Model City Charter Revision Project - Eighth Edition
Option Memo
Issue: City Planning and Regional Cooperation
Seventh Edition: Section 4.04 of the Model provides that "Consistent
with all applicable federal and state laws with respect to land use,
development and environmental protection, the city council shall: (1)
Designate an agency or agencies to carry out the planning function and
such decision-making responsibilities as may be specified by ordinance;
(2) Adopt a comprehensive plan and determine to what extent zoning and
other land use control ordinances must be consistent with the plan;
and (3) Adopt development regulations, to be specified by ordinance,
to implement the plan."
The first meeting summary raises the issue of including transportation,
housing, environmental/social justice, and smart growth as part of urban
planning and land use. It also raises the issue of structural enhancements
that can promote and support intergovernmental/metropolitan collaboration
and cooperation.
Pros of Expanding the Model's Planning Language to Include Transportation,
Housing, Environment/Social Justice, Smart Growth, and Promoting Regional
Cooperation: Growth, transportation, and land use affect the quality
of life of citizens. Modern city planning and zoning is sometimes criticized
for being based on outdated concepts. The Model should be forward looking
in this area, and should encourage regional cooperation among neighboring
jurisdictions.
Cons of Expanding the Model's Planning Language to Include Transportation,
Housing, Environmental/Social Justice, Smart Growth, and Promoting Regional
Cooperation: The current Model presents the structure of the planning
function at its essence, and is consistent with the local planning model
guidelines of the American Planning Association (www.planning.org/guidebookhtm/table_of_contents.htm).
Cities need to deal with changing issues of growth primarily through
planning boards and ordinances.
Two Options: The Committee should adopt one of the following
positions by the end of the March 22 meeting:
- The Model's planning language should encourage regional cooperation
and should include transportation, housing, environmental/social justice,
and smart growth.
- The Model's current planning language is adequate.
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