Local Government Policy and Practice: An MSU Extension Series

Whether you're an elected official, administrator, planner, or community stakeholder, this series connects you with MSU Extension’s resources to support informed decision-making and community vitality.

This monthly webinar series highlights the diverse expertise within Michigan State University Extension that supports local governments across Michigan. Each session will feature a different MSU Extension unit or center, offering insights, tools, and research to help public sector leaders strengthen their communities.

2026 Schedule

Webinars will take place on the 3rd Thursday of each month, from 12 - 1 p.m. ET on Zoom

January 15 – Center for Local Government Finance and Policy

February 19 - MSU Extension Tourism 

March 19 - Institute for Public Utilities

April 16 – Center for Economic Analysis

May 21 – State and Local Government Finance and Policy

June 18 - MSU Extension Good Governance

August 20 - Center for Local Government Finance and Policy

September 17 - MSU Extension Land Use

October 15 - Institute for Public Utilities

November 19 – Center for Economic Analysis

Who should attend: Elected and appointed officials, local government staff, community members, and anyone interested in learning more about issues impacting local government in Michigan. 

Featured MSU Extension Centers and Programs: 

Institute for Public Utilities (IPU) - IPU supports informed and effective regulation of essential services such as electricity, natural gas, water, and broadband. Its applied research and educational forums help regulatory professionals strengthen technical capacity and address today’s most pressing infrastructure challenges.

Center for Local Government Finance and Policy - The Center works with communities to improve fiscal sustainability and the delivery of critical services that promote health, safety, and well-being. Through training, engagement, and applied research, the Center equips public officials to make sound, data-informed decisions.

Center for Economic Analysis (CEA) - The CEA provides science-based economic analysis and data to support industries, government entities, and researchers. Its work enhances understanding of how agriculture, natural resources, and community development activities contribute to Michigan’s economy.

Morris Chair in State and Local Government Finance and Policy - The Morris Chair advances research and outreach on public finance and its relationship to economic development. Focus areas include property taxation, regional growth, intergovernmental relations, and the economics of natural disasters.

Government and Community Vitality Programs

• Good Governance – Offers education for locally elected and appointed officials to build leadership capacity, strengthen stewardship of resources, and support effective local decision-making.
• Tourism – Assists communities in leveraging local assets to expand tourism, foster collaboration, and strengthen long-term community vitality.
• Land Use – Provides training and resources on planning, zoning, and environmental issues to help local leaders make informed land use and development decisions.

Cost: Free