Listening First
A real voice for residents
Harahan already gives residents opportunities to speak on zoning and development decisions. I want to build on that process by making sure affected neighbors receive clear information early enough for their voices to matter.
Property owners who follow the existing rules deserve a clear and predictable process. When City Hall is being asked to change those rules or grant an exception, the people most affected should know about it and have a meaningful opportunity to be heard first.
Better notice for affected neighbors
When City Hall is considering a significant zoning change or land-use exception, nearby residents shouldn't have to stumble across a legal notice to know about it. Harahan already identifies surrounding property owners for many of these applications. We can do a better job of notifying them directly.
Clear information, not just legal notice
Residents should be able to quickly understand what's being proposed, what the current rules allow, when a decision will be made, and how they can participate. Important plans, applications and hearing information should be easy to find in one place.
Earlier input on major proposals
For significant projects that could meaningfully affect a neighborhood, residents should have an opportunity to ask questions and raise concerns early — while there is still time for a proposal to improve.
A fair chance to respond when plans change
Public hearings should be meaningful. If a proposal changes substantially before final approval, affected residents should have a reasonable opportunity to understand the new proposal and be heard.
A voice doesn't mean a veto
Listening to neighbors doesn't mean giving anyone control over someone else's property. Greater neighborhood participation matters most when City Hall is being asked to change the rules or grant an exception. Council still has a responsibility to balance those concerns with property rights and the interests of Harahan as a whole.