A bill to regulate training for planning and zoning members has passed the House Standing Committee on Local Government. House Bill 321 is sponsored by State Rep. DJ Johnson.
The measure would require the initial orientation training that planning commissioners and board of adjustment members take to occur between one year prior to and one year following their appointment.
“Strong planning and zoning decisions start with well-informed members, and this measure ensures that commissioners and board members receive the necessary training to make thoughtful, community-focused decisions,” Johnson said. “By expanding the timeframe and including education on housing supply and accessibility, we are equipping them with the tools to balance smart growth with affordability.”
HB 321 would include at least one hour of training on the impact of planning and zoning policies and procedures on housing supply and accessibility. Additionally, the measure would change the required hours from two consecutive calendar years to four.
“Planning and zoning policies have a direct impact on housing availability and community development,” Johnson added. “This measure would strengthen the training process, ensuring that decision-makers understand how their choices affect housing supply and accessibility while also providing them with a more flexible timeline to complete their required training.”
