News

Decision making in communities

Published on May 5, 2020
How what happens after the decision depends on involvement before the decision.
Charrettes go virtual: A state-of-the-art process helps a community stay-the-course during COVID-19

Published on April 14, 2020
COVID-19 impacts inspire a virtual master planning charrette process, to be highlighted by an upcoming webinar series.
A zoning moratorium should only be done with caution

Published on April 8, 2020
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.
Caution: Zoning moratorium ahead

Published on April 8, 2020
Michigan local governments should proceed carefully when considering temporarily suspending property owners’ rights to develop or build until adequate regulations can be developed and adopted.
Understanding public health emergencies through the lens of land use policy

Published on April 3, 2020
Local hazard mitigation plans provide guidance to planners and planning officials in times of crisis.
Land Division Act basics for landowners

Published on March 24, 2020
Current and prospective owners of land in Michigan will benefit from understanding some basics of the Land Division Act.
Zoning in on millennials

Published on January 10, 2020
Changing community codes to attract talented youth is one economic development strategy.
PARK(ing) day: A Placemaking Tool

Published on January 10, 2020
Create a temporary public park in your community on parking day.
Public hearing is not only way to involve the public

Published on December 18, 2019
There are many ways to effectively involve the public beyond the public hearing.
Training, continuing education is best strategy for planning and zoning risk management

Published on December 16, 2019
Continuing education and training is an important planning and zoning risk management strategy for local governments in Michigan. While Michigan has many training opportunities, participation could be greater.