STEPZ Workshop for Planning Officials

Strategic Training on Effective Planning and Zoning (STEPZ) for Planning Officials

The Central Ohio region is experiencing rapid growth and change. As development accelerates, it is essential that both planning staff and elected officials are equipped with the tools and knowledge to guide their communities effectively. At the same time, as experienced Department Staff, Administrators, Planning Commission Members, and Board of Zoning Appeals Members leave their roles, new personnel are stepping in - often learning complex procedures, protocols, and best practices on the job.

To minimize the transitional challenges that come with this turnover, STEPZ offers a semi-annual workshop series that provides planning staff and officials at all experience levels with consistent, high-quality training to help them better serve their communities and make informed decisions. At STEPZ, our goal is to build a stronger, more confident planning community across Central Ohio - one that's ready to meet today's challenges and shape the region's future with knowledge, professionalism, and collaboration.

The second iteration of STEPZ Workshop will take place on Tuesday, November 18th. This focused half-day session is designed specifically for planning staff to strengthen their understanding of zoning processes, development challenges, and strategic growth management. If you're a member of a planning department - whether serving a township, village, or a city - join us to deepen your expertise, sharpen your skills, and connect with planning professionals from across Central Ohio.

KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Led by experts in the field, the workshop will offer a series of engaging discussions covering critical topics, including:

• Best practices in site planning
• Sustainability strategies for building resilient communities
• Ethics and legalities to keep in mind while making planning decisions
• Stream setbacks & conservation development

Participants will gain practical insights and tools they can apply directly to their daily work, helping to ensure that planning processes are informed, defensible, and responsive to the
evolving needs of Central Ohio communities.
For questions, contact Tunazzina Alam at talam@morpc.org