Senators Switalski, Olshove and Sanborn offered the following resolution:

            Senate Resolution No. 206.

            A resolution commemorating the 40th Anniversary of the city of Sterling Heights, Michigan.

            Whereas, The city of Sterling Heights was incorporated 40 years ago on July 1, 1968. Area residents will commemorate this landmark, examining the progress they have made and looking forward to the future with understandable optimism and hope; and

            Whereas, Historically, the area of 36.75 miles that encompasses Sterling Heights, the fourth-largest city in this great state, can trace its roots to the 1838 establishment of Sterling Township, then an area affording hardworking families the chance to make their living in the best American pioneer agrarian traditions; and

            Whereas, Today the scene of farms and woodland is different, as Sterling Heights is now a leader in progressive and effective urban development. The same hardworking ethic is present in Sterling Heights that was present many years ago, and this spirit continues to attract major industries as evidenced by not only the creation of new businesses in the city, but also the continual reinvestment of longtime city businesses; and

            Whereas, The city of Sterling Heights is a safe and welcoming place for families, offering great municipal services, highly-rated police and fire departments, a vibrant library, 26 parks, low taxes, and top-notch schools. Families from a wealth of different cultures have shown they approve, as family households constitute 76.1 percent of the city's total households; and

            Whereas, Sterling Heights has experienced phenomenal growth since its incorporation, the population growing from 47,221 in 1968 to 127,000 today. Most significant is the fact that residents, business leaders, and government in this thriving community are committed to working together for the continuation of the dynamic and foresighted development that has marked the first 40 years of Sterling Heights; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate, That tribute hereby be offered in commemoration of the 40th Anniversary of the city of Sterling Heights; and be it further

            Resolved, That a copy of this resolution be transmitted to the members of the Sterling Heights City Council as evidence of the esteem held for this community by this legislative body.