Local planning commission; action on proposed plats, site plans, and development plans.
Impact
The proposed changes in HB1356 are aimed at improving the speed and transparency of local planning processes. By limiting the time frame for action on development plans, the bill seeks to avoid protracted approval times that can hinder development. Supporters argue that this could encourage economic growth and improve housing availability by making it easier for developers to get necessary approvals. However, there are concerns about whether such expedited processes might limit local governments' capacity to thoroughly vet plans for potential community impacts.
Summary
House Bill 1356 proposes amendments to Sections 15.2-2259 and 15.2-2260 of the Code of Virginia to streamline the process by which local planning commissions and their agents act on proposed plats, site plans, and plans of development. The bill mandates that local planning commissions must act on submitted plans within specific time frames—60 days for initial submissions and 45 days for re-submissions. This change aims to enhance efficiency and reduce delays in the development process, thus potentially facilitating faster real estate development activities in local jurisdictions.
Contention
One notable point of contention surrounding HB1356 is the balance between expedited development and local oversight. Opponents of the bill may assert that quickened processes could compromise the quality of planning review, leading to inadequate consideration of community needs and environmental impacts. Critics might argue that local governments should retain the ability to conduct rigorous reviews to ensure developments align with community standards and regulations. Empowering localities to maintain control over these processes could be vital for addressing unique local concerns, but HB1356 seems to advocate for a more streamlined approach that prioritizes development speed over local deliberation.