Staff recommends the City Council conduct a public hearing on the creation of the City Planning Commission to comply with the Montana Land Use Planning Act (MLUPA) and approve the resolution to create the Planning Commission.

In response to the evolving needs of our community and the regulatory requirements outlined in the Montana Land Use Planning Act, this memo proposes the establishment of a City Planning Commission. This commission will be integral to developing and overseeing the City Growth Policy, ensuring sustainable and well-regulated urban development.

The Montana Land Use Planning Act mandates that municipalities develop and implement a growth policy to guide future development. This growth policy serves as a comprehensive plan that addresses land use, economic development, housing, public services, and natural resources. To comply with state regulations and to support our city's strategic development goals, it is crucial to establish a dedicated body to manage these efforts.

The primary functions of the City Planning Commission will include:

• Developing a City Growth Policy in alignment with the Montana Land Use Planning Act.
• Conducting public hearings and community engagement to ensure the growth policy reflects the needs and aspirations of our residents.
• Reviewing and making recommendations on zoning changes, subdivision applications, and other land use proposals.
• Ensuring that all development aligns with the city’s long-term strategic goals and regulatory frameworks.
• Advising the City Council on matters related to urban planning and land use.

Planning Division staff is proposing that the first and temporary City Planning Commission consist of seven members, appointed by the City Council. Planning Division staff recommends establishing this initial commission as the temporary board for the development of the City Growth Policy including the land use map. Staff recommends the following composition initially through the Growth Policy plan development:

• The five City representatives that currently serve on the City/County Planning Board. These members are experienced in land use issues such as subdivision, land use issues and transportation planning and will help guide the Growth Policy Development. The five members currently appointed to the Planning Board to represent the city include one member from each Ward. These members are as follows:
  • Ward 1 - Jim Ronquillo
  • Ward 2 - Roger Gravgaard
  • Ward 3 - Dennie Stephenson
  • Ward 4 - John Staley
  • Ward 5 - David Nordel
• One member each from the City Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment. These members are experienced in City Zoning Regulations and land use decisions.

This commission will remain in place until the adoption of the City Growth Policy. At that time, this initial commission will be dissolved, and an Ordinance will be drafted to establish the permanent commission. Elements in the development of the permanent commission include:

1. Drafting the Ordinance: Prepare an ordinance for the City Council’s approval, outlining the establishment, powers, and duties of the City Planning Commission.
2. Appointment of members: Solicit applications and nominations for commission members, ensuring a transparent and inclusive selection process.
3. Initial meeting and training: Conduct an inaugural meeting and provide training on relevant laws, regulations, and planning principles.

Benefits

The establishment of a City Planning Commission will provide several key benefits:

• Structured Development: Ensures that urban growth is well-planned, sustainable, and aligned with the city’s strategic vision.
• Community Involvement: Encourages active participation from residents and stakeholders in the planning process.
• Expert Oversight: Leverages the expertise of commission members to make informed decisions about land use and development.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensures that all development activities comply with state and local regulations, minimizing legal risks.

By adopting this resolution, the City Council assures residents of an experienced commission that will help guide the development of the City Growth Policy.

City Council may:

• Approve the Resolution to create the City Planning Commission to meet the intent of the Montana Land Use Planning Act; or,
• Not approve the Resolution to create the City Planning Commission. By not adopting the resolution, the City will not be in compliance with the required element of the Montana Land Use Planning Act.

The adoption of this resolution will not directly affect city finances. 

The creation of a City Planning Commission is a strategic move to support our city’s growth and development in a structured and sustainable manner. By leveraging community input and expert guidance, we can ensure that our City Growth Policy reflects the values and needs of our residents while complying with the Montana Land Use Planning Act.