News

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.
Expanding equitable access to mobile food business resources for Spanish-speaking entrepreneurs in west Michigan

Published on September 1, 2023
MSU Product Center staff joined with partners to modify the successful “How to Start a Food Truck Business” online course into a four-session, in-person workshop series offered in Spanish.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Community partnership results in “Shared Abundance”

Published on July 13, 2023
Northwest Lower Michigan has developed into a thriving food system—the book “Shared Abundance” details the community partnerships that made it happen.
Do I have to move out of my home before the sheriff sale?

Published on June 15, 2023
Homeowners can stay in their homes after the sheriff sale, usually 6 months.
Understanding the foreclosure timeline in Michigan

Published on June 14, 2023
Avoid unnecessary stress.