Planning & Development September 2020 e-Newsletter

A monthly eNewsletter from the Division of Planning and Development –September 2020

A Message from John Zeanah, Director

Last month, the Division of Planning and Development (DPD) launched its new website, Develop90 1.com. This change is one in a series of actions made to improve communications and interactions with the public and our customers.

Providing clear information about our services and new ways to work with DPD are the goals of the new website. But you may also notice updated names for the six departments of the division. This new brand for the division and its departments speaks directly to who we are and what we do. There are many ways the public and our customers call on the services of DPD. We want to make certain you know who to call when you do. Visit our website to learn more.

Make Sure You're Counted in the 2020 Census

Census takers are conducting door-knocking follow-up throughout Memphis neighborhoods and will continue visiting homes through September. Their goal is to assist people who have not yet self responded in the 2020 Census and encourage them to complete their forms and get counted!

Memphis currently stands at a 55.8% response rate; Shelby County as a whole is at 61.6%. Post and share this graphic to ensure everyone can identify a Census Worker.

You can also respond online, by phone, or by mail. Make sure you are counted!

Division Staff Updates

The Division is pleased to announce Chris Simmons has been promoted to Chief Signs and Zoning Inspector. Chris has worked with Construction Enforcement for nearly twenty years and is excited to transition to this new role.

Chris hopes to promote more understanding and awareness among City and County residents of the zoning code and what constitutes a zoning violation. While earning greater responsibility as Chief, Chris plans to continue his "common-sense" approach to zoning enforcement. Chris believes compliance to zoning regulations will improve neighborhoods and help residents better plan, manage, and execute their building projects.

Learn more about who to call for code enforcement issues in Memphis and Shelby County.

After 36 years of serving Shelby County and managing a vast array of projects and teams, Jim Vazquez retires from the Division as Administrator of Sustainability and Resilience and having previously served as Administrator of Department of Housing.

Many of Jim's fellow colleagues reflected on his long public service and noted his unparalleled expertise. "His experience is a genuine treasure and an irreplaceable resource for all of us..., he will be greatly missed," commented a fellow DPD staff member. Jim is an avid fisherman and his colleagues within the Division predict he'll spend his long-awaited leisure time hanging out at one of his favorite local restaurants after spending the day fishing. The Division wishes Jim all the best and a happy retirement.

Planning and Implementation

Comprehensive Planning set to begin work on a Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Plan

The Division will soon begin preparing a transit-oriented development (TOD) plan for the City’s first bus rapid transit corridor. The Memphis Innovation Corridor coverage area includes the area through Downtown, Medical District, Midtown, and the University of Memphis along portions of Second Street, BB King Boulevard, Union Avenue, and Poplar Avenue. The goal of the TOD plan is to guide land use and development regulations, transportation alternatives, infrastructure investment, and neighborhood connections to ensure the built environment supports the success of the City’s first BRT line and reflects the character of surrounding neighborhoods. The plan will kickoff in September with initial public engagement starting later this fall.

Call for Applications: Sustainable Workforce Initiative Community Partners

BLDG Memphis is announcing a call for applications to help recruit and promote the Sustainable Workforce Initiative. The Division's Sustainability and Resilience department has partnered with local public agencies and community groups to implement this new program addressing the needs of energy-burdened residents by providing weatherization assistance and other energy cost reduction resources.

Learn more

Announcements

Governor Lee’s Executive Order allowing electronic meetings has been extended through the end of September 2020.
The Shelby County Register's Office and the Land Use and Development Services department of the Division of Planning and Development no longer require Mylar drawings for the recording of construction plans.
The City Hall Service Center will re-open to the public on September 15th by appointment only. Customers should contact 901-636-6619 to arrange an appointment.

Upcoming Public Meetings

9/10/20 – Land Use Control Board

9/23/20 – Board of Adjustment

9/24/20 – Landmarks Commission