To support the equitable utilization of third party consultants in land use determinations
The implications of H2109 include shifts in local governance as municipalities adopt the guidelines set forth by the bill. By ensuring that a minimum of three consultants are available in each required field, the bill promotes a competitive environment where local boards can obtain qualified assistance without undue burden on applicants. The coordination between different local bodies regarding consultant use aims to eliminate redundancy and optimize resource allocation, potentially leading to faster permitting processes while ensuring thorough reviews.
House Bill 2109 aims to enhance the process of land use determinations by promoting the equitable utilization of third-party consultants. The bill requires municipalities to maintain and update a certified list of approved outside consultants with minimum qualifications for various fields relevant to local permitting boards. This initiative is designed to streamline the application review process by giving applicants the right to choose their consultants from this certified list, thus introducing more transparency and choice into the procedures. The bill also stipulates that applicants should not be charged for any travel-related expenses incurred by outside consultants, further reducing potential financial barriers associated with obtaining expert reviews.
Despite its intentions, the bill may face contention, particularly concerning the selection criteria for approved consultants and the maintainability of such lists in smaller municipalities. Critics may argue that the requirement to establish and update these lists could impose additional bureaucratic requirements on local governments, which may lack the necessary resources to implement them effectively. Furthermore, the bill's impact on the local selection of consultants could be scrutinized, with concerns that it might unintentionally limit the flexibility of boards to engage local experts or practitioners who are familiar with specific community needs.