News

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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.