MSU ExtensionPublic Policy

Through education of newly elected and incumbent officials, MSU Extension helps Michigan’s 1,858 municipalities, 14 multi-county regions, 12 federally recognized tribal nations and state agencies with information that informs public policy decision-making.

News

When to call an attorney for planning and zoning issues

Published on December 5, 2019

Land use decision making is not always a do it yourself proposition for local officials; there are times when you really should hire a lawyer.

Difference between a zoning ordinance and a master plan

Published on October 10, 2019

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.

Old versus new: Understanding the new economy part 2

Published on October 8, 2019

A very fundamental structural shift has occurred with economic development. In this new economic age, it pays to know the difference between the old and new economy.

Qualifications-based selection, not bidding, is best to contract with professional services

Published on October 8, 2019

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.

Local government strategies to protect groundwater

Published on October 8, 2019

Groundwater can, and in some places has, become contaminated. Local government is best-suited to prevent contamination from occurring but seldom uses these 11 zoning tools at their disposal to do so.