News

Our Planning Commission has a vacancy, now what?

Published on September 1, 2021
The correct way to address a vacancy of a position on the board is through the bylaws.
Before settling for a public hearing, consider the continuum of public involvement

Published on August 6, 2021
Referring to the continuum of public involvement before the next big community decision will help your local government design the most effective method for engaging the public.
A zoning plan is a required part of master plans in Michigan

Published on August 4, 2021
Recent changes to Michigan statutes related to planning and zoning clarify the requirement for communities with an adopted zoning ordinance to also have an adopted “zoning plan.”
Shannon Stemaly: Engaging the public in sustainability outreach and policy

Published on July 14, 2021
Shannon is a MSU Glassen Scholar whose summer internship with the Michigan DNR is supporting public education on natural resources and record-keeping for chronic wasting disease.
New Planning Commissioner Training series launched in partnership with Planetizen Courses

Published on June 28, 2021
Virtual training series provides citizen planners with the tools and resources to effectively work alongside professional planners on behalf of their communities.
To plan or not to plan? Minimum contents of a master plan

Published on June 17, 2021
For local governments that chose to adopt zoning, this is a moot question, as zoning must be based on a plan. Still, the minimum contents of a master plan are not well defined in law and communities have great latitude in developing a master plan.
Center for PFAS Research Faculty Spotlight: Mark Axelrod

Published on June 2, 2021
Dr. Mark Axelrod's research focuses on environmental governance and law, including exploration of how policy makers respond to scientific uncertainty.
How are county commissioner districts created?

Published on June 2, 2021
The county apportionment process takes place every 10 years following the census, to draw county commission districts.
MSU senior combines scientific background with interest in environmental policy and advocacy

Published on April 9, 2021
Angela Yuan switched majors to environmental studies and sustainability to better connect with her passion for conservation and water resources protection.
Planning commissions can strengthen inclusion with gender neutral policy language

Published on April 7, 2021
Are people of all gender identities represented in your planning commission bylaws, policies, and other documents? Many organizations have taken steps to update policies and replace gendered language with gender neutral options.