News

Building Strong Sovereign Nations: Anishinabek Leadership for Seven Generations training series returns June 2023

Published on June 6, 2023
The 2023 Building Strong Sovereign Nations training series will include 5 dynamic programs, offered for free with both in-person and virtual options for participation.
MSU hosts legislators to showcase AgBioResearch, Extension programming

Published on May 8, 2023
State legislators tour campus greenhouses, South Campus Animal Farms
Zoning petitions: What are citizens’ options?

Published on April 19, 2023
Zoning ordinances or zoning amendments are approved by local bodies of elected officials; however, citizens of municipalities in Michigan can submit petitions to challenge new zoning laws.
How to spot a spot zoning

Published on April 13, 2023
When considering a rezoning, remember four key criteria to avoid creating a spot zone.
Planning and zoning for solar in Michigan

Published on April 13, 2023
The economics of solar have never been better and individuals, businesses, utilities and cooperatives are planning projects all over Michigan. Is your community ready?
Local government has an important role for water quality protection: Part 1

Published on April 13, 2023
State and federal regulations help protect water resources but does not do the whole job—local government has an important role also: often the proactive, preventative function.
Right to Farm Act can preempt local regulation authority, but not all local regulations

Published on April 11, 2023
Many statutes and laws result in limiting local government’s ability to adopt and enforce regulations. Most are straightforward, but the Right to Farm Act preemption is confusing, changing and only preempts local regulation of certain things.
When to call an attorney for planning and zoning issues

Published on April 6, 2023
Land use decision making is not always a do it yourself proposition for local officials; there are times when you really should hire a lawyer.
No state oversight of planning, zoning; limited central database of zoning ordinances

Published on April 4, 2023
While there is no state oversight of planning and zoning, there is a statewide database of zoning ordinances in Michigan.
New watershed maps reflect Michigan’s updated legislative boundaries

Published on March 24, 2023
Residents and elected officials can use this information to inform their actions regarding local water quality.