The Houston FY 2026 Budget Workshop on May 15, 2025, focused on the Planning and Development department's recent improvements and future goals. The meeting began with the director outlining efforts initiated since their appointment last July to enhance efficiency within the development service division.

Key discussions highlighted the restructuring of the department, which involved reassigning roles to better match staff talents with key positions. This strategic move aimed to improve service delivery while ensuring that team members were set up for success. The director noted that the permitting team returned to the office five days a week in September, followed by the planning team in October, and the remaining divisions on November 1. This early return, three months ahead of the rest of the city, has led to a significant increase in productivity.

The director provided specific examples of this productivity boost. In July, only 29% of commercial plans were reviewed within 13 days, and just 12% of residential plans were reviewed in 10 days. By October, these figures improved dramatically, with 99% of commercial reviews completed within the 13-day target and 80% of residential reviews within 10 days. The department is now working towards further reducing review times to just seven days.

Additionally, the director mentioned the discontinuation of contract employees at the Houston Permitting Center, which has resulted in monthly savings of over $30,000. This financial efficiency, combined with improved service delivery, underscores the department's commitment to enhancing the development process in Houston.

In conclusion, the meeting emphasized the Planning and Development department's successful initiatives aimed at increasing efficiency and productivity, setting a positive trajectory for the upcoming fiscal year. The next steps will likely involve continued monitoring of review times and further adjustments to staffing and processes as needed.