MSU Extension Government

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  Michigan Cities and Michigan Cannot Thrive Without Major Changes in Our System of Financing Local Governments

  Published on May 25, 2018
  Local government finances are primarily driven by property value growth and state revenue payments. Cities with TV per capita below $20,000 are likely to experience financial problems, particularly in a recession.

• Summary of Planning and Zoning Decisions 2018

  Published on May 18, 2018
  A policy brief on planning and zoning court decisions, attorney general opinions for May 2017 to April 2018.

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  Michigan Budget Policy for the Incoming 2019 Gubernatorial Administration

  Published on April 1, 2018
  This paper is intended to provide a general overview of key budgetary issues that incoming elected officials can expect to and should be prepared to tackle in the coming years.

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  Michigan Tax Policy for the Incoming 2019 Gubernatorial Administration

  Published on March 7, 2018
  This is paper one in the ongoing Michigan at a Crossroad Series. The purpose of this policy brief is to provide a concise summary of some of the most important features of the tax system in Michigan, along with a brief guide to some policy proposals.

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  Headlee and Proposal A Explained for Michigan Counties

  Published on November 1, 2017
  This report provides the Michigan Constitution language and stated purpose of the Headlee and Proposal A amendments. The 2016 revenue loss due to both provisions is presented for each county.

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  Reasons and Risks: Pension Obligation Bonding in Michigan

  Published on November 1, 2017
  This policy brief explores pension obligation bonding in the United States as well as in Michigan specifically.

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Current Issues Affecting Michigan Local Governments webinar

  Published on October 27, 2017
  Bill Anderson and Jeff Nutting of the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments talk about how their organization uses data to inform local governments and help inform long-term planning.

• Data-Informed Decision-Making: Current Issues Affecting Michigan Local Governments webinar

  Published on September 26, 2017
  Bill Anderson and Jeff Nutting from Southeast Michigan Council of Governments discuss how SEMCOG uses big data to inform long-term decision-making.

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  Service Solvency: Ability of Michigan Cities to Provide an Adequate Level of Public Services

  Published on June 19, 2017
  Using audit reports and F-65 reports from the Department of Treasury, this report identifies Michigan cities that may be service insolvent, or on the verge of being unable to provide fundamental services to their residents.

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  A Review of Michigan's Local Financial Emergency Law

  Published on May 10, 2017
  The paper outlines the four versions of local emergency manager law, and discusses pros and cons of PA 436 of 2012. It outlines four major alternatives to the way Michigan addresses local financial emergencies.