News
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Food trucks: Serving street food with a side of placemaking
Published on March 18, 2014
While placemaking is principally focused on creating public spaces with good form, where good form is lacking, attractions such as food trucks can contribute to place by attracting people, enlivening an area and stimulating other business activity. -
Counties in Northern Michigan continue the tradition of sharing and learning
Published on March 4, 2014
Northern Michigan county commissioners meet regularly to learn about and discuss issues that impact county government. -
Dental coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace
Published on February 28, 2014
There are two ways to get dental coverage through the Marketplace. -
Build better places today
Published on February 28, 2014
Tactical placemaking is a set of tools municipalities and community groups can use today to start building better places. -
Reading your Property Assessment notice
Published on February 25, 2014
2014 Assessment Notices have arrived! Be sure to look them over to make sure your local unit has the correct information and that you understand the taxable value of your property. -
Dental coverage for children
Published on February 24, 2014
Parents may purchase dental coverage through the Health Insurance Marketplace. -
Balancing one year’s government budget is just the start to long-term fiscal sustainability
Published on February 20, 2014
Often when red ink appears in government budgets the reaction is to make cuts and balance that year’s budget. But there are also strategies to incorporate for long-term fiscal sustainability – so future year budgets are also balanced. -
In disputes over zoning authority, follow the legislative intent test
Published on February 20, 2014
Absent an overarching statute exempting state owned land and buildings from zoning regulations, Michigan courts follow a test to determine legislative intent. In short, if there is no sign of legislative intent, local zoning prevails. -
Happy Birthday: 100th Anniversary of Smith-Lever Act and MSU Extension
Published on February 20, 2014
In 1914 the Smith-Lever Act was signed into federal law by President Woodrow Wilson. That created a national Extension system. -
Michigan County government revenues and spending since the Great Recession
Published on February 14, 2014
In response to financial challenges, county governments have adjusted spending and tried to maintain both critical public services and a reasonable level of reserves.