UM-Dearborn’s iLabs’ eCities research recognizes Hartland for supporting business in their community

HARTLAND TOWNSHIP— Hartland has been recognized for its successes and efforts in contributing to Michigan’s entrepreneurial growth and economic development in the annual eCities study conducted by researchers at iLabs, University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation Research. Hartland was honored as a five-star community along with 110 other communities across the state.

“In Hartland, we are always striving to support new and existing businesses in our community,” says Hartland Planning Director Troy Langer. “With such an unexpected turn of events this past year, we were given an opportunity to partner with our local businesses in new and innovative ways. We’re so pleased that UM-Dearborn’s iLabs have recognized these initiatives in Hartland.”

During the COVID-19 crisis, Hartland Township focused efforts on backing their business community by finding creative ways to safely reopen.  Relaxing ordinances to allow businesses to utilize outdoor spaces for retail and dining was a top priority as restrictions were lifted in the Spring. Hartland was among the first municipalities in the state to seek out these changes, giving businesses all the tools they needed to succeed.

The 2020 eCities study analyzed publicly available data from 277 communities from 54 counties in Michigan. Researchers focused on the five-year changes in property values, community assets, and tax rates, which can demonstrate the growth, investments, and cost of doing business within the community. For example, over the five-year period of 2015-2019, these communities increased their capital assets by an average of 2.4 percent per year by investments such as library equipment, building, water, and sewage improvements, and street renovations, while property tax rates increased by less than 1 percent on average per year.

Although accounting for less than 20 percent of the State’s cities and townships, the 277 communities analyzed are home to 70 percent of Michigan’s population and 87 percent of the state’s commercial property. “Each year, the eCities project aims to highlight the successes and continued commitment of cities and townships to grow business and support entrepreneurship within their communities,” said Kari Kowalski, iLabs project manager.

For more information on UM-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation Research eCities study, visit http://www.umdilabs.com/ecities