According to MLive Media Group, billionaires like the DeVos and Ilitch families have, for eight years, benefited from Michigan’s Transformational Brownsfield tax incentive program, which funnels billions of public dollars into huge private developments meant to revitalize abandoned spaces and attract workers.

“But to (Together West Michigan Leader) Satorie Spicer, 28, born and raised in Grand Rapids, these projects are ‘not for us.’

120+ TWM Members Overflow City Commission Meeting & Press Conference: Contribute More or "Show us the Math!"

Together West Michigan members packed the Grand Rapids City Commission Chamber yesterday, calling for equity and transparency in the proposed Three Towers project downtown.  Citizens are being asked to forgo over $565 million in future tax revenue to subsidize developers — receiving just $8.5 million for affordable housing spread over 20 years in return.

“We don’t oppose private development,” said Rev. Lynette Sparks of Westminster Presbyterian Church. “What we DO oppose is this insultingly small contribution to affordable housing. Public dollars demand real public benefit.”

“We keep hearing this project isn't ‘viable’ with a greater contribution,” added Pastor Peter Tewinkle of Oakdale Park Church. “Then show us the math. If it’s true, put it on paper and make it public.”

Despite assurances from the City Clerk’s office, over 40 TWM members were forced to watch the meeting from the lobby on their phones due to lack of space.

The fight isn’t over—TWM will be back when the Commission meets again.