SB 35 (Favola) allows a local planning commission to extend the 60-day period during which it makes a recommendation to the governing body on a comprehensive plan amendment (as part of a land use application) if an applicant agrees to such extension. The measure also grants this same flexibility for the 60-day period during which the governing body shall hear and determine an appeal from a planning commission decision. The bill passed the Senate Local Government Committee and heads to the senate floor. VACo supports this measure as it allows for both a locality and applicant to mutually agree on extended reviews to further consider sometimes complex land use issues.
VACo Contact: Joe Lerch, AICP