Resources

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.
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.
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.
County Revenue Sharing Program: A Proposal for a New Formula

Published on May 8, 2017
The proposed new county revenue sharing formula levels the playing field between low and high taxable value property counties, accounts for tax effort and adjusts payments annually for inflation.
Impact of Headlee Millage Rollback, MI Counties, 2015/16

Published on March 21, 2017
Impact of Headlee Millage Rollback, MI Counties, 2015/16
Chapter 9 Bankruptcy: Simulation Exercise

Published on December 12, 2016
While not a cure for fiscal stress, Chapter 9 is a tool that a municipality may use to reset its financial course when all other methods fail. This paper identifies several lessons learned through a simulation exercise using live case data.
County Revenue Options

Published on December 1, 2016
Michigan counties have very limited revenue options other than the property tax. Additional revenue options provided to counties include general sales tax, motor fuel tax, alcohol, and tobacco tax.
Planning and Zoning*A*Syst. #11: Capital Improvements Review

Published on June 1, 2016
Capital Improvements Review (E-3106) provides a review of the process for the planning commission to review and comment on local government construction projects (which are otherwise not subject to zoning).
Planning and Zoning*A*Syst. #10: Subdivision and Land Splitting Reviews

Published on June 1, 2016
Subdivision and Land Splitting Reviews (E-3105) provides a review of the administrative structure for handling land divisions, subdivisions or plats, site-condominiums, lot splits and certified plats: preapplication meetings with the developer, etc.