Planning

About Planning and the Community Development Department

The Community Development Department is responsible for Planning, Economic Development, and Zoning functions of the city. Planning oversees all development applications. Our primary goal is to ensure that all development codes are upheld, and city regulations are adhered to. We understand that navigating through the application process can be daunting, which is why we're here to assist applicants every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and efficient presentation to the Planning Commission.

About the Planning Commission

The Avon Lake Planning Commission serves as a vital advisory body to the City Council. We are entrusted with the responsibility of addressing various issues and policies concerning city planning, land use regulations, building and housing codes, and community development. Our commission is dedicated to advancing the goals and interests of the community in the planning of development projects.

We believe that these regulations are essential in maintaining safety standards, promoting environmental sustainability, fostering orderly growth, and safeguarding the overall well-being of our community. Through our diligent efforts, we aim to create a vibrant and thriving environment for all residents and stakeholders of Avon Lake. 

Planning Commission Members

  • Robert Haas
  • Jeffrey Leitch
  • Holly Ma, Chair
  • Scott Orille
  • Christine Raymond, Pro-Tem
  • Geoffrey Smith, Council Representative
  • Mark Spaetzel, Mayor

Meeting Times and Locations

The Planning Commission meets on the first Tuesday of every month at 7:00 p.m. in Council Chambers, 2nd Floor, 150 Avon Belden Road.

Exceptions to this schedule include any week a holiday falls on the first Monday of the month, then Planning Commission will meet on the first Wednesday of that month. 

Meeting Agenda and Minutes

Meeting agendas and minutes can be accessed HERE

Planning Commission Applications

We strive to make the application process as straightforward as possible. Below is a step-by-step guide to assist you in navigating through the process.

Step 1: Meeting with the Development Review Committee (DRC):

  • Before submitting a Planning Commission application, it is mandatory to meet with DRC.
  • The DRC comprises representatives from various departments, including Building, Police, Community Development, Fire, Public Works, Engineering, Avon Lake Regional Water, and the Mayor.
  • DRC meetings are held every Monday at 10:30 a.m. Once you submit your application to DRC, you will receive an email with the date and time of the next available meeting.
  • During the DRC meeting, your proposed application or project will be discussed. 
  • Submittal requirements will be reviewed, and compliance with Planning and Zoning Codes and the Comprehensive Land Use Plan will be assessed.
  • Please be prepared to provide an overview of your project and ask specific questions related to your project. 
  • Familiarize yourself with the rules and regulations outlined in Chapter 1214: Review Procedures to prepare for this meeting.
  • You can initiate the DRC application HERE

Step 2: Submission of Planning Commission Application

  • After meeting with the DRC, you can submit your Planning Commission application.
  • Applications must be submitted by the first Tuesday of each month to be considered for placement on the agenda for the following month
  • You can initiate the Planning Commission application process HERE.

     Review Process:

  • Once your application is submitted, it will be reviewed for completeness.
  • Upon completion, you will receive an email confirmation and a request to submit the application payment.
  • After payment is received, your application will be electronically sent to DRC members. Additionally, we kindly request that two full sets of drawings be physically delivered to City Hall. One set will be directed to our Engineering department, while the other will be forwarded to the Avon Lake Regional Water authority for review.
  • DRC has 10 working days to complete their review.
  • During this period, you may receive emails from DRC members requiring responses or updates to plans. Please respond promptly to keep the review process moving.

Step 3: Planning Commission Meeting

  • Once the review is completed by all DRC members, your application will be scheduled for the next Planning Commission meeting.
  • In preparation for the Planning Commission meeting, please submit 13 (11" x 17") final drawings no later than four days before the Planning Commission meeting.
  • After your case is read at the Planning Commission meeting, you will present a summary of your application. The Planning Commission members will then ask questions in voting order before making a decision or providing a recommendation.

Assistance:

For any assistance throughout the process, feel free to contact Kelly La Rosa, Planning and Zoning Manager in the Community Development Department.

You can reach Kelly via email or phone at 440-930-4110.

Important Note:  Please review the Rules and Regulations for Planning Commission to ensure compliance at every stage of the process.

We look forward to working with you on your development project in Avon Lake. Should you have any questions or require further clarification, do not hesitate to reach out to us.