Understanding Public Policy and Its Impact on Zoning

Government building representing policy-making

Public policy shapes the way societies function, influencing everything from education and healthcare to infrastructure and environmental protection. It is a powerful tool that governments use to address societal issues and improve the quality of life for their citizens. Understanding how public policy works and its impact is essential for anyone interested in the mechanisms behind social change and governance.

Understanding Public Policy and its Impact on Zoning

Public policy refers to the decisions and actions taken by government bodies to solve problems and promote the welfare of the public. These policies can be laws, regulations, guidelines, or actions that guide the behavior of individuals, organizations, and institutions.

The importance of public policy lies in its ability to:

• Address social issues: Policies can target problems like poverty, crime, and inequality.

• Promote economic growth: Through regulations and incentives, policies can stimulate business and innovation.

• Protect the environment: Environmental policies help conserve natural resources and reduce pollution.

• Ensure public safety: Policies regulate health standards, transportation safety, and emergency responses.

  
  

For example, a city government might implement a policy to improve public transportation, reducing traffic congestion and pollution. This policy would involve planning, budgeting, and collaboration with various stakeholders to achieve its goals.

A city government will usually implement some kind of zoning code so that the city is divided into districts where the uses of the buildings are compatible.

Unfortunately, in Florida the state legislature, a pro-developer Republican Legislature has implemented the Live Local Act. This law does basically three things:

1. Negates local zoning.

2. Allows buildings within the same municipality on commercial, mixed-use, and industrial lots to be as tall as any building within 1 mile of that property as long as a certain percentage of units are work-force housing which is 100-120% of Area Median Income (AMI).

3. Gives tax credits to developers.

The question here is whether this benefits or hurts the average Floridian, particularly in Miami-Dade County.

I would argue that it hurts the average Floridian. Without local control of zoning, we end up with:

1. Tall buildings adjacent to single-family residential areas.

2. We increase the price of land.

3. We increase traffic where there are few alternate routes. This is true particularly in Kendall where there is not Metrorail and buses have to fight with cars to get to downtown.

Public Policy and Zoning

What is the relationship between public policy and zoning?

1. Except in Houston, Texas, all American cities have zoning regulations. In Miami-Dade County, we have 34 municipalities, each with their own regulations. It may be confusing, but they have their purpose. They are trying to create a city and a society which is attractive and works well for their residents. They don't have industrial manufacturing right next to residences. They don't have skyscrapers next to single-family residences.

   In Houston, with its lack of a zoning code, you would indeed end up with a mechanic shop next to a beautiful residence.
   

2. The City of Miami implemented a few years ago their own mixed-use zoning code, which is based on the principles of the New Urbanism movement. This zoning allows commercial and retail on the ground floor while building residential units above. Although it has its issues, it generally works well. It will make Miami a really beautiful city.

3. There are ways that we could create missing middle housing which would allow a gentle transition from single-family housing to highrises. Unfortunately, Miami-Dade County has not promoted these ideas. You can read about this in this article which I wrote for Miami Today.

4. We can get this changed, but we would have to participate in community meetings. You can read about how to do this effectively below.

Solar panels representing environmental policy impact

How to Engage with Public Policy Effectively

Being informed and involved in public policy can empower individuals and communities. Here are practical ways to engage:

• Stay Informed: Follow news, government websites, and trusted sources to understand current policies.

• Participate in Public Consultations: Many governments seek public input on proposed policies.

• Contact Representatives: Share your views with elected officials through letters, emails, or meetings.

• Join Advocacy Groups: Collaborate with organizations that align with your interests.

• Vote: Elections determine who makes policy decisions, so voting is a critical way to influence outcomes.

  
  

By actively participating, you can help shape policies that better serve your community and address pressing issues.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Public Policy

As societies evolve, so do the challenges and opportunities for public policy. Emerging technologies, climate change, and shifting demographics require adaptive and innovative policy solutions. Governments must balance competing interests and resources while ensuring transparency and accountability.

For example, the rise of artificial intelligence presents both benefits and risks, prompting policymakers to develop regulations that foster innovation while protecting privacy and security.

Understanding the dynamics of public policy and its impact equips individuals to navigate these changes and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future.

If you would like to discuss these ideas with me, Maria Luisa Castellanos, R.A., LEED AP, the principal of United Architects, Inc., feel free to call me at 305-439-7898 or email me at MLC@UnitedArchs.com