The Village of Kaleva, Dickson Township, Maple Grove Township, Norman Township, Stronach Township, the Charter Township of Filer and Manistee County were awarded a First Steps service grant to develop a new regional strategic economic develop plan -- a plan to address strategies for Michigan's "new economy."

Update: LIAA and the project partners recently completed Planning for Prosperity - An Economic Development Strategy for the East/South Manistee Community. The document is intended to provide a vision for the future and a generalized plan for growth and prosperity in the region.

The document offers tools and suggestions for cooperative efforts to be undertaken by the participating municipalities toward success and prosperity in the "new economy." While this document focuses on economic development and the development of strategic assets, it also suggests a broader effort to establish a cooperative environment in the greater community.