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Zoning Reform
Land use and zoning laws determine how well a community can manage growth and protect its natural resources. APCC advocates at the local and state level for regulations and statutes that enable communities to plan and implement effective growth management strategies.
State Zoning Reform
For several years, APCC has actively advocated for reforms to the state’s zoning and planning statutes, which have been identified as among the worst in the nation for their inability to allow communities to plan effectively for growth and protect natural resources. Existing state law actually serves as an impediment to local planning by allowing developers to easily circumvent efforts to improve zoning bylaws. APCC is a member of the Zoning Reform Working Group, a body of planning and land use professionals, environmental organizations, housing advocates, municipal representatives and state elected officials who are seeking reforms to the state’s antiquated land use statutes. The working group has drafted proposed zoning reform legislation, which has been filed in the 2011 legislative session.
Local Zoning Improvements
APCC is also a strong voice in promoting improvements to local zoning bylaws and regulations that currently perpetuate sprawl and consume open space. APCC works with town officials in identifying areas where changes to local bylaws are needed in order to direct growth to village centers and away from sensitive natural resource areas. In addition, APCC generates powerful grass roots support to push for the adoption of needed zoning changes that will better protect the resources and character of the community.