News

Amending a zoning ordinance requires adopting an ordinance

Published on October 22, 2024
Communities with zoning must regularly update their ordinance to reduce legal risk. The process for doing so is not difficult, but it is detailed and requires adopting an amending ordinance.
Public engagement: How to prepare and select a fitting approach

Published on October 22, 2024
Public engagement helps organizations and local governments draw from and foster community relationships. This article aims to give groups guidance on selecting a fitting engagement strategy and organizing to make the event a success.
Community discussions around housing: Tax increment financing (TIF) for housing

Published on August 13, 2024
The Brownfield Redevelopment Finance Act now allows for TIF to be used for qualified housing projects.
Citizen education resources support voices of residents

Published on August 12, 2024
MSU Extension citizen education resources are helpful tools to inform community residents on the nature of local government planning and zoning decisions.
Annual state entrepreneurship conference continues to showcase small town charm and success in Cadillac

Published on July 22, 2024
The Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities conference returned in 2024 hosted by the City of Cadillac, welcoming more than 100 participants from across Michigan.
MSU Extension Center for Local Government Finance and Policy names Mark Skidmore interim director

Published on April 4, 2024
Skidmore will serve in this interim role while a nationwide search for a new director is underway.
City of Allegan strives to be more welcoming after capturing first-time visitor perspectives

Published on March 5, 2024
The First Impressions Tourism assessment supports community economic development by facilitating growth of local and regional tourism economies.
Zoning related to adult foster care (AFC) homes

Published on December 15, 2023
Zoning for adult foster care facilities requires a detailed review of state residential facility licensing types, similar dwelling types, density, and zoning districts.
Youth making a difference in county government

Published on December 13, 2023
Genesee County teens are working to improve their community through civic engagement.
The Open Meetings Act and remote participation in public meetings

Published on November 9, 2023
What does Michigan’s Open Meetings Act say about remote participation in public meetings?