1.  Criteria.  In conducting the evaluation, the department shall develop criteria based on the goals of this chapter. The criteria must be objective, verifiable and, to the extent practicable, quantifiable.  

2.  Baseline conditions.  The department shall establish a baseline of land use conditions at a level of detail sufficient to permit general comparison of state and regional trends in future land use development patterns.  

3.  Public input.  The department shall incorporate opportunities for public input and comment into the evaluation process.  

4.  Level of analysis.  The department shall evaluate the program generally at a regional and statewide level. To illustrate the impact of the program, the department shall compare land use development trends and patterns in a sample of towns that have participated in the program with a matched sample of towns that have not participated. The evaluation performed by the department must include an analysis of the State's financial commitment to growth management.  

5.  Periodic reports.  Beginning on January 1, 2015, the department shall report in writing on the results of its evaluation process every 4 years and more frequently if necessary. The department shall submit its report to the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over natural resources matters, the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over housing matters and the joint standing committee of the Legislature having jurisdiction over appropriations and financial affairs. Each committee may report out legislation related to matters reported upon that are within its jurisdiction.