Planning Commission

Position Title: Member of the Planning Commission

Department or Program Overview: The Planning Commission serves as the hearing body on land use decisions in Columbia County. The Commission conducts public hearings and advises the Columbia County Board of Commissioners on Comprehensive Plan, Development, and Ordinance amendments. In coordination with the county's Planning Manager, the commission reviews development applications and makes recommendations on amendments to the county's long-range Comprehensive Plan and its Zoning, Subdivision and Partitioning ordinances.

The Commission shall consist of seven members and up to three alternates, representing various geographical areas of the County, appointed by the Board of County Commissioners (the Board). Appointments are staggered to ensure continuity. Terms are for 4 years.

Meeting Schedule and Location: The first Monday of the month at 6:30 pm at Healy Hall and online and all are public meetings.

General Statement of Duties:

• Members are required to take DLCD Planning 101 training.
• Members shall attend regular meetings and any meetings of the subcommittees to which they are appointed.
• Members shall adhere to all state laws, rules, and regulations regarding conflict of interest and rules of ethics for public officials.
• The commission serves as the hearing body on land use issues in Columbia County.
• The commission conducts public hearings and advises the Board on Comprehensive Plan, Development Ordinance amendments.
• The commission reviews development applications and makes recommendations on amendments to the county's long-range Comprehensive Plan and its Zoning and Subdivision and Partitioning ordinances, in liaison with the Planning Division Manager.
• The commission shall adopt and adhere to policies and procedures which shall not be inconsistent with the Ordinance or applicable laws, rules or regulations.

Qualifications:

• Resident of Columbia County.
• Must have experience or an interest in land use and building in Columbia County

Position Reports To: The Planning Division Manager is appointed to manage and staff the commission and act as liaison between the commission and the Board.

Expectations: Be reliable, act responsibly and with integrity, be accountable for your actions, carry out duties according to the position description, be committed to Columbia County and your tour of service, undertake training as required, ask for support when needed, be courteous to participants, staff, other volunteers and value and support other team members.

Additional Training: Volunteer Orientation training will be provided.

Benefits to Volunteering for this position: Columbia County understands volunteering allows citizens to give back to their community in meaningful ways and is a critical resource to the county. As a member of this commission, you will gain experience and knowledge regarding land use and zoning issues in Columbia County.

Columbia County residency is required to be an appointed member of a Columbia County Commission or Committee.