I like to volunteer in my community. Doing so enables me to make a difference in other people’s lives and make some small contribution in return for the benefits I receive. But, years ago when I was asked to serve on my community’s Planning and Zoning committee it felt like I was in over my head.
I kept asking myself:
- Will I make wise decisions regarding land use in my community?
- Will I understand the complicated zoning codes and different land use tools such as comprehensive planning?
- Will I carry out my duties and responsibilities correctly and wisely – and legally?
- How will I deal with heated community response in difficult circumstances?
At least I was in good company – many volunteer planners continue to express the same concerns and struggle to find where to turn for accurate, useful and easily understandable information.
To make matters worse, local land use issues are becoming increasingly complex, requiring difficult decisions of volunteer citizen planners who often have little preparation or training. Fortunately, the new American Citizen Planner Program (ACP) can help prepare and train these volunteer planners as well as others who are interested in the basic concepts of public land use planning and community development best practices.
Read the complete story on the OSU Extension CD Blog.
Myra Moss is an Associate Professor and Extension Educator.