Communities across the Lakeshore region are navigating opportunities and decisions that shape community vitality, infrastructure and long-term growth. This bulletin is designed to help local government leaders quickly identify timely resources, funding opportunities and planning tools that support informed decision-making across the Lakeshore region. This month’s resources include placemaking funding, data-center planning tools, public-engagement guidance and recognition for local downtown investment.
Time-Sensitive Funding Opportunities
CED Corps Host Site Applications
- Who it’s for: Municipalities, nonprofits, land banks, and economic development organizations
- Deadline: September 7, 2026
- CEDAM is accepting host site applications for the inaugural CED Corps program. Selected host organizations will receive support from AmeriCorps members focused on housing development, zoning best practices, small business support, and community engagement initiatives. Review the host site packet and apply by September 7th.
Michigan Fire Equipment Grant Program
- Who it’s for: Local fire departments and eligible local units of government
- Deadline: September 30, 2026
- The Michigan Fire Equipment Grant Program is currently accepting applications. Communities may apply for grants of up to $50,000 to support fire service equipment and related needs. Visit the Michigan Department of Treasury page for more information and resources.
Housing News, Events, and Resources
Housing continues to be a key topic of interest to employers, local governments, and residents across the region and nation. This August, we have a collection of educational resources and training opportunities to strengthen our collective understanding of housing tools and resources, identify opportunities for growth, and guide future products from concept to completion.
National Association of Realtors Webinar: Transforming Neighborhoods
September 22 | Virtual
The National Association of Realtors, in partnership with the Counselors of Real Estate, are hosting a free webinar with information on the Transforming Neighborhoods program and timeline for the next round of applications. The program provides support to local communities and Realtor associations to research and identify strategies to revitalize downtowns, repurpose vacant or underutilized properties, and create lasting economic and community impact.
NCDA IDIS Basics Training and Certification Course
September 29-October 22 | Virtual
Seats are now available for members and non-members of the National Community Development Association to register for the Integrated Disbursement and Information System (IDIS) training course. A key part of the Community Development Block Grant process, the IDIS is required by HUD for recipients to prepare and submit plans, report accomplishments, and manage funds. Registration is $375 for members and $525 for non-members.
How to Finance Main Street Redevelopment Strategies Webinar
October 13 | Virtual
The free webinar on How to Finance Main Street Redevelopment in October will offer attendees a “How To” approach for funding critical infrastructure improvements and structuring tax credit deals to revitalize Main Streets. This event will also feature real-world examples of successful projects for inspiration.
National Council of State Housing Agencies Policy Briefs
Resource
The National Council of State Housing Agencies has released a collection of policy briefs and educational resources on the 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, passed by the federal government in July 2026. These resources include highlights on existing programs, key changes, funding opportunities, and other studies, reports, and best practices related to housing.
More Housing News, Events, and Resources
Regenerative Agriculture Investments
MDARD’s Regenerative Agriculture Program supports practices that improve soil health, strengthen farm resilience, and help producers reduce long-term operating costs. Recent efforts have included soil health assessments, programs, farmer education initiatives, and an innovative crop insurance pilot designed to support farmers implementing soil health practices.
Most recently, MDARD announced a new dairy grazing initiative aimed at helping beginning, small, and mid-sized dairy farms improve profitability while strengthening long-term farm viability.
Wastewater Infrastructure & PFAS
The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) recently hosted a webinar for local leaders focused on wastewater treatment systems and community infrastructure responsibilities. Key topics included wastewater permitting, available technical assistance resources, infrastructure planning considerations, and financing tools available through programs such as the State Revolving Fund. EGLE has made the webinar recording available for communities that were unable to attend.
Additionally, EGLE will host a webinar on September 17 focused on PFAS awareness, including community impacts, public education efforts, and actions local leaders can take to support residents.
RESOURCES:
- MiEnviro Portal: Sign In – MiEnviro Portal
- Surface Water Discharge Staff Map: NPDES-Surface-Water-Discharge-Staff
- Groundwater Discharge Staff Map: Groundwater Discharge Compliance Staff
- NPDES Program Web Page: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Permits
- Groundwater Program Web Page: Groundwater Discharge
- Part 41 Web Page: Part 41 Wastewater Construction Permits
- SRF Web Page: State Revolving Fund
Local Wins & Celebrations
City of Fennville Approves Downtown Workforce Housing Project
The Fennville City Commission recently approved Brownfield TIF support for Allen Edwin Homes’ Croswell Corners project in downtown Fennville. The less than half-acre site will be redeveloped to create six three-bedroom townhomes, half of which will be income restricted for workforce households earning 100% of the Area Median Income.
