Planning Commissioners Academy open for registration through March 22

Planning commissioners must navigate some of the state’s most ambitious — and controversial — housing and environmental laws while also balancing the needs of their community. Navigating these obligations can be challenging, even for the most seasoned planning commissioner.

Taking place March 29-31 in Garden Grove, the Planning Commissioners Academy provides city officials with information about the roles and responsibilities of a planning commissioner, including the basic legal and practical framework in which they operate.

This year's Academy will cover a range of topics, such as key housing legislation, how to effectively run public meetings, and a planning commission’s role and responsibilities. The Academy will also include introductory and advanced sessions on the California Environmental Quality Act. Additional information is available in the “schedule at a glance” section of the Academy webpage.    

Registration and hotel information 

Registration for the full academy starts at $675 for city officials from any League of California Cities member city. Conference registration includes admission to all educational sessions, the Wednesday reception, Thursday breakfast and lunch, Friday breakfast, and access to all program materials. The deadline to register is March 22. After this date, officials must register on-site. 

The 2023 Planning Commissioners Academy will be held at the Hyatt Regency Orange County, located at 11999 Harbor Blvd in Garden Grove. The Hyatt is located 13 miles from John Wayne/Orange County Airport and offers discounted self-parking for guests staying at the hotel.

A limited number of hotel rooms are available at a reduced rate for conference attendees. The discounted hotel rate cut-off is Feb. 28, 2023. Hotels often sell out prior to the deadline, so reserve early!

For more information, visit the Planning Commissioners Academy webpage. Please direct all registration questions or comments to Conference Registrar Megan Dunn. Please direct any other questions to Associate Manager, Event Program, Kayla Boutros.