Office of Planning and Development

The Office of Planning and Development is responsible for three main areas of City government: (1) long-range planning; (2) development review; and (3) geographic information systems and record/plans archiving.  Staff of this office coordinate planning activities of City government, especially those relating to land use, transportation, water/sewer, and environmental concerns.

Office employees staff numerous boards and commissions of the City, assist in the preparation of the Capital Improvement Program, coordinate with County government, develop maps, reports and studies on specific topics and coordinate special events.

Office of Planning and Development staff also administer and coordinate the review of planning and public works plans to insure compliance with appropriate governmental and regulatory requirements and maintain and update the City's geographic and digital information systems, through the following activities:

1. Provide technical assistance to citizens, developers and others regarding the City’s subdivision and zoning requirements, the review and approval process, design and construction criteria and other related information;
2. Coordinate and perform technical review of preliminary plans, development plans, final plats, site plans and related drawings;
3. Consult with developers, architects and engineers during the review process;
4. Coordinate the review of development projects from concept plan phase to the initiation of the construction;
5. Prepare public works agreements, determine surety requirements, and coordinate the preparation of deeds and related legal documents;
6. Administer and maintain the City's geographic information system;
7. Maintain "as-built" drawings and project files; and
8. Maintain and archive the City’s digital information system.

Planning studies, application forms, design criteria, review fees, records and related information are available by contacting the Office of Planning and Development.  In addition, some of these documents are now available for download by clicking the link below:

Office of Planning and Development On-line Library

Individuals interested in the following areas should contact the Office of Planning:

1. Planning and Zoning Commission 
2. Historic District Commission
3. Committee on Growth and Annexation
4. Tree Commission
5. Community Garden Project
6. Tree City, U.S.A.
7. Wakefield Valley Community Trail Project
8. Westminster Comprehensive Plan
9. Christmas Tree Recycling
10. General Recycling Information
11. Water Resources Management
12. Xeriscaping/Conservation Landscaping Guide

Office of Planning & Development Staff

Matthew Davis, AICP, Manager of Planning and Development
410-848-4363 / email 

Barbara Sardi, Engineering Specialist
410-848-4316 / email

Melissa Hynes, Comprehensive Planner
410-848-7967 / email

Tim Rogers, Natural and Cultural Resources Planner
410-848-4628 / email

The Office of Planning and Development is located at Winchester West, 56 West Main St, Westminster, Maryland.