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March 2010

Capital Conference Hosts “Off the Record” with Tim Skubick
Lansing’s top political pundits will take center stage April 13 for a live debate inspired by the weekly public TV series “Off the Record.” Early bird ends March 15!

Receive E-Mail Notice When A New Post is Published to MML Blogs
Did you know you can get regular e-mails about what the League is doing to help communities? Find out how easy it is to set up e-mail notifications here>

Michigan Municipal League CEO on Generational Divide
AnnArbor.com calls MML CEO Dan Gilmartin’s talk at Concentrate Media’s speaker series "a startling revelation about the content of a city’s populace . . ."

Services Grants Available Through Partnership for Change Program
More than $250,000 in professional services and technical assistance grants is available through the League-developed Partnership for Change Program.

Michigan Municipal League Backs Legal Notices Online
Allowing communities to publish legal notices online is not only a significant cost savings for communities, but increases the transparency of government.

Detroit Freep Echoes MML Pleas to Help Michigan Communities
This editorial is spot-on and echoes the Michigan Municipal League's message about investing in communities to turn the state around. More on MML’s vision>

Port Communities Workshop at Capital Conference, April 13-14
“Coming Soon to a Great Lakes Port Near You,” is a Capital Conference workshop for local officials on the Great Lakes. Register by March 15 for the early bird rate.

Transportation Funds Restored Through 2010, MML Goes to D.C.
Congress is expected to extend federal transportation funding through 2010, a relief for locals that have been operating under only short-term funding guarantees.

Marquette Named “Fan Favorite” in National Contest
Marquette won the 2010 Dozen Distinctive Destinations "Fan Favorite" award in a national online contest by taking more than 30 percent of the country's votes!

MML Foundation Receives Energy Grant to Aid 36 Communities
$58,296 in energy grant funding was awarded to the Michigan Municipal League Foundation to help 36 communities in Michigan with energy-efficiency efforts.

New Climate Plan Grants Include MML Green Communities Challenge
$250,000 in grant funding is available for communities developing local climate action plans; MML's Green Communities Challenge approved as a tool for this grant

Special Session on PA 312 Reform at Capital Conference, April 13-14
Join us for "Public Act 312: The Battle Rages On" at Capital Conference to learn about efforts to reform this antiquated law. Register by March 15 for the early bird rate

Public Act 312 Reforms Should Consider Cities' Financial Condition
The League is lobbying against a Senate-passed bill to amend Public Act 312 because it leaves out a key reform ingredient communities want . . .

Find a Form-Based Codes Workshop Near You, 7 Locations in April Communities across the country are looking better and working smarter thanks to form-based codes. Learn more at a seminar near you! Details & registration>

Membership Training on Medical Marijuana Law, March 26 in Lansing
Join us for a panel discussion about the new and largely untested medical marijuana law and the far-reaching implications it will have on municipalities.

February 2010

The League Testifies Before House Committee on Transportation Budget
The League's testimony at a recent House committee meeting stressed the need for a transportation budget that invests in all aspects of the transportation system.

Listen to ‘Prosperity Agenda’ Radio Show about Investing in Transit
Listen to this week's “Michigan Prosperity Agenda” radio on News/Talk 760 WJR here. The show, hosted by the League, offers insights on investing in transit.

Finalists Selected in Statewide Art Contest, Vote Online Today!
The Let's Save Michigan-Detroit Institute of Arts Poster Contest is down to 60 finalists. Which poster offers the best path for rebuilding our cities? Vote for your favorite!

The League’s Green Communities Secure Federal Funding
More than $2.5 million in stimulus money has gone to Michigan communities that are part of the Michigan Municipal League’s Green Communities Challenge.

Grants Available to Help Nonprofit Arts Organizations
Grants are now available to help nonprofit art organizations develop opportunities for adults and children in the areas of literary, visual, music and performing arts.

Critics Say PA 312 Arbitration Bill ‘Hollow’ Without Amendment
This article quotes the League and explains that the plan to reform Public Act 312 is thin without some changes suggested by Sen. Bruce Patterson (R-Canton Twp).

