MTA awards Robinson Scholarships to aspiring local leaders
MTA has awarded three individuals aspiring to careers in public service its 2023 Robert R. Robinson Memorial Scholarships. The annual award aims to encourage today’s students to seek future public service aspirations. Congrats to this year’s recipients!
Address Confidentiality Program is in effect
The new state Address Confidentiality Program (ACP) provides certain protections for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, human trafficking, or those who fear that disclosure of their physical address will increase the risk of harm. The program, administered by the Michigan Department of Attorney General, is now in effect. Because residential addresses are protected, […]
Urban and Community Forestry grants available
Townships can apply for Urban and Community Forestry grants to fund tree planting in their communities. Through the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the grants will provide reimbursement of $10,000 to $50,000 for projects that increase urban tree canopy cover, or improve community forest care and citizen engagement. Eligible activities include data collection, plan […]
New resource explores recruiting and retention for volunteer departments
The U.S. Fire Administration, with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, has released a new resource geared toward recruitment and retention in volunteer fire or emergency medical services (EMS) departments. “Recruitment and Retention for the Volunteer Emergency Services” is a 148-page comprehensive manual that shares necessary tools, strategies and insights to overcome recruitment obstacles and retain […]
See you at MTA’s Professional Development Retreats!
MTA’s popular retreats—geared toward your role in the township—take place this fall at The Highlands at Harbor Springs! Our retreats are two days filled with enriching, comprehensive classes and networking opportunities. See you there!
New interim rule expands eligible uses for ARPA funds
Townships that have not yet obligated their American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) allocation or that did not choose the standard allowance option to use up to $10 million for general government services now have a few more eligible uses for the funds. A new interim rule released by U.S. Treasury expands eligible ARPA uses to […]
Sample early voting agreements, plan available
Every municipality must conduct nine days of early voting for statewide and federal elections, beginning with the 2024 presidential primary. Template early voting agreements and early voting plans are available from the state Bureau of Elections. Find links on our “Proposal 2022-2 Implementation” webpage.
Gov. Whitmer signs FY 2024 state budget
The governor has provided final approval on the budget bill approved in June for the state’s Fiscal Year 2024 budget, an additional $6 billion in spending for the current fiscal year and approval of the Natural Resources Trust Fund projects. Among the budget highlights that impact townships include: $64 million over current year funding for […]
New MTA video shares ’10 Facts About Michigan Townships’
You know what they say … you can never learn too much about townships! Check out our “10 Facts About Michigan Townships” video where we share fun, informative material. From essential services that townships offer, to how much land Michigan townships govern and everything in between, even our most-seasoned township leaders may learn something new! […]
Solar PILT option now law
Local units now have the option to enter into a solar payment in lieu of taxes (PILT) agreement for a commercial solar energy facility or assess personal property taxes. Public Acts 108 and 109 of 2023 became effective on July 27 after being signed into law by the governor. The new law permits a township, […]