MSU Extension Center for Local Government Finance & Policy

A previous research note asked, “how much debt is too much debt?” Lansing Township’s current indebtedness provides an opportunity to further think about that question, and to think about the consequences if a local unit does have too much debt.

This research note will proceed in four parts. Part One is a narrative of how the Township came to be so indebted. Part Two is an analysis of the Township’s financial condition. Parts Three and Four on bankruptcy and annexation, respectively, explore what could happen if the Township choses either option to lower its indebtedness.