Michigan House to Have Statewide Meetings to Discuss Road Budget
Three public hearings around the state will explore a 5-year plan on Michigan road construction projects. The projects are expecting delays due to financial shortfalls.

Michigan Communities Could Save Money With Public Notices
Michigan communities could save money with legislation introduced Feb. 17 that would allow them to issue public notices online instead of in print publications.Sign Online

Petition to Secure More Road Funding
The Michigan Transportation Team (MTT) recently announced an online petition drive for citizens who are tired of driving on pothole-riddled streets. Sign the petition.

Flint and Mayville, Mich. Receive Grants to Improve Energy Programs
The cities of Flint and Mayville, Mich. have been awarded energy improvement grants by the U.S. Department of Energy. A total of 43 grants were distributed under the American Recover Act to improve the nation’s energy security.

MI Complete Streets Workshop at Capital Conference, April 13-14
You Complete My Streets will focus on project planning that uses transportation to build a desirable community. Register by March 15 for the early bird rate.

Sen. Levin Announces $25 Million in Federal Funding for Detroit Light Rail
Detroit is $25 million closer to a light rail line connecting downtown to the New Center thanks to a Recovery Act grant announced by U.S. Sen. Carl Levin.

Learning to Lead in Environment and Energy
“Environment & Energy Epprentice Experience” was a leadership program where teams brainstormed solutions to challenges facing the energy industry.

MML and Partners Host Michigan Gubernatorial / Legislative Debates
Great Debates 2010, hosted by the League and partners, will offer an in-depth look at candidates for governor and important House and Senate seats.

New League Service Cuts Telecom Costs for Michigan Communities
The League’s new telecommunications service helps MML members save money without dealing with phone companies; there are no upfront costs or risk!

Holland, Mich. Ranks Second on National 'Happiest Place' List
Holland is the 2nd happiest place in the U.S. according to a national poll that asked 350,000 people about their jobs, health and finances.

SPUR Studios Gives Boost to Ypsilanti’s Creative Economy
League writer Jennifer Eberbach describes SPUR Studios, a fun social “office,” where artists store their materials and play their music loud. More>

Governor Proposes Budget; Senate Passes Hollow Reform Bills
It’s been a busy couple days in Lansing! The League's blog takes you inside the Capitol with our lobbying staff for timely updates on the state budget and PA 312.

Michigan Municipal League Hosts Two Events on City Revitalization
“We need jobs” is the mantra of many when it comes to improving Michigan’s economy. So why should we care about cities? Simple - vibrant cities create jobs.

PBS Special: Motor City Faces Transportation Crossroads
The League believes Monday night’s PBS special brought some attention to the need for road funding. Watch this clip from the PBS Web site and join in the discussion.

Time Magazine Blog Highlights Let's Save Michigan Movement
A Time magazine blog writes about Sean Mann and the Let's Save Michigan campaign, which is supported by the League.

Lathrup Village Officials Walk Snow with Dan Burden; Workshop Friday
Wednesday (Feb. 10, 2010) was a “snow” day for many, but for Michigan Municipal League staff and others, it was a day for touring the snow-covered streets of Lathrup Village for a walking audit with Dan Burden, who is leading a walkability workshop today in Lansing.

Register for Walkability Workshop with Dan Burden, Feb. 12 in Lansing
Walkability expert Dan Burden is working with three local communities and the League (event photos) this week. Register for his final workshop, Feb. 12 in Lansing.

Vote for Marquette in National Competition
Marquette needs your vote in a national competition to be named "Fan Favorite" on the list of 2010’s Dozen Distinctive Destinations! Vote here!

Behind the Scenes with the League’s Board of Trustees
In January, the board heard from Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop and advanced the League’s role in addressing health care reform, foreclosure and more

.MML Trustee and Lansing Mayor Runs for Governor
Virg Bernero, Michigan Municipal League board member and Lansing mayor, kicked off his campaign for the Democratic nomination for governor Feb. 8 in Detroit.

The Future of Michigan's Cities Still Shortchanged, says editorial
This Detroit Free Press (Feb. 7) editorial speaks to healthy central cities - what economists call "place." To attract college graduates, Michigan must invest in cities.

