Mt. Pleasant is one of 181. And that’s a good thing.
The City of Mt. Pleasant was recently recognized by the researchers at iLabs as one of 181 four-star communities contributing to Michigan’s entrepreneurial growth and economic development. The recognition appeared in the annual eCities report conducted each year by the researchers at iLabs, which is located at University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation Research.
In total, 277 communities from across 54 Michigan counties were analyzed on a range of factors, including five-year changes in property values, community assets, and tax rates. These factors can demonstrate the growth, investments, and cost of doing business within the community.
"While accounting for only about 15 percent of the cities and townships in Michigan, the 277 communities analyzed are home to 70 percent of the population and 85 percent of the state’s commercial property," says Tim Davis, director of iLabs.
"By analyzing these high-performing communities, our goal is to showcase what cities and townships are doing to spur growth and how we can continue to support their efforts in developing business and encouraging entrepreneurs."
The report determined that the recognized communities increased their capital assets by an average of two percent per year over the course of the five-year period from 2013 to 2017. This was a result of investments that include street and building improvements, technology, and emergency vehicles and equipment.
"Mt. Pleasant receiving this honor is evidence that our community continually strives to make comprehensive improvements in all facets. Every decision we make is geared towards growing our local economy," says Michelle Sponseller, Downtown Development Director.
"The increased level of investment to our commercial corridors is a reminder of this commitment by both our public and private leaders, alike."
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