Public Policy

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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.
Planning and zoning for solar in Michigan

Published on April 13, 2023
The economics of solar have never been better and individuals, businesses, utilities and cooperatives are planning projects all over Michigan. Is your community ready?
Local government has an important role for water quality protection: Part 1

Published on April 13, 2023
State and federal regulations help protect water resources but does not do the whole job—local government has an important role also: often the proactive, preventative function.
Right to Farm Act can preempt local regulation authority, but not all local regulations

Published on April 11, 2023
Many statutes and laws result in limiting local government’s ability to adopt and enforce regulations. Most are straightforward, but the Right to Farm Act preemption is confusing, changing and only preempts local regulation of certain things.