A BI-WEEKLY BULLETIN FROM FAPA

Special Thanks to our Conference
Sponsors & Exhibitors
 

July 26, 2005

Consultants Click Here for City of Gadsden, Alabama RFP.

HOUSE & SENATE INTERIM PROJECTS:  GLITCH BILL FOR SB 360
The Senate Committee on Community Affairs and the House Committee on Growth Management have each been assigned an Interim Project relating to a Glitch Bill for SB 360. Because the bill took effect July 1, 2005, there are many steps to be taken before the legislation is fully implemented. Therefore, the purpose of each of these projects is to conduct a review of the bill with legislative staff, state agencies, and interested parties to determine if additional legislation is necessary and what issues will be addressed in such a bill.  FAPA solicited input from its members and we wish to thank those who replied.  July 18 was our deadline for soliciting input in order to meet the Senate's deadline of July 21 and the House's deadline of July 24.  The compilation of comments is posted to FAPA's legislative web page.  We will continue to keep you apprised of this effort.

GOVERNOR BUSH NAMES DENVER STUTLER SECRETARY FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
Governor Jeb Bush named Denver Stutler as Secretary of the Department of Transportation (DOT). Mr. Stutler served as Chief of Staff for the Executive Office of the Governor prior to this appointment. He began his new duties as DOT Secretary on July 9. Prior to joining the Governor's office, Mr. Stutler served as chief of staff for the Florida Department of Environmental Protection from 1999 to 2002. Prior to his work in public service, Mr. Stutler worked for 10 years at private engineering firms.  Mr. Stutler, born in Germany, was raised in Florida, and received his undergraduate and graduate degrees in civil engineering from the University of Central Florida. In 1994, Mr. Stutler spent 6 months in the Republic of Congo, Africa as a volunteer with Engineering Ministries International where he engineered water supply, wastewater and erosion control improvements.

SPEAKER APPOINTS SELECT COMMITTEE TO PROTECT PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS
In response to the United States Supreme Court's ruling in the case of Kelo v. City of New London, House Speaker Allan Bense appointed a House Select Committee to Protect Private Property Rights.  The purpose of the select committee is to review Florida's Constitution, statutes, case law and any other relevant rules or ordinances in order to recommend necessary action in asserting eminent domain in Florida. The appointees are as follows:  Rep. Marco Rubio, Chair (R-Miami), Rep. Dean Cannon (R-Winter Park), Rep. Greg Evers (R-Milton); Rep. Anitere Flores (R-Miami), Rep. Ronald Greenstein (D-Coconut Creek), Rep. Denise Grimsley (R-Sebring), Rep. Arthenia Joyner (D-Tampa), Rep. Jeff Kottkamp (R-Cape Coral), Rep. Dick Kravitz (R-Orange Park), Rep. L. Ralph Poppell (R-Titusville); Rep. John Seiler (D-Pompano Beach), Rep. Dwight Stansel (D-Live Oak), and Rep. Trey Traviesa (R-Brandon).  Click here for Congress' response to the Kelo decision.

SPECIAL SESSION TO OVERRIDE VETOES?
Twenty House Democrats, led by Representative Chris Smith and Representative Dan Gelber, filed certificates with the Department of State verifying conditions warrant convening a special session to override the Governor's vetoes.  According to Florida Statutes, once 20 percent of the Legislature, or 32 members, submit such certifications, the Secretary of State is required to poll every member of the Legislature to see whether they support having the special session. It would then take a three-fifths majority of both chambers to call the Legislature back for a special session. This is still an on-going effort.  A status report on the progress of this initiative is expected in a few weeks.

FROM DEP: FLORIDA DESIGNATES 100th BROWNFIELD SITE IN 2005
Florida reached a milestone in restoring abandoned and idle properties this year, designating its 100th local brownfield site. The first brownfield area designated in 1997, included 1,100 acres in Clearwater, Florida. Since then, 111 sites have been designated encompassing more than 75,900 acres, with 10 restoration projects completed and 60 cleanup projects underway. Together, Florida's brownfield program has led to 4,407 new direct jobs, 2,947 new indirect jobs and close to $397 million in capital investment. Florida's brownfield program is administered by DEP together with the Governor's Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development and Enterprise Florida. For more on Florida's Brownfields program, visit 
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/waste/categories/brownfields/default.htm.
 
DEP LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE:  GULF OF MEXICO ALLIANCE
As part of an ongoing commitment to coastal protection, the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) launched a new web site inviting Florida residents to review the priorities drafted by the Gulf of Mexico Alliance as part of an action plan for restoration.  The web-based forum at www.gulfofmexicoalliance.org is available for residents to review and provide feedback on the recent ocean research, education and management recommendations developed by the state-federal Gulf Alliance. The Alliance priorities detailed in five white papers are available for review. The web site includes links to each white paper along with an e-comment form to submit feedback on water quality, coastal wetlands, and nutrient loading. Visitors are encouraged to submit comments. 

FDOT'S POPULATION GROWTH TRENDS & CONDITIONS REPORT UPDATE
FDOT's Trends and Conditions report, "Population Growth and Characteristics", has been updated. The report is located at http://www.dot.state.fl.us/planning/policy/trends/tc-report/population062905.pdf. Please visit http://www.dot.state.fl.us/planning/policy/trends for other Trends and Conditions information.  All questions and comments should be directed to Monica Zhong at monica.zhong@dot.state.fl.us.

FCT's FIRST EVER PHOTO CONTEST
Florida Communities Trust proudly announces its first ever photo contest for all Preservation 2000 and Florida Forever projects!  All completed FCT projects, Preservation 2000 through Florida Forever, are eligible.  There are four categories:  Projects with improvements/developed recreational amenities; projects depicting natural Florida; projects with historical significance; and projects adjacent to water (beach, rivers, etc.).  The contest began June 30.  All photos must be postmarked by August 15 to be eligible.  For more information, go to http://www.floridacommunitydevelopment.org/fct/.

