Community Participation

1. Overview

The City of Fort Collins is committed to meaningful public engagement. We encourage everyone to take part in planning the future of our community — including reviewing new development proposals.

This page explains:

• How we keep you informed about development and planning efforts
• When and how you can provide input
• Other ways to get involved in shaping your community
• Our promises to the public

2. How We Keep You Informed

You'll hear from us at different stages of a project, from early ideas through final approval.

We share updates:

• When someone asks for feedback on an early development idea
• When a formal application for a new project is submitted
• When a project plan has been approved

The type of project and stage of the project determine the ways we communicate. Some ways we share updates include:

• Project information on the Development Proposals webpage
• Yellow “Proposed Development” signs posted on project sites
• Letters mailed to property owners near certain types of projects
• This Week in Development Review e-newsletter

3. How We Listen to the Community

There are several ways to share your input, depending on the type of project:

Neighborhood Meetings

 

Neighborhood meetings give community members a chance to learn about proposed developments, ask questions and share feedback directly to staff and applicants to identify and address potential concerns.

Neighborhood Meetings are required for certain types of projects, and are recorded and summarized for decision makers. Residents are always encouraged to attend and participate.

View Neighborhood Meetings

Watch Recorded Neighborhood Meetings

Public Hearings

 

Public Hearings are required by projects that could have a significant impact on the surrounding area. Hearings are held in-person, online or in hybrid environments. Anyone can attend and provide spoken or written comments.
Depending on the level of impact of the project, hearings are heard by either an Administrative Hearing Officer, the Planning and Zoning Commission or City Council.

View Public Hearings

Written Comments

 

Outside of designated meetings and hearings, you can submit written comments via email, or via mail or in person at the Neighborhood Development offices.

Email: devreviewcomments@fortcollins.gov
Mail/drop-off: Neighborhood Development Liaison, 281 N. College Ave, Fort Collins, CO 80524

Community members can also share comments at City Council Meetings.

4. Who Decides on Development Projects?

Different types of projects go to different decision makers. You can find which types of projects go to which decision maker in the Use Table in Article 4 of the Land Use Code.

5. Tips for Making an Effective Comment

Decision makers must decide whether projects comply with City laws, such as the Land Use Code. Stronger comments:

• Are specific (“The building is taller than others in the neighborhood.” vs. “I don’t like it.”)
• Are constructive (offer suggestions or alternatives)
• Connect to City codes and standards (traffic, sidewalks, building design, zoning, etc.)

6. More Ways to Get Involved

Community participation is not limited to reviewing development projects. You can also:

• Attend public meetings: Participate in topic-specific planning, code or policy discussions.
• Join a Board or Commission: Residents serve on advisory boards that help shape City decisions. Terms are typically 2-4 years.
• Help shape long-range plans: Get involved in planning efforts that guide growth, housing, transportation and land use for decades to come.
• Volunteer: Share your skills and time through the City’s Volunteer Program.
• Join the conversation at OurCity: Offer your opinions and ideas on major City projects.

7. Our Commitment to the Public

The City follows the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) Spectrum of Public Participation, which guides how we partner with the community in decision making:

• Inform: We'll keep you informed.
• Consult: We'll listen to your concerns and provide feedback.
• Involve: We'll ensure your input is reflected in alternatives and plans.
• Collaborate: We'll work with you directly to develop solutions.
• Empower: We'll implement what you decide.

Learn More About Our Approach to Community Engagement