League CEO Says Michigan Communities Embrace Climate
The Grand Rapids Press quotes League CEO about how places in Michigan are competing with warmer states despite the cold. Read more>

Could New Investments in Rail be the Start of a Train Boom in MI?
Proponents of rail travel — either high speed rail between states, or light rail trains in cities, or commuter rail lines connecting close cities — say that trains improve people’s quality of life; trains are good for the environment because they take cars off the road; and, building rail infrastructure can create new jobs. Read more>

‘Prosperity Agenda’ Radio Show Debuted on WJR; Listen Here
A new radio show that challenges listeners to help make Michigan better made its debut last week on News Talk 760 WJR. If you missed it, you can listen here>

League Urges Senate Committee to Reform Binding Arbitration Law
The League told a Senate committee Jan. 27 that a community's ability to pay should be a key factor guiding arbitrators' binding decisions in contract disputes.

Governor Granholm to Push Reform Plan in State of the State Address
In her eighth and final State of the State address, Gov. Jennifer Granholm is poised to go out with a bang. While her staff is hush-hush about the contents of her speech tonight, she ignited a few fireworks last week by disclosing several points of her reform plan for Michigan.

125 Michigan Communities Get $17.4 million in Energy Grants
$17.4 million in grants has been awarded to 125 Michigan communities to support local energy efficiency projects. The grants were awarded as part of the Recovery Act.

Municipalities Have Questions About Medical Marijuana Rules
The "Medical Marihuana Act" went into effect on December 4, 2008, but there are many unanswered questions regarding the regulation of medical marijuana.

Ann Arbor to Detroit Rail Could be Operating by Year-End
An effort to link Ann Arbor and Detroit with a commuter train is inching toward reality. Officials are optimistic some trains could be running by year-end! For more on the League's efforts, visit Get Michigan Moving.

Join us April 13-14 for Capital Conference, Lansing!
Experience Lansing at the height of legislative activity and prepare your community for statewide budget reform. Register by March 15 for early bird rate!

January 2010

Why Do You Choose Michigan? Your Answer Could Win Vacation
A new website was recently launched to promote Michigan as a great place to live. By telling your story, you could win a vacation package. Enter here.

Shiawassee River Key to Community, Economic Development
Tom Cook, Owosso City Council, 1/22/2010

Detroit’s Midtown District Booming; Area Revived With Jobs, Housing
Six Detroit neighborhoods that make up Detroit's "Midtown" have steadily improved and, in some pockets, boomed. An estimated 3,200 new residents moved in.

Bills to Provide Local Fiscal Flexibility Pass House Committee!
Fiscal flexibility bills passed a House committee 9-0 last week! MML president, staff and officials from Standish and Rogers City testified in support.

A Scholarship Opportunity to League's EOA Core Weekender
Through the Tim Doyle Scholarship Fund, we are providing 15 free registrations. Please answer and submit the questions below and we will notify you if you have been selected to receive a complimentary registration! More:

Call to Action Resonates at Let's Save Michigan/DIA Event
Residents were inspired to take a leading role in revitalizing the state at a recent Let's Save Michigan/DIA event. Depression era art illustrated the campaign’s message.

League Trains Newly Elected Officials from 15 Communities
Newly elected officials from 15 Michigan communities received leadership training at a recent workshop hosted by the League in Huntington Woods.

Michigan Municipal League Offers Broadband and Census Workshops
Register now for workshops being offered in February that will provide information and strategies on broadband funding and the U.S. Census.

Michigan Cities to Receive $223 Million for Neighborhoods
The Michigan State Housing Development Authority has received $223 million to assist several Michigan cities in rebuilding their neighborhoods.

Want to Install LED Lights? State Agency Works to Help Save Money
A state agency is ordering 15 electric utilities in Michigan to take steps toward properly charging communities that use energy-efficient LED lighting.

Lansing Looks to Make Walking More Accessible
What makes a city walkable is about more than sidewalks and trails. It's about the way a city is built, the look and feel of the streets, about what there is to walk to.

