Displaying items by tag: Michigan Municipal League
‘Substantial and far-reaching:’ Federal proposal to change some metropolitan areas’ status could jeopardize crucial funding and economic development
Several Michigan communities are at risk of losing crucial federal funding under proposed changes to their designation as metropolitan areas, which local officials say would negatively affect services and economic development efforts.
Michigan cities face $250M gap from lower income taxes
In Michigan’s 24 cities with local income taxes, work from home restrictions this past year that are still largely in place for office workers have caused multi-million-dollar budget gaps.
Advocates back infrastructure, talent development, child care spending in Whitmer’s proposed budget
Two statewide advocacy groups representing municipalities support Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s latest proposed budget that includes spending to cover income tax revenue gaps, increased revenue sharing and infrastructure investments.
Municipal leaders call on state lawmakers for ‘community stabilization plan’
Municipal officials from across Michigan are calling on state lawmakers to pass bills they say would provide certainty and continuity in the face of revenue declines stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic.
West Michigan cities weigh policy changes to bolster affordable housing
West Michigan cities are examining new policies to expand affordable housing and create a supportive environment for developers as studies show an ongoing need for more units.
Local officials continue to seek billions in direct federal budget aid
A coalition of Michigan local officials is calling on the Trump administration to back additional direct budget aid for municipalities in the next federal stimulus package, maintaining their months-long appeal to avoid a lasting recession.
Whitmer vetoes property tax deferment bills
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer vetoed two bills that would have effectively deferred summer property tax payments to relieve struggling businesses and property owners during the pandemic.
Kildee, Upton push $50.5B federal aid package for small businesses
Two Michigan congressmen behind legislation that would create a $50.5 billion relief fund for small businesses nationwide hope to get it included in the next federal aid package that may come before Congress this summer.
Legislation would bring property tax relief, raising concerns for local governments
State lawmakers will consider a bill this week that waives penalties for property owners who defer payments on their summer property tax bills because of hardships caused by the coronavirus pandemic.
Longer recession predicted without federal support for state, local budgets
University of Michigan researchers told state officials at this month’s revenue estimating conference they anticipate a gradual economic recovery in the next few years, resulting in an unemployment rate of 6.8 percent by the end of 2022.