on Monday.
Chatfield is disputing claims that he lacks experience in the field of economic development saying he worked with the business community extensively during his time in the legislature.
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