STATE APPROVES NEW FLORIDA HOMETOWN DEMOCRACY PETITION 
On Tuesday June 21, 2005 the Florida Division of Elections approved a NEW Florida Hometown Democracy Amendment Petition form.  Similar to the proposal that was struck down in March by the Florida Supreme Court due to the wording in the ballot summary, this petition seeks to change the Florida Constitution to require that changes to local government comprehensive plans (and adoption of new plans) be subject to a referendum vote of local voters as the final step in the local approval process.  The NEW Petition is essentially identical to the original Petition except that it strikes the first sentence of the ballot summary that was disapproved by the Florida Supreme Court.  The Division of Elections' approval means that supporters of the Florida Hometown Democracy amendment must now begin anew the process of collecting signed petitions.  On October 3, 2003, the FAPA Executive Committee adopted a position statement opposing this effort. The position statement was amended into FAPA's Proposed 2006 Legislative Program and Policies by the Executive Committee on July 1, 2005.  The Proposed 2006 Legislative Program and Policies will be published in the August issue of Florida Planning and will be voted on by the membership at FAPA's Annual Business Meeting scheduled for September 10, 2005, in conjunction with FAPA's 2005 Annual Conference.

APPEALS COURT UPHOLDS EVERGLADES WATER QUALITY STANDARD
According to a June 19 DEP press release, the First District Court of Appeals upheld an administrative law judge's Final Order in favor of the State of Florida's rule to limit phosphorus levels in the Everglades.  The rule establishes the process for improving water quality and restoring the natural system.  In particular, it establishes a phosphorus standard of 10 parts per billion for the entire freshwater area of the Everglades Protection Area.  It also requires the use of best available phosphorus reduction technology to ultimately achieve the water quality standard.  More than half a billion dollars will be invested over the next decade to implement an enforceable, long-term plan to ensure continued water quality improvements and protection of the Everglades.  In July 2003, the Environmental Regulation Commission approved the rule proposed by the Department as a part of the Everglades Forever Act.  In June 2004, Judge David Maloney issued a Final Order formally upholding the Department's rule.  This action by the First District Court of Appeals affirms Judge Maloney's findings. 

FLORIDA ATTORNEY GENERAL RELEASES REPORT ON GASOLINE INDUSTRY PRICING
On June 15, Attorney General Charlie Crist released the results of a study of gasoline pricing in Florida, concluding that two factors besides high crude oil prices – purposely low inventory and a shrinking number of suppliers in the industry – were the primary contributors to statewide gasoline price spikes experienced by Florida consumers in 2004. The report follows an antitrust investigation launched by the Attorney General in May 2004. Simultaneous to the release of this report, the Attorney General sent a letter to Federal Trade Commission Chairman Deborah Platt Majoras voicing concerns about a proposed merger in the industry. In April, Valero Energy Corporation announced its agreement to acquire Premcor Incorporated. According to the Attorney General, further consolidation in the oil refining segment of the industry will only lessen the competitive forces that ultimately benefit consumers through lower prices. A copy of the Attorney General's letter to the Federal Trade Commission is available at: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/KGRG-6DDLEC/$file/Letter_to_FTC.pdf
The Report on Gasoline Pricing in Florida is available at: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/KGRG-6DDLDL/$file/GasPriceReport.pdf
A one-page overview of the report is available at: http://myfloridalegal.com/webfiles.nsf/WF/KGRG-6DDLC5/$file/GasPriceOverview.pdf
The related press release is available at:
http://www.myfloridalegal.com/newsrel.nsf/newsreleases/F399E77EC2552DA5852570210058B179

CONGRESSIONAL BILLS WOULD LIMIT USE OF EMINENT DOMAIN
In the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Kelo v. City of New London reaffirming eminent domain standards, several bills intended to undo the 5 – 4 decision and curtail local authority when federal funds are involved have been introduced. Just days after the Kelo decision was announced, the House of Representatives approved a non-binding resolution expressing "grave disapproval" of the decision. The resolution vote came only hours after the House approved an amendment to the FY2006 Transportation-Treasury-JUD appropriations bill to "prohibit funds from being spent on enforcement" of the Kelo decision.  The Senate has yet to act on its version of the legislation. In the Senate, Texas Republican and member of the Judiciary Committee John Cornyn has taken the lead. Sen. Cornyn introduced the Protection of Homes, Small Businesses, and Private Property Act (S. 1313). The bill would limit federal use of eminent domain to "public use" which the bill defines as "not to be construed to include economic development." The bill also applies to all "exercises of eminent domain power by State and local government through the use of federal funds." Following a press conference with House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-TX), House Judiciary Committee Chairman James Sensenbrenner (R-WI) and Ranking Minority Member John Conyers (D-MI) introduced the Private Property Rights Protection Act (H.R. 3135). Like the Cornyn bill, the legislation seeks to stop eminent domain from being used for economic development. Despite the seemingly broad support for congressional action, many organizations are raising concerns about the broad scope of the bills and the potential for unintended consequences. By redefining public use in federal law, congressional action would essentially undo many existing state statutes governing redevelopment and use of eminent domain. Many experts worry that simply banning eminent domain for "economic development" may capture a far more extensive category of potential uses.  Others note problems with enforcement and potential for extensive litigation. The Court's action in Kelo was to essentially uphold eminent domain case law dating back to the 1950s. Unlike the Court's decision, which granted no new rights, congressional action could dramatically alter redevelopment activities in states and cities nationwide. APA supports redevelopment reform at the state level, not the federal level, and has defined recommendations for reform in a Policy Guide on Public Redevelopment. For more information on the Kelo decision and its legislative aftermath, click here or visit the APA website at www.planning.org.

TEA-21 UPDATE
On July 1, President Bush signed the 8th extension of TEA-21. That extension gave congressional leaders until July 19th to reach an agreement. Negotiators appeared close to an agreement before the previous deadline of June 30th.  It was widely reported that a compromise on overall funding for the bill had been struck at $286.4 billion. That amount is more than the $284 billion passed by the House but substantially less than the $295 billion approved by the Senate. The White House has maintained a veto threat of any bill exceeding $284 billion.  Reportedly, the conferees have settled on transit funding of $52.6 billion, which represents about 18.5 percent of the total spending In spite of this apparent consensus, a further extension was necessary as debate over the bill's minimum return to states and funding structure remained unsettled. Conferees are also debating the amount of project earmarks controlled by the House and the Senate and determining how much Federal funding is calculated in a state's rate of return.  A new extension has been granted through September 30th and the House and Senate Bills are pending in Conference.  Updates on reauthorization will be provided through the APA website and online legislative action center, http://capwiz.com/amplan. You can use the action center to let Congress know what's important you and your community.
[Source:  APA's From Washington]