Retail Recovery: Communities Take Action Webinar Jan. 14, 2:00-3:30 pm
Learn the incentives and marketing techniques that will position your community to benefit from the retail comeback.

Spots Still Open for League’s Public Employment Law Seminar Jan. 20
Municipalities continue to experience levels of financial loss because of errors in employment situations. But a full-day seminar hosted by the League will help.

League Offers Workplace Safety Seminars Feb. 9 & 10, Lansing
Attend these full-day seminars and learn to eliminate injury on work sites and protect your community’s reputation for being safe and effective.

The Livable Winter Community
Winter communities must become more livable to compete with their southern counterparts in today's global market, the CEO of Winter Cities Institute explains . . .

Legislature Reports Costs of Government Mandates
The League examines the findings of a survey League members shared in last fall to help lawmakers determine the costs of local government mandates.

League Members Receive Federal Grants for Downtown Improvements!
Congratulations to the eleven Michigan communities awarded federal grants to develop their downtowns, parks and streetscapes!

Winter Festivals Maintain Momentum in the Off-Season
Communities turn up the heat with winter festivals and activities in the off-season. These cultural events put the fun back into our lives when we need it the most!

Legislative Win! New Law Allows Mobile Home Safety Inspections A new public act trumps previous state law which did not permit local governments to inspect mobile home rentals for safety without a complaint.

We Can All Do Our Part to Help Save Michigan
Add this to your list of 2010 to-do's. The "Let's Save Michigan" group is asking residents ring in the new year by making small pledges to help rebuild the state.

A Word from the League’s Legal Team About Snowmobiles An article in the winter issue of The Review magazine examines a trial court case regarding snowmobile operations within city limits.

Building a Sense of Place in Winter, Executive Director's Message Winter. How do you feel about it? Winter is something that people in our state have grown to love, learned to tolerate, or come to dread . . .

Seeking Nominations for 2010 Clerk of the Year AwardHonor your outstanding municipal clerk! Submit nominations for the 2010 Clerk of the Year Award to the state clerks association by March 15.

The League Offers Webinar Series for Officials in 2010
No travel, no hassle - Register now for the 2010 Elected Official Virtual Leadership Series to learn and network without leaving the office!

Poster Contest Aims to Turn Michigan Around
The "Let's Save Michigan" campaign needs posters that will inspire so the DIA and the League are sponsoring a poster contest with a $1,000 top prize.

December 2009

Join the League in Welcoming New Communications Director
Matt Bach will specialize in coordinating the League's strategic communications and implementing new initiatives to promote Michigan communities.

Flushing, Clio, Others Find Frugal Ways to Celebrate Holidays
There may be less in their stockings this holiday season thanks to declining property taxes and revenue sharing, but communities still found ways to get festive.

Officials Can Serve on Local Boards if Governor Signs Bill into Law
Current law bars elected officials from serving on local boards. An exception to this law passed the Legislature and awaits the governor’s signature.

The League Secures Amendment to Protect Future Revenue Sharing
The Michigan House passed several bills that would guarantee a portion of any sales tax revenues increases go to fund the Pure Michigan campaign.

Capital Conference Registration to Start Jan. 13; Event is in April
Registration for the League’s annual Capital Conference starts Jan. 13. Go here for details, online registration and the agenda at a glance.

Local Governments Can Now Inspect Mobile Home Rentals
A bill allowing local governments to inspect mobile home rentals when there is a complaint passed the state House and Senate today.

Poster Contest Seeks to Inspire Michiganders
Proponents of a poster contest to inspire Michiganders say creating attractive cities is the key to turning around the state's economy.

Transit Blog: Riding the Money Train by Chris Hackbarth
Chris recently traveled the Amtrak Blue Water line from East Lansing to Chicago with lawmakers and transit experts. Hear about his trip at Get Michigan Moving.

League Urges Congressional Leaders to Invest in Infrastructure
The League has sent Michigan’s congressional leaders a letter asking that infrastructure spending be a priority in any jobs package. Read the letter and more.

Urge Lawmakers to Stop Another Unfunded Mandate!
A bill that would create another unfunded mandate could see action on the House floor Thursday. Please contact your legislators and tell them no more unfunded mandates! Click here for talking points and lawmaker contact information.

