Opening on the Plan Commission

If you are a resident of the City of Verona, are good at paying attention to details and have a strong interest in shaping the future of our City, you should consider serving on the Plan Commission. My seat is now available for the appointment of another suitable volunteer. (I am happy to continue serving until a replacement is identified.)

The most important thing for a Plan Commission member to do is to think about the unexpected circumstances that the future may bring. A lot of the permits and decisions "run with the land" and will still be in effect when the current developer/owner departs. We need to give careful consideration to what a random future owner may want to do.

It's also important to set aside plenty of time on the weekend prior to each meeting to do research. Plan to drive by any properties that are mentioned on the agenda. Take note of surrounding properties that may feel secondary effects of any decisions. Carefully review any drawings and try to visualize how the property will look and function. Think about whether the proposal matches with your vision of our community.

When the meeting happens, don't be a afraid to speak up. You are there to bring another point of view to the discussion. This is your one chance to air your questions to the applicants and require that they provide acceptable responses. You are in a position of power and influence - use it to benefit our community.

If this sounds like something you may be interested in, I invite you to sit in on a meeting or two. The Plan Commission meets at 6:30pm on the first Monday of each month (unless there are no items needing attention). There is always plenty of room in the audience. In addition, you can catch several of us after the meeting to answer any questions you may have.