This bill establishes the Office of Citizen Involvement, Land Use, and Planning Advocate within the Department of State, which will take over the responsibilities of the abolished Office of Planning Advocacy. The new office aims to enhance public awareness and engagement in land use and zoning matters, particularly regarding developments of regional impact, such as warehouses. The office will provide guidance, training, and resources to the public, promote accountability and transparency in planning processes, and assist local governments with relevant projects.

The bill also mandates the appointment of a Director for the new office, who will be responsible for creating a centralized database of information related to land use and planning, maintaining records of individuals who complete a required basic course in land use law, and ensuring compliance with course requirements for members of local planning boards and zoning boards of adjustment. Additionally, the bill transfers funds from the abolished Office of Planning Advocacy to the new office and specifies that the Director, rather than the Commissioner of Community Affairs, will oversee the preparation and administration of the basic course in land use law and planning.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 40:55D-23.3