CDBG TO REMAIN AT HUD
On June 30, the House of Representatives passed the FY 2006 spending bill for Transportation, Treasury and HUD (H.R. 3058).  The bill sends $37.7 billion to the Department of Housing and Urban Development and reaffirms that the Community Development Block Grant program would be administered by HUD.  The bill marks a rejection of a Bush Administration plan to shift CDBG oversight to the Commerce Department. The bill did, however, include a cut in CDBG funding from the current level of $4.7 billion to $4.2 billion. Formula grants would be decreased by $250 million.  CDBG may yet still increase over the level approved by the House.  Several other HUD programs saw their funding levels increase over the committee-approved level thanks to amendments approved by the House.  The Brownfield Economic Development Initiative was boosted by $24 million on a voice vote acceptance of an amendment from Rep. Gary Miller (R-CA).  The HOPE VI program was slated to be zeroed out in the committee's bill. Instead, the House adopted an amendment from Rep. Artur David (D-AL) to provide $60 million for the program. The HOPE VI vote was 248 to 173.  The Senate Appropriations Committee is expected to begin work on its version of the Transportation-Treasury-HUD bill as early as this week.
[Source:  APA's From Washington]

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TERRORISM, TRANSIT AND PUBLIC SAFETY:  EVALUATING THE RISKS
This paper, by Todd Litman, Victoria Transport Institute, evaluates the overall safety of public transit, taking into account all risks, including recent terrorist attacks. It indicates that transit is an extremely safe mode. Travelers would increase total risks if they shift from transit to driving in response to terrorist threats. It is available at http://www.vtpi.org/transitrisk.pdf.

EVALUATING RAIL TRANSIT CRITICISM
This report by Todd Litman, Victoria Transport Institute, evaluates criticism of rail transit, including the recent report, "Rail Disasters 2005: The Impact Of Rail Transit On Transit Ridership." It is available at http://www.vtpi.org/railcrit.pdf.

RAIL DISASTERS 2005
On June 22, 2005, the American Dream Coalition joined with several associated groups in releasing a new report on rail transit. Rail Disasters 2005 (2.5MB) examines two decades worth of ridership data in nearly every U.S. urban area with rail transit. The report is available from the American Dream Coalition at http://www.americandreamcoalition.org/rail2005.html.

THINK LOCALLY, ACT REGIONALLY
Originally appearing in the Gotham Gazette earlier this month, Think Locally, Act Regionally is the latest Brookings Institution commentary and analysis by Bruce Katz, Vice President and Director of the Metropolitan Policy Program and Mark Muro, Director of Policy of the Metropolitan Policy Program.  Go to http://www.brookings.edu/views/op-ed/katz/20050711.htm to read their views.

DRIVEN TO SPEND: PUMPING DOLLARS OUT OF OUR HOUSEHOLDS AND COMMUNITIES
A new study by the Surface Transportation Policy Project (STPP) and the Center for Neighborhood Technology (CNT) shows that families are paying a high price to meet their transportation needs and families in areas with fewer transportation choices carry even greater burdens.  Click here for the press release or to download the report, go directly to http://www.transact.org/library/reports_pdfs/driven_to_spend/Driven_to_Spend_Report.pdf.  

EUROPE 2005: THE ECOLOGICAL FOOTPRING
This report to the European Parliament was produced with WWF to document Europe's demand on the world's ecosystems.  It is available for download along with other supporting materials at http://www.footprintnetwork.org/gfn_sub.php?content=download.

DRIVING URBAN ENVIRONMENTS:  SMART GROWTH PARKING BEST PRACTICES
This study presents an overview of parking strategies that meet the challenges faced by projects in the context of smart growth. Recognizing the importance of parking in development, it looks for new ways to manage parking supply and demand, to design parking facilities, and to provide financing, offering more, not fewer, options to communities, households and developers. It is hoped that this study will inform and engage local governments, developers, financial institutions, and citizens in a dialogue that will lead to broader implementation of "win-win" parking solutions, enhancing the attractiveness, convenience, and quality of life in communities across Maryland and beyond. Download the study at
http://www.smartgrowth.state.md.us/pdf/Final%20Parking%20Paper.pdf

FINAL REPORT:  PENN DESIGN CENTRAL FLORIDA
University of Pennsylvania Professor Jonathan Barnett and graduate students from the Department of City and Regional Planning have completed the final report: PennDesign Central Florida – Projected Future Growth Patterns & Alternatives.  This report proposes changes in land use, transportation systems and development patterns for the Central Florida region to consider during the next 45 years. The Central Florida region includes Brevard, Lake, Orange, Osceola, Polk, Seminole and Volusia counties.  It is hoped that the study will spark community dialogue about the best ways to deal with growth. The document is posted to the Metropolitan Center for Regional Studies at University of Central Florida's website at http://myregion.org.
 
THE VALUE OF URBAN DESIGN
The Value of Urban Design aims to establish whether there is a persuasive case for urban design - the design of the buildings, places, spaces and networks (both public and private) that make up our towns and cities, and the ways people use them. Is there value to be gained through good urban design? What kinds of value does it offer, and how can New Zealand's towns and cities benefit? The Value of Urban Design seeks to answer these questions.  To learn more click here or visit http://www.mfe.govt.nz/publications/urban/.

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Some publications may require free registration.

What's that? Smart car debuts in Arizona
By Bob Golfen, The Arizona Republic, July 13, 2005

Curbing Parking
Local zoning laws mandate parking spaces as if empty lots were a virtue.
By Alan Ehrenhalt, Governing Magazine, June 2005

Residents strive to slow the creep of development
Homeowners near a proposed development know they can't stop progress but they want to control it.
By Stephen Hegarty, St. Petersburg Times, July 15, 2005

Easing Anxiety on Mass Transit
By Sewell Chan, New York Times, July 17, 2005

Density doesn't make housing affordable
By David C. Bloom, Guest Columnist, Commentary, Seattle Post-Intelligencer, July 7, 2005
     
America's Megapolitan Areas
By Robert E. Lang and Dawn Dhavale, Lincoln Institute of Land Policy, Land Lines, July 2005 

Vancouver Rejects Wal-Mart
The Hometown Advantage, July 5, 2005

Panelists: Florida must add, raise taxes to manage growth
By Dale White, The Herald-Tribune, July 7, 2005

Is Kelo Good For Urban Planning?
The recent ruling by the Supreme Court to uphold the use of eminent domain was seen as an endorsement of professional planning. But this is not true, writes Sam Staley in this week's Op-Ed. The Court's decision upheld the process -- but not good planning.
By Samuel R. Staley, Op-Ed, Planetizen, July 5, 2005

Never Mind the Kelo, Here's Scott Bullock
The attorney who argued the landmark eminent domain case surveys the blight
in the wake of the Supreme Court's decision. A Reason interview.
By Tim Cavanaugh, ReasonOn-Line, June 24, 2005 

