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Organized community planning and education can enhance home safety.
Published on February 7, 2013
Communities or homeowner groups working together within the Firewise Community Program can reduce risk of loss from wildfire or other catastrophic events. By teaming up, homeowners can protect their own residences and neighbor's homes. -
Local governments can regulate but not prohibit natural resource extraction
Published on February 4, 2013
The deciding factor is often what amounts to the likelihood of "very serious consequences." -
Economic development challenges facing older Michigan suburban communities
Published on January 23, 2013
Older suburban communities have experienced many of the economic challenges of their adjacent central cities in some instances the difference as been one of scale. -
What’s all this talk about joint planning?
Published on January 21, 2013
Joint planning allows multiple municipalities in Michigan to collectively, more effectively and more efficiently plan for their community’s future. -
Exploring cultural connections and community resiliency in Michigan and New Mexico
Published on January 21, 2013
A project study exchange to Northern New Mexico will helps its participants learn, develop and implement a project; consider being a part of one such project. -
The difference between “land use” and “land cover”
Published on January 18, 2013
The terms “land use” and “land cover” have specific meanings in how they describe the land and should not be used interchangeably. -
Is there such a thing as rural placemaking?
Published on January 18, 2013
Placemaking principles are most commonly applied in urban areas, but rural townships are vital to a region’s identity. Emerging rural placemaking strategies can add increased vitality and economic development opportunities in those areas. -
Zoning permit approvals should not happen in a vacuum
Published on January 17, 2013
You apply for a zoning permit. What happens between application and getting, or not, the permit? It should be a set step-by-step process. -
Infill housing in Michigan can meet a “back to the city” demand
Published on January 9, 2013
Michigan communities are uniquely positioned to supply needed infill housing as demand shifts to more housing types that compliment walkable neighborhoods. -
Sustainable tourism engages destinations and people in green travel
Published on January 8, 2013
By implementing simple waste reduction and energy-saving strategies, tourism industry businesses can contribute to sustainability.