Since the Local Government Comprehensive Planning Certification Program's creation in 2002, only five of the state's local governments have chosen to apply for certification. Three local governments were certified by the Department of Community Affairs (cities of Lakeland, Miramar, and Orlando) while two withdrew their applications (cities of Naples and Sarasota). The City of Freeport was certified as a result of a law passed in the 2005 legislative session.
The four certified cities have been subject to less state and regional oversight of their comprehensive plan amendments which has allowed them to expedite the amendments' approval. Counties, regional planning councils, and the Department of Community Affairs generally report they did not experience problems as a result of the cities participating in the program.
Given the low level of participation, the Legislature may wish to consider reviewing the program in the future in conjunction with other recent state initiatives that are also intended to expedite the process of adopting comprehensive plan amendments, such as the Alternative State Review Process Pilot Program. When the Legislature reviews this pilot program, it may also wish to consider whether the Local Government Comprehensive Planning Certification Program be continued or discontinued.

Most Local Governments Participating in the Expedited Review Process Report Benefits
Report 10-53 September 2010
Expedited State Review Pilot Program Working Well But Faces Challenges
Report 08-62 November 2008

Copies of this report in print or alternate accessible format may be obtained by email OPPAGA@oppaga.fl.gov, telephone (850) 488-0021, or mail 111 W. Madison St., Room 312 Tallahassee, FL 32399-1475.