There is a great Internet resource for citizens interested in good planning and smart growth at http://smartgrowthamerica.org/. They have recently published a book, Choosing Our Community’s Future: A Citizen’s Guide to Getting the Most Out of New Development. See http://sgusa.convio.net/site/PageServer?pagename=guidebook. “Has a development proposal thrust you and your neighbors into an unfamiliar world of planning jargon and process? Want to get ahead of development by making a plan to shape growth as it comes to your community?” Choosing Our Community’s Future is the rare resource designed specifically for regular citizens looking to make a positive contribution to shaping growth and change.

I have ordered ten copies and will provide them free to the first ten neighborhood council presidents or RNCCC officers who request them.

And don’t forget that you can make a difference. See Make a Difference - Vacancies on Design Review Board and Historic Preservation Advisory Committee, August 13, 2005.