MSU Extension Civic Engagement

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  The inherent value of a charrette: A discussion with Bill Riddick

  Published on March 8, 2022
  According to author and facilitator Bill Riddick, charrettes offer transformative opportunities for public engagement and policy-change.

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  Conflict of interest rules apply to all communities, regardless of size

  Published on February 24, 2022
  Often a small community struggles to avoid a “conflict of interest” situation – particularly hard because of its small size. But there are not any exceptions or special dispensation due to the size of a community.

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  How quickly must a FOIA request be answered?

  Published on September 8, 2021
  A Michigan Supreme Court ruling changes the timeline for a public body to fulfill FOIA requests.

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  Before settling for a public hearing, consider the continuum of public involvement

  Published on August 6, 2021
  Referring to the continuum of public involvement before the next big community decision will help your local government design the most effective method for engaging the public.

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  The Great Lakes Leadership Academy is now accepting applications for the Leadership Advancement Program

  Published on June 3, 2021
  GLLA promotes positive change, economic vitality, resource conservation, and enhances the quality of life in Michigan by encouraging leadership for the common good.

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  The importance of Appreciative Leadership

  Published on June 3, 2021
  Showing genuine appreciation is a strength that all leaders need to practice to bring out the best in themselves and others.

• How are county commissioner districts created?

  Published on June 2, 2021
  The county apportionment process takes place every 10 years following the census, to draw county commission districts.

• Cultivating local farm economies

  Published on April 21, 2021
  Farm viability requires flexibility, innovation in local government planning and zoning to allow for farm income diversification.

• Planning commissions can strengthen inclusion with gender neutral policy language

  Published on April 7, 2021
  Are people of all gender identities represented in your planning commission bylaws, policies, and other documents? Many organizations have taken steps to update policies and replace gendered language with gender neutral options.

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  Begin the journey towards parliamentary procedure certification

  Published on April 3, 2021
  Obtaining credentials as a parliamentarian.