Mixed messages, fading outlook among local leaders in annual Michigan Public Policy Survey

Officials cite concerns about financial and public health support in the ongoing response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Share on: Share on Twitter Share on Facebook Share on LinkedIn Michigan local government officials' attitudes about the direction of the state and the performances of the governor and the legislature have improved from last year, but remain more negative than positive. The 2020 Michigan Public Policy Survey gathered that information during April and May, through its census survey of 1,856 general purpose local governments throughout the state. The low approval numbers actually represent an increase in confidence over the 2019 survey; however, as the survey was being conducted, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic were hurting local governments-their unemployment numbers, tax revenues and stress on health resources. That was reflected in decreasing confidence over the weeks the survey proceeded. The Center for Local, State, and Urban Policy at the University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy conducts the MPPS every spring. Some of the 2020 survey's key findings: Statewide, nearly half (46%) of Michigan's local officials said the state has gotten off on the wrong track, while 39% said the state is generally going in the right direction, an improvement over assessments in 2019.