East Lansing council adopts resolution opposing Michigan bills that would limit local zoning authority
Loading...
Summary
The council adopted Resolution 2026‑26 opposing Michigan House bills (including HB 5529–5532 and HB 5581–5585) that staff said would preempt local zoning decisions on ADUs, duplexes and lot standards; councilmembers warned statewide preemption could undermine local planning goals.
The East Lansing City Council voted April 7 to adopt Resolution 2026‑26 opposing a package of Michigan House bills staff said would materially reduce local zoning authority over lot sizes, accessory dwelling units, duplexes and other land‑use standards.
Principal planner Landon Bartley summarized the bills and told council staff view preemption of local zoning as "less than ideal." Council members — including those who serve with the Michigan Municipal League or have studied the bills — expressed concern that the bills could undermine local rental‑license rules and the city’s ability to shape development. One council member said the bills had been pitched as affordable‑housing measures but warned East Lansing’s experience suggested the changes could have the opposite effect.
Council member Whelan moved the resolution opposing the bills; the motion passed by voice vote without recorded dissent. Council members said they supported state efforts that reward best practices without removing local control, and they asked staff to remain engaged with regional partners and the Michigan Municipal League on legislative responses.
