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MRSC Insight Blog


Posts for Gift of Public Funds

A man is excited to have received a gift card

Safely Using Incentives in Public Engagement Activities

February 8, 2023  by  Eric Lowell
Category:  Gift of Public Funds ,  Inclusive Communities ,  Federal Funding

Can gift cards be given as an incentive for completing a local government survey? Can stipends be provided to volunteers participating in local government projects or advisory boards? With proper procedures in place, incentives can be a way to boost community participation.

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How Can Local Governments Celebrate the Holidays?

How Can Local Governments Celebrate the Holidays?

November 8, 2022  by  MRSC Insight
Category:  Governance ,  Gift of Public Funds

Celebrating the winter holidays can be fun, but local governments and their staff and elected officials must think carefully before pulling out decorations, planning parties, or accepting gifts. 

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Donations and Local Governments: The Basics of Giving and Receiving

Donations and Local Governments: The Basics of Giving and Receiving

June 2, 2022  by  Eric Lowell
Category:  Financial Reporting ,  Gift of Public Funds

What is the process for local governments to receive donations? Can local governments make donations without violating the state's gift of public funds provisions?

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A How-To Guide to Sponsoring Summer Celebrations

A How-To Guide to Sponsoring Summer Celebrations

April 26, 2022  by  MRSC Insight
Category:  Streets and Sidewalks ,  Gift of Public Funds

Summer is coming and with it, the possibility of public celebrations! But a local government should plan carefully to both make the event a success and be sure that it does not unintentionally violate the constitutional gift of public funds prohibition. 

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A Refresher on the Gift of Public Funds

A Refresher on the Gift of Public Funds

October 15, 2020  by  Oskar Rey
Category:  Gift of Public Funds

This blog provides on overview of the state's prohibition on gifts of public funds for local governments and elected officials, including tips on avoiding violations of the prohibition. 

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Municipal Giving and Receiving

Municipal Giving and Receiving

October 24, 2017  by  Paul Sullivan
Category:  Gift of Public Funds

The holiday season is approaching. What are the rules surrounding municipal gift "giving" and "receiving?" Consultant Paul Sullivan explores the rules and offers some advice. 

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