Planning, Preservation and Design

The mission of the Planning, Preservation, and Design Department is to help create a vibrant city of lasting value by engaging the community through neighborhood revitalization, sustainable land use, long-range planning, historic preservation, and zoning administration. This department reviews and engages the community on development proposals, and supports the Plan Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, PACE Review Committee, and Historic District Board of Review. 

Who is in this Department:

Director of Planning

The Director of Planning is responsible for the city's comprehensive planning, assists in development plan review, and administers the city's Paul Bruhn P.A.C.E. grant program.  The Director of Planning is responsible for assisting property owners appearing before the Plan Commission and Board of Zoning Appeals, preparing staff reports, and recommending policy changes. The Director of Planning also serves as the Floodplain Administrator and Stormwater Supervisor.

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Building Inspector

The Building Inspector conducts plan reviews, issues building permits, and inspects projects for building code compliance. The Building Inspector also acts as the city's Floodplain Administrator.

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Code Enforcement Officer

The Code Enforcement Officer is responsible for enforcing city codes not primarily enforced by the Police Department, assisting the Building Inspector with inspections of unsafe structures, and maintaining detailed case files. The Code Enforcement Officer also serves as the MS4 Coordinator. 

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Historic Preservationist

The Historic Preservationist is responsible for supporting the Historic District Board of Review, conducting regular site visits to downtown properties, and processing Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) applications. The Historic Preservationist also administers the city's P.A.C.E. grant program.