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Commission approves new general planning services agreement; staff to manage transition
Summary
The commission voted to enter an agreement with Chen Warren Associates for general planning services; staff described budget context, hourly rates for planners, and asked for an extended transition (staff had requested up to 60 days) to avoid midstream project disruptions.
The Jupiter Inlet Colony commission approved a contract to provide general planning services to the town and directed staff to manage the transition from the incumbent planning firm.
Staff recommended the commission contract with Chen Warren Associates (named in the staff report) for general planning services, citing the town's upcoming code changes and the consulting firm's local planning experience. The town's recent budget allocated roughly $90,000 for planning services; staff said monthly bills have ranged widely depending on work and that the new firm proposed senior‑planner rates and a staffing model the manager described as suitable for small towns.
In public comment, the outgoing consultant thanked the commission for 5–6 years of service and asked for an amicable and expedited separation if possible; staff had requested up to 60 days for a transition to ensure active projects are properly handed off.
After discussion about cost variability and continuity, the commission moved and voted to approve the agreement; the chair announced the motion passed with the commission voting "aye." The staff report recorded the commission's direction to execute an agreement and to ensure a smooth transition, with staff noting the contract allows a 30‑day termination but that the town would seek a practical handoff period.
What commissioners discussed: cost variability depending on permit volume, the possibility of cost‑reimbursement models for zoning work, the benefit of local planners familiar with small towns, and the need for transparency in application processing.
Next steps: staff will finalize the contract with the selected firm and manage the transition in consultation with the outgoing contractor and the commission. Bids and onboarding timelines will be posted to the town agenda and website as required.
Vote: commissioners recorded the approval on the record; the motion carried and staff was directed to implement the change per the agreement and transition discussion.
