News

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.
Local government strategies to protect groundwater

Published on August 3, 2023
Groundwater can, and in some places has already, become contaminated. Local government is best-suited to prevent contamination from occurring with straightforward planning and zoning tools at their disposal.
Supreme Court ruling on sign regulation has major implications for all local governments

Published on August 3, 2023
The decision means many, if not all, sign regulations in Michigan will need to be reviewed and likely changed if the municipality wants to reduce legal risks.
Qualifications-based selection, not bidding, is best to contract with professional services

Published on August 3, 2023
Many believe governments should bid for jobs over a certain dollar amount. But bids are not always the best selection system. When hiring professional services Qualifications-Based Selection is the better system to use.
A zoning moratorium should only be done with caution

Published on August 3, 2023
A local government might adopt a moratorium to prevent development until rules are established. This is not without legal risk. Do so with caution and make sure the municipal attorney is directly involved.
Awareness of equitable climate resiliency in underserved communities

Published on July 28, 2023
As the need for climate resiliency continues to increase there is a need to acknowledge the disparities and inequities that underserved communities face.
Village of Cassopolis is FIT for action

Published on May 16, 2023
MSU Extension's First Impressions for Tourism (FIT) assessment program provides communities with valuable feedback that can be turned into action.
Zoning petitions: What are citizens’ options?

Published on April 19, 2023
Zoning ordinances or zoning amendments are approved by local bodies of elected officials; however, citizens of municipalities in Michigan can submit petitions to challenge new zoning laws.
How to spot a spot zoning

Published on April 13, 2023
When considering a rezoning, remember four key criteria to avoid creating a spot zone.