CLOSUP's Michigan Public Policy Survey findings about financial struggles of local governments appear in news outlets
Findings from a new Michigan Public Policy Survey (MPPS) administered by the Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy (CLOSUP) have been published in a number of news sources.
The poll found that local governments in Michigan are having a tough time balancing their 2011 budget, and anticipate even more difficulty in 2012. As explained in the report, local managers are challenged in the budgeting process because of declines in revenue from property taxes, decreases in state aid, and increases in the number of home foreclosures.
Though 48 percent of jurisdictions report they are struggling to meet financial goals, according to CLOSUP, the trend might be easing. The MPPS report also shows that the number of municipalities having difficulty has decreased over the last two years. "Clearly for most jurisdictions, the worst is not over," Tom Ivacko, CLOSUP's told the Associated Press. "But for others, it looks like fiscal health is stabilizing or even improving."
Media coverage:
- Detroit News
- Chicago Tribune
- Michigan Radio, the local NPR station
- Canadian Business
- WILS 1320am Lansing: Tony Conley Morning Show