More applications for development and a fast moving housing market is keeping Huron County's planning department on its toes.
So much so that the department is asking council for help.
A recent report to Huron County's council focused on workload and Planning Director Sandra Weber says the department has been experiencing a significant increase in workload with the number of development applications.
“The department has been experiencing a significant increase in workload with the number of development applications. There are numerous plans of sub-division applications across the county that are either in pre-consultation, being drafted for receiving final approval and with the current housing crisis it's important to keep these applications moving along,” said Weber.
Weber also points out properties are often selling within days so there's a need to provide some immediate advice on development questions to potential buyers. The department is also helping municipalities with reviewing their planning documents with a housing friendly lens to streamline and provide more flexible or various types of housing.
Weber says one short term option is to extend the contract of one planner but a report from staff will look at a range of longer term options to help.
Despite the workload Weber adds it is encouraging to see so much development in the works.
And with a housing shortage it's important that they get applications through the process quickly and get shovels in the ground.