Detroit Council Woman and League Activist Will Be Missed
Among her many accomplishments, Erma Henderson organized Women in Municipal Government for the Michigan Municipal League and the National League of Cities.

Lawmakers Support Walkable Neighborhoods and Communities
A new resolution by House lawmakers promoting active infrastructure for walking and biking would help communities provide healthy living options downtown.

Free Audioconference on Health Care Reform & Cities 12/17 @ Noon
Register online for a free audioconference on the current state of the health care debate and discuss key provisions in the pending bills.

Let's Save Michigan Effort Led by Detroit's Sean Mann
League welcomes new grassroots effort inspiring Michiganders to advocate on policies that will help cities toward a diverse 21st century economy.

League Backs Legislation to Protect Police and Fire Jobs
At the League's press conference (Dec. 8), local leaders supported a common sense amendment to Public Act (PA) 312 that would protect public safety jobs.

MI. Green Communities Challenge Expands with Two New Partners
A statewide initiative challenging Michigan communities to go green already has nearly 70 communities. The addition of two new partners promises even more growth!

Training for Newly Elected Michigan Officials Big Success
Newly elected officials from 64 Michigan communities attended Newly Elected Officials Training, a series of sessions on effective leadership. More>

Ontonagon Wins $10,000 Grant!
With your help, Ontonagon won a $10,000 community playscape improvement grant! The community will now enjoy new playground amenities, including basketball hoops, picnic tables, benches and more!

The League Recognized by the National League of Cities
The National League of Cities has recognized The Michigan Municipal League for its Community Excellence Award program. The NLC Monday (Nov. 23) posted an article about MML’s awards program on its site.

About $280 Million Coming for Transportation Projects
The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced the availability of $280 million for urban transit projects such as streetcars, buses and bus facilities.

Check Out Our Updated Center for 21st Century Communities Website!
We hope that you enjoy the added blog feature. The site will continue to focus on the 8 assets that we have identified as critical for sustainable, vibrant 21st century communities!

Advocacy Webpage Offers Background on Revenue Sharing
Includes Department of Treasury information, background papers and estimates on FY 2009-10 revenue sharing payments under SB 245 and more.

Michigan Green Communities Challenge; Sign up Now
All Michigan communities are eligible to complete the Basic Challenge, a program designed to reflect the governing body’s commitment to adopt policies and programs of energy efficiency and conservation. If a community decides to accept the Basic Challenge, its governing board must pass a resolution indicating its desire to participate.

"Michigan Main Streets are Alive!"
Check out this video done by the Michigan Main Street program to see how people are discovering the variety, uniqueness and fun, right in their home towns while discovering the power of keeping their dollars in their communities.

November 2009

FCC Sets Cell-Tower Siting Limits
The Federal Communications Commission has voted unanimously to adopt an order on a tower siting "shot clock" petition filed by the industry. While the full text is yet to be released, the order sets deadlines within which a local government must act on wireles applications.

Hills Staffer Geinzer Lauded in Lansing for Green Thinking
The Michigan Municipal League is a strong proponent of green initiatives. Here’s one of those initiatives highlighted in the Observer & Eccentric’s Web site, Hometownlife.com.

Two Thumbs Up: Make Public Safety a Budget Priority
Detroit News, 11/05/09
"The budget Michigan has now is fundamentally flawed. The status quo is not working. The first duty of government is to protect its citizens. It's time for a dramatic new approach, and the best place to start is by making public safety budget priority No. 1."

PA 312 and PA 7 Reforms: Hope on the Horizon
With continued cuts in state revenue sharing and declining property values, local units of government are looking for ways to cut costs and cooperate with other communities. Unfortunately Lansing is standing in the way...

Governor Signs FY 2009-10 General Government Budget, Promises to Continue Fighting for Revenue Sharing
Governor Granholm Friday signed the FY 2009-10 general government budget, which includes funding for revenue sharing...

Tipping Fee / Solid Waste Surcharge is Back!
Two of Three New Bills Pass Committee Suddenly
Less than 24 hours after the House of Reps. reintroduced a bill package to create a $7.50 per ton recycling/waste diversion surcharge, two of the three bills were adopted in committee...

