Budgets & Public Spending
9 storiesDepending on the question, reporting uses budget breakdowns, spending analysis, audit explainers and capital-plan updates, with department funding and taxpayer cost impacts recurring across the beat. Budgets & Public Spending places each development in a durable record rather than an isolated headline.
SMART to Add New Bus Routes Across Wayne County After Millage Approval
SMART will launch new bus routes and service improvements in Wayne County after voters approved a 10-year transit millage expected to generate at least $570 million for regional transportation upgrades
County Governments Face Tough Choices in Emergency Response
As the Aspen Acres Fire put Pueblo County's emergency systems to the test, the realities of county budgeting and public accountability became clear, highlighting how local governments must balance resources and make visible tradeoffs
Michigan Approves $50M Grant for Copperwood Mine in Upper Peninsula
The Michigan Strategic Fund has awarded $50 million in state grants for land and road improvements at the proposed Copperwood Mine in Gogebic County, aiming to revive the region's economy despite ongoing environmental concerns and public opposition.
Lafayette Cancels City Council Election, Appoints Three Members
Lafayette, California will not hold a City Council election this November after only three candidates filed for three open seats. The city council appointed all three, saving at least $48,000 in election costs and ensuring uninterrupted leadership.
Cheshire Schedules Public Hearing on 2026-27 Capital Budget
Cheshire residents can weigh in on the Town Manager's proposed capital budget for fiscal year 2026-27 at a public hearing set for August 26 at Town Council Chambers. The council will vote on the budget following the hearing.
Cloud Security Gaps Challenge Local Governments Adopting New Systems
Local governments are moving finance operations to cloud-based ERP systems, but experts warn that misconfigurations and overlooked security practices can leave sensitive data at risk despite modern technology.
Michigan Schools Receive $224M for Repairs, But Billions Still Needed
Michigan awarded $224 million to 31 school districts for urgent building repairs, but a recent study found public schools statewide need $22.8 billion to address aging infrastructure by 2033
Oakland County Approves $1.5M for Ferndale Planned Parenthood Clinic
Oakland County commissioners have allocated up to $1.5 million to support Planned Parenthood's Ferndale clinic, ensuring continued reproductive health services after closures in Livonia and Warren. The funding extends operations through August 2028.
Michigan Allocates $150M for One-Time Educator Bonuses in 2026
Michigan public schools will distribute $150 million in one-time bonuses to educators and staff this year, with amounts determined by local districts and unions. The payments aim to offset rising costs as leaders debate long-term solutions.