The Metro Council Committee: Executive meeting held on November 25, 2024, focused on several key agenda items, including proposed rule changes, public engagement strategies, and updates on housing studies.

The meeting began with discussions about a specially called meeting scheduled for January. Committee members were encouraged to submit ideas for proposed rule changes to be considered at this meeting. One suggestion highlighted was a mandatory deferral for all new rules, aimed at ensuring thorough analysis of the implications of these changes on implementation and staff.

Chair Gamble expressed gratitude to committee members for their participation and shared that she has been conducting one-on-one meetings with members to discuss past achievements and future goals. So far, she has met with seven of the twelve members, with plans to complete these discussions soon.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a recent presentation by the planning staff on best practices for public engagement regarding Title 17 amendments. It was noted that the planning commission has established a new policy requiring an automatic deferral of one meeting for public hearings on Title 17 amendments. This change is intended to provide the public with additional time to understand and respond to proposed amendments before a vote is taken.

Looking ahead, Chair Gamble mentioned that the Unified Housing Strategy study is nearing completion, with an expected update for the council by early January. Additionally, the council is awaiting a preliminary draft of the housing and infrastructure study commissioned earlier, which is anticipated in early March. Plans are in place to coordinate these studies to provide comprehensive information on housing and infrastructure needs.

Overall, the meeting underscored the committee's commitment to enhancing public engagement and ensuring thorough consideration of proposed changes, while also keeping a focus on critical housing studies that will inform future planning efforts. Further updates and presentations are expected in the coming months as these initiatives progress.