News

What is and is not a charrette (and why it matters)

Published on November 26, 2025
The National Charrette Institute clarifies what is and is not a charrette, and explains why this distinction matters.
Registration now open for Governing Essentials webinar series

Published on November 25, 2025
The Governing Essentials Series is designed for local elected and appointed officials looking to sharpen their skills and promote good governance practices.
A zoning plan is a required part of master plans in Michigan

Published on November 13, 2025
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.”
Vague or subjective ordinance standards: In the court’s opinion, they stink! Part 1

Published on November 3, 2025
A recent Court of Appeals case reinforces that government regulations must be clear and specific. Previous cases provide principles helpful in reviewing an ordinance for vagueness.
Vague or subjective ordinance standards: In the court’s opinion, they stink! Part 2

Published on November 3, 2025
A recent Court of Appeals case reinforces that government regulations must be clear and specific. Previous cases provide principles helpful in reviewing an ordinance for vagueness.
The Defining Principles of a Modern Charrette: As Defined by The National Charrette Institute

Published on September 2, 2025
The National Charrette Institute explores the history, development and definition of a modern charrette.
Avoid heat-related illness while enjoying summer weather

Published on June 20, 2025
The elderly, children under four, individuals who are obese, and those who are ill or taking certain medications are most at risk for heat-related illnesses.
New report describes economic conditions in Northern Michigan

Published on June 19, 2025
The Economic Pulse Report combines ice storm impact, labor force, business sentiment, and business growth data for a detailed picture of the Northern Michigan economy.
Minimum contents of a master plan

Published on June 19, 2025
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.
Cultivating local farm economies

Published on May 30, 2025
Farm viability requires flexibility, along with innovation in local government planning and zoning to allow for farm income diversification.