The 2012 Michigan Land and Prosperity Summit, co-hosted by the MSU Land Policy Institute and Michigan Funders for Sustainable Regions, featured speakers and sessions focused on the themes of places, people and progress being made across Michigan.
I had the honor of speaking about the League's efforts through our 21c3 program and used examples from communities across our state that are implementing place-based strategies in their downtowns and neighborhoods.
Other speakers discussed the importance of arts and culture, transportation, entrepreneurship and being welcoming to all. A particular keynote speaker, Dr. Manuel Pastor of the University of Southern California, talked about the country's changing demographics and the fact that metro areas that have a fairer distribution of income are more sustainable and growing over time. Education he noted is key.
Directors from MDOT, MSHDA and the state department of agriculture and rural development also spoke together about the collaborations taking place within their state agencies to move a place based economic development agenda forward.
Arnold Weinfeld is Director of Strategic Initiatives and Federal Affairs for the Michigan Municipal League. He can be reached at 517-908-0304 or by e-mail.
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