Senators Allen, Jacobs and Toy offered the following concurrent resolution:

            Senate Concurrent Resolution No. 24.

            A concurrent resolution to urge the United States Coast Guard to continue to operate a cutter ship out of Charlevoix.

            Whereas, The United States Coast Guard has announced plans to scale back the number of cutter ships serving the Great Lakes. Under this proposal, the three ships, which operate out of Duluth, Port Huron, and Charlevoix, will be reduced to two when the Acacia, which is kept at Charlevoix, is decommissioned in 2006; and

            Whereas, The United States Coast Guard Cutter Acacia, built in 1944, provides essential navigational, search and rescue, and other services.  Its work tending to nearly 200 navigation aids and keeping channels open by breaking ice is of great importance to commerce and public safety. In addition, there have been occasions when this ship has helped in emergency situations, including missions to maintain services to the population on Beaver Island; and

            Whereas, Reducing the number of ships providing buoy-tending and ice-cutting services by one-third would be a major blow to the individuals and businesses that rely upon the lakes. It is difficult to imagine how the vast areas of the Great Lakes could be covered by only two ships without a serious reduction in services and more difficulties in navigation on the lakes; and

            Whereas, Charlevoix's role in lifesaving and promoting safe and efficient transportation on the Great Lakes is well established. The Coast Guard has operated a nautical rescue station in Charlevoix since 1889. The work carried out by the Acacia is an important component of these services and a valued resource for the community and the area.  Having such a vessel is important to the area's economy on several levels, including tourism; now, therefore, be it

            Resolved by the Senate (the House of Representatives concurring), That we urge the United States Coast Guard to continue to operate a cutter ship out of Charlevoix when the United States Coast Guard Cutter Acacia is decommissioned in 2006; and be it further

            Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the United States Coast Guard 9th District Headquarters in Cleveland, the United States Secretary of Transportation, the Commandant of the United States Coast Guard, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.