The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) notified the Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC) on Friday, April 4, that there was an error found in the tabulation process for commercial potato acreage in Michigan of a recent vote regarding the assessment cap limit.
While MDARD's original tabulation showed more than 50 percent of the total votes in favor of raising the assessment cap, the acreage represented by those votes was less than 50 percent. Per the law, both must be above 50%.
After reverifying, MDARD reports that both the vote tally and acreage are above the necessary 50 percent, meaning the cap assessment will be raised to 9 1/2 cents per hundredweight (from the current 5 1/2 cents). The final tally was 10 votes in favor, seven against. The acreage was 70 percent in favor, and 30 percent against. The result does not affect shippers. The ballots were cast Feb. 3-14.
“We appreciate MDARD’s careful review and acknowledgment of the original counting error. With the corrected vote confirming the approval to increase the assessment cap, we recognize the responsibility that comes with that outcome," said Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC) Executive Director Kelly Turner. "Our industry is navigating significant economic turbulence, and as a Commission, we are committed to ensuring that every dollar is used wisely. We will continue to operate under strict fiscal standards and remain focused on delivering value to Michigan’s potato growers.”