News
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MSU Extension Center for Local Government Finance and Policy names Mark Skidmore interim director
Published on April 4, 2024
Skidmore will serve in this interim role while a nationwide search for a new director is underway. -
Registration now open for Governing Essentials webinar series
Published on January 26, 2024
The Governing Essentials Series is designed for local elected and appointed officials looking to sharpen their skills and promote good governance practices. -
Zoning related to adult foster care (AFC) homes
Published on December 15, 2023
Zoning for adult foster care facilities requires a detailed review of state residential facility licensing types, similar dwelling types, density, and zoning districts. -
The Open Meetings Act and remote participation in public meetings
Published on November 9, 2023
What does Michigan’s Open Meetings Act say about remote participation in public meetings? -
Difference between a zoning ordinance and a master plan
Published on November 3, 2023
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. -
Why care about planning and zoning?
Published on September 15, 2023
Being involved in planning and zoning is a great way to help shape the future of your community. -
Overlay zoning districts can be a valuable tool
Published on September 15, 2023
Overlay zoning districts is a valid tool in some conditions. But be careful not to overuse it when more traditional zoning techniques can do the job. -
Michigan Compiled Law may be the preferred way to cite state law
Published on September 15, 2023
There is more than one way to cite state law. There are several reasons to use the MCL citation over the Public Act number. -
Zoning and police power ordinances are not the same, and should not be mixed together
Published on September 15, 2023
There are three types of ordinances local government might adopt. Important to focus on the difference between police power ordinances and zoning ordinances. -
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.