Resources

A closer look at legacy costs and local actions in Michigan in the wake of PA 202

Published on January 1, 2020
Legacy costs have imposed challenges on local governments in Michigan. The lack of funding for retirement benefits, including pension and other postemployment benefits (OPEB) such as healthcare, affects the wellbeing of public employees.
Marquette Area Climate and Health Adaptation Guidebook - Volume III: Prioritizing and Implementing Recommendations

Published on September 19, 2019
This volume of the Marquette Area Climate and Health Adaptation Guidebook outlines action steps and further stakeholder engagement options.
Dealing With the Threat of Invasive Species

Published on September 3, 2019
MSU Extension educator Julie Crick and Emmet Conservation District manager and program coordinator Jackie Pilette discuss the threat of invasive species and the challenges they pose for Michigan communities.
Guide to Michigan County Government 5th Edition

Published on August 1, 2019
Revised and updated by public policy experts with Michigan State University Extension
To-do list for what a community should do for economic development in Michigan

Published on September 20, 2018
There are over-riding principles for economic development and community development in a new/global economy. There are four principles that should be the foundation and background for each item on the to-do list.
Michigan's Post-Recession Spending

Published on September 1, 2018
Over the past eight years, the state’s economy has seen significant improvements. Even with these increases, there remain significant concerns regarding funding for key public policy priorities in the state.
A new approach to evaluating the fiscal health of Michigan local governments: Comparing fiscal performance relative to available resources

Published on June 1, 2018
The purpose of this report is to develop a scoring system for Michigan local governments that accurately reflects their fiscal condition.
Michigan's Local Financial Emergency Manager Law: Considering the Alternatives

Published on May 30, 2018
MSU Extension gathered stakeholder feedback on the feasibility of possible alternatives to PA 436 of 2012 to determine which alternatives have the most support within the group.
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.