An Eminently Pro-Sprawl Decision
Joel S. Hirschhorn, OpinionEditorials.com, June 29, 2005

Bush Signs 3 Bills Setting $8 Billion For State Growth
By Michael Dunn, Tampa Tribune, June 25, 2005

Train Man
John Mica has to be frustrated. Time and time again, the Republican Volusia County congressman has tried to push the region's leaders into thinking about rail as a means of alleviating congestion on I-4. He's even secured federal money to help out; but no one has jumped on board.
By Jeffrey C. Billman, Orlando Weekly, June 16, 2005

Agriculture grows in spite of development
Though acreage is declining, farm and related industry sales are increasing.
By Letitia Stein, St. Petersburg Times, June 24, 2005

Big-box retailers embrace new designs to fit into communities
By Anne D'Innocenzio, Associated Press, Naples Daily News, June 24, 2005

Tom Lee to seek statewide post
The Senate president will run for chief financial officer, joining the House speaker in running for statewide office.
By Steve Bousquet, St. Petersburg Times, June 24, 2005

Birth of a Neighborhood
Charles Brewer's gamble raises the bar for intown development
By Michael Wall, CreativeLoafing.com, June 15, 2005

Ruling has little bearing in Florida
Despite hand-wringing by property rights purists and assurances from government officials that they will not abuse expanded powers, Thursday's U.S. Supreme Court ruling was not the landmark land-use decision many anticipated.
By John Haughey, Sun-Herald, June 24, 2005

Justices Uphold Taking Property for Development
By Linda Greenhouse, New York Times, June 24, 2005

Treasure Valley farmers see their way of life slipping away
Farm acreage is declining in Ada, Canyon counties
By Cynthia Sewell, The Idaho Statesman, June 22, 2005

Measure 37 stuck in circle of chambers
With compromise unlikely on House and Senate bills, the courts may have to clarify the land-use measure
By Laura Oppenheimer, The Oregonian, June 21, 2005 

The global housing boom
In come the waves
The Economist, June 16, 2005

New monorail plan released; now you can have your say
By Mike Lindblom, Seattle Times, June 21, 2005

After the fall
Soaring house prices have given a huge boost to the world economy. What happens when they drop?
Opinion, The Economist, June 21, 2005

Fitting into intown: Incompatible infills anger neighborhoods
By David Pendered, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, June 20, 2005

What ever happened to smart growth?
Policies to Reduce Sprawl Hit Obstacles
By C. Kenneth Orski and Jane S. Shaw, Property and Environment Research Center, June 2005

In Denver's Transit Breakthrough, A Lesson For Detroit
FasTracks is foundation of new growth strategy
By Keith Schneider, Commentary, Great Lakes Bulletin News Service, Michigan Land Use Institute, June 16, 2005

Hot Housing Market Masks Eroding Affordability and Mounting Risks, Harvard Study Reports
RISMedia, June 14, 2005

TPL's Will Rogers Speaks at SF Commonwealth Club
Trust for Public Land, June 14, 2005

Chains Are Taking Over Britain, Survey Finds
The Hometown Advantage, June 8, 2005

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CALL NOW TO MAKE YOUR 2005 FAPA CONFERENCE HOTEL RESERVATIONS
The FAPA Conference will be held from September 7-10, 2005 at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort located in downtown St. Petersburg.  A block of rooms has been reserved starting at $139 + tax.  You can reserve a room by phone or on the web: By phone:  Call (888)303-4430.  The Group name is Florida Chapter American Planning Association 2005 Annual Conference.  By Internet:  Log on to: www.renaissancehotels.com/tpasr.  The Group Code is FLOFLOA.  Room reservations must be accompanied by a first night room deposit or guaranteed with a major credit card.   The reservation deadline for this room block is August 10, 2005.  The Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club is located at 501 5th Avenue N.E. in Downtown St. Petersburg (see map below).  Parking is available at the rate of $9.00/day for self-parking and $13.00/day for valet parking.

FAPA 2005 ANNUAL CONFERENCE SPONSOR/EXHIBITOR PACKETS
The Sponsor/Exhibitor Registration Packet is are now available for FAPA's 2005 Annual Conference.  Visit the web address provided above or go to http://www.floridaplanning.org/conference/2005/Sponsor-ExhibitorsBrochureCH.pdf.
  
ATTENTION OLD CHINA HANDS – FAPA NEEDS YOU!
Do you remember the tradition of FAPA's Old China Hands reception, when the casual mixer offered members, old and new, the chance to renew friendships, enjoy successes, commiserate misfortunes (hopefully, they were few) and mentor new planners? Old China Hands was revived at the 2003 conference and the tradition will continue this year with a hospitality suite/reception at the conference. It is customary to pass the hat among "old china hands" to help cover expenses. Therefore, we are asking you to consider making a small donation of no more than $20 to the Old China Hands Mixer for the 2005 FAPA Conference. Your check should be made payable to "Florida APA" and mailed to Florida Chapter APA, 2040 Delta Way, Tallahassee, Florida 32303. There will be appropriate recognition at the event. Thank you for you contribution and please do not hesitate to contact Sheri Coven at (850) 201-FAPA with any questions. Please note that this is not a tax deductible donation.

PROPOSE A SESSION FOR THE 2006 APA NATIONAL CONFERENCE
The American Planning Association (APA) invites you to propose a session for the 2006 APA National Planning Conference in San Antonio, Texas.  Conference sessions are 75 minutes in length and will be scheduled from Sunday morning, April 23, 2006, through Wednesday morning, April 26, 2006. Poster sessions will take place on either Sunday or Monday. In addition, this year, you may also propose a poster or technology presentation. The conference will address regional, national, and cross-border issues. Go online to learn about special tracks and expanded choices, and to make a proposal. Proposals are due by August 30.  For more information please visit http://www.planning.org/2006conference/sessionproposal/index.htm. 

FAICP NOMINATIONS BEING INVITED
AICP is now accepting nominations for the 2006 Class of the College of Fellows. Selection as a Fellow of AICP recognizes excellence in professional practice, teaching and mentoring, research, community service, and leadership. Nominations must be completed by November 1.  For more information, visit http://www.planning.org/faicp/faicp.htm or in Florida, contact Merle Bishop at MerleBishop@polk-county.net.

