MSU Extension Citizen Planner

08/21/2026

Fall 2026 Citizen Planner Programs Are Here! 🌿🏘️

Looking to strengthen your community planning skills? Michigan State University Extension is offering multiple Citizen Planner Programs throughout Michigan this fall!

Whether you’re a local official, planning commissioner, zoning administrator, or community leader, the Citizen Planner Program provides practical knowledge and tools to help you make informed planning and zoning decisions in your community.

📍 Multiple locations across Michigan
📅 Fall 2026 classroom programs
🎓 Professional development and education for community leaders

Explore the available locations, dates, and program details—and find a program near you!

👉 View the Fall 2026 schedule and register:
https://www.canr.msu.edu/michigan_citizen_planner/events

Invest in your community. Build a better Michigan. 💚

07/20/2026

🚨 Registration is NOW OPEN for the 2027 MSU Extension Zoning Administrator Certificate (ZAC) Program!

Whether you're a new or experienced zoning administrator, planner, consultant, or local official, the ZAC Program provides the knowledge and practical skills needed to reduce legal risk, improve day-to-day decision-making, and confidently administer local zoning.

Choose the location that works best for you:
📍 Bay City | February 11–12, 2027
📍 Crystal Mountain | March 4–5, 2027

The hybrid program includes:
✅ Live Zoom instruction
✅ Self-paced online learning
✅ Two days of in-person, hands-on training

Since 2009, hundreds of Michigan planning and zoning professionals have completed this award-winning program to strengthen their communities and build confidence in their roles. Space is limited to 60 participants at each location, so early registration is encouraged.

🔗 Register today: https://events.anr.msu.edu/ZAC2027/

05/11/2026

The “Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities” (CEC) conference was created to help Michigan communities support entrepreneurs and entrepreneurship growth. Attend the 2026 CEC Conference with others from your community in Newaygo County, May 28 & 29. More information and registration at: https://events.anr.msu.edu/CEC2026

04/30/2026

great public communication!

04/14/2026

⏰ Don’t miss your chance to register!

The Michigan State University Extension Citizen Planner Program helps local officials and community members build the skills needed to guide smart growth and strengthen their communities.

💻 Join this virtual program via Zoom and gain practical knowledge in planning, zoning, and effective decision-making—on a schedule that works for you.

🗓️ Wednesdays | 6–9 PM (ET)
April 29 – June 3

🚨 Registration deadline: Friday, April 17

🎓 Earn a certificate and take the next step toward becoming a Master Citizen Planner!

👉 Secure your spot today! https://events.anr.msu.edu/CPSpringZoom26/

04/08/2026

📣 Registration closes on Friday, April 10, for the Livingston County Citizen Planner Program (2026)!

Gain the knowledge and confidence you need to make informed land use decisions in your community. This six-session course covers everything from planning and zoning fundamentals to ethical decision-making and innovative strategies.

🗓 Thursdays, April 23 – June 4, 2026
⏰ 6:00 – 9:00 PM
📍 Livingston County Public Safety Complex, Howell, MI

💻 Register today: https://events.anr.msu.edu/CPLivingston26/

03/09/2026

Registration closes March 13 for the Citizen Planner Program in Houghton County!

Don’t miss this opportunity to strengthen your skills and help shape the future of your community.

🗓 Dates: Wednesdays, March 25 – April 29, 2026
⏰ Time: 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. ET
📍 Location: Gogebic Community College – Copper Country Center, Houghton, MI
https://events.anr.msu.edu/CPHoughton26/

02/11/2026

Now Registering: Citizen Planner Program – Barry County

Interested in learning more about planning, zoning, and how land use decisions shape your community? Join Michigan State University Extension’s Citizen Planner Program, a hands-on learning experience designed for local officials, planning commissioners, zoning board members, and engaged community members.

Participants will gain practical knowledge, build confidence in decision-making, and connect with others who care about the future of Barry County communities.

Learn more & register: https://events.anr.msu.edu/CPBarry2026/

01/07/2026

12/18/2025

Registration is open for the award-winning Introduction to Lakes Online course from MSU Extension! Offered once a year, this six-week self-paced introductory class is perfect for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of Michigan’s inland lakes—from lakefront property owners and concerned residents, to local leaders and decision-makers. Ready to dive in? Early bird registration ends Jan. 5! Learn more and register at www.canr.msu.edu/lakesonline.