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EPC staff report steps to streamline permitting after stakeholder feedback
Summary
EPC wetlands director Mike Lynch told the commission that stakeholder feedback sessions with engineers and consultants generated actionable recommendations; immediate changes include allowing larger file uploads to the application portal, reorganizing RAI formatting, and adjusting form nomenclature, with plans to continue regular feedback sessions.
Mike Lynch, EPC wetlands director, presented the permitting-process feedback group's findings to commissioners. The sessions—requested by Commissioner Wustel and attended by staff from across EPC and external consultants—sought to improve predictability, communication, technical standards, and overall efficiency in design-review and permitting workflows.
Lynch reported the meetings were well attended and yielded actionable suggestions. "Some of the ones that we initiated immediately were allowing for larger files to be sent through our application portal," he said, and also noted changes to how Requests for Additional Information (RAIs) are formatted and to some form template nomenclature to make materials easier for applicants to use.
He said EPC will continue periodic feedback sessions, follow up with stakeholders via email and calls, and implement feasible changes consistent with existing rules. The commission voted to receive the report; no permit rule changes were adopted at the meeting.
The presentation emphasized collaborative problem-solving and process improvements intended to reduce applicant friction while maintaining regulatory standards.
