The Community & Economic Development Department reviews and issues building, land use permits, administers the Phoenix Land Development Code, and provides staff support to the Planning Commission, City Council, and administers various long-range community development plans. Community & Economic Development als administers the city's Floodplain Management regulations and natural hazard planning as well as economic development and redevelopment.
Community Profile
Located north of Ashland and south of Medford, the City of Phoenix is often regarded as the heart of the Rogue Valley, not only due to its central location, but also because of the strong and welcoming people that call this place home.
With a population of 3,900 people (2022 PSU Population Estimate), Phoenix offers a small town feel but it’s growing fast! Recent housing developments and annexations are projected to move that figure to around 6,000 by 2027. The City enjoys a thriving commercial sector, which welcomes and supports a diverse array of small businesses, national chain establishments and everything in between.
Phoenix, and the Rogue Valley more generally, most closely fits a ‘Mediterranean’ climate – marked by summers that are dry and warm, and winters that are cool and wet. Historically, the valley has been recognized for its pear orchards; and more recently for viticulture. Gardeners will find success growing outdoors between May and October. The Rogue Valley will appeal to those interested in activities such as camping, hiking, fishing, hunting, rafting, skiing, golfing, live music and theater, wine tasting and sampling breweries.
The Phoenix-Talent School District has an Elementary School and High School in Phoenix. The recently renovated High School Campus boasts modern upgrades and state of the art technology, construction is now underway for new Tennis Courts. Armadillo Technical Institute, a Public Charter School, is also located in town, and offers accredited Oregon diploma and GED pathways to high school completion. Rogue Community College and Southern Oregon University have nearby campuses that are an easy commute by bicycle or car as well.
The City features parks and outdoor opportunities that will appeal to all types. Running down the core of the City is the Bear Creek Greenway. This trail system along the creek provides for bicycle commuting, as well as active and passive open space recreation. The Greenway extends from Ashland to Central Point. Additionally, there are three City parks. Blue Heron Park picnic shelters can be reserved for outdoor events and offers a large new children’s play area and a community garden. Otto Caster Park is conveniently located next to the Public Library and Elementary School and is an easy walk from the downtown. Colver Park is known for its sports amenities, dog park, and excellent views of the foothills to the south and east.
Community & Economic Development Mission Statement
The Community & Economic Development Department is responsible for many different things, but to put it as simply as possible, it is responsible for the review and issuance of building and land use permits as well as the preparation of long-range plans. In the execution of its duties, the Department will
- Vigorously serve the public interest by applying the highest level of professional expertise, skill, and critical thinking.
- Always pursue planning that achieves excellence in the design and experience of the built environment; protects and responsibly manages natural resources and systems for generations to come; ensures a high quality of life for the people of Phoenix; welcomes new people, businesses, and ideas.
- Assist and advise land-use decision-making using best practices and sound planning methods.
- Actively work to educate the public through the communication of the most accurate, comprehensive, and thorough information available to the department.
- Respectfully listen to differing points of view and work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders to resolve disagreement to the mutual benefit of all parties, whenever possible.
- Consistently review land use permit applications in a transparent, consistent, thoughtful, and timely manner.
- Continuously review and improve department practices, processes, and procedures.
- Always execute our responsibilities in an ethical and professional manner.
Community & Economic Development Contact Information
Zac Moody
Community Development Director
Office: (541) 535-2050 Ext. 313
Fax: (541) 535-5769
Kristina Pepper
Building/Planning Aide
Office: (541) 535-2050 Ext. 315
Fax: (541) 535-5769
Jeff Wilcox
Senior Planner
Office: (541) 535-2050 Ext. 318
Fax: (541) 535-5769
Office Hours
Monday-Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Closed from 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m.