August 18, 2003  

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm today instructed Department of Consumer and Industry Services Director David Hollister to lead her administration’s review of the Michigan Land Use Leadership Council report released earlier today.  Director Hollister will consider the Council’s vision and goals statement in suggesting new policies at the state level.
  
“The breadth and depth of topics covered by the Council truly shows the urgency of this issue,” Granholm said.  “Land use isn’t just about the environment, it’s about moving toward a sustainable future for our state, our economy, and our communities.  I look forward to reviewing the Council’s recommendations and taking quick action in the coming weeks and months.”
  
Governor Granholm created the bipartisan council by executive order in February.   The council was charged by the Governor and legislative leaders with studying the causes, effects, and trends of urban sprawl in Michigan and devising proposals to curb its impact on commerce and the environment.  The Council was co-chaired by former Governor William Milliken and former Attorney General Frank J. Kelley.   Senate Majority Leader Ken Sikkema (R-Wyoming), House Speaker Rick Johnson (R-LeRoy), Senate Democratic Leader Bob Emerson (D-Flint), and House Democratic Leader Dianne Byrum (D-Onondaga) all supported the council’s creation.
  
“I want to commend the members and staff of the Land Use Council for their dedicated work in meeting the challenge put to them six months ago,” said Granholm.  “The Council has done so much more than create a roadmap for land use in Michigan.  They’ve shown that diverse groups and viewpoints can find a middle ground in dealing with important issues that affect us all.”