Community Development
The mission of the City of Portage Department of Community Development is to provide superior service delivery programs to the citizens and business owners of Portage. The department of Community Development - Planning and Development Services, Building Services and Neighborhood Services - exists for the single purpose of providing the full range of development services to all neighborhood residents and commmunity businesses.
The Department of Community Development has responsibility for planning and growth, and for private development projects, in order to maintain and improve the safety and overall quality of life in the community. The department plays a role in maintaining neighborhoods and encouraging existing business expansion, and attracting new business and industrial development. Activities designed to achieve compliance with city codes relevant to new construction, rehabilitiation, housing, zoning and signs, among others, are performed by this department. The department also administers the Community Development Block Grant Program.
The Planning and Development staff review and coordinate private development projects, the Capital Improvement Program and assists with activities of the Planning Commission. Economic development activities are included in this area, particularly involving the Portage Economic Development Corporation/Tax Increment Finance Autority, Brownfield Authority, Portage Local Development Finance Authority and Portage Downtown Development Authority. The Planning and Develpment staff administers the Zoning Code and reviews plats, site plans, parking plans and various development applications.
The Building Services staff assists community residents and businesses in fulfilling the State of Michigan Building, Mechanical, Plumbing, Electrical and Barrier-free construction codes. The construction codes are intended to protect the public health, safety and welfare and are managed through project plan review, permit issuance, progress inspections and the issuance of final certificates of occupancy. Building Services staff also serves as the liaison to the Construction Board of Appeals.
Neighborhood Services reviews residential projects, applications to the Zoning Board of Appeals, responds to citizen requests, administers the Community Development Block Grant Program and oversees a range of other housing and residential activities including the Neighborhood Support Program and Human Service contracts. The staff ensures compliance with city codes in relationship to the maintenance of properties. Neighborhood Services staff serve as liaison to the Human Services Board.
Permit Applications and Development Guides
Permits are required for various activities within the City of Portage for the services listed above. Most permits, development guides and other resources are provided online on the Permits page.
For additional information or for further assistance, please contact the Department of Community Development at (269) 329-4477or by email.
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