News

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.
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.
Difference between a zoning ordinance and a master plan

Published on November 3, 2023
The zoning ordinance is a law with penalties and consequence for not following it. A master plan is a policy document that expresses intent. It is not an enforceable document and is not law.
Zoning and police power ordinances are not the same, and should not be mixed together

Published on September 15, 2023
There are three types of ordinances local government might adopt. Important to focus on the difference between police power ordinances and zoning ordinances.
Overlay zoning districts can be a valuable tool

Published on September 15, 2023
Overlay zoning districts is a valid tool in some conditions. But be careful not to overuse it when more traditional zoning techniques can do the job.
Michigan Compiled Law may be the preferred way to cite state law

Published on September 15, 2023
There is more than one way to cite state law. There are several reasons to use the MCL citation over the Public Act number.
County government powers are very limited

Published on September 9, 2023
A county government does not have general ordinance making authority. As a general rule counties cannot adopt ordinances. Municipalities have more authority, powers than counties, and can adopt police power ordinances.
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.