Marshall residents urge legislative probe into Blue Oval megasite, cite NDAs and environmental, transparency concerns

Lansing — Residents, local activists and other speakers told the House oversight subcommittee on corporate subsidies and state investments that the planned Marshall “Blue Oval” megasite was developed with insufficient public notice, overreliance on nondisclosure agreements and claims they say overstate jobs and public benefits.

The testimony, delivered during a subcommittee hearing convened by Chair Carr, focused on the Marshall megasite and the Blue Oval project, with multiple speakers urging state lawmakers to investigate land deals, zoning changes and the role of local economic bodies such as the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Marshall Area Economic Development Association (META).

Why it matters: Speakers said the project uses taxpayer money and public incentives for a private industrial development while limiting residents’ access to information. They called for legislative review of contracts, public outreach and environmental and safety risks tied to large battery manufacturing facilities.

At the start of the hearing, Chair Carr said the committee had invited supporters of the project but that few showed and the subcommittee instead heard sustained opposition. “We gave the opportunity,” Carr said, noting his office sent letters to 76 people asking for in-person support; he said only a handful had responded and his office received 46 letters in opposition and a single…