Planning Our Future

About the Comprehensive Plan...

WHAT DOES THE PLAN DO?  

The comprehensive plan provides a “blueprint” for the growth and development of the city. It sets forth the manner in which the city will accommodate development or redevelopment. Its focus should be the best interests of all citizens.

Second, the plan identifies and analyzes the various growth issues facing the community.

Third, the plan will set forth in greater detail how growth will be controlled and managed so as to fit the economic resources of the community.

Fourth, the plan forms the foundation for regulations, including the zoning code and subdivision code. This is the most critical area since the adoption of a plan provides the basis upon which a community may exercise zoning and subdivision regulations.

Finally, the plan provides a rational basis for making land use decisions.

WHAT DOES THE PLAN NOT DO?

The plan is not a legal document. It is a policy document which sets forth the intention of the planning commission and city council regarding growth and development decisions.

The plan is not a zoning code. It’s provisions are general and do not bear on specific properties. Following adoption and filing of the land use plan, the commission may prepare for submission to the legislative body a recommended zoning ordinance for the entire area of the municipality. The zoning ordinance or code does exercise legal authority over each individual property in the city.

The comprehensive plan adopted by the planning commission is not a “strategic” plan. It is, rather, an element of strategic planning for the city.

The comprehensive plan is not a cure-all. It cannot solve all the problems of a community. In fact, it can solve very few problems unless it enjoys the full support of the Planning Commission, Board of Directors, and the citizens.

WHAT IS THE FORMAT OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN?

The form of the plan may take any number of forms. Some cities adopt large documents that contain all supporting data, goals, objectives, policies and plans. Others summarize the plan document and make supporting data available to interested citizens.

The plan generally consists of narrative, charts and maps as necessary to provide the pertinent information.

Many cities, in addition to providing paper copies, are creating their plans in HTML format so as to be accessible through the Internet.

In short, the format of the plan should be that which best fits your city.

WHAT ARE TYPICAL CONTENTS OF A COMPREHENSIVE PLAN?

 1. A statement of the overall purpose of the plan

 2. Background data

 3. The community’s vision

 4. Policies, Goals, & Objectives

 5. Standards

 6. Maps, including existing land use and future land use

7. An action plan

8. Provisions to monitor progress of the plan

BENEFITS OF THE COMPREHENSIVE PLAN

There are many benefits to preparing, adopting, maintaining and adhering to a comprehensive plan. From an economic standpoint, it is the best safeguard against zoning and land use litigation. One avoided lawsuit can pay for the cost incurred in the preparation of a comprehensive plan.

Another benefit exists in the marketing tool that a well thought out statement of your community’s development goals can provide. Investor’s as well as prospective residents can benefit by understanding where you city is headed and what your development priorities are.

The greatest benefit to your city overall, however, is a plan aimed at developing a more livable and sustainable community. A more livable and sustainable community is an efficient environment that grows in tandem with your city’s ability to provide a high level of service.

OTHER ELEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE PLANS

While most comprehensive plans focus on land use, transportation, and community facilities, other elements are often included. These include:

1. Economic Development

2. Parks

3. Urban Design

4. Environmental protection

5. Housing

6. Geographic Information Systems