Snyder Says First Budget Will Cover Two Year Period. Governor-elect Rick Snyder told reporters this week that he expects to present a two-year budget in his first budget request to the legislature early next year. Mr. Snyder said that he believes now is the time to implement a new two-year process and will submit requests for the 2011-12 and 2012-13 fiscal years.

Michigan Claims 6% of National Mortgage Foreclosure Activity. Michigan’s mortgage foreclosure activity in October included 19,288 properties, or about six percent of the total foreclosures recorded nationwide for the month. RealtyTrac, the national mortgage clearing house, said that Michigan’s foreclosure level dropped 12 percent from September. Michigan ranked fifth nationally for total number of foreclosures, trailing Nevada, Florida, Arizona and California.

Candidates Emerging to Lead State GOP. At least three candidates are emerging to possibly become the next chair of the Michigan Republican Party. Senate Majority Leader Mike Bishop, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land and Republican Party Finance Chair Robert Schostak have all expressed interest in replacing current chair Ambassador Ron Weiser when his term expires in 2011.

Liquor Sales Changes Signed into Law. Governor Granholm signed into law Wednesday legislation that allows Sunday morning liquor sales, beverage sampling and a host of other changes to spirits, craft beer and wine marketing and distribution in Michigan. HB 6224 was signed into law after the legislature reached an agreement and passed the compromise bill on November 10.

THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS ASSOCIATES OFFICE WILL BE CLOSED THURSDAY AND FRIDAY TO ALLOW OUR CREW TO CELEBRATE THE THANKSGIVING HOLIDAY WITH THEIR FAMILIES. OUR BEST WISHES TO YOU FOR A GREAT HOLIDAY!