The Planning and Zoning Commission was created by the City to hear all applications for rezoning, land use permits and amendments to the Unified Development Code and to recommend to the Mayor and Council any action on such applications.

In evaluating the proposed applications, the Commission considers the Zoning Map and the Future Land Use Map. The Commission takes into account public input and applicable criteria such as whether traffic created by a proposal would lead to congestion, noise and traffic hazards; whether there is conflict with density patterns in the district.

The Commission consists of seven members who must be residents of the City. Each Ward must be represented.

The term of the appointment is two years on a staggered basis, and any member who is absent from two consecutive regular meetings automatically vacates the position. A majority constitutes a quorum and may act for the Commission in any matter.

The Commission conducts a work session on the second Thursday of each month and a regular public hearing on the last Monday of the month.

At its regular hearing, the Commission makes recommendations on applications to the Mayor and Council for the Council's public hearing on the first Monday of the following month.