For the first time in decades, Kent County is luring more residents from Chicago than it is losing. That helps explain why it’s one of few areas of Michigan that is gaining population.
Business Watch
Covering the intersection of business and policy, and informing Michigan employers and workers on the long road back from coronavirus. Our Michigan Economic Dashboard shows key metrics that show how the state is performing.
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Michigan buyers ask: Where are the cars? Microchip shortage decimates inventory.
Maintain the car you have, experts say. Production slowdowns are picking up this summer as the global microchip shortage keeps squeezing the auto industry.
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From empty offices to housing? Michigan leaders support bill to fund shift
Cities statewide have sought to increase the number of people living in their downtowns. They see a new option now that empty office space is increasing due to the pandemic.
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Michigan tourism needs foreign workers. Visa woes make hiring them tough
Federal H-2B visas make tourism possible for visitors in summer, business leaders say. But every year is a question mark about who will get workers and how many will be allowed. They say it’s time to solve that.
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5 things to know about buying a house in Michigan in real estate 'crisis'
‘Try not to freak out,’ says one new homeowner who navigated the extreme lack of inventory and rapidly rising prices. Easier said than done.
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Used car prices are through the sunroof. Here’s why
Used car prices are high in Michigan and across the country, with demand high and supply low. It’s not going to change any time soon.
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Michigan unemployment benefits secure for those who ‘followed the rules’
The 648,000 Michigan residents who received federal pandemic relief benefits in error will not have to repay the funds if they applied in good faith. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer said waivers will be awarded if payments were the state’s error.
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Michigan’s tart cherry growers blame weather for yet another low harvest
One of the state’s signature crops is facing its second year of decline. Growers weighed whether the work of the small harvest would be worth it and experts are wondering what it means for the industry.
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What to do if you are asked to re-certify for Michigan unemployment benefits
The deadline is looming for those who’ve been flagged for receiving pandemic unemployment benefits. Step one: Don’t panic. Step two: Complete the process and be ready to appeal.
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Michigan changed unemployment rules. Now 648,000 may have to repay benefits
Lawmakers demand answers after Michigan officials send letters to recipients of federal COVID relief asking to update their qualifications or risk repaying benefits. It’s the latest gaffe for the agency.