Overview
Planning is long-term, and occurs in stages. Public participation has the greatest impact on shaping future development at the early stages, when visions and plans are being created. Updates to the local Comprehensive Plan, for example, incorporate meaningful public input that is used as the foundation for land development and zoning regulations. Changes to regulations are publicly noticed and invite public input as well. There is less opportunity to have an impact at the permitting stage, when decisions are made based on established regulations stemming from the Plan. Regardless of what stage we are in the planning process, citizens are always welcome to participate.
Be An Influencer
If you want to influence development by helping shape the community vision and land use policy in the Comprehensive Plan, or if you have questions and concerns about proposed changes in land development regulations or development permitting, you are invited to participate in a variety of ways:
Attend a Meeting
Participation in public meetings and workshops is the most impactful way to influence planning policy and shape future growth in the community. Meetings are used to gather public input on Comprehensive Plan updates and the development of other plans, such as the Urban Forest Master Plan and placemaking plans. These plans reflect the vision and values of the community, so get involved early to help create the policy that guides future Land Development Regulations.
Meet with Planning Staff
If you have questions or concerns of any kind about proposed changes to the Comprehensive Plan, Future Land Use map categories, or zoning districts, don’t hesitate to contact the Planning Department and speak with a planner on staff. You’re also welcome to call, email, or drop-in any time that you have questions or comments on planning topics ranging from transportation to urban design. Planning is a public process, and feedback is always welcomed.
Speak at a Public Hearing
A public comment period is included in all public hearing agendas. To participate, you will need to submit a completed “Speaker Card,” which is made available at the hearing. Speakers typically have three minutes to comment on both agendaed and unagendaed items. Public hearing dates and agendas are posted online and in the local newspaper:
Opportunities for Participation
Community Meetings
Comprehensive Plan Update Meetings
Neighborhood Association Meetings
Blueprint Project Community Meetings
Neighborhood Public Safety Initiative Meetings
Citizen Advisory
Bicycle Working Group Canopy Roads Committee
Comp Plan Group Water Resources Committee
Frenchtown Steering Committee
Urban Agriculture Stakeholders
Design Charrettes
Frenchtown Placemaking Charrette
Miccosukee Placemaking Charrette
Education & Service
Habitat for Humanity Build
Adopt-a-Street Cleanup
Presentations at Universities and Schools
Youth Leadership Tallahassee
Other
Online Surveys
On-Site Visits with Stakeholder Groups
Mobile Workshops and Tours
Participation in City and County Events