Strategic Training for Effective Planning and Zoning (STEPZ): Officials Workshop

“Why Communities Plan” is designed to explore the fundamental reasons behind community planning. Participants will gain a practical understanding of Comprehensive Plans — guiding documents that shape the future of communities through strategic vision, goals, and policies. The session will break down how zoning, as a regulatory tool, plays a key role in implementing these plans, ensuring development aligns with community priorities. Through real-world examples and discussion, attendees will experience the complexities and trade-offs involved in land use decisions and understand the vital role zoning ordinances play in managing growth and development.

SPEAKER – Mike Borger, AICP

Mike Borger worked at MORPC for a decade, during which he contributed to numerous regional planning-related projects and became a subject matter expert in the areas of multi-modal transportation and community planning. Mike holds a B.S. in Urban Planning and Policy from Virginia Commonwealth University and is a member of the American Planning Association’s American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP).

Mike was instrumental in developing many innovative planning activities in Central Ohio, including the Central Ohio Rural Planning Organization (CORPO), several regional multi-modal transportation plans, EV initiatives, and data-related initiatives.

Currently, Mike is working as a consultant for Burton Planning Services and for the City of Mount Vernon, where he continues to serve the Central Ohio community through planning products and services.

SPEAKER – Jonathan Miller, MPA, AICP, GISP

Jonathan Miller, a Cleveland-native transplant to Columbus, has worked in the Community Planning arena for over 10 years. With a Bachelor’s in City and Regional Planning from THE Ohio State University and a Master’s in Public Administration from Ohio University, Jonathan’s worked in all aspects of community planning from transportation in the private sector to zoning and land use planning in the public sector at both the municipal and county levels. Jonathan has been with MORPC for about two and a half years, and manages two of MORPCs community assistance programs, the Consultant Services and Planner Pool Programs.

This session will delve into the complex legal framework that directs planning and zoning decisions. Participants will gain a deeper understanding of the legal principles that underpin these decisions and learn how to avoid common pitfalls that can lead to legal challenges and liability. By the end of this session, participants will have better understanding of practical strategies to ensure their decision-making is legal, equitable, fair, and defensible. 

SPEAKER – Matt Koppitch

Matt Koppitch uses extensive experience to deliver results for clients across industries and sectors. With expertise in economic development, energy, healthcare, taxation, and more, he blends policy with politics to serve client needs by negotiating legislation, drafted regulations, and provided legislative analysis. As a consensus builder, he has represented businesses, developers, and political subdivisions in zoning, land use, and development issues. His strong network helps clients in resolving complex situations, helping clients navigate bureaucracy, and troubleshoot regulatory issues.

Previously, Matt served as District Director for Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, advising on policy areas such as financial services, banking, insurance, labor and employment, healthcare, and others. His past experience also includes roles at SEIU 1199, the Ohio Department of Commerce, the Ohio Lottery Commission, and the Ohio Governor’s Office.

This hands-on training will equip participants with the essential skills to understand and interpret site plans. Participants will learn to identify key elements, such as zoning districts, land uses, setbacks, and infrastructure, and how these relate to the specific requirements of your zoning code. By the end of this session, you’ll be able to confidently evaluate site plans and make informed decisions that align with your community’s goals. 

SPEAKER – Holly Mattei

Holly Mattei has over 25 years of city and regional planning experience and is considered one of the region’s top experts in creating comprehensive plans and writing zoning codes. Ms. Mattei also has extensive experience in community engagement where she has worked with communities to educate residents on the purpose and benefits of planning and zoning. Ms. Mattei has been the Owner/President of Crossroads Community Planning since 2020. Prior to starting her own business, she served over 20 years in the public planning sector.

UrbanPlan is a realistic, engaging exercise in which participants learn the fundamental forces that affect development in our communities. Participants experience challenging issues, private and public sector roles, complex trade-offs, and fundamental economics in play when proposing realistic land use solutions to vexing growth challenges. 

SPEAKER – Derric Scott

Derric Scott is the Founder and CEO of J29:7 Planning & Development Corporation. Most recently as the former CEO of East Jefferson Development Corporation he was responsible for developing and overseeing a 30 year, $680+ Million Master Development Plan on Detroit’s East Side with more than $68M+ in investment completed through the first 4 years. Driving more than $1.5 Billion in investment during his career, he has spent his life dedicated to education, mentorship, and economic and community development activities in challenged urban environments.

Mr. Scott received his undergraduate degree in Music and his Master of Urban and Regional Planning, with a special concentration in Real Estate all from the University of Michigan where he also studied Architecture.