Township to field permit-efficiency survey and advance multiple grant-funded planning projects

Township Administrator Laurie updated the committee on several staff initiatives intended to speed permit processing and improve resident access to information. The township will release a permit-efficiency survey in coming weeks to residents and contractors who have applied through the GovPilot system. Laurie said GovPilot is advancing a resident portal and will send staff from California to meet on-site in early August.

"We're seeking feedback on their experience with the permit process," Laurie said, adding the resident portal will make it easier to track permits and case status. Staff encouraged residents to register and watch for an e-blast and social-media notices.

Laurie also reported the township received an $850,000 federal fiscal-year '26 grant for upgrades at the Otto Kauffman Community Center; the agreement is expected to be executed through the federal portal and presented formally to the committee when ready. Separately, the township is moving forward on a Plan for Health mapping survey and has contracted for a planner under a $50,000 grant to support a master-plan reexamination and community engagement.

Committee members emphasized digital case management, customer service, and greater transparency in permitting. Staff said they will coordinate outreach, compile survey results, and return with formal presentations once grant agreements are executed.