Dallas to Host Virtual Workshop Sept. 13 on Navigating City Services For Neighborhoods

Dallas has a history of lengthy, complicated processes for permitting and zoning. Still, changes are in the works and a slate of upcoming public meetings indicates city leaders want to engage residents along the way.

In addition to the overarching issues of zoning and permitting, services are provided through the city’s Housing and Neighborhood Revitalization Department that encourages neighborhood stability, such as homebuyer assistance and grants for home rehabilitation. But not everyone knows these services exist or how to go about them.

A virtual workshop is planned for 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13, to show residents and stakeholders how to navigate programs and services that support neighborhood vitality.

The event is hosted by the city’s Planning and Urban Design Department. Participants can register online.

Earlier on Sept. 13, the city’s ForwardDallas Comprehensive Land Use Plan Committee will meet from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Public visioning workshops for ForwardDallas are set for 6 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 19, and 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 22.

Planning and Urban Design Director Julia Ryan has said public input is vital for such a process, which dictates how Dallas is developed. The comprehensive land use plan could ultimately serve as a policy document preventing the construction of an industrial plant next to a residential neighborhood.

“It’s important that the community understands what we’re trying to do and for us to be able to talk to them throughout the process and have the dialogue,” Ryan said.