The Department of Planning and Community Development helps to shape public policy through the development of the City's comprehensive plan (most recently CitiPlan 20/20) as well as with neighborhood and downtown programs, projects and development planning.

The Department carries out its mission within the structure of its four divisions:  Housing and Neighborhood Development, Planning, Community Affairs and Citizen Participation.

The Department oversees the City's housing and community development investments and historic preservation. It develops and administers urban design plans and standards, the Zoning Code & Map, and subdivision regulations. It also is responsible for developing human service policies and program initiatives as well as the City's Consolidated Plan.

The Department staffs seven publicly elected Priority Boards that give citizens a strong voice in shaping City policy.

The Department staff works closely with elected officials and citizens on the following boards: City Commission, City Plan Board, Board of Zoning Appeals, Landmark Commission and the Priority Boards.  The department also manages the City's Community Development Block Grant, HOME and Emergency Shelter Grant funds.