Local Government Policy and Practice: Innovations in Rural Tourism and Placemaking Through Education
February 19, 2026 12:00PM - 1:00PM
Registration Deadline: February 19, 2026 - 11:00AM
Contact: Eric Walcott
Local Government Policy and Practice: An MSU Extension Series
Whether you're an elected official, administrator, planner, or community stakeholder, this series connects you with MSU Extension’s resources to support informed decision-making and community vitality.
This monthly webinar series highlights the diverse expertise within Michigan State University Extension that supports local governments across Michigan. Each session will feature a different MSU Extension unit or center, offering insights, tools, and research to help public sector leaders strengthen their communities.
2026 Schedule
Webinars will take place on the 3rd Thursday of each month, from 12 - 1 p.m. ET on Zoom
January 15 – Capacity Challenges in Local Governments - Center for Local Government Finance and Policy Director Dr. Erika Rosebrook will lead a session on local government capacity and facilitate discussion on challenges Michigan communities are facing and how they are addressing them.
February 19 - Innovations in Rural Tourism and Placemaking Through Education - The MSU Extension Tourism team will showcase how educational programming is supporting rural tourism and placemaking, strengthening Michigan communities.
March 19 - Data Centers and Michigan's Electric Utilities - Institute for Public Utilities Director Dr. Erik Nordman will share the latest developments regarding data center proposals and how they might affect Michigan's electric utilities, customers, and communities.
April 16 – Presentation from Dr. Steve Miller, Center for Economic Analysis
May 21 – Public Finance Challenges in Shrinking Places - Morris Chair in State and Local Government Finance and Policy, Dr. Mark Skidmore will present on local government finance challenges facing communities with declining populations.
June 18 - Presentation from the MSU Extension Land Use Team
August 20 - Center for Local Government Finance and Policy
September 17 - MSU Extension Good Governance
October 15 - Institute for Public Utilities
November 19 – Center for Economic Analysis
Who should attend: Elected and appointed officials, local government staff, community members, and anyone interested in learning more about issues impacting local government in Michigan.
Featured MSU Extension Centers and Programs:
Institute for Public Utilities (IPU) - IPU supports informed and effective regulation of essential services such as electricity, natural gas, water, and broadband. Its applied research and educational forums help regulatory professionals strengthen technical capacity and address today’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.
Center for Local Government Finance and Policy - The Center works with communities to improve fiscal sustainability and the delivery of critical services that promote health, safety, and well-being. Through training, engagement, and applied research, the Center equips public officials to make sound, data-informed decisions.
Center for Economic Analysis (CEA) - The CEA provides science-based economic analysis and data to support industries, government entities, and researchers. Its work enhances understanding of how agriculture, natural resources, and community development activities contribute to Michigan’s economy.
Morris Chair in State and Local Government Finance and Policy - The Morris Chair advances research and outreach on public finance and its relationship to economic development. Focus areas include property taxation, regional growth, intergovernmental relations, and the economics of natural disasters.
Government and Community Vitality Programs
- Good Governance – Offers education for locally elected and appointed officials to build leadership capacity, strengthen stewardship of resources, and support effective local decision-making.
- Tourism – Assists communities in leveraging local assets to expand tourism, foster collaboration, and strengthen long-term community vitality.
- Land Use – Provides training and resources on planning, zoning, and community development issues to help local leaders make informed policy and regulatory.
Cost: Free
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