Planning

Responsibilities

The primary function of the Planning Department is to manage the regulatory process for development proposals submitted to the Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals under the Easthampton Zoning Ordinance (PDF) and the Subdivision Control Law (PDF). As part of that process, the Planning Department evaluates development proposals for their contribution towards community planning goals as documented in the current Easthampton Master Plan (PDF), and to assess their impacts on the community. The Planning Department meets with neighbors and developers, coordinates the departmental review and administration of the proposals, schedules public hearings, drafts decisions, and manages performance guarantees for the completion of approved projects.

The Planning Department also oversees several grant programs including the City's Community Development Block Grants. 

Administrative Support to Boards & Commissions

In addition, the Department provides administrative support to the:

• Affordable and Fair Housing Partnership
• Commission on Disability
• Community Preservation Act Committee
• Conservation Commission
• Easthampton City Arts
• Easthampton Development and Industrial Commission
• Energy Advisory Committee
• Historical Commission
  
• Planning Board
• Zoning Board of Appeals