Resources

Planning and Zoning*A*Syst. #6: Community Planning & Zoning Audit, Special Land Uses

Published on June 1, 2016
A performance audit on the Special Land Uses (E-3056) provides a review of the administrative structure for handling special use permits: pre applications, applications, public notification, record keeping, and use of standards in making decisions.
Planning and Zoning*A*Syst. #5: Community Planning & Zoning Audit, Administrative Structure

Published on June 1, 2016
A performance audit on the Administrative Structure (E-3055) provides a performance audit for the operation of the planning commission, zoning administrator, and zoning board of appeals. It covers office procedures, job descriptions, filing systems, etc.
Planning and Zoning*A*Syst. #3: Community Planning & Zoning Audit, Planning Coordination

Published on June 1, 2016
A performance audit on the Planning Coordination (E-3053) covers the process of coordination with neighboring government planning (review of each other’s plans); coordination with state, federal and other government agencies; coordination practices; etc.
Open Meetings Act

Published on May 31, 2016
The Open Meeting act applies to planning commissions, zoning boards, zoning boards of appeals, and virtually all deliberations and voting at those meetings.
Michigan local government: new economy preparation checklist

Published on May 31, 2016
A "to do" list for local government, reviewing possible amendments/changes to the Master Plan, zoning ordinance and other local government practices and policies to get starting on preparing for the New Economy in Michigan.
Limits and parameters on local and state regulation of wireless communication

Published on May 31, 2016
At the start of 2013, significant new restrictions were placed on local governmental authority to regulate the expansion and location of wireless service facilities, in addition the restrictions on local regulations already in place.
How to take Minutes For Administrative Decisions

Published on May 31, 2016
Taking minutes for the county board, city council or township board is one task. But the job of taking minutes for an administrative body (like a planning commission, zoning board, appeals board) is very different.
Freedom of Information Act

Published on May 31, 2016
The Freedom of Information Act applies to nearly all records of a planning/zoning department, planning commissions, zoning boards and zoning boards of appeals. Includes 2018 amendments.
Elected Officials: Dealing with Constituent Complaints on Planning and Zoning Issues.

Published on May 31, 2016
Elected officials frequently hear from constituents who are unhappy with a decision concerning a zoning permit, site plan, or the enforcement of a zoning ordinance.
Anti-S.L.A.P.P. Bills introduced in State House

Published on May 31, 2016
Discussion on law suits filed to stifle public participation at public meetings Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (S.L.A.P.P.). A public policy paper by Gary Taylor.