News

Michigan Compiled Law may be the preferred way to cite state law

Published on September 15, 2023
There is more than one way to cite state law. There are several reasons to use the MCL citation over the Public Act number.
Zoning and police power ordinances are not the same, and should not be mixed together

Published on September 15, 2023
There are three types of ordinances local government might adopt. Important to focus on the difference between police power ordinances and zoning ordinances.
Qualifications-based selection, not bidding, is best to contract with professional services

Published on August 3, 2023
Many believe governments should bid for jobs over a certain dollar amount. But bids are not always the best selection system. When hiring professional services Qualifications-Based Selection is the better system to use.
The financial behaviors that may support financial well-being

Published on June 15, 2023
If you are concerned about your financial state of being, learn how to manage your money.
Is the Schedule 1099-C a blessing or a curse?

Published on June 14, 2023
Receiving a 1099-C does impact your credit report and score and also has Federal income tax consequences.
Six things to know about buying a foreclosed house

Published on May 16, 2023
Buying a foreclosed house is different than purchasing from a private seller—be prepared for the differences.
The importance of your Zoning Board of Appeals

Published on March 17, 2023
Maintaining a properly organized and functioning Zoning Board of Appeals is critical to ensure the integrity of the board’s decisions and to avoid potentially serious and costly legal issues.
Zoning district, tax assessor classifications not the same thing

Published on September 1, 2022
Some improperly use tax assessor classifications as an indicator of zoning district, but they are not the same and one should never base zoning decisions on property tax classifications.
MSU Extension, regional partners to provide guidance for local governments on American Rescue Plan Act spending

Published on September 15, 2021
In partnership with member regions of the Michigan Association of Regions, MSU Extension educators are offering 14 workshops exploring Local Fiscal Recovery Fund spending opportunities in a regional context.
A Big Picture Look at Local Governments Finances

Published on March 8, 2021
One year into the pandemic and the local government financial picture is still fuzzy…with 300,000 fewer jobs but property tax revenues are up over 5%. What’s not unclear is the COVID-19 relief stimulus for local government will be welcomed.