Economic Woes Decimate Planning Departments

"Though the downturn in the economy has put fewer permits and entitlements across the counter at city planning departments, layoffs and staff reductions have resulted in more work for fewer people. Big cities have eliminated the equivalent of entire small-city departments."

"San Jose's planning department underwent three rounds of layoffs in 2009. Riverside County is cutting 25 percent of its planning department capacity. San Francisco has cut its staff time down to 37.5 hours per week. Fresno has seen 40 positions eliminated. To help close a $485 million city deficit, the Los Angeles Department of City Planning, once with a staff of over 1,000, has had to reduce its planning capacity by 40 percent."

Thanks to Josh Stephens