We Love Where You Live

On this week's Live with the League grab bag, we’ll be covering the recently concluded CapCon 2026, a conference at the National League of Cities, some election bill updates, and—of course—everyone's favorite topic: housing. 

We're focusing on the housing bills recently introduced in the Michigan Legislature, including the MI Home Program (now House Bills 5660 and 5661). The housing discussion will continue in Lansing on March 10 during our general session at CapCon 2026. In the meantime, be sure to show your support for the MI Home Program! 

 A Michigan architect describes his life, professional career, and what made him ultimately choose to settle in Negaunee—winner of the 2025 Community Excellence Award. 

Our State & Federal Affairs team gives an update on the recently introduced housing package, plus a call to action for our members, conversations around preemption, and what all this could mean for local government. Also, a breakdown of Governor Whitmer's newly released budget recommendation and what communities should be watching as that process moves forward. 

Today we focus on what's happening at the Capitol and what it means for communities across Michigan: campground legislation and energy policy, drones, property tax reform conversations, and a quick note on an upcoming primary election. 

The League’s intern, Jack Brady, discusses how Michigan can reverse the flight of Generation Z from the state. 

League intern Jack Brady discusses why young people who grew up in Michigan are choosing to build their adult lives elsewhere. 

There's a ton to discuss this week! We preview the upcoming Capital Conference in Lansing, especially useful for first-time attendees; shine a spotlight on the Michigan Funding Hub and how it can support your community’s funding strategy; finally, a legislative update covering recent rulings, revenue updates, and a look ahead to Governor Whitmer’s final State of the State address. 

Agnes Krahn, League communications associate, reflects on the value of connected communities—places that encourage you to put that screen down and get out into the real world. 

We’re hitting the ground running in 2026 with a conversation between League Executive Director and CEO Dan Gilmartin and our new Board President, Josh Atwood, Commissioner of Lapeer. We then shift gears and talk about key legislative priorities this year, and what communities should be watching as the session in Lansing gets underway.