The Planning Commission advises the City Council on matters that could result in either zoning or General Plan amendments and helps to promote positive aesthetic standards and orderly development in the community, ensuring that the health, safety, and general welfare of the community can be protected, property values maintained and business growth and development encouraged.

The Planning Commission hears appeals of zoning decisions and reviews development and land use permit applications to help create and maintain a well-planned community with compatible land uses.  The Planning Commission is also responsible for reviewing development plans for new buildings or those undergoing substantial remodeling and reviewing applications for new freestanding signs or significant changes to existing signs.

The Planning Commission consists of five members appointed by a majority vote of the City Council. Commissioners serve two-year terms with two appointments decided in even-numbered years, and three appointments decided in odd-numbered years. Commissioners receive a stipend of $75 per meeting and must be in attendance to be paid.