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New resource on form-based codes is a practical guide for all communities
Published on January 13, 2014
Municipalities with a small or non-existent planning staff will find this form-based code resource helpful for learning the basics and getting a handle on how to request assistance from planning consultants. -
Anatomy of a sidewalk
Published on January 9, 2014
Getting the details right makes for more pedestrians. -
Measuring change in a community with aerial images
Published on December 31, 2013
Utilizing aerial images to measure change in a community can provide a quality, accurate analysis of complex problems while providing strong visual support to assist decision-makers and inform the public. -
The usefulness of feasibility studies
Published on December 31, 2013
Feasibility studies can be very helpful for guiding a community’s decision-making process. They can provide neutral, third party professional analysis including cost-benefit analysis, alternative options and verification. -
Making the most of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) in your community
Published on December 31, 2013
A quality municipal GIS system provides substantial benefits to a community beyond parcel mapping. GIS can provide comprehensive services to a variety of departments, dramatically increasing efficiency and reducing costs. -
What is the status of my zoning board of appeals?
Published on December 31, 2013
For many rural townships in Michigan, the Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) may see sparse and irregular action, often with a year or more between meetings. -
Zoning to protect lakeshore areas? Do an assessment first
Published on December 20, 2013
Doing an assessment of the current resources and trends before developing standards is the best way to come up with practical, effective and enforceable regulations. -
Northeast Michigan local officials learn how to protect lake quality
Published on December 20, 2013
Planning and zoning for shoreline areas present both opportunities and challenge for local officials, as participants learned during a recent workshop in northeast Michigan. -
Administration of zoning seldom results in property takings but claims are more frequent, Part 1
Published on December 19, 2013
Property takings are always something government regulators should be concerned about. Understanding the different types of takings can clarify the topic. -
Administration of zoning seldom results in property takings but claims are more frequent, Part 2
Published on December 19, 2013
Property takings are always something government regulators should be concerned about. But understanding how a takings claim is analyzed can help waylay fears.