There are many circumstances in which it may make sense to hire a consultant. This article reviews some of those and then discusses the process of selecting and working with a consultant from the planning commissioner's perspective. Preparing a comprehensive plan or updating a zoning code is a time-consuming project.
Staff needs expert help.
A planning director may be involved in drafting one or two zoning ordinances in his or her entire career. There are consultants who prepare several zoning ordinances every year. Experience does count and the right consultant can bring a lot of experience to your project. Project requires objectivity. The community may need an objective evaluation of a complex situation that has become an emotional issue for people living in the community.