APA'S AUDIO/WEB CONFERENCE TRAINING SERIES 2005-2006
What is an audio/web conference? APA's Audio/Web Conference Training Series provides long-distance training to planners and planning officials. Since 1995 these audio conference programs have reached thousands of officials, planners, researchers, students, and allied groups. These convenient, easy-to-use programs are delivered straight to your desktop or conference room. What are the different kinds of programs available? This year, APA provides three program types:  4-hour primer for planning commissioners; 60-minute introductory conferences; and 90-minute intensive conferences. How does an audio/web conference work? The audio portion of the conference is delivered via the telephone and the visual portion of the conference is delivered over the computer. To learn more, go to http://www.planning.org/audioconference/index.htm.

APA ON THE KELO DECISION
What constitutes a valid "public use" when a municipality exercises its power of eminent domain and condemns private property? In a 5-4 vote, the U.S. Supreme Court on Thursday upheld the rights of local governments to condemn private property for economic development. APA had filed an amicus brief for the city in the case, Kelo v. City of New London and through its website and legislative action center, is serving as a tremendously useful source of information on this case.  A listing of the resources currently available follows.
Background on the Kelo case and APA's Amicus Brief: http://www.planning.org/amicusbriefs/kelo.htm
APA's News Release:  http://www.planning.org/newsreleases/2005/ftp062305.htm
APA's Guide to Eminent Domain and Kelo: http://www.planning.org/amicusbriefs/emdomain.htm
APA Executive Director, Paul Farmer's response to critics (login required):  http://www.planning.org/domesticagenda/2005/jul05.htm

APA'S PLANNERS LEGISLATIVE ACTION NETWORK--PLAN
PLAN--Planners Legislative Action Network is APA's new grassroots advocacy network.  Plan members receive email action alerts; special legislative briefings; recognition at APA conferences; conference "meet up" for PLAN members; invitations to special events and receptions; unique training opportunities; access to members-only web tools; PLAN listserv; congressional directory; and enhanced access to elected officials. Opportunities to be active in PLAN include writing letters and emails in response to action alerts; conducting meetings during Planner's Day on Capitol Hill; and taking advantage of special training programs and issue briefings.  You will also have a chance to shape APA's annual legislative priorities.  There is no cost to join.  Simply go to http://www.planning.org/advocacy/grassrootsadvocacy.htm and click on "Join APA's Advocacy Network." Sign up today to get with the PLAN.  Please direct any questions to APA's government affairs department at govtaffairs@planning.org or 202.872.0611.

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NEW INSTITUTE FOR COMMUNITY DESIGN TO HELP GOVERNORS AND THEIR CABINETS IMPLEMENT SMART GROWTH
Announced by three former governors, the institute is sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with support and expertise provided by SGA's Smart Growth Leadership Institute and the National Center for Smart Growth Research and Education at the University of Maryland. The Governors' Institute will hold a series of workshops each year that will pair governors and their cabinet secretaries with top planning experts and practitioners to address specific challenges in state and regional land use. Christie Whitman, former EPA administrator and governor of New Jersey, said the program addresses a key question for sustainability: "How do we continue to grow in a way that will allow us to continue to grow?"  For more information, go to http://www.smartgrowthamerica.org/pressrelease071205.html.

OSU EPANDS ITS PLANNING EDUCATION AT A DISTANCE PROGRAM
The Ohio State University City and Regional Planning program is now offering an on-line graduate certificate program in Facilities Planning and Management. Four courses will be offered between January and December 2006. Each ten-week course is taught at a graduate level by faculty at the Ohio State University. Students can participate at their convenience from any computer with an Internet connection. There are no scheduled class meetings.  Participants view weekly audio/video lectures, complete projects, discuss issues, and consult with faculty. The courses include hand-on experience that includes case studies, team work, and in-depth projects. Registration is open now and runs through November 1, 2005. Those who complete all four courses will receive a Certificate of Completion from the Ohio State University. All of the graduate courses are eligible for transfer into a graduate degree program at any university. To learn more visit: http://knowlton.osu.edu/ped/facilities.htm.

HEALTHY SCHOOL ENVIRONMENT RESOURCES
Healthy School Environment Resources is a gateway to on-line resources to help facility managers, school administrators, architects, design engineers, school nurses, parents, teachers and staff address environmental health issues in schools.  The site provides information and resources on chemical use and management; design, construction and renovations; energy efficiency; environmental education; facility operations and maintenance; indoor environmental quality; legislation and regulation; outdoor air pollution; portable classrooms; safety and preparedness; school facility assessment tools; waste; waste reduction; and water.  Visit the site at http://cfpub.epa.gov/schools/index.cfm.

FLORIDA PIRG GRADES FLORIDA'S CONGRESSIONAL DELEGATION ON PUBLIC INTEREST ISSUES
Florida PIRG is distributing the individual Congressional scorecards to tens of thousands of households in Florida as part of its door-to-door Protect Our Treasured Waters campaign. In addition to tracking such diverse public interest votes as protecting Florida's coast from offshore drilling; cleaning up toxic waste sites; preventing unfair credit card practices; and increasing access to affordable prescription drugs, the scorecards also list information about campaign contributions, biographical data, past Florida PIRG scores, and telephone numbers for citizens to contact their elected officials. To see how Florida's Congressional representatives and senators have voted on environmental, consumer and other public interest issues, go to http://floridapirg.org/reports/florida2005.pdf.

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The American Planning Association's website includes links to requests for proposals and requests for qualifications.  You may access this information at www.planning.org/rfp-rfq/.  

INVITATION TO DEVELOPERS:  RIVER EAST REVITALIZATION RFP
The City of Gadsden, Alabama, through its coordinating agency, the Gadsden Commercial Development Authority (GCDA), requests proposals for the purchase and development of a commercial project located on East Broad Street. The project area is approximately 3.25 acres owned by the city and is immediately East of the Broad Street Memorial Bridge. The property is zoned B-2, general business district. It is the desire of the City that serious consideration be given to preserving the faηade of the former Goodwill Building and the two adjoining structures. Any proposed development on the property will be subject to applicable provisions of the attached Coosa Riverfront Development Guidelines. The City also plans to initiate various streetscape improvements to enhance and complement the project. The purpose of this Request for Proposals (RFP) is to identify and select a qualified developer(s), and to execute an offer to purchase and develop the property. Upon completion of review those respondents submitting proposals that merit further discussion or negotiations will be contacted by the GCDA. Based on the quality of the proposals received in response to this invitation, a developer will be selected. The City reserves the option to review each response on its own merits without consultation or consideration of other responses. The City specifically reserves the right to reject any and all responses without justification or reasoning. The cost associated with the submission of a response is to be borne solely by the respondent to the RFP. The City will in no way be obligated, in any form or fashion, for the reimbursement of any time, expense, cost or effort associated with the development and submission of a response. Each respondent to the RFP assumes the risk of investing whatever time, cost and effort they deem to be in their best interest in preparing and submitting the response to the RFP without any liability or obligation by the City.  You may download a copy of the RFP at http://www.gadsdencommercial.com/news.php. Please direct any questions to Cathy Back at (256) 547-1530 or cathyback@gadsdencommercial.com.

