News
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Zoning and police power ordinances are not the same, and should not be mixed together
Published on September 15, 2023
There are three types of ordinances local government might adopt. Important to focus on the difference between police power ordinances and zoning ordinances. -
County government powers are very limited
Published on September 9, 2023
A county government does not have general ordinance making authority. As a general rule counties cannot adopt ordinances. Municipalities have more authority, powers than counties, and can adopt police power ordinances. -
Empowering Michigan state and local leaders to address housing affordability and equitable access in their own communities
Published on September 7, 2023
MSU Extension educators quickly and collaboratively responded to pressing housing policy needs and developed an extensive attainable housing program tailored to the varying geographies of urban, suburban, and rural communities in Michigan. -
Supreme Court ruling on sign regulation has major implications for all local governments
Published on August 3, 2023
The decision means many, if not all, sign regulations in Michigan will need to be reviewed and likely changed if the municipality wants to reduce legal risks. -
A zoning moratorium should only be done with caution
Published on August 3, 2023
A local government might adopt a moratorium to prevent development until rules are established. This is not without legal risk. Do so with caution and make sure the municipal attorney is directly involved. -
Local government strategies to protect groundwater
Published on August 3, 2023
Groundwater can, and in some places has already, become contaminated. Local government is best-suited to prevent contamination from occurring with straightforward planning and zoning tools at their disposal. -
Qualifications-based selection, not bidding, is best to contract with professional services
Published on August 3, 2023
Many believe governments should bid for jobs over a certain dollar amount. But bids are not always the best selection system. When hiring professional services Qualifications-Based Selection is the better system to use. -
Awareness of equitable climate resiliency in underserved communities
Published on July 28, 2023
As the need for climate resiliency continues to increase there is a need to acknowledge the disparities and inequities that underserved communities face. -
Is your consumer complaint going nowhere? Boost solution with the CFPB
Published on June 14, 2023
Consumers are getting results by filing their complaint with the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB). -
MSU hosts legislators to showcase AgBioResearch, Extension programming
Published on May 8, 2023
State legislators tour campus greenhouses, South Campus Animal Farms