"Our goal is to replicate his success at revitalizing Lansing in the otherurban centers across the state. And we want to create cool cities, hipplaces to live and work," Granholm said.

How the new governor would deal with land development was one of the mostanticipated questions of her recently won campaign. Former Gov. John Englerwas perceived to be more comfortable with helping the economy by providingincentives to companies to build and redevelop, and did not focus as much onenvironmental issues.

Hollister's new department combines the Michigan Department of Consumer andIndustry Services and the Michigan Department of Career Development.Hollister said he also plans to continue the Michigan Economic GrowthAuthority, which gives out tax incentives to retain businesses that areconsidering expanding or relocating to Michigan.

"I don't see any structural changes to Engler's initiatives," Hollister toldGlobeSt.com.

He also said he favors keeping the Michigan Economic Development Corp.around as well. The public/private agency has worked hard the last few yearsto also find tax incentives and loan programs for new and expandingbusinesses.

Hollister said he will stay a member of the MEDC board.The MEDC was a key element in the move to create various technologycorridors in the state, as well as opening numerous small business trainingcenters, and technology training schools on college campuses.

"We have to stay steady on our business retention strategy," Hollister said."We're competing with other states such as Indiana and Ohio, and even othercountries, to keep businesses like Ford, General Motors and DaimlerChrysler,and their suppliers, here in Michigan."

Hollister will also likely work with the new Michigan Land Use LeadershipCouncil. The council is co-chaired by former Gov. William Milliken andformer Attorney General Frank J. Kelley.Granholm said the council will study how agriculture, forestry, mining, andtourism are threatened by urban sprawl, and will make recommendations to thestate by Aug. 15.