The Current Issues Affecting Michigan Local Governments Webinar Series was designed for elected and appointed officials at all levels of local government and their staffs, as well as any Michigan resident interested in learning about the biggest issues public officials are dealing with. The webinar series is organized by MSU Extension public policy specialist Eric Walcott in partnership with the Michigan Association of Counties and Michigan Townships Association and the MSU Extension Center for Local Government Finance and Policy. 

Upcoming Webinars 

Elections and COVID-19 - June 16, 1:30pm

Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum will present on how her office is preparing for the August and November elections and answer questions about how other local governments can be adequately prepared. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has brought on new challenges and considerations related to how to conduct elections, especially as Michigan prepares for the August 4 primary election. With an increased number of people expected to vote absentee and concerns over how to conduct elections safely to minimize the spread of COVID-19, this webinar will help local governments consider how to prepare for upcoming elections and assure residents that voting will be safe and secure. 

Register for this FREE webinar at https://events.anr.msu.edu/ElectionsCovid19/

Remote Work: Making It Work for Local Government - June 19, 1:00pm

The COVID-19 pandemic forced local government into a radical shift in operations, including a significant increase in remote work. As facilities re-open at reduced capacity, remote work will be a necessity for many for the foreseeable future. This can be a challenge for many organizations and finding ways to adapt services is essential to fulfilling local government’s role.

Ottawa County Administrator Al Vanderberg will share how Ottawa County adapted and kept up productivity in a rapidly changing environment, and ideas for building remote work capacity going forward.

Register for this FREE webinar at https://events.anr.msu.edu/remotelocalgov/

Previous webinars are recorded and available by clicking on the Resources tab. 

Potential Future Topics

Topics are always subject to change based on interest and emerging issues. 

• Assessing and Addressing Local Service Needs
• Road and Transportation Funding
• Tourism and short-term rentals
• Public Engagement on “Wicked” Issues
• Strategic Planning in Local Government
• Fiscal Sustainability
• Engaging the Public in the Budget Process 

Contact

Eric Walcott, MSU Extension, walcott3@msu.edu; 517-353-9106