ANNOUNCING THE KENNEDY SCHOOL AT HARVARD'S 2006 COMPETITON FOR THE INNOVATIONS IN AMERICAN GOVERNMENT AWARDS
The Innovations in American Government Program is a significant force in recognizing and promoting excellence and creativity in the public sector. Through its annual awards competition, the Program provides concrete evidence that government can work to improve the quality of life for citizens and that it deserves greater public trust. Many award-winning programs have been replicated across jurisdictions and policy areas, and some have served as harbingers of today's reform strategies or as forerunners to state and federal legislation. By highlighting exemplary models of government's innovative performance, the Program serves as a catalyst for continued progress in addressing the nation?s most pressing public concerns.  Innovations Award winners receive national press attention, serve as examples of model programs worthy of replication, and spark research and teaching cases at Harvard University and other schools across the country.  In the spring of 2001, the Ford Foundation presented the Kennedy School with a grant that endows Innovations in American Government in perpetuity and places it within the Ash Institute for Democratic Governance and Innovation. The Institute administers the Innovations Awards in partnership with the Council for Excellence in Government. For more information, go to http://www.ashinstitute.harvard.edu/Ash/awards.htm. The deadline is September 15, 2005.

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JOB MART advertisements now posted:

CITY OF ST PETERSBURG – PLANNER II – CURRENT PLANNING
WEST FLORIDA RPC – SENIOR TRANSPORTATION PLANNER
SCHOOL DISTRICT OF OSCEOLA COUNTY – FACILITIES PLANNING SPECIALIST
WEST FLORIDA RPC – REGIONAL PLANNER – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
GRIMAIL CRAWFORD, INC. - GEOGRAPHER
CITY OF PALMETTO - CITY PLANNER
WEST FLORIDA RPC - REGIONAL PLANNER - LAND USE PLANNING
CITY OF KEY WEST - SENIOR PLANNER
CITY OF KEY WEST - SENIOR PLANNER II
CITY OF DELRAY BEACH P&Z - ASSISTANT PLANNING DIRECTOR
COLLIER COUNTY - PRINCIPAL PLANNER
LEE COUNTY ZONING DIVISION - SENIOR PLANNER (2 Positions)
NASSAU COUNTY COUNCIL ON AGING - DIRECTOR OF TRANSPORTATION
SEMINOLE COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS - FACILITIES PLANNER
SARASOTA COUNTY GOVERNMENT - MANAGER - STRATEGIC PLANNING
CITY OF DAYTONA BEACH - PLANNING ADMINISTRATOR - DEVELOPMENT SVC.
CITY OF DAYTONA BEACH - PLANNING MANAGER - DEVELOPMENT SVC.
PASCO COUNTY, FL - TRANSPORTATION PLANNER II
PASCO COUNTY, FL - PLANNER II
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT ASSOC. OF FLORIDA, INC. - URBAN PLANNER
CITY OF BOCA RATON, FL - SENIOR PLANNER
COLLIER COUNTY - SENIOR PLANNER
KEITH & ASSOCIATES, INC. - PLANNING DIRECTOR AND ASSOCIATE PLANNER
MONROE COUNTY LAND AUTHORITY - ASSISTANT COUNTY ATTORNEY
LAND PLANNING SYSTEMS, INC. - PLANNER/ PROJECT MANAGER
LIBERTY CONSOLIDATED PLANNING COMMISSION (GA) - ASSOCIATE PLANNER
CITY OF WEST PALM BEACH - PLANNER - PLANNING DEPARTMENT
CITY OF TITUSVILLE - PLANNING DIRECTOR
CITY OF TITUSVILLE - HOUSING & NEIGHBORHOOD SERVICES DIRECTOR
CITY OF TITUSVILLE - SENIOR PLANNER
COTLEUR & HEARING, INC. - LAND USE/SITE PLANNER
CITY OF EUSTIS - PLANNER II
CITY OF DESTIN - STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SPECIALIST - COMMUNITY DEV.
CITY OF LAKELAND - SENIOR PLANNER
ESCAMBIA COUNTY - PLANNER III
ESCAMBIA COUNTY - PLANNER II
ESCAMBIA COUNTY - PLANNER I
CITY OF STUART - SENIOR PLANNER
COASTAL GEORGIA RDC - PLANNER III – COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING
COASTAL GEORGIA RDC - PLANNER II – LAND USE & ENVIRONMENT
COASTAL GEORGIA RDC – GIS TECHNICIAN
CENTRAL FLORIDA RPC - EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Visit FAPA's Job Mart for salaries, descriptions, minimum requirements, and application deadlines.

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September 7, 2005:  FAPA EC MEETING in conjunction with FAPA's 2005 Annual Conference.

September 7-10, 2005:  Save the Date - FAPA'S 2005 ANNUAL CONFERENCE hosted by the Sun Coast Section.  This year's theme is Florida's Renaissance:  Responding to the Challenges of Tomorrow.  The Conference will be held at the historic Renaissance Vinoy in downtown St. Petersburg.  More information will be coming soon.

September 16, 2005:  Make plans to attend the CAPITAL AREA SECTION'S WELCOME BACK STUDENTS RECEPTION AND ANNUAL MEETING at the Brokaw-McDougall House in Tallahassee from 4:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

February 15, 2006:  Save the date for FAPA's 2006 ANNUAL PUBLIC POLICY WORKSHOP in Tallahassee.

February 16, 2006:  FAPA LEGISLATIVE POLICY COMMITTEE MEETING, which will be held in conjunction with the 2006 Public Policy Workshop.

February 17-18, 2006:  Mark your calendars.  The FSU Department of Urban and Regional Planning will celebrate its 20th ANNIVERSARY in Tallassee.  If you wish to participate in the planning of the event, contact Dr. Charles Connerly at cconnerl@coss.fsu.edu.

April 22-26, 2006:  Save the date for APA's 2006 ANNUAL CONFERENCE, which will be held in San Antonia, Texas.

