Obviously at the center of the planning universe! Planning commissions often have two distinct functions. The first involves preparation and revision of the community's comprehensive (or municipal) plan and local land use regulations, such as the zoning or subdivision code. This role is typically advisory to the local governing body, with the planning board forwarding a recommended plan (or ordinance) to the governing body for consideration.
The Planning Commission
The second, and often most time-consuming, function involves review of development proposals, such as site plans and subdivision plats. In some states the planning commission makes the final decision on these, subject to possible court review. In other states, the planning commission recommends a decision that the local governing body can modify.
With both long and short range planning responsibilities, planning commission members can justifiably lay claim to being at the hub of the planning universe!