Rally for Revenue Sharing: Chants Still Echo at the Capitol
NO-MORE-CUTS was the chant billowing out from the Capitol Building steps this afternoon as a mass of community officials and public safety officers rallied for legislators and the governor to restore revenue sharing cuts.

Census: 'Brain Gains' for High-Tech Cities
Associated Press, 10/28/09
What does Texas--with its 16 different breeds of poisonous snakes and a botched auto industry--have on Michigan? It is among a handful of states benefiting from the surge of college graduates passing up manufacturing centers and former hotspots in the Southwest in favor of life in urban, high-tech meccas . . .

A Time to Give Back
Lathrup Village TimeBank wins statewide award for innovation by Southfield Sun
Nearly two years after its inception, the Lathrup Village TimeBank earned statewide recognition from the Michigan Municipal League for excellence and innovation . . .

Escaping the Sea of Retail Sameness
The Michigan Main Street Center at MSHDA has just released a new video which focuses on how Main Street is the heart and soul of a community and that we need to support local businesses in order to create and sustain vibrant downtowns. Take a look!

Michigan Communities Named 2009 Great Places in America
American Planning Association Recognizes Ann Arbor, Charlevoix and Traverse City
Ann Arbor and Traverse City downtown streets and East Park in Charlevoix are featured in the APA's Great Places in America 2009! Read more . . .

Two Thumbs Up: Rival budget views are not mutually exclusive
Michigan's leading (and unified) business groups call for "reforms" but not budget "cuts." Read more . . .

Walt Sorg Interviews Arnold Weinfeld on Downtowns Conference
Decreasing tax bases and state revenue sharing is putting a double-pinch on local government services . . .

Film Industry Seeks Michigan Sites for Upcoming Projects
Location, Location, Location!
Benefit from Hollywood exposure! The movie industry is looking for locations to film upcoming projects - Click here to check out "locations needed" and submit pictures.

We Love Bling – League Wins MSAE Diamond Awards!
Legislative Link wins best association e-News and mml.org takes gold place in website division at the Society of Association Executives Diamond Awards...

How to Save Michigan's Local Communities
These are jolting examples of why reform to control costs is a must. The League is working with legislators to draft important changes that will result in more cost-efficient services and preservation of quality of life . . .

League CEO and Walt Sorg Cover Revenue Sharing & More
Dan Gilmartin, League executive director and CEO, on the air about revenue sharing, saying proposed cuts would be disastrous; the State needs to do more than simply manage the decline . . .

Urge Governor to Veto Revenue Sharing Cuts
Call the Governor: (517) 373-3400
The House and Senate passed the general government budget which drastically cuts revenue sharing. Click here for your legislators' votes.

The League Announces New President, NEW Vice President, and Six New Board of Trustees
Great things are happening at the League! Please join us in welcoming our new president, new vice president, and six new Board of Trustees.

Joint Committee Cuts Revenue Sharing by 11.1 % for FY 2009-10
A joint House and Senate conference committee today approved a revenue sharing cut of 11.1 percent to the combined constitutional and statutory amounts for FY 2009-10. Click here to see specific cuts to your community's revenue sharing.

State Issues RFP for EECBG Program for Michigan Non-Entitlement Communities
The EECBG RFP for non-entitlement communities is now available online, click here. Please also note that the LED demonstration grants are available for entitlement communities as well.

Energy Block Grant Webinars
Get an update on current program activities and a preview of key next steps going forward at any one of three webinars being held this week by the U.S. Department of Energy on the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant Program.

Supreme Court Rules for Grand Ledge in Critical Water Rate Case
The Michigan Supreme Court has ruled that, except for the largest systems, municipal water systems providing water to retail customers outside of their boundaries are not required to provide that water at its “actual cost”. More...

The League Welcomes Two New Professionals
The League recently hired a project coordinator, Sean Mann, and legislative associate, Chris Hackbarth . . .

