News

MSU Extension receives national award for transformational housing policy work

Published on November 22, 2024
The Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities recognized MSU Extension with its 2024 National Extension Diversity Award for their visionary leadership and diversity in educational programming.
Amending a zoning ordinance requires adopting an ordinance

Published on October 22, 2024
Communities with zoning must regularly update their ordinance to reduce legal risk. The process for doing so is not difficult, but it is detailed and requires adopting an amending ordinance.
Public engagement: How to prepare and select a fitting approach

Published on October 22, 2024
Public engagement helps organizations and local governments draw from and foster community relationships. This article aims to give groups guidance on selecting a fitting engagement strategy and organizing to make the event a success.
Community discussions around housing: Tax increment financing (TIF) for housing

Published on August 13, 2024
The Brownfield Redevelopment Finance Act now allows for TIF to be used for qualified housing projects.
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.
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.
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.