Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 670 - State Planning Council
Rhode Island Code of Regulations Title 670 — State Planning Council
I. Overview
Title 670 governs the State Planning Council (SPC) in Rhode Island. The Council is the state’s central planning authority responsible for coordinating comprehensive planning efforts across various sectors, including land use, transportation, housing, and environmental management. The SPC plays a key role in shaping sustainable growth and development policies in the state.
II. Purpose and Functions
Coordinate statewide planning activities to promote orderly growth and development.
Develop and maintain a state comprehensive plan addressing land use, transportation, housing, and infrastructure.
Review and approve local and regional plans to ensure consistency with state objectives.
Provide technical assistance and guidance to municipalities and agencies.
Facilitate public participation in planning processes.
Administer grants and funding related to planning and development.
III. Regulatory Scope
State Comprehensive Planning
Establishes goals, policies, and priorities for state development.
Addresses issues such as economic growth, environmental protection, and transportation infrastructure.
Plan Review and Approval
Reviews local and regional plans submitted by municipalities.
Ensures these plans align with the state comprehensive plan.
Provides recommendations and approval or disapproval based on compliance.
Public Involvement
Ensures public hearings and comment periods are held for major planning initiatives.
Promotes transparency and community engagement.
Funding and Grants
Oversees distribution of funds for planning projects.
Monitors grant compliance and outcomes.
IV. Legal Principles and Administrative Concepts
While specific case law tied directly to the State Planning Council may be limited, certain foundational legal and administrative principles apply:
Case Concept 1: State Authority in Planning
Principle: The State Planning Council exercises broad authority to coordinate planning efforts to serve the public interest.
Its actions are meant to balance growth with environmental sustainability and resource management.
Case Concept 2: Consistency and Coordination
Principle: Local plans must be consistent with the state plan to ensure coordinated development.
The Council acts as a gatekeeper, ensuring statewide coherence in planning.
Case Concept 3: Due Process and Public Participation
Principle: Planning decisions affecting communities require public input and transparent processes.
Adequate notice and opportunity to participate in hearings are essential.
Case Concept 4: Judicial Review
Courts may review the Council’s decisions for reasonableness, compliance with procedural requirements, and absence of arbitrariness.
Judicial deference is often given to the Council’s expertise unless there is a clear abuse of discretion.
V. Importance of Title 670
Promotes orderly and sustainable growth in Rhode Island.
Ensures coordination among multiple levels of government.
Protects environmental and community interests through comprehensive planning.
Enhances public engagement and transparency in planning decisions.
Summary Table
| Area | Description |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive Planning | Development of statewide goals and policies |
| Plan Review | Ensuring local plans align with state objectives |
| Public Participation | Mechanisms for community input and transparency |
| Funding | Administration of grants for planning projects |
| Legal Oversight | Compliance with due process and judicial review |
RELATED Blog
0 comments