BATTLE CREEK, Mich. — The City of Battle Creek has been named a 2024 eCities Honored Community for its support of local businesses and contributions to Michigan’s growth.
Battle Creek is one of five Michigan cities to earn this designation as part of the annual eCities study, conducted by iLabs, the University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Office of Engagement and Impact.
“This recognition is a reflection of the incredible hard work and dedication of the entire Battle Creek community,” said Ted Dearing, interim city manager. “It highlights the strong partnerships and collaboration between our community leaders, local businesses, and city staff, all working together to make Battle Creek a thriving and vibrant place to live and work.”
The eCities study analyzed publicly available data from 277 communities across 54 counties in Michigan. Researchers focused on five-year changes in property values, community assets, and tax rates to show the growth, investments, and cost of doing business within the community.
From 2019 to 2023, the five communities increased their capital assets by an average of 3.71 percent per year through investments such as new buildings, roads, bike paths, and library renovations.
Although the 277 communities analyzed account for less than 20 percent of the state’s cities and townships, they are home to 71 percent of Michigan’s population and 87 percent of the state’s commercial property.
“Each year, we enjoy recognizing the efforts made by cities and townships throughout Michigan to support business growth and entrepreneurship in their communities,” said Kari Kowalski, Assistant Director of iLabs.
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