Education and Training

The Education & Training Program’s goal is to provide the tools and information that facilitate creative, new, and innovative approaches from counties to prosper in the constant changing structure of county government.

MAC 101

MAC 101 gives a summarized overview of what to expect from your membership with the MAC. You’ll explore the many valuable resources and services available to you.
Short course, developed by MAC.

ESTABLISHING A BROWNFIELD REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY (BRA)

This course describes what a Brownfield is and the six steps involved in establishing a BRA. Resources include sample documents.
Short course, developed by MAC, content contributed by Gabriel Zawadzki, Grant Services Program, MAC.

STATE BUDGET PROCESS AND APPROPRIATIONS

The objective of this course is to provide an overview of the state’s budget process, from the development of the governor’s Executive Budget Recommendations, through legislative action and final enactment of the budget, and how the MAC works on behalf of counties to influence the budget decision-making processes.

Short course, developed by MAC, content contributed by Deena Bosworth, former director of governmental affairs, and others.

MICHIGAN’S OPEN MEETINGS ACT

The spirit of Michigan’s Open Meetings Act dates back to the 1850 Michigan Constitution which stated, “The doors of each house shall be open, unless the public welfare requires secrecy.” The OMA outlines several practices that public bodies must follow in their process of deliberations. This course outlines the 15 sections of Public Act 267 and includes interactive scenarios that counties may encounter.

Short course, developed by MAC, content contributed by Julie Pioch, RP, Public Policy and Leadership Educator, Greening Michigan Institute, MSU.

COUNTY FINANCE 101 SERIES: INTRODUCTION TO GOVERNMENT FINANCE

The objective of this course is to provide a rational basis for local government decision-making in the context of a market-oriented society. This course will provide a foundation for understanding the principles of government finance. Look for additional topics in our series called County Finance 101.

Short course, developed by MAC, content contributed by Mark Skidmore, Ph.D., Professor, Agricultural, Food and Resource Economics, MSU.