Economic Development

Local Community Housing Strategies 

OKI will research current efforts in the region and outside the region to create housing strategies at the local level. This research will feed into future efforts to provide best practice information and technical assistance to local communities to address housing needs at the local level. OKI will expand partnerships with agencies currently working in housing in our region.

Model codes for visit-ability and universal design standards 

OKI will research and compile information on codes for visitable design standards and provide information to local communities through current and ongoing communications.

Improving housing stock 

OKI will research best practices and funding programs for improving community housing stock and compile and provide information to local communities through current and ongoing communications.

Improving Access to Affordable Housing

OKI will research and compile information on codes for inclusionary zoning and provide information to local communities through current and ongoing communications.

OKI Elements of an Effective Local Comprehensive Plan 

OKI published the Elements of an Effective Local Comprehensive Plan in January 2016.  OKI staff has presented this Guide at local conference and workshop sessions, including the region’s annual David J Allor Planning and Zoning Workshop and often features topical elements at OKI Regional Planning Forum events.  To date, 130 copies have been distributed to local communities and private sector consultants.  For a copy of the Guide or to request a workshop please contact Andy Meyer, Senior Planner ameyer@oki.org

Based on the 2014 SRPP update, new topic areas included in the 2016 publication include Public Health, Energy, and Community Character.

Guidance and Technical Assistance

Tools, research and resources related to the Comprehensive Planning and Land Use Planning are available as a service to local government in the region. OKI staff is available to provide technical assistance for specific local planning needs and projects as resources permit. In addition, OKI has developed planning guidance documents and model ordinances on special topics related to the How Do We Grow From Here? Plan. OKI staff will update the documents as needed. For additional information and links to the guidance documents, click here.

OKI Regional Planning Forum 

OKI holds information meetings each year for professional planners across the region, called Regional Planning Forum. The forum features a variety of topics that help inform planners about the issues and policy recommendations in the How Do We Grow from Here? Plan. The purpose of the Forum is to create a regional outlet for sharing information, experience and expertise among planners and those in related disciplines so that we can provide the best possible quality of life for those who live and work in our region. For more information, click here.