MSU Extension’s Zoning Administrator Certificate Program returns to in-person format for 2023

Participants in the ZAC Program will receive a wealth of training, resources, and learning activities to understand all parts of their role as a Zoning Administrator.

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Michigan State University (MSU) Extension offers the Zoning Administrator Certificate (ZAC) Program each year to provide training in zoning administration techniques that reduce legal risks to the zoning administrator and their community. This program has been offered in 18 different locations around the state, and twice completely virtually. In 2023, the program will be returning to its in-person roots with two days of face-to-face learning and networking in Mount Pleasant, Michigan on February 9 and 10.

Participants in the ZAC Program will receive a wealth of training, resources, and learning activities to understand all parts of their role as a Zoning Administrator. Topics include reviewing applications and site plans, record keeping, reports, inspections and violations, and customer service. ZAC participants have such great experiences that when asked, 94% of respondents would recommend that all zoning administrators attend this program. Each participant will also receive a ZAC Binder filled with important resources, including “Michigan Planning Guidebook, 2nd Ed.” and “Michigan Zoning Guidebook, 3rd Ed.”, and if they complete the program and pass the exam, participants receive a framed certificate of completion. “So much valuable information” and “Covers a lot of information. Definitely worth the money” were just two examples of responses from past participants in ZAC.

The 2023 ZAC Program will begin on January 19, with a live pre-session via Zoom along with two self-paced online learning modules using MSU's learning management system — Desire 2 Learn (D2L). The in-person program will begin at 11:00 a.m. on February 9, 2023. ZAC Program office hours will run 11:00 a.m. to noon on Fridays, February 5, 12, 19, 26, and March 5. Access to the D2L course will begin with the start of the program and participants will be responsible for completing online learning until the due date of the ZAC Program Exam on April 12, 2023.

How to register

Registration for the 2023 ZAC program is now open at a cost of $550 through December 16, 2022, at events.anr.msu.edu/ZAC2023. For more information, please visit canr.msu.edu/zoning_administrator_certificate_program or email cplanner@msu.edu.

To contact your local MSU Extension office, visit msue.msu.edu or call 1-888-678-3464.

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