Rather than issuing multiple permits on one construction project for each of the various trades, a single, combined permit is issued when any combination of structural, electrical, plumbing and mechanical system alterations are involved. The mission of the NPT is to empower community groups to affect their quality of life by creating partnerships and facilitating solutions between community groups and the city. Groups are organized for the purpose of considering and acting upon any of a broad range of issues affecting the livability and quality of their neighborhoods. They act as forums for communication between residents, the city government, and other community organizations. The NPT helps neighborhood groups form or, when requested, assists existing groups.
Groups can form around issues, geographical location or common interests.
The neighborhood group is responsible for determining the specific issues to be addressed. An NPT member facilitates each group, guiding it through problem-solving methods. The NPT helps groups look to all community resources to address the issues. Through training, coaching and modeling, NPT members strive to foster neighborhood group ownership and, ultimately, independence. Over time, neighborhood group members take over an increasing number of roles, and NPT involvement decreases until NPT representatives serve only as liaisons.