September 27-30, 2006:  Save the date for FAPA's 2006 ANNUAL CONFERENCE, which will be held at the Marco Island Marriott Resort.

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July 27, 2005:  The seventh in a Teleseminar Series examining new growth management legislation, growth issues and impacts, and their meaning for Florida's Future, this session will focus on HOUSING AND REDEVELOPMENT.  An outstanding line-up of resource panelists will participate in the teleconference and AICP CPDP credits are available.  The Teleseminar will begin at 10:00 a.m. SHARP, and conclude by 11:30 a.m.  For complete details and a list of speakers or to register on-line, go to http://www.blueradish.biz/ and click on "seminars."  Please email any questions to growth_in_florida@thenonprofitinstitute.com.  The cost is $25/Session or $125 for the eight session series.

July 27, 2005:  Learn about transportation & safety and their role in achieving sustainable, livable, active communities.  LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, hosted by FDOT and FSU's Department of Urban and Regional Planning is free.  Trainers include Dan Burden (with Glatting Jackson and Walkable Communities, Inc.) and Billy Hattaway, P.E. (Hall Planning and Engineering).  This workshop (one of seven) will be held in Jacksonville.  Contact Stephanie Striefel at sstriefel38yahoo.com for more information.

July 27-31, 2005:  Save the date for the 2005 AIA FLORIDA ANNUAL CONFERENCE, hosted by the Florida Association of the American Institute of Architects.  This event will be held at the Marco Island Marriott.  For more information, watch http://www.aiafla.org/index.cfm?pageID=58.

July 28, 2005:  Learn about transportation & safety and their role in achieving sustainable, livable, active communities.  LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, hosted by FDOT and FSU's Department of Urban and Regional Planning is free.  Trainers include Dan Burden (with Glatting Jackson and Walkable Communities, Inc.) and Billy Hattaway, P.E. (Hall Planning and Engineering).  This workshop (one of seven) will be held in Daytona.  Contact Stephanie Striefel at sstriefel38yahoo.com for more information.

July 29, 2005:  Learn about transportation & safety and their role in achieving sustainable, livable, active communities.  LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, hosted by FDOT and FSU's Department of Urban and Regional Planning is free.  Trainers include Dan Burden (with Glatting Jackson and Walkable Communities, Inc.) and Billy Hattaway, P.E. (Hall Planning and Engineering).  This workshop (one of seven) will be held in Gainesville.  Contact Stephanie Striefel at sstriefel38yahoo.com for more information.

August 3, 2005:  The eighth in a Teleseminar Series examining new growth management legislation, growth issues and impacts, and their meaning for Florida's Future, this session will focus on the FUTURE OF RURAL FLORIDA.  An outstanding line-up of resource panelists will participate in the teleconference and AICP CPDP credits are available.  The Teleseminar will begin at 10:00 a.m. SHARP, and conclude by 11:30 a.m.  For complete details and a list of speakers or to register on-line, go to http://www.blueradish.biz/ and click on "seminars."  Please email any questions to growth_in_florida@thenonprofitinstitute.com.  The cost is $25/Session or $125 for the eight session series.

August 10, 2005:  Learn about transportation & safety and their role in achieving sustainable, livable, active communities.  LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, hosted by FDOT and FSU's Department of Urban and Regional Planning is free.  Trainers include Dan Burden (with Glatting Jackson and Walkable Communities, Inc.) and Billy Hattaway, P.E. (Hall Planning and Engineering).  This workshop (one of seven) will be held in West Palm Beach.  Contact Stephanie Striefel at sstriefel38yahoo.com for more information.

August 11, 2005:  Learn about transportation & safety and their role in achieving sustainable, livable, active communities.  LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, hosted by FDOT and FSU's Department of Urban and Regional Planning is free.  Trainers include Dan Burden (with Glatting Jackson and Walkable Communities, Inc.) and Billy Hattaway, P.E. (Hall Planning and Engineering).  This workshop (one of seven) will be held in Ft. Lauderdale.  Contact Stephanie Striefel at sstriefel38yahoo.com for more information.

August 12, 2005:  Learn about transportation & safety and their role in achieving sustainable, livable, active communities.  LIVABLE COMMUNITIES, hosted by FDOT and FSU's Department of Urban and Regional Planning is free.  Trainers include Dan Burden (with Glatting Jackson and Walkable Communities, Inc.) and Billy Hattaway, P.E. (Hall Planning and Engineering).  This workshop (one of seven) will be held in Miami.  Contact Stephanie Striefel at sstriefel38yahoo.com for more information.

August 16, 2005:  EXPLORE HOW COMMUNITY DESIGN CAN IMPROVE PHYSICAL ACTIVITY THROUGH PARKS AND GREEN SPACES through an interactive, informative webcast jointly sponsored by Smart Growth America and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).  The presentation will take place from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. EST. The session is conducted using Microsoft Live Meeting and is available for download or streaming format after the event is completed.  Anyone with access to the Internet and a phone can participate in an Experts Online Webcast from his/her desk at the scheduled time.  Participants will be able to hear the expert(s) speak, view the corresponding visual presentation in real time, and pose written or oral questions to the speaker(s) during the event.  To register for the discussion, go to www.lisc.org/resources.  Please register in advance, so you have a password. If this is your first time joining us for a webcast, please click on the appropriate Experts Online session at www.lisc.org/resources  and review the "How to Access the Event" section.  Details on each session are posted approximately 30 days in advance. On the day of the event, click on the appropriate Experts Online session at www.lisc.org/resources.  Details on the website link and call in phone number are located here.  Sign in!  If you have any questions, please contact Dannielle Glaros at dglaros@smartgrowthamerica.org. 

August 25, 2005:  The second STATEWIDE SUMMIT to solicit public input on the FLORIDA TRANSPORTATION PLAN will be held on this date in Tampa.  This Summit will provide the public, transportation partners and stakeholders an opportunity to learn about the 2025 FTP development process, and to provide input on draft long range goals and objectives for Florida's transportation system.  Information about the location, time, and draft agenda for the Statewide Summit can be founded at:  http://www.ftp2025.com/summit2.asp.

September 7-10, 2005:  Sponsored by the Seaside Institute, make plans to attend NEW URBANISM IN CHARLOTTE:  THE LEGACY OF JOHN NOLEN SEMINAR.  This event will be held in Charlotte, NC.  Registration is $445 or $375 for public sector and nonprofit employees.  For more information go to http://www.theseasideinstitute.org/net/content/go.aspx?s=31870.0.79.7801.

