Spring Institute 2019

April 25, 2019 | Radisson Hotel in Lansing

Member Rate $150  | Non-Member Rate $175 |

Rate Increases on April 19 and on April 23 

Download the full agenda here

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While Michigan's economy is recovering, and many communities have rebounded and are are experiencing tremendous growth and investment, many still struggle to attract the type of development that will improve quality of life, add to the tax base, or attract and maintain residents and businesses.  And like it or not, some Michigan communities may NEVER return to the economic glory they knew in their heyday.  We want ideas that are big and bold, but sometimes doing the best with what we have is a better way.  Think placemaking, storytelling, public private partnerships, or making data driven - rather than reactive - decisions about resource allocation.  These are all  local, placebased solutions.  Community planners are central to connecting people and ideas to these innovative concepts.  We can lead the charge, or provide the data, programs and policy ideas to the more visible community leaders, to tend to what we have right here at home.

Confirmed Keynotes

Opening Keynote | Talking Across the Divide

Community planners are often the mediators, explainers, and peacekeepers in an increasingly divisive environment. From the urban / rural divide and private property rights versus local control, to different opinions about density, affordable housing and public transportation, planners navigate stormy waters to find compromise, solutions, and closure. Our work isn't always easy or comfortable. This session provides a blueprint for productive dialogue and provides practical strategies to overcome the five major barriers to communication and get through to the people you never thought you could reach. Justin Lee's recently published Talking Across the Divide offers solutions.

Justin Lee, Author | Talking Across the Divide: How to Communicate to People You Disagree With

Welcome to Lansing

Honorable Mayor Andy Schor

Keynote Luncheon| Leadership Versus Management
Now more than ever our industry needs leaders. This inspriational keynote will examine key decisions and actions of several important individuals from history, providing attendees with a better understanding of what it takes to shape the future. Effective leadership styles will be amplified, helping planners reconnect to fundamental aspects of democratic governance, and become sharper in identifying and handling the uninformed and the misinformed.
Jon Lynch, AICP Three Rivers Corporation

Printable Registration Form available here.

Sponsorship Opportunities