Planning Department

The Planning Department was established in 1973 when the Town Council created the position of Town Planner to assist the Planning Board in the review of subdivision and development proposals. Since that time, the Town has had a professional planning staff on a continuous basis. As the Town has grown, the complexity of planning issues has developed to the point where planning decisions are involved in a wide range of topics and initiatives other than the traditional review of subdivisions.  In that regard, the Planning Department’s role has grown to also include:
  • Administration of the CDBG Program
  • Development and management of the Comprehensive Plan
  • Development of policies and support services for:
    • Affordable Housing Collaborative Committee
    • Conservation Commission
    • Economic Development Committee
    • Historic District Commission
    • Planning Board
    • Sustainability Committee
    • Town Council
    • Town Manager
    • Recommendations on open space acquisitions
    • Review and recommendation of amendments to the Zoning Ordinance and Map.

The Planning Department consists of three full-time professional planners, a full-time GIS administrator and a full-time secretary.  

Geographic Information System (GIS)


In 1997 the Department established a GIS to provide accurate geographic information about the town to the Town government and the citizens of South Kingstown. 
 

Location


The Planning Department is located on the first floor of Town Hall, 180 High Street, Wakefield. The public is encouraged to call or visit the Department to research issues or to ask questions on any relevant topic. All current development proposals are available for public review during office hours. Copies of plans and reports can be made upon request. Please refer to the GIS webpage for a list of services as well as GIS maps and data that are available for purchase.

For more detailed discussion on Town planning issues, please call the Department's secretary at 401-789-9331, ext. 1244 to schedule an appointment with any of the Planning Department staff members.