JACKSON, Wyo. —Teton County and the Town of Jackson announced their plans for public participation in the planning of the neighborhood slated for Northern South Park. The town and county have designed a public participation program, “to engage and integrate community members throughout the planning process.”

In a press release sent on Jan. 12, the town and county outlined the goals of the program. “With a focus on efficient plan making, public participation opportunities range in level of involvement, timing, and format to ensure that input is effective, diverse, and accessible to all.”

In an effort to collaborate with the community, a project steering committee was appointed by the Board of County Commissioners. The committee consists of five members, chosen by the Board. The committee members include Laura Bonich, Bill Collins, Scott Pierson, Jennifer Ford, and Hans Flinch as well as two representatives from the Gill and Lockhart families, the landowners of the area being developed.

The steering committee is an advisory group, not a decision-making body. The committee is tasked with providing feedback on community engagement efforts and plan development during monthly meetings with staff and the consultant team.

The first steering committee meeting was held on Dec. 18. The meeting was not accessible to the public and the agenda and minutes were not made available. Following the meeting, community members shared their concerns, sending emails to the Teton County Board of County Commissioners asking for more transparency. The meetings are now open to the public to join through a zoom link. The next meeting is scheduled for Friday, Jan. 15 at 9 a.m, the meeting will be recorded but will not be formally archived on the project website. 

Community members can also submit written public comments to the planning staff at any time during the planning process. the comments will be compiled and presented for review. There will also be two public workshops in the spring of 2021 as well as community surveys and interviews.

Community members who would like updates and information about the Northern Southpark planning project can email Senior Long-range Planner, Kristi Malone to get on the list.