10:00am-12:00pm

This zoom class will provide an overview of “the why” of the PlaceCode, including outlining the reasons for updating zoning and political land mines to avoid.  Participants will learn about the genesis of the PlaceCode, which was developed as an alternative to existing outdated zoning.  Instruction will cover the limitations and issues that result from 1970s vintage zoning codes, and will explain the framework for the PlaceCode, based on local development patterns and meeting the common objectives of communities. This class will also review the economic development case for the PlaceCode, how to advocate locally for updating local zoning to promote housing and economic development.

Downtowns leaders can help advocate for critical zoning change. Back in the 1970s many towns adopted zoning that makes it illegal to build in the pattern common to our traditional downtowns, in-town neighborhoods, and villages. As a result of suburban zoning standards overlaid onto our communities, new development tends to be in a pattern that is spread out and low density, with large parking lots, systematically eroding our walkable loveable places.  The PlaceCode provides a set of tools that can help towns more easily update their zoning.  Main Street organizations can help be the champions for this important work.

Speakers:

Ivy Vann is a planner and designer with many years of experience in town planning both in New Hampshire and nationally. She works on charrettes, planning projects, code review, master planning, public engagement, and comprehensive planning. Ivy is certified as a planner by both the American Planning Association and the Congress for the New Urbanism.

Ben Frey is an experienced professional with a diverse background spanning over two decades in municipal governance, and three decades in technology and the building trades sectors. With demonstrated leadership and expertise in board/committee management, municipal finance, economic development, zoning and land use planning and development, database administration, computer programming, and home construction, Ben is adept at navigating complex projects and delivering results across multiple disciplines.

This webinar is brought to you by the Maine Department of Economic and Community Development, Housing Opportunities Program, Maine Downtown Center, and Build Maine.