Michigan is Awarded Nearly $20 Million by DOE for Energy Efficiency and Conservation Projects
DOE has announced that Michigan will receive $19,599,600 in EECBG funding. Most of the funding will be available to Michigan communities on a competitive grant basis by application to the state Bureau of Energy Systems.

Forty-Two Communities to Be Recognized at Convention
As of August 27,2009, forty-two communities have enrolled in the Michigan Green Communities Challenge, a step-by-step program designed to provide Michigan communities a template for implementing energy efficiency and conservation practices. More...

Special Delivery to Legislators: History Channel's "The Crumbling of America” Featuring Michigan Roads
Legislators today will receive the History Channel's The Crumbling of America DVD from the Michigan Transportation Team (MTT) . . .

Would You Like to See Your Community Become More Vibrant?
One way to achieve this is to design communities that encourage physical activity, called active living communities. More...

Putting a Price on Walkability
A new CEO’s for Cities study suggests that homes in more walkable neighborhoods are worth more than their counterparts in less-walkable neighborhoods.

UPDATE: Detroit Regional Green Building Council Meeting Rescheduled
US Green Building Council (Detroit Regional Chapter) is planning a meeting for September 17, 9:00 - 11:00 a.m. to discuss LEED and the benefits of green building for municipalities.

Putting a Price on Walkability
A new CEO’s for Cities study suggests that homes in more walkable neighborhoods are worth more than their counterparts in less-walkable neighborhoods.

Video: Meet Freshman State Rep. Ellen Cogen Lipton (D-27)
Working as a patent attorney with start-up businesses and entrepreneurs, this freshman representative understands intellectual property and is here to help with Michigan's economic transformation . .

2009-2010 League Core Principles
Proposed policy changes recommended for adoption by the League Board of Trustees are available for membership review. The Board of Trustees will review the Principles at its September 22nd meeting and may revise the proposed language before submission to the membership at the Annual Meeting.

Despite Tough Times, Some See Opportunity in Detroit

Bad times offer big opportunity – National Public Radio features the story of Ryan Cooley and other artists, young professionals and risk-takers who are leading a mini-urban renewal in Detroit.

Mayors Find Common Ground
Alpena News, 8/13/09
They may be separated by 130 miles, but the mayors of Alpena and Bay City found a lot in common . . .

Renewable Funding Opportunities for Communities
This recently announced funding opportunity provides financial assistance for renewable energy installations for communities as a whole.

Brownfield Cleanup Program Redesign
Tell us what you think
The MDEQ is conducting meetings and soliciting feedback on the Brownfield Cleanup Program redesign . . .

Cheap Ways to Revitalize Your Downtown
Metromode highlights a quintet of local initiatives that are helping increase downtown vibrancy in their respective communities.

State Revenues are Declining Faster than the Economy is Shrinking
Our message is starting to stick: Michigan's antiquated tax system, NOT the economy, is largely responsible for the state’s ongoing budget problems . . .

Two Thumbs Up: Cities Turn to Facebook, Twitter to Get Message Out
Detroit Free Press, 8/02/09Digital socializing is cheap, but it can revive a sense of community almost overnight . . .

Video: Meet Freshman State Rep. Tim Bledsoe
Representing the 1st House District, Rep. Bledsoe talks about his legislative priorities, why he decided to take office and the kind of Michigan he wants . . .

Send a Letter on Transportation Funding
Just pick from our sample, editable letters to the editor and enter your zip code - our Action Center will take care of the rest . . .

Growing Michigan's Economy Through Place
"It's not just enough to develop new talent, you have to keep it. That becomes a question of quality of place." So says CEO's for Cities Carol Coletta as she prepares the monthly Model D speaker series to be held August 3rd at the College of Creative Studies in Detroit.

Ask Lawmakers: What Kind of Michigan Do We Want?
Weekly emails keep revenue sharing in front of lawmakers
The League challenges you to contact your lawmakers and help them realize the relationship between funding revenue sharing and Michigan's future. Email them today!

YouTube Videos Highlight Effects of Road Conditions
Drive Michigan's “FixMiRoads” YouTube channel features videos designed to encourage taxpayer involvement and urge lawmakers to increase funding for Michigan’s deteriorating infrastructure.