Capital Planning and Design (CPD)

Capital Planning and Design (CPD) division is responsible for planning and implementing sophisticated and complex projects, as well as associated environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.  CPD is a division dedicated to the principles of being inclusive, collaborative, solutions-based, and proactive. CPD also provides design guidance and technical support to Facilities Management Administration, FM&O and FPE.

CPD plans and manages large scale projects from new buildings to additions, renovations and alterations.  CPD leads the visioning, planning, design, estimating, and construction of County’s physical assets such as facilities, roads, parking lots, and infrastructure. 

CPD also prepares the County’s Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), outlining a schedule of expenditures for major construction projects undertaken by the County.  CPD evaluates the County’s long-term investment strategies and allocates resources to various projects or assets that are intended to improve, maintain, or expand the County’s infrastructure and operations.  CPD plans for long-term sustainability and growth of the County, allowing it to adapt to changing market conditions and technological advancements while ensuring that resources are utilized efficiently.

Key responsibilities:

1. Assessment of Needs: Identifying the County’s current and future operational needs, which may require investments in new facilities, equipment, or technology.
2. Prioritization of Projects: Evaluating and ranking potential capital projects based on various factors such as return on investment (ROI), strategic alignment with the County’s goals, risk assessment, and compliance with regulatory requirements.
3. Budgeting and Financial Analysis: Estimating the costs associated with each proposed project and determining how to finance those expenditures, which may involve internal funding, loans, grants, or issuing bonds.
4. Forecasting: Projecting future financial conditions, cash flows, and the impact of capital investments on the County’s overall financial health.
5. Approval and Governance: Establishing a systematic process for reviewing and approving capital projects, often involving multiple levels of oversight.
6. Implementation and Monitoring: Executing approved projects and continuously monitoring their progress, performance, and financial impact, ensuring alignment with initial goals and benchmarks.
7. Review and Adjustment: Conducting post-implementation reviews to assess the outcomes of capital investments and making necessary adjustments to future capital planning processes.

Importance of Capital Planning:

• Strategic Alignment: Ensures that capital investments align with the County’s vision, mission, and strategic goals.
• Resource Optimization: Helps in the efficient allocation of limited financial resources to maximize returns.
• Risk Management: Identifies potential risks associated with capital projects and allows the County to develop mitigation strategies.
• Enhanced Decision-Making: Provides a structured framework for evaluating and prioritizing projects, leading to more informed decision-making.