City of Plano

2017–2018

Pavlik and Associates and Economic & Planning Systems (a national economic consultant) were retained by the City of Plano to develop a report driven by data and community needs providing the city guidance in how to ensure that affordable housing is a part of all economic development and redevelopment strategies for managed growth.

Challenges in undertaking this project were two-fold:

1. The subject of housing needs, particularly affordable housing, instantly became a red flag for many longtime residents who opposed any multi-family developments.
2. Thousands of residents, organized as Plano Tomorrow opposed the City’s comprehensive plan, which ultimately went to the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.

It was essential that the public engagement team remained neutral. Findings were strategically summarized to serve as an educational platform and a solid data-driven backdrop against which further planning and governance decisions could be made.

In a news release distributed by Pavlik, persons living and/or working in Plano were urged to complete an online survey. It was emphasized that the main goals of the Housing Needs Assessment and Strategic Plan were to understand the housing needs of Plano residents, prepare for future growth and development, and guide community investment and sustainable development.

Pavlik was responsible for all community engagement strategies, facilitating focus groups, moderating public meetings, reaching out to all segments of Plano’s diverse populations, and conducting interviews with major corporations and small businesses. The City Council embraced the strategic plan as developed by the consulting team and community engagement continued forward.