August 16, 2007 – Taos, like many communities, has invested considerable time and effort crafting a vision for the future. We’ve made clear our commitment to protecting the valued character and environmental resources that make Taos so special, increasing our economic opportunities, and ensuring an inclusive and soulful place for all of our citizens.

These goals are diverse but they all share one thing in common: Their success is closely tied to how we handle growth and development in the coming years. This shared influence certainly helps in focusing our efforts but it also presents a challenge, because our current approach to zoning is not the most effective tool for doing what we all know needs to be done.

That’s why we’re working to develop a new land use development code, and have engaged the Albuquerque-based firm, PlaceMakers, to tailor a more appropriate ordinance — called the SmartCode — specifically to Taos.

Getting it right is going to require your help. And it all starts now.

From September 17-21, we’ll be holding a “charrette” workshop, where citizens will work directly with PlaceMakers to customize the code in accordance with our shared ideals. To ensure we make the most of it, we’re holding an advance, educational seminar where everything about the SmartCode — how it works, how it differs from our existing zoning, and how it will impact the type of growth and development we see here in Taos — will be explained in detail.

Please join us Friday, August 17th, from 8:30am to 3:30pm, at the Rio Grande Hall, then check back often as we continue to post additional information to www.taossmartcode.com.