REGION 8 NOTES

March/April 2005

2005 Focus Areas

Each year the West Michigan Regional Planning Commission (WMRPC) sets the course for the following year by establishing a list of focus areas.  This makes the best use of our Board, staff, and resources – and is a great way to set the overall policies for the year. The following list identifies the focus areas.  While it is a fairly comprehensive list, it is not intended to indicate that the WMRPC will not take on additional programs or projects during the year if opportunities arise.  Let us know if there is anything we can do to help your community.

Economic Development

• Maintain the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS) program and continue CEDS Committee activities.

• Work closely with communities, the CEDS Committee, entrepreneurs, and EDA to identify and promote EDA projects within Region 8.

• Work closely with EDA to develop a process that addresses changes to EDA’s vision of how regional planning organizations promote economic development.

• Work with CEDS Committee and EDA to evaluate economic development facilities, programs, and opportunities across the region.

• Recruit new at-large members for the CEDS Committee and encourage member participation.

• Review and strengthen relationship between communities, businesses, the CEDS Committee, and the WMRPC Board.

Transportation

• Maintain our Transportation Planning program under MDOT.

• Continue Transportation Asset Management Program in Region 8.

• Serve on the Michigan Transportation Asset Management Council.

• Continue to participate in the M40/M89 and M66 Corridor Committees.

• Expand rural opportunities with MDOT Regions. 

• With the assistance of members, identify, and seek funding for, a 2006 transportation project.

 Coastal Management

• Work with Allegan County and Ottawa County to complete “Phase III” of the Shoreline Study and begin working with counties on Phase IV.

• Continue to work with MDEQ’s Coastal Management Program to identify planning opportunities in Region 8. 

 Hazard Mitigation

• Work with the Emergency Management Division of the Michigan State Police to finish Hazard Mitigation Plans for Montcalm County, Osceola County, Mecosta County, Ionia County, and the City of Ionia. 

• Determine feasibility of creating an ongoing program. 

Land Use

• Complete Big Rapids Township Land Use Plan.

• Serve on Grand Rapids Pattern Book Advisory Committee.

• Continue to follow the progress of the implementation of the Michigan Land Use Leadership Council’s recommendations and strive to inform members of the recommendations and progress towards implementation.  Actively participate whenever possible.

• Assist with Montcalm County’s Land Use Plan whenever appropriate. 

Associations and Outside Organizations

• Participate with Michigan Association of Regions (MAR) on activities to increase the visibility of regions statewide.  Perform duties associated with secretary/treasurer of MAR.

• Attend (staff and members of the Board) the annual MAR Conference.  Attend the Michigan Society of Planning Conference (Director/Planner), and the EDA Conference in Chicago (Director).

• Continue to support MSU’s United Growth for Kent County.

• Perform cost/benefit analysis of NARC/NADO membership

Cooperation and Coordination

• Continue to function as the Regional Clearinghouse Review Agency for federal funding programs.

• Maintain our “Information Center” to meet the needs of local units of government in Region 8.

• Continue our out-reach efforts.  Publish six WMRPC newsletters and prepare press releases on projects and successes.  Conduct site visits on a regular basis.  Support and participate in local initiatives.  Maintain and update our website.

• Host Regional Event(s).  Transportation Forum, recreation workshops, and others.

• Promote membership in additional Kent County Communities.

Capacity Building

• Continue to build our GIS (Geographic Information System) capabilities.  

• Continue to expand Technical Assistance to Local Entities in the areas of planning, project development, grants, and implementation.  Pursue funding or fees to support these activities. 

• Bring information to the Board using speakers and other resources.

• Continue to upgrade web site and include additional reports.

Upcoming Conferences

Rural Partners of Michigan is sponsoring “A Small Town and Rural Development Conference” April 12-14 at Crystal Mountain.  Visit www.ruralmich.org for more information. 

The Fair Housing Center of Greater Grand Rapids is holding its annual Housing Luncheon and Workshop series on April 14 in Grand Rapids.  Visit www.fhcgrandrapids.com for more information. 

WMRPC Open House!!

The WMRPC is holding an open house on June 17, 2005 following the Board Meeting.  The April Newsletter will have additional information, but mark your calendars now.

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