Research and Engagement

A free, open-source tool designed by the University of Michigan's Ford School of Public Policy is now available to help local governments make financial data more accessible.

In March, CLOSUP released its second annual report analyzing the fiscal health of local Michigan governments. Using financial data reported to the State of Michigan in 2023, the researchers developed a set of indicators to look at cash, budgetary, long-term, and service solvency for counties, cities, villages, and townships in the state.

For more than 15 years, a statewide survey of local government officials has helped to garner the opinions, experiences and insights of thousands of public leaders. These efforts, in which MTA is a partner, glean important information to help inform public policy, navigate societal and political trends and implications, and gather details on local services and programs—keeping a finger on the pulse of key issues impacting our communities and our state.

For over a decade, MPPS has been a unique source of data to inform and improve policymaking—from local finances, COVID-19, election administration, local energy issues, and more. It is the only ongoing survey of all general purpose local governments across an entire state.

By developing a deeper understanding of the fiscal health and fiscal challenges of local governments in Michigan, CLOSUP aims to contribute toward greater transparency and early detection of signs of fiscal stress.

The CLOSUP Redistricting Project supported Michigan's first Independent Citizens Redistricting Commission through a combination of education, outreach to communities of interest, and analysis of public comment.

Student policy analysts work across CLOSUP's engaged research projects, and gain experience with community engagement, data analysis, survey research, and more.

To disseminate the latest policy-relevant academic knowledge, CLOSUP produces in-depth policy reports.

CLOSUP’s research conferences, seminars, workshops, and other events bring together researchers and students from across the university, as well as other scholars, policymakers, and practitioners to address and inform critical policy issues.