In Two Parts: Roles and Responsibilities of a Planning Commission; and Defensible Planning and Zoning Decisions - Newberry
May 18, 2026 - June 1, 2026
Registration Deadline: May 13, 2026 - 11:45PM
14126 CR 428 Ste A Newberry, MI 49868
Contact: Brad Neumann, neuman36@msu.edu
Local officials have a responsibility to plan their communities, manage the impacts of economic and social change, and play a part in solving everyday challenges. Communities that proactively plan and accomplish their responsibilities can enhance the quality of life and overall resiliency of their own community and beyond. Communities that make decisions upholding due process and based on established laws and best practices advance quality of life and resiliency while minimizing resident outcry and legal risk. This program empowers local officials and staff with information they need to realize plan goals while making defensible decisions. In two parts, this program covers:
Roles and Responsibilities of a Planning Commission
In this session, attendees will:
- Learn the legal authority and limitations of planning commission duties.
- Recognize the functions of a master plan and zoning ordinance and their relationship.
- Understand the role of each person at a planning commission meeting including how to run effective meetings.
- Strengthen ethical decision-making skills.
Defensible Planning and Zoning Decisions
In this session, attendees will:
- Learn why decision-makers must be free of conflicts of interest and other biases.
- Study the core principles of making good planning and zoning decisions.
- Understand the role of the master plan in making zoning decisions.
- Recognize elements of due process.
- Learn how to take complete administrative minutes.
Locations:
The two-part program is offered in two UP locations:
| Location | Session 1 and Date | Session 2 and Date |
|
Newberry - Luce County MSU Extension 14126 CR 428 Ste A Newberry, MI 49868 |
Roles and Responsibilities of a Planning Commission Monday, May 18, 6:30 - 8 p.m. |
Defensible Planning and Zoning Decisions Monday, June 1, 6:30 - 8 p.m. |
|
Gwinn - Community Center (Clubhouse) 165 N Maple St, Gwinn, MI 49841 |
Roles and Responsibilities of a Planning Commission Tuesday, May 19, 6:30 - 8 p.m. |
Defensible Planning and Zoning Decisions Tuesday, June 2, 6:30 - 8 p.m. |
Instructor: Brad Neumann, AICP, MSU Extension Senior Educator - Government and Community Vitality.
Cost: $50 per person for both sessions. $30 per individual session. The cost includes printed materials and light refreshments.
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