Public Engagement and Public Hearing Process

A virtual community meeting is an online public engagement opportunity where information about a proposed development project is shared with the surrounding neighborhood before a formal application is submitted to the City. These meetings occur at the beginning of the development review process, when community input can be most effective.

Since 2020, Centennial has used the Have Your Say online platform to host community meetings for certain development projects. When a project requires a virtual community meeting, nearby property owners, residents and tenants receive a mailed notice or email with instructions on how to participate.

Rather than attending a live event, participants visit a dedicated webpage where project information and plans are available to review for two weeks. During that time, residents can review the materials, submit questions and comments, and view feedback from others. The developer and City staff provide written responses on the same page, creating a transparent and publicly accessible conversation.

After the comment period closes, the developer is required to prepare a summary report describing the feedback received and explaining how the project has—or has not—changed before a formal land use application is submitted to the City.

The virtual format has expanded opportunities for participation allowing to engage on their own schedule. It also provides staff with the time to provide complete and carefully researched responses to community questions and feedback.

Yes, property owners and tenants within 200 feet of the project as well as homeowners association contacts within one-half mile of the project will receive notice of a virtual community meeting by a mail or email.

A public hearing is held by the Planning and Zoning Commission or City Council when a decision is made on a project. These meetings provide an opportunity for members of the public to share comments and ask questions. State law requires public hearings for certain types of land use decisions.  

Public hearings occur near the end of the City’s review process. Property owners and tenants within 200 feet of the project, along with homeowners association contacts within one-half mile of the project are notified of the  hearing.

Yes, anyone can speak at a public hearing. Participation is not limited to residents, property owners, or tenants who receive a notice from the City.