The Michigan State University (MSU) Extension Citizen Planner Program offers land use education for locally appointed and elected planning officials, zoning administrators and interested residents throughout Michigan.
Citizen Planner is a time-tested educational program proven to be comprehensive without being overwhelming. The program is delivered virtually through Zoom meetings to provide a convenient way for busy community leaders to obtain the latest technical knowledge and the proficiency they need to perform their duties more effectively and responsibly.
Why Citizen Planner?
Local officials have a responsibility to help their communities manage the impacts of economic change and be part of the solutions to challenges their communities face. Local communities that proactively plan to succeed in the New Economy can improve their quality of life and overall sustainability. The Citizen Planner Program empowers local officials to shape the future of their communities by providing them with the tools and education they need to lead.
Citizen Planner Classroom Curriculum
Citizen Planner instructors include MSU Faculty, MSU Extension educators, planners and attorneys. The classroom program consists of six sessions:
MSU Extension awards Citizen Planner Program participants a certificate of completion.
Participants who complete the Citizen Planner Classroom Program are eligible to earn the Master Citizen Planner (MCP) credential. In addition to completing the course, the MCP credential requires passing an online exam and capstone presentation, and meeting annual continuing education requirements. Master Citizen Planners may receive incentives, such as future course discounts, exclusive training opportunities, and scholarships for annual conferences and regional training offered by partnering organizations. The MCP designation is an achievement recognized as the standard of excellence among planning officials and community leaders in Michigan.
The Fall 2024 Citizen Planner via Zoom will be held on Thursday evenings from 6 until 9 p.m. ET on the following dates: November 7, 14, 21, December 5, 12, and 19. Classes will be delivered remotely via Zoom video conference. This is the Citizen Planner classroom program simply offered in a video conference (i.e. live webinar) format. Participants will need an internet connection, computer or mobile device, and speakers/headset or phone for audio. Participant materials will be mailed. This limited time offer is available at a reduced price of $250 per person (group rate of $225 per person for 4 or more from the same municipality). For more information, including a detailed class schedule and fees, please view the Event Flyer below.
*The program will NOT meet on Thursday, November 28*
Grants/Scholarships
Scholarships may be available from your community’s liability insurance provider. Michigan Township Participating Plan offers to its municipal members one per community, which covers the complete registration cost for participation in the Citizen Planner Program. For more information, please visit us on the web at www.theparplan.com. For member governments of the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority (MMRMA), contact Cara Ceci at 800-243-1324 for more information regarding grants for education and training through the Risk Avoidance Program (RAP). For municipalities obtaining insurance through Nickel & Saph, Inc. Insurance Agency, contact Stephen R. Saph, Jr. at 586-463-4573 or stephenjr@nickelsaph.com. Contact your community’s liability insurance provider to see if similar grants or scholarships are available.
Cancellations
Registrations cancelled on or after Oct. 25, 2024, will be assessed a $45 cancellation fee.
Registration