FY2022

Neighborhood and Development Services Administration

Administration supports departmental divisions to provide high quality, proactive services and programs that protect and enhance the quality of life for all citizens through opportunities for affordable housing and the equitable, timely, and effective enforcement of land use regulations while conserving the integrity of neighborhoods . Development Services Building Inspection enforces a number of codes and ordinances which relate to new construction and the maintenance of existing structures in order to protect the health and safety of the general public, and is entirely supported by permit and inspection-related fees. This activity issues building permits for new construction, additions, alterations and repairs, sign and professional permits including mechanical, plumbing, fire sprinkler, and alarms. All building site plans are reviewed and inspections are conducted to ensure safe and proper construction in adherence with code. The Building Inspection activity also enforces zoning ordinances and responds to complaints of nuisance-related ordinance violations. Urban Planning coordinates preparation of the Comprehensive Plan; including district plans that focus on development, redevelopment, preservation and conservation issues within the city’s ten neighborhood districts. Drafting of these plans includes extensive citizen participation through public planning workshops, surveys and interviews with property owners, developers, realtors, environmental organizations and neighborhood groups. This activity also promotes sustainable growth and development within the city by establishing comprehensive plans and associated policies and regulations that ensure that the best qualities of the city’s residential, commercial, and employment areas are preserved and supported while promoting new development opportunities that will create long term value for the community. Urban Planning also fulfills state statutory requirements pertaining to zoning, development, and historic preservation. Neighborhood Services Community Development is committed to providing low-to-moderate income Iowa City residents with access to safe and affordable housing, jobs and services to promote the general economic prosperity and welfare of Iowa City. This is accomplished by coordinating efforts with local agencies, businesses, nonprofit organizations and other community partners, and by administering and coordinating activities relating to city, state and federal housing and community and economic development programs. This division also oversees the following programs budgeted in the Special Revenue Funds: • The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and CDBG Rehabilitation are federally funded programs for community and economic development. Staff makes assessments of community employment opportunities, housing, and services for low- and moderate income residents, and use CDBG funds to fulfill identified needs.

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