News

MSU Extension offering training on short-term rental policy options for local communities across the state

Published on September 15, 2025
Join MSU Extension at one of 10 trainings being offered this fall.
Local government budgeting in uncertain times

Published on September 2, 2025
This free webinar brings together local leaders to share strategies for managing budgets amid state budget uncertainty.
MSU Extension and Michigan Department of Treasury launch grant readiness training

Published on September 2, 2025
This free webinar, part of the Fiscally Ready Communities series, helps local governments align grants with community goals, assess capacity, and build proactive policies to strengthen fiscal sustainability.
County government at work, indeed

Published on July 11, 2025
Michigan counties provide vital health, safety, and welfare services. An updated resource helps officials and residents better understand the roles of county departments, agencies, and commissions and how they serve and support residents locally.
MSU Extension Center for Local Government Finance and Policy names Erika Rosebrook director

Published on January 21, 2025
Rosebrook joins the Center from MSU’s Department of Political Science, following a nationwide search.
MSU Extension Center for Local Government Finance and Policy names Mark Skidmore interim director

Published on April 4, 2024
Skidmore will serve in this interim role while a nationwide search for a new director is underway.
Economic analysis at the local level

Published on July 14, 2023
Local elected officials, public administrators, and citizens would like data to answer economic questions. Here are some suggested measures that are jurisdiction specific and timely.
City of Hamtramck Short and Long Term Financial Health FY 21-22

Published on June 19, 2023
The city of Hamtramck has faced fiscal challenges and is now stable. The pension liabilities remain its greatest current financial risk. However, this risk will be partially alleviated by the state’s new pension grant program.
But what if a pension fund is overfunded?

Published on March 24, 2023
A lot has been written about pension funds, particularly underfunded pension funds. However, the literature is not as robust about pension funds with too much money.
Challenges facing Michigan local governments

Published on March 16, 2023
Since the late 1990’s Michigan local governments have experienced significant fiscal setbacks in their ability to provide critical public services to the residents of Michigan.