HAMLIN TOWNSHIP — Michigan State University Extension, in partnership with Hamlin Township and Mason County, will offer its award-winning Citizen Planner program this fall.
Designed for locally appointed and elected planning officials, as well as interested residents, the program provides practical education on planning, zoning and community decision-making. Participants from Mason County and surrounding counties are welcome to attend.
The program will be held at Hamlin Township Hall, 3775 N. Jebavy Drive. Classes will meet from 6 to 9 p.m. Wednesdays on Sept. 23 and 30, Oct. 14, 21 and 28, and Nov. 11. There will be no class on Oct. 7 or Nov. 4 to accommodate regularly scheduled Planning Commission meetings.
Over six sessions, participants will explore the legal foundations of planning and zoning, the role of master plans, zoning administration and decision-making, innovative planning strategies, ethical leadership and effective service as planning officials. The program is designed to build the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed land-use decisions that benefit local communities.
The course fee is $250 per participant and includes course materials, refreshments and light snacks. A 10% discount is available for groups of four or more registering from the same local unit. Scholarships may be available through a local government’s liability insurance provider, such as the Michigan Municipal Risk Management Authority or the Michigan Township Participating Plan.
Participants who complete all six sessions will receive a certificate of completion and may continue to become Master Citizen Planners. In 2025, nearly 400 people enrolled in Citizen Planner programs across the state to increase their knowledge, skills and confidence in making land-use decisions. Evaluation results showed that 96% of respondents increased their understanding of planning-related topics, and 93% reported greater confidence in their ability to serve more effectively in their roles.
Additional information and online registration are available at https://events.anr.msu.edu/CPMason26/. Registration is open through Sept. 11, 2026.
For questions about the program, contact Mary Reilly of MSU Extension at reillym8@msu.edu or 231-889-4277, ext. 1.
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