News
-
Beware of zombie planning commissioners this Halloween
Published on October 24, 2016
When one member of a planning commission attends training, they sometimes return to the next meeting with the others staring as if they'd been abducted, filled with ‘alien’ information, and turned back to the community as some sort of zombie. -
New County Commissioner Workshop registration now open
Published on October 12, 2016
MSU Extension and the Michigan Association of Counties co-sponsor the 2016 New County Commissioner Workshops for newly elected commissioners, experienced commissioners, elected officials, and staff interested in learning more about county government. -
The one question every municipality should ask itself before adopting an ordinance
Published on October 11, 2016
There are many considerations when developing and adopting a new ordinance, but perhaps the most important of all is determining whether the municipality has the will to enforce the new zoning regulations. -
Walkability is key to economic development
Published on October 10, 2016
In the New Economy, it is all about creating communities with amenities and high quality of life to retain and attract talent. Talented individuals, who are mobile and can live anywhere, want a walkable, bikeable community to call home. -
Engaging community stakeholders for water quality in lakes
Published on October 10, 2016
When conducting water quality studies on local lakes, it is important to have sound scientific methods guiding the investigative process. Equally important is the need to reach out to community members who have a vested interest in the health of the lake. -
Looking to boost tourism revenue? Start with placemaking
Published on October 10, 2016
In the New Economy, placemaking must be part of an economic development strategy. For the tourism industry, businesses and communities can enhance the tourist experience through placemaking, which serves as a population attraction strategy. -
Innovation, excitement to begin at Boardman River System in Traverse City – Part 1
Published on October 4, 2016
River selected for 10-year pioneering experiment to create, evaluate state-of-the-art ways to block invasive species while allowing others to migrate. -
Innovation, excitement to begin at Boardman River System in Traverse City – Part 2
Published on October 4, 2016
Fall fish migration in full swing at Boardman River Weir/James Price Trap and Harvest Facility. -
Building Strong Sovereign Nations program to hold annual governance training later this month
Published on October 3, 2016
The BSSN program supports tribal efforts to build strong communities, organizations and governments. -
Joint Planning Commission involves 11 townships
Published on September 23, 2016
It may be the largest Joint Planning Commission in Michigan, with 11 governments cooperating. The Joint Commission forms one planning commission and one zoning ordinance for the 11 participating townships.