Business and community leaders from across the region gathered on Wednesday, December 3rd, at The Grand LV in Niles for the Greater Niles Chamber’s 2025 State of the Economy Breakfast.
Presented by Sturgis Bank and Trust, this event is an annual forum for leaders from state, regional, and local organizations to offer insight into how policy decisions, economic conditions, and collaboration will influence growth in the year ahead.
With more than 100 attendees in the room, the event served as both a reflection on a year marked by uncertainty and a forward-looking discussion on competitiveness, workforce priorities, and development opportunities across Southwest Michigan.
Local journalist and broadcaster Allison Hayes moderated the conversation, keeping the discussion grounded in the practical realities facing business communities. Her approach emphasized translating complex policy and economic developments into real-world considerations for employers, developers, and residents.
State and Regional Economic Outlook
The first panel addressed Michigan’s political and fiscal climate, beginning with a broad look at a year that included a delayed state budget, significant policy debate, and heightened uncertainty for employers. Panelists discussed how these challenges affected planning, investment decisions, and overall confidence within the business community.
Wendy Block, Senior Vice President of Business Advocacy for the Michigan Chamber of Commerce, provided perspective on the complexity of recent legislative issues, including debates surrounding minimum wage, paid sick leave, and the state budget process. Her remarks highlighted how policy uncertainty can ripple through the economy, creating hurdles for small and mid-sized businesses navigating compliance, labor costs, and strategic planning.
Jonas Peterson, Chief Executive Officer at Southwest Michigan First, shared how regional economic strategies are being shaped by both statewide conditions and global market forces. Drawing on experience from larger metropolitan areas, Peterson emphasized the importance of positioning Southwest Michigan as a competitive, business-ready region across the seven counties served by Michigan’s Region 8.
Arthur Havlicek, President and CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, rounded out the panel with insight into the concerns most frequently raised by local employers—namely workforce availability, business attraction, and the conditions needed to support population growth. Together, the panel painted a clear picture of the policy and economic dynamic influencing business growth throughout the state and region.
Local Development and Community Growth
The second panel shifted the focus closer to home, examining development efforts and priorities within Niles, Niles Charter Township, and Berrien County. Ann Young, Community Development Director for the City of Niles, discussed the city’s recent Michigan Economic Development Corporation Redevelopment Ready Community certification and its significance in creating a more efficient, predictable environment for development and reinvestment.
Niles Charter Township Treasurer Jim Ringler provided an overview of local commercial inventory and development opportunities, including the potential for revitalization along the South 11th Street corridor. His remarks highlighted both the challenges and possibilities associated with existing infrastructure and available properties.
Dan Fette, Director of Community Development for Berrien County, addressed the importance of collaboration among municipalities, county partners, and regional organizations. He underscored housing as a pressing need across the county, noting its direct connection to workforce attraction, economic mobility, and long-term stability.
Looking Ahead
By the end of the morning, attendees left with a clearer understanding of the economic forces shaping the region and the strategic efforts underway to address them. The State of the Economy Breakfast reinforced the value of informed dialogue, regional cooperation, and proactive planning as Southwest Michigan works to remain competitive and resilient in the year ahead.
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