The Determinants of Participation in Land Use-Related Education and Training: A Case Study of the State of Michigan

In recent years, numerous policy makers and educators in Michigan have advocated increasing participation of land use planning officials in land use-related education and training. The Michigan Land Use Leadership Council, commissioned by Governor Granholm, recommended that 60% of planning and zoning officials complete basic land use planning, zoning, and smart growth educational programs by 2010. However, while demographic information has been gathered on planning officials, little empirical research has been conducted on the determinants of participating in land use education and training. This paper uses regression analysis to estimate and interpret a demand function for participation in land use-related education and training. Results indicate willingness to participate in land use-related training is a function of education, perceived benefit, and length in service. These findings have important programmatic and policy implications. Training programs should be geared towards those planning officials who are beginning to serve. Educators should focus on promoting and educating communities and planning officials on the potential benefits of land use-related training