For the past decade, I’ve had the privilege of serving on the Trussville Planning and Zoning Board, currently as Vice Chair. It’s been a meaningful way to apply my background in engineering to help guide the thoughtful growth and development of my community.
Sain’s leadership encourages our team members to get involved in their communities. Several of our employees serve on local planning and zoning boards, and for good reason – it’s one of the most direct and impactful ways we can use our expertise to give back.
Why Engineers and Planners Belong on Planning Commissions
Planning commissions make decisions that shape the future of a community; decisions that directly affect the environment, public safety, and quality of life. When you’re talking about development, you’re also talking about complex issues like stormwater management, traffic flow, road access, noise, and infrastructure capacity. These are technical matters where the voice of an engineer or planner can be incredibly valuable.
When public hearings get emotional, as they often do when someone’s property is involved, it’s critical to have professionals who can objectively evaluate concerns and determine what’s feasible, reasonable, and compliant. Engineering input helps ensure that community feedback is heard and addressed in a constructive, fact-based way.
A Diverse Board Makes Stronger Decisions
To be clear, I don’t believe every member of a planning commission needs to be an engineer. Far from it. In Trussville, we have a well-rounded board made up of engineers, planners, homebuilders, entrepreneurs, and liaisons with city and county agencies. Diversity brings important perspectives to the table.
Still, having at least one or two engineers is essential, especially in cities that lack full-time engineering staff or robust technical support. We can help translate public concerns into practical solutions, such as requiring increased buffers between developments and adjacent properties, improving site drainage, or mitigating traffic impact with infrastructure upgrades.
Technical Expertise with a Human Lens
Throughout my career, I’ve worked on planning and zoning issues across the eastern United States, representing both municipalities and private development interests. I’ve also served as an expert in subdivision and annexation cases. That experience has taught me that good development balances progress with protection, and sound engineering is often the bridge between the two.
Serving on a planning commission has also helped me grow as a leader. It’s a true form of public service, and it requires a real commitment of time and energy. This act of service is both deeply needed and deeply rewarding.
How Sain Supports Local Communities
Beyond volunteering on planning and zoning boards, Sain also provides on-call municipal engineering services to many cities and counties. This work gives us a front-row seat to the challenges communities face and a role in helping them grow in safe, efficient, and sustainable ways.