TOWN OF ATHERTON
Full department staffing + process improvements
M-Group staff serves as Town Planner and entire planning department for the Town of Atherton, managing all current and advanced planning functions and daily operations of the department. Daily operations include, but are not limited to, exceptional public counter customer service, code enforcement duties, and detailed project development reviews. Advanced planning functions include thorough research and analysis for ordinance updates, preparation of environmental documentation, and consultant team management for long range projects. Process improvements are a key component of the Town’s requested services, and M-Group has exceeded expectations by enhancing customer service and operational efficiency.
M-Group has successfully led the city in key housing initiatives, including adopting its first Multi-Family Zoning Ordinance, developing an Inclusionary Zoning Ordinance, and updating the Housing Element. This success stems from clear, transparent communication with the public (through emails, notices, newsletters, workshops, and study sessions) and streamlined internal processes, including refined procedures for the Planning Commission's legal noticing, minutes management, and scheduling.
Additionally, M-Group improved Atherton’s internal operations by developing new staff report templates and project forms, handouts, checklists, and flowcharts. To enhance data collection, M-Group introduced new permit tracking types and created a comprehensive GIS interface for general plan and zoning layers, addressing town-wide data needs.