Michigan Municipal Leauge Review Magazine March/April 2023

Dave Hodgkins, Legislative Associate Started at MML: 2023 Issue Areas: elections, labor issues, and parks and recreation Fun Fact: My family has a pet gecko named Echo! Bio: I’m from Ionia but lived in the Lansing area for 12 years after attending Central Michigan University. Recently, my family moved to Mt. Pleasant where we love to stay active through sports and getting out into the community.

Favorite Big Ten school: Not Ohio State.

control, League staff was able to work in conjunction with the advocacy of our members, and once again successfully held off legislation that would have eroded the ability for municipalities to reasonably regulate short-term rentals. Building upon that, a coalition of organizations that included the League, completed an eight-year journey to pass legislation targeted at improving waste management, increasing recycling rates, accommodating for new forms of materials management, and prioritizing local input within the planning process. Finally, on an issue that is impacting communities across Michigan, the Legislature acted on a package of bills and expanded programs to allow local units of government to work with developers, builders, and nonprofits to rehabilitate and expand workforce housing in their area. As 2023 begins, and the new legislative session kicks off, there is a tremendous opportunity to build on the success of 2022. The League will continue to focus on issues that improve our communities, address structural issues within our municipal finance system, and protect local decision making so municipalities can create specific solutions to meet their individual needs. As legislators begin their work crafting policy and setting budget priorities, the League will continue to be a strong and consistent voice for local government. We will advocate for a bold vision that capitalizes on the economic value of thriving communities, advances equity, and builds community wealth. Working in partnership with leaders in Lansing, steps can be taken to modernize the systemic and structural constraints on local government, while simultaneously creating policy that supports a holistic and inclusive approach to expanding housing, business, and entrepreneurial opportunities.

Now is not the time to rest on the success of the last year, rather, we once again need to rise to the occasion, lift our collective voice, and maximize the moment! John LaMacchia is the director of state & federal affairs for the League. You may contact him at 517.908.0303 or jlamacchia@mml.org. Experience that defines capability

At ShifmanFournier,weprovideourclientswith law practice experience that truly understands the needs of municipal organizations. This includes theprocessof resolutionofgovernment challenges and policy implementation. Our capabilities specifically for labor and employment law provide our clients with well grounded advice and in-depth knowledge of the elements that go into quality representation. An unparalleled and unique firm that represent the interests of local governments.

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MARCH / APRIL 2023

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THE REVIEW

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