The 2007 Legislature created a pilot program to expedite state review of comprehensive plan amendments proposed by selected local governments. Participating city and county government representatives report that the pilot program has reduced the time needed to approve comprehensive plan amendments. Under statutory timelines, the alternative state review process pilot project reduced the time allotted for state review by 71 days. However, local governments and other stakeholders identified several challenges they faced in implementing the pilot program, including determining how to address reviewing agencies' comments on proposed amendments, meeting established deadlines, and ensuring public participation in the review process.
The Legislature may wish to consider four options for continuing or expanding the pilot program. These options include extending the pilot program and re-evaluating it in 2010 after it has operated for a longer period; expanding the pilot program to include cities and counties that are built out; expanding the pilot program to include highly urbanized cities and counties based on their population sizes and densities; and expanding the expedited review process to all local governments.

Most Local Governments Participating in the Expedited Review Process Report Benefits
Report 10-53 September 2010
Local Government Comprehensive Planning Certification Program Has Limited Participati
Report 07-47 December 2007
Urban Infill and Redevelopment Areas Have Uncertain Impact But Perceived as Useful
Report 04-14 February 2004

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.