Improving the Subdivision Review Process
by Randall Arendt
--- The initial stages of the subdivision review process can be the best time for providing useful input to applicants in the shaping of their subdivision plans. Yet too often planning commission and neighbor involvement comes only after detailed and costly subdivision drawings have already been prepared. Randall Arendt describes three key steps in shifting to a more proactive review process.
How Dimensional Standards Shape Residential Streets
by Joel Russell
--- Dimensional standards, which regulate building setbacks and height, lot coverage, and similar matters, have been one of the basic building blocks of zoning since its inception. Many, however, have failed to consider the significance of dimensional standards in shaping the "streetscape."
Basics of Variances
by Robert Widner
free download; click read excerpts
--- Attorney Robert Widner offers a primer on the basics of zoning variances.
The Effective Planning Commissioner:
Is Planning a Household Word in Your Community?
--- How can you strengthen community involvement in planning after you’ve completed work on updating your comprehensive plan, when there’s no “hot issue” on the table? Elaine Cogan offers some suggestions.
Current Planning Issues:
Smart Growth
--- In the first of a new series of short articles exploring key planning issues, Greg Dale takes a look at two words that have been sweeping the nation: "smart growth."
The Planning Commission At Work:
Zoning Boards & Planning Commissions
--- PCJ columnist Michael Chandler provides an overview of the role of local zoning boards, and why it's important for planning commissions to be familiar with zoning board decisions.
--- Planning historian Larry Gerckens continues his alphabetic review of planning topics with: Takings, Urban Sprawl, and Vision. Illustrations by Paul Hoffman. Note: The Planning ABCs series is available to order in its entirety.
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