Planning & Zoning Team Retreat - October 29 & 30
Whether you’re a zoning administrator, member of the planning commission or zoning board of appeals, or part of your township’s planning and zoning team, your knowledge of the planning and zoning process is vital to your community. As new developments and projects approach your township, it’s important to be prepared to make tough decisions. Are you ready for the challenge?
MTA can help! Get the information and skills you need at the 2025 Planning & Zoning Team Retreat. Coming to the beautiful Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, this unique event offers premier educational programming and excellent networking opportunities.
We’ll spend two days immersed in expert-led sessions designed specifically for you on township planning and zoning concepts, trends and pressing issues. Offered only every other year, this unique opportunity ensures your planning and zoning team stays ahead of today’s complex issues.
Click here to register online now or download full brochure here.
For full session descriptions, see below or download the brochure using the link above.
Full program registration includes 11 hours of education, all meals and refreshments, ample time for networking, evening entertainment and a vendor showcase! Can’t stay for both days? Single-day options are also available.
Register early to take advantage of early-bird savings, plus save $60 off full-program rates by registering another township team member. Discount applies to second registrant attending the same retreat when registered at the same time.
Agenda
Wednesday, October 29
8 a.m. | Check In
8:30 a.m. | Welcome
8:35 a.m. | Legislative News You Need to Know
9:45 a.m. | Clarifying Roles, Following Rules
11:15 a.m. | Vendor Introductions
11:30 a.m. | Vendor Showcase
Noon | Lunch
1 p.m. | It's All Part of the Master Plan (Or is it?!)
2:25 p.m. | Zoning in on the Hot Topics
4 p.m. | Bavarian Belle Riverboat Cruise
6:30 p.m. | Dinner
Thursday, October 30
8 a.m. | Breakfast
8:30 a.m. | Watt Works for You: Renewable Energy Ordinances that Fit
10:25 a.m. | The Power of Possibility: Flexing Your Zoning Ordinance
11:55 a.m. | Lunch
1 p.m. | By Special Request: Making Sense of Special Land Uses
2:45 p.m. | Next Level Zoning: Navigating Complicated Projects
4 p.m. | Adjourn
Educational Sessions
The number of bills introduced each session affecting planning and zoning is higher than you might think. Often these bills limit local control—sometimes they even eliminate it! Whether it’s short-term rentals, the siting of sand and gravel or renewable energy facilities, zoning for housing or beyond, all impact your role. Learn what is at the forefront this session, the nuances of these issues, what specific actions you can take and why those actions matter, and leave with a deeper understanding on how to work together and have a positive impact.
A blueprint for effective zoning teamwork and transparent public process, this session transforms confusing jurisdictional tangles into a well-oiled municipal machine by clearly defining who does what, when, and how. Discover the secret sauce for seamless teamwork between the planning commission, zoning administrator, zoning board of appeals and the township board. Get tips for navigating the Open Meetings Act and foolproof strategies for public notices, engaging hearings and transparent decision-making that keeps your community informed.
Learn how to harness the power of public engagement and navigate legal requirements to create a master plan that becomes your secret weapon for smart growth and defensible zoning decisions. Join us as we reveal insider strategies that successful townships use to build consensus, avoid costly mistakes and create a lasting legacy that guides your vision for your township for decades to come.
This session brings the most talked-about planning and zoning issues front and center. A condensed version of MTA’s popular summer workshop series, this fast-paced session delivers practical, real-world strategies for navigating emerging land use issues. Plus, take away tips tailored for tackling these tough topics during your planning commission meetings.
As solar, wind and battery energy storage systems grow in popularity—and policy—townships must be ready to respond. With Public Act 233 setting new standards, how can your township create ordinances that balance local priorities with statewide energy goals? Th is session breaks down the impact of PA 233 and offers practical guidance to help you shape renewable energy ordinances that reflect your community’s needs, values and vision.
A well-crafted zoning ordinance doesn’t need constant amendments—it needs built-in flexibility. Learn how to make your zoning ordinance work smarter, not harder, by using tools like the special use permit process and strategic administrative discretion. Can we streamline reviews and approvals, while staying within the bounds of your ordinance? Yes we can!
Conditional or Special Land Uses are a common feature of every zoning ordinance, but getting from application to approval can be anything but easy. Join us as we discuss the legal foundation for conditional land uses, the value for using them and how to enforce when things don’t go to plan.
Join us on a deep dive into complex land uses that turn controversial for their impact on adjacent properties. Uses like gravel mining operations, mixed use developments, and agritourism require careful assessment and strong communication from start to finish. Th is session will help you identify potential trouble-spots early in the process and explore best practices for handling public hearings and noticing in a way that builds trust and maintains transparency with the community.
Hotel Reservations & Other Details
Retreat Lodging Reservations
The Bavarian Inn Lodge offers comfortable rooms with mini-fridges, microwaves, and free Wi-Fi, plus access to pools & whirlpools, a fitness center, restaurants, coffee bar, gift shop and nightly live entertainment. Guests can also enjoy the new Bavarian Blast indoor waterpark with slides, a wave pool, ropes course, and more. For more hotel details, visit https://www.bavarianinn.com/stay.
Rates: Starting at $162.28 (plus tax) per night
- Be sure to indicate any accessibility needs for lodging at the time you make your reservation.
Click here to book your lodging now
Discounted lodging rates for this retreat end Oct. 14 — book your room early to ensure availability!
Special Dietary Needs
The Bavarian Inn lodge can accommodate most special dietary requests if given advance notice. Please include your request when registering for the event, or email it to education@michigantownships.org at least one (1) week in advance; be sure to indicate whether any food allergies are airborne.
Cancellation & Substitution Policies
Written cancellation requests received at the MTA office four (4) weeks prior to the event will receive a full refund; two weeks prior will receive a half-refund. Substitutions may be made at any time with no charge; please notify MTA in advance whenever possible. For additional details, please see the event brochure found here or reference your confirmation email.
Thank you to our 2025 Retreat Sponsors!
