News
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Parklets for placemaking
Published on June 13, 2014
A new guide from the City of Grand Rapids makes it easier for businesses and citizens alike to undertake placemaking projects that attract pedestrians, increase retail activity and provided needed green space and bike parking. -
Michigan’s minimum wage workers get a raise in September 2014
Published on May 29, 2014
Changes to minimum wage prompted by citizen action to increase wages for workers is part of a national trend in 2014. -
Changes to Site Selection GAAMP mean communities have greater opportunity to plan for food systems
Published on May 16, 2014
Michigan law requires local governments to provide for all lawful land uses where there is a demonstrated need. Is there any greater need than food? -
Consider government planning at two levels: internal plans and plans for the entire community
Published on April 21, 2014
Any government body should be able to write a plan for its activities. Why should government have to have a planning commission to do so? -
If you are planning to run for elected office, know the filing deadlines
Published on April 8, 2014
Filing deadlines for 2014 elections range from April 22 through October 24. Check the Secretary of State website for details in order to file on time. -
Michigan counties are activating annual frost laws to protect roads
Published on March 25, 2014
Weight restrictions and reduced speed limits for heavy vehicles help protect roads from damage during spring thaw. -
Financing capital investments, capital improvement program: Part 3
Published on March 21, 2014
Usually the wish list of things to build, repair, and replace is longer than the cash on hand for government to do. So consideration is given to various different financing options, reviewed in this article. -
Prioritizing capital investments; capital improvement program: Part 2
Published on March 21, 2014
Selecting which capital investments are made is an important part of a government’s capital improvement program. Rarely can one afford to do everything so setting priorities is critical. -
No health insurance? It may cost you
Published on March 20, 2014
There are penalties for not signing up for health insurance. -
Spending bill for road fixes doesn’t address long-term funding problems
Published on March 20, 2014
Legislature passes spending bill to fix roads, but long-term solution to transportation funding is still elusive.