IDEA LAB
Cities evolve over time based on policies and actions. Cities create regulatory environments that provide rules and incentives to promote economic development and jobs. While city growth can be very controversial, the right strategies and partnerships can help minimize tensions and steer the inevitable metamorphosis of cities. Urban developers interact with the planning, engineering, building division and economic development teams of cities to get their projects approved and opened. Today more and more open city data and public information is available to allow communities to look under the hood of government operations. This publicly available information helps people make more informed decisions when they participate in the city building process.
PLANNING
Sets standards for land uses and building densities throughout the city, including permitted and prohibited land uses. Zoning policies give order to how cities are built and provide area-wide and specific standards for land development.
ENGINEERING
Ensures the integrity, safety and access to the public right of way by overseeing public infrastructure improvements and reviewing public improvements constructed by private land developers.
BUILDING DIVISION
Conducts plan review and field inspections of all structures to ensure projects comply with state and local laws. Certifies buildings are operational and functional before issuing certificates of occupancy.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Focuses on improving the economic vitality of the city by expanding the tax base, attracting new business investment and creating jobs. Helps inform the vision of the city as well as promotes and courts specific land uses to increase city revenue and improve quality of life.
