Newport Planning Department outlines budget and housing initiatives for 2024

The Newport City Council held a workshop on April 29, 2025, focusing on the budget overview for the Planning and Development Department, emphasizing resiliency and sustainability initiatives. The meeting began with the department director outlining the roles and responsibilities of the Planning and Development team, which includes long and short-range planning, community and economic development, and public engagement regarding land use and zoning.

The director highlighted the department's structure, which consists of eight positions, including two planners and a designated housing planner funded through a state grant. A proposal was made to add a new code enforcement officer to enhance compliance efforts, addressing issues such as zoning violations and garbage management.

The proposed budget primarily allocates funds for human resources, with a small operating budget focused on cost-effective services. The director noted a significant reduction in contract services expenses, which previously funded technology upgrades and professional staffing.

Achievements over the past two years were also discussed, particularly in housing and resiliency. The department successfully launched a new software program for managing short-term rental registrations, contributing to improved compliance. Newport received recognition for its housing plan and was awarded a grant for a full-time housing fellow. Collaborative efforts with regional planners have led to significant advancements in climate change mitigation strategies, including a nearly $2 million grant for regional resilience planning.

The meeting also addressed updates to the zoning code, with Newport being recognized as a leader in adopting state zoning legislation. The zoning board has successfully eliminated a 12-month backlog in applications, enhancing economic development and community quality of life. The zoning application process has transitioned to an online format, streamlining operations.

Looking ahead, the department is preparing for a mandatory ten-year update of the comprehensive plan, with plans to incorporate feedback from a working group focused on senior citizens as part of the "Newport for All Ages" initiative. A request for qualifications (RFQ) for a consultant to assist with this update has been issued, with a review panel currently evaluating responses.

The workshop concluded with a commendation for the department's progress in reducing bureaucratic hurdles in the zoning application process, reflecting a commitment to improving service delivery and community engagement.