September 8-10, 2005:  This year, the RAIL~VOLUTION conference is set in the majestic beauty and natural splendor of Salt Lake City, a metropolitan area that is steeped in a rich history of community partnerships. Complex and highly productive relationshiops are the primary factor behind Salt Lake's visible successes. RAIL~VOLUTION 2005 will feature innovative minds from a variety of disciplines, including developers, elected officials, urban planners, advocacy experts, transportation professionals, financiers, citizen groups, architects and others. Conference attendees are guaranteed to take home a renewed sense of energy, fresh ideas and a portfolio of new strategies that will serve as springboards for new solutions.  Registration is $350 by 8/12 and $400 beginning 8/13.  For more information, go to http://www.railvolution.com/.

September 13, 2005:  FIND OUT HOW A MIXED-USE STRATEGY CAN MAKE THE REVIVAL OF A COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR MORE EFFECTIVE through an interactive, informative webcast jointly sponsored by Smart Growth America and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).  The presentation will take place from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. EST. The session is conducted using Microsoft Live Meeting and is available for download or streaming format after the event is completed.  Anyone with access to the Internet and a phone can participate in an Experts Online Webcast from his/her desk at the scheduled time.  Participants will be able to hear the expert(s) speak, view the corresponding visual presentation in real time, and pose written or oral questions to the speaker(s) during the event.  To register for the discussion, go to www.lisc.org/resources.  Please register in advance, so you have a password. If this is your first time joining us for a webcast, please click on the appropriate Experts Online session at www.lisc.org/resources  and review the "How to Access the Event" section.  Details on each session are posted approximately 30 days in advance. On the day of the event, click on the appropriate Experts Online session at www.lisc.org/resources.  Details on the website link and call in phone number are located here.  Sign in!  If you have any questions, please contact Dannielle Glaros at dglaros@smartgrowthamerica.org. 

September 27-October 2, 2005:  If you're concerned about protecting the best aspects of America's cities, suburbs, towns, and landscapes, and revitalizing communities, then make plans to attend the 2005 NATIONAL PRESERVATION CONFERENCE in Portland, Oregon.  Educational sessions will focus on commercial district revitalization, neighborhood revitalization and housing, smart growth, and transportation.  In particular, Portland's Urban Growth Boundary and Measure 37 will be addressed.  AICP CPDP credits are available.  To register or for more information, go to www.nthpconference.org  or call (202) 588-6100, (800) 944-6847.

October 1-9, 2005:  PLAYCE DISCOVERY TOUR TO ORVIETO, Italy has a June 11 enrollment deadline.  The trip is now half full.  Orvieto is one of Italy's "Slow Cities."  It is instructive in how to develop physical spaces and cultural support for people-friendly cities.  You will learn the importance of culture, characteristics of physical design critical to successful places, how uses and their arrangement enhance places for people, the warmth of a people environment, barriers to creating a sense of place, and how to apply what you learn in Orvieto back home.  For more information, visit www.sccommunitybuilders.org or email Bill Steiner with Community Builders, at bsteiner@masc.sc.

October 5-8, 2005:  Enhancing the livability and lovability of our communities begins here. With equal parts theory and mechanics, the SMARTCODE WORKSHOP is your gateway to the future of American land planning, delivering all the tools you need for successful implementation at the local level.  Andrιs Duany will lead the discussion of the rural-to-urban Transect and the form-based principles that guide the SmartCode, the most comprehensive land development template available to create environmentally sustainable, economically competitive and truly livable places.  Don't miss this opportunity to join fellow planners, architects, developers, elected officials and citizen activists, and learn how to implement practical solutions for quality livability. Register now at http://www.placemakers.com/info/workshop.html The fee is $465.

October 6-7. 2005:  The Southwest Florida RPC is busy planning its 2005 Annual Conference to be held at the Lido Beach Resort in Sarasota County.  The 2005 MAYORS' CAUCUS is an opportunity for Mayors, Municipal Managers, County Commissions, and regional stakeholders to come together and take an active role in developing a consensus-based vision of quality regional growth.  For more information, go to http://www.swfrpc.org.

October 7-11, 2005:  Save the date for the 2005 AMERICAN SOCIETY OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTS ANNUAL MEETING AND EXPO, to be held in Ft. Lauderdale at the Broward County Convention Center.  Watch http://www.asla.org/meetings/am2005/ for more information. 

October 18, 2005:  LEARN ABOUT INNOVATIVE POLICIES AND PRACTICES TO ADDRESS ABANDONMENT AND VACANT PROPERTIES through an interactive, informative webcast jointly sponsored by Smart Growth America and the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC).  The presentation will take place from 2:00 – 3:30 p.m. EST. The session is conducted using Microsoft Live Meeting and is available for download or streaming format after the event is completed.  Anyone with access to the Internet and a phone can participate in an Experts Online Webcast from his/her desk at the scheduled time.  Participants will be able to hear the expert(s) speak, view the corresponding visual presentation in real time, and pose written or oral questions to the speaker(s) during the event. To register for the discussion, go to www.lisc.org/resources.  Please register in advance, so you have a password. If this is your first time joining us for a webcast, please click on the appropriate Experts Online session at www.lisc.org/resources  and review the "How to Access the Event" section.  Details on each session are posted approximately 30 days in advance. On the day of the event, click on the appropriate Experts Online session at www.lisc.org/resources.  Details on the website link and call in phone number are located here.  Sign in!  If you have any questions, please contact Dannielle Glaros at dglaros@smartgrowthamerica.org. 

October 19-21, 2005:  Save the date for FLORIDA REDEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION'S ANNUAL CONFERENCE, which will be held at the St. Petersburg Hilton.  Watch http://www.redevelopment.net/Default.aspx?tabid=45 for more information.

October 27-30, 2005:  Join PlaceMatters for a landmark event in planning, THE COMMUNITY PLANNING COLLABORATIVE SUMMIT 2005: DEMOCRACY AND PLANNING IN ACTION in Orlando, Florida.  Witness how the integration of public participation and technical tools can enhance planning and decision making processes in all communities.  For more information or to register, go to http://www.planningcollaborative.org/. 

November 10-12, 2005:  URBAN WATERFRONTS 23 is the 23rd annual international conference of the Waterfront Center, which will be held at the Hilton Savannah Desoto in Savannah, Georgia.  For more information on the conference or awards program (deadline July 1, 2005), visit http://www.waterfrontcenter.org/conference/index.html.

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