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Comprehensive Plan Status Update- Proposed Strategic Redevelopment Planning Initiative - Peter Wysocki, Planning & Development Director and Carl Schueler, Planning Manger - Comprehensive Planning
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Summary: Given the uncertainty of future funding to complete the comprehensive plan, staff was asked to evaluate alternative initiatives that could be equally beneficial and in-line with the strategic plans of both the Executive and Legislative Branches.
The purpose of this discussion is to briefly outline plans for a potential alternative to preparing a new comprehensive plan. Rather than a full multi-year update, using the services of one or more consultants, the alternative approach would be more limited, strategic and action-oriented with a focus on the Economic Opportunity Zones, infill strategies, zoning code amendments, and re-evaluation of Banning Lewis Ranch. Instead of being used for a Phase I consultant contract, some or all of the currently budgeted $150,000 would be devoted to hire additional staff that would assist with this process.
Although staff believes that a city-wide comprehensive plan should continue to be part of a long-term strategic objective, staff also recognizes that there are immediate needs that should addressed to aid the growing impetus on redevelopment and infill projects. The energy and momentum gained by the work of the Economic Opportunity Zones task forces and reports highlights the motivation of both the Executive Branch and the Legislative Branch to implement tangible, "rubber meets the road" results. Staff believes the proposed alternative meets this intent.
Previous Council Action: The 2014 adopted budget includes $150,000 in funding for a first phase consultant contract.
In conjunction with a January 27, 2014 Work Session on this topic, City Council designated Councilors Jill Gaebler and Andy Pico as core members of a steering committee to represent Council in leading this effort.
Background: A...
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