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Windsor is a wonderful place to work, live, and visit, thanks in large part to thoughtful planning. The Planning Division takes an essential leadership role, actively engaging the community to cultivate a vision for the Town which can then be implemented through development and policymaking. Within the Department of Community Development, the Planning Division consists of five full-time staff members: two junior-level planners, two senior-level planners, and a senior administrative assistant. Working closely with other departments, regulatory agencies, and our Windsor community, the planning team takes on a breadth of projects and initiatives both in current development and long-range planning.
“Our planning staff members are excellent communicators,” notes Community Development Director Patrick Streeter. “Whether speaking with decision-makers, developers, residents, or other stakeholders, they are adept at understanding and responding to different prospectives and priorities.”
According to Kim Jordan, Planner III, “one of the highlights for me in working for Windsor is that I get the opportunity to collaborate closely with my colleagues and community members on a daily basis.”
In addition to ensuring that development is consistent with the Town’s guiding documents, which include the General Plan, the zoning ordinance, various specific and master plans, and official Council policies, the Planning Division must stay informed of ever-changing state legislation and environmental regulation. Often this work leads to a recommendation brought forward to the Planning Commission or the Town Council for a decision at a public meeting. Senior Administrative Assistant Amanda May is responsible for ensuring that prior to these meetings, adequate notice is provided to community members and that the relevant information is provided to decision-makers.
“Amanda is highly organized and masterfully tracks schedules and deadlines,” says Mr. Streeter. “Without her to keep us on task, I’m not sure we’d get anything done!”
A development project can change substantially from the concept phase to final decision and approval. “Ultimately, the goal of the planning process is to ensure that the best version of the project is approved and constructed; I enjoy working with everyone involved to make that happen,” mentions Kim Voge, Planner III.
There’s not always a clear path to approval of a development project or adoption of a policy that everyone finds acceptable. As a Planner I, Kevin Locke’s responsibilities include staffing the planning counter and phone line to address inquiries and concerns from the community.
“I appreciate Kevin’s solutions-oriented approach and willingness to think creatively,” remarks Mr. Streeter. “It’s not always obvious, but often there’s a way to get to ‘yes’.”
The town's emphasis on multimodal transportation, pedestrian-friendly design, and bicyclist safety is appreciated by planning staff. "Windsor has done an excellent job prioritizing walkability, bike access, and overall community mobility," notes Planner I Jennifer Sedna. "It creates a safe, inviting environment for residents and visitors alike." Mr. Streeter agrees, stating, “the Windsor community has made it clear that livability factors like these are important, and now you’re seeing it reflected in the built environment.”
Through collaborative planning that prioritizes public input, the Planning Division remains committed to guiding development and policy to ensure that Windsor’s vision for a safe, sustainable, and high quality of life community continues to be realized.
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