What does the planning board do?

The planning board plays a crucial role in shaping land use and development within a municipality. Their primary responsibility includes adopting the master plan, which outlines the vision, goals, and policies for future growth and development of the community. This plan serves as a guiding framework for zoning, land use regulations, and general development decisions, ensuring that future projects align with the community's overall vision.

In contrast to the planning board's focus on long-term planning and policy formulation, the enforcement of zoning laws typically falls under the jurisdiction of zoning enforcement officers or municipal code officials, not the planning board itself. Public works projects are generally overseen by different departments or authorities that deal specifically with engineering, construction, and maintenance. Similarly, waste management policies are usually managed by environmental departments or solid waste management authorities rather than the planning board. Thus, the primary function of adopting and updating the master plan is what distinguishes the planning board's role in community development.