Implementing Planning Tools and Strategies - Required Steps

Required Steps for Implementation

Once the community has selected appropriate planning tools and strategies to mitigate hazards, they should begin to develop a strategy for implementation. Regardless of the specific tool, common steps for implementation include:

• Identify who to talk to first. Find the staff or agency most knowledgeable on the subject matter. Work with them to identify potential pitfalls, other stakeholders to include in the process, and necessary steps for the implementation program.
• Consider whether or not to assemble a team. Some of the planning tools may require formation of a technical advisory committee or steering committee. Consider whether or not to form such a team, who should serve on that team, and their objectives and scope of work.
• Identify examples from other communities. Most land use planning tools and strategies have been tried and tested elsewhere. Unless this particular tool is new, identify other communities (within a similar context where possible) that have either adopted, or tried to adopt a similar tool or strategy. And don’t be afraid to call! Phone conversations foster more candid discussions about successes and lessons learned.
• Identify funding sources. If the tool or strategy requires financial resources not currently within the budget, it can be helpful to identify grants or other financial mechanisms to help offset those costs before making an “ask” from the general fund. Several funding sources are discussed below in “Available Resources.”
• Develop a timeline for completion. Knowing how long the implementation process will take is critical to managing human resources, juggling multiple projects, and prioritizing competing interests within the community. Preparing an estimated timeline for completion can also help maintain momentum when key tasks, milestones, and deliverables are noted with assigned responsibilities.