Streamlining Development in Jersey Township: A New Law to Expedite Approval Processes
In a significant move to speed up development approvals, a new provision tucked within a 325-page bill passed during the Ohio General Assembly’s lame-duck session last year offers Jersey Township in western Licking County an alternative route for development plan reviews. This law change allows the township to bypass the traditional county planning process and work directly with New Albany’s Community Development Department, a move designed to expedite the review and permitting process for development projects.
Why the Change Was Needed
According to Rob Platte, Administrator for Jersey Township, the slow pace of the planning process has been a growing concern. “We’ve seen projects get stuck in planning for two to three years,” Platte explained. As a result, Jersey Township pushed for this law change to provide a quicker, more efficient pathway for developers to secure approvals and permits.
This provision was included in HB 315, the “Christmas-tree” bill, which addressed a wide range of topics including public notice regulations and the declaration of “Ukraine Independence Day” in Ohio. The key change for Jersey Township is found on pages 146-148, enabling them to bypass Licking County’s planning process in favor of a faster review system through New Albany.
A Faster, More Business-Friendly Approach
Jersey Township will continue to work with the Licking County Planning Department, but the new law offers a valuable alternative. The township can now collaborate directly with New Albany’s Community Development Department, which is known for its streamlined, business-friendly approach to development. The department promises to “operate at the speed of business,” offering a one-stop shop for new developments, expansions, and relocations.
Under the new law, if the Licking County Planning Department does not complete its review within 90 days, Jersey Township has the option to inform the county and take the project directly to New Albany for approval.
The Impact on Developers
The delays in the county planning process can be costly. Platte notes that if a developer waits for months or even years for approval, they may walk away from the project altogether, resulting in a loss of both time and money. “The community also loses out on the potential benefits of those projects,” he added.
This new provision offers a much-needed solution for developers, enabling them to get timely approval and move forward with their projects without unnecessary delays.
Acknowledging County Efforts and Moving Forward
While Jersey Township’s decision to seek a faster alternative route has been met with support, County Commissioner Duane Flowers recognizes the importance of improving the county’s planning process as well. “Township trustees need all the tools they can get,” Flowers said. “But we also want to find ways to make the county process smoother and faster.”
The Licking County Planning & Development office has been working diligently despite being shorthanded without a director for more than a year. However, the county is actively addressing these issues and plans to finalize process improvement recommendations by June.
Feedback and Recommendations for Improvement
To further enhance the planning process, the county has conducted surveys and gathered feedback from developers, builders, and other stakeholders. The results indicate that while the planning department’s staff is knowledgeable and committed, there is room for improvement in terms of communication, response times, and overall efficiency.
Key recommendations for improvement include:
- Faster Response Times: Implementing clear deadlines for review and improving communication channels.
- Streamlined Processes: Simplifying review processes, especially for smaller projects and simple applications.
- Zoning and Subdivision Reform: Removing unnecessary hurdles in zoning and subdivision regulations.
- Improved Leadership and Staff Training: Focusing on leadership development, staff training, and accountability measures.
- Adopting Best Practices: Implementing best practices from other Ohio counties to create a more efficient, user-friendly process.
Looking Ahead
As Licking County continues to experience rapid growth, these improvements will help ensure that the planning and development processes can keep pace with the demand. By implementing these changes, the Licking County Planning & Development office can become a more responsive and development-friendly entity, ultimately benefiting both the community and developers alike.
For more information on the new law and its impact on development in Jersey Township, please contact the Jersey Township administration or the New Albany Community Development Department.
Follow Dalmar TV on Facebook for the Latest News
