Drawing Engagement: How Comics Make Zoning Accessible

"Cities nationwide are grappling with rapid growth while trying to preserve community character. After Boise adopted its first new zoning code in 50 years, city leaders faced a critical question: How do you help residents understand complex regulations so they can be partners in building their city's future?

This session examines Boise's groundbreaking approach to post-policy engagement through the creation of an illustrated zoning guide-a 60-page comic book that transforms intimidating planning jargon into accessible, culturally celebrated storytelling. Attendees will learn how collaborative creative processes can bridge the gap between technical planning documents and meaningful community participation.

The panel explores three critical phases how creative partnerships can reimagine public engagement, and strategies for sustaining community involvement beyond policy adoption. Through Boise's example, participants will discover replicable methods for transforming technical planning tools into empowering community resources.

This session demonstrates that the most innovative approach to inclusive planning isn't just consulting communities during policy development-it's ensuring they have the tools and understanding to actively shape implementation. By making planning accessible and celebratory of local culture, cities can grow thoughtfully while preserving the authentic character that makes each community unique."
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