Ontonagon achieves MEDC's Redevelopment Ready Communities "Essentials" status

Designation signals communities have identified redevelopment goals, created master plan for the future

LANSING, Mich. – For its efforts in establishing a more streamlined development process and overall community development vision, the Village of Ontonagon achieved the Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) Essentials designation, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced today.

RRC is a voluntary initiative which empowers communities to shape their future as they strive to become RRC Certified by building a foundation of planning, zoning and economic development best practices and integrating them into their everyday functions and was launched statewide in 2013. RRC promotes communities to be development ready and competitive in today’s economy by actively engaging stakeholders and proactively planning, making them more attractive for projects that create places where people want to live, work, and invest.

Based on feedback from communities and other stakeholders, MEDC evolved the RRC toolkit in February 2021 to include two different designations: “Essentials” and “Certified.” Communities can now determine which path is most appropriate for their needs based on capacity, community goals, and other local factors. Reaching the RRC Essentials designation is a formal recognition that a community has a vision for the future and the fundamental practices in place to get there.

“We applaud the Village of Ontonagon for achieving Essentials status,” said MEDC Chief Place Officer of Place, Programs, & Services Michele Wildman. “Ontonagon has identified its desired direction for the future and has a plan to achieve its goals for the community. We look forward to building upon our relationship with the Village and supporting its continued economic development efforts.”

To achieve the Essentials designation, Ontonagon worked to incorporate all the key documents and practices to provide a predictable development experience and meet local planning and zoning responsibilities under Michigan law. The Village efforts have produced high-quality documents and processes that will continue to generate value.

“The Essential status in the RRC program marks a new chapter for the Village of Ontonagon,” said Village President Pam Coey. “It shows our dedication to a thriving, well-planned community and we are excited about the new opportunities this recognition will bring for future growth and development.”

To date, the MEDC has formally recognized 76 Michigan communities in all corners of the state at the Certified level and 26 at the Essentials level. These communities have qualified as “thoroughly prepared” when it comes to planning and zoning, to remove traditional barriers and promote opportunities for prospective investors. To see the entire list of Redevelopment Ready Communities, visit here.

“This accomplishment shows how the Village of Ontonagon is embracing forward-thinking practices that will lead to long-term growth and prosperity,” said Village Manager William “Willie” DuPont. “By achieving the RRC Essential level, we are paving the way for strategic improvements that will benefit our community for many years to come.”

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.