From Practice to Public Service: How Architects Shape Communities Through Planning Commissions
Architecture extends beyond designing buildings—it also includes shaping the policies, plans, and decisions that determine how communities grow. Planning Commissions and Planning & Land Use Committees play a critical role in reviewing development proposals, interpreting zoning regulations, evaluating land use applications, and making recommendations that influence the future of cities and neighborhoods.
This course introduces architects to the planning process and demonstrates how their professional expertise can strengthen local decision-making. Participants will gain a practical understanding of zoning reviews, conditional use permits, variances, public hearings, development standards, and collaboration with elected officials, developers, and community stakeholders.
In addition to understanding committee responsibilities, attendees will learn strategies for effective civic engagement, public leadership, and meaningful participation in planning processes. Whether you're interested in serving on a Planning Commission, advising local governments, or becoming a stronger advocate for your community, this course provides the knowledge and confidence to expand your impact beyond the drawing board.
By participating in local planning efforts, architects can help advance housing solutions, improve public health and safety, support environmental stewardship, and ensure that future development reflects thoughtful, resilient, and community-centered design.
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About the Speaker
Jeffrey M. Kalban founded KALBAN ARCHITECTS, INC. in 1982 after spending 12 years as a Designer/Senior Project Designer for firms such as I. M. Pei and Partners in New York City and Pereira Associates in Los Angeles. He has been responsible for the design of major office, institutional, commercial, and hotel projects here and abroad.
A graduate of Ohio State University, Mr. Kalban excels in providing innovative and distinguished solutions to interesting design problems associated with varied sizes of architectural commissions, while still delivering the projects on schedule and on budget. In 40 years, Kalban Architects, Inc. has received over 50 awards for architectural design - a great honor and accomplishment and has been named one of the Top 50 firms in the United States by Architect Magazine.
Indicative of his leadership in the professional community, Mr. Kalban has served on the Board of Directors of the San Fernando Valley Chapter of the AIA, Member, and Chair of the Westwood Village Design Review Board, and is a member of the Sherman Oaks Neighborhood Council, and chairs the Planning & Land Use Committee and the Vision Committee.