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City of Elk River <br /> Comprehensive Plan <br /> enhancements, fixes things that do not meet your needs and blends in new <br /> directions. <br /> Establish a community vision <br /> The existing Comprehensive Plan does not contain a specific statement of vision <br /> for Elk River. The vision is woven into the goals and policies of the Plan. <br /> Creating a shared vision is an important part of comprehensive plan. Part of the <br /> benefit lies in the process. Can we articulate and agree upon those things that <br /> Elk River desires to be? Part of the benefit lies with having a vision to guide <br /> planning decisions. <br /> Understand forces of change <br /> Elk River exists in a rapidly changing environment. The current Comprehensive <br /> Plan was created in 1995. Think about how Elk River has changed over the past <br /> six years. <br /> • Over 3,000 people have moved to Elk River. <br /> • Significant new retail development has occurred in the 169 Corridor. <br /> • The value of property in the City has increased by more than 100%. <br /> • The Twin Cities moves steadily closer. <br /> • It is likely that the future will be shaped by some of the same forces that existed <br /> in 1995,as well as some new considerations. <br /> Identify and address"issues" <br /> In looking back at the February 4`h workshop, the Council and Planning <br /> Commission did an excellent job at framing one of the fundamental reasons to <br /> plan. The comprehensive planning process is a forum to identify and analyze the <br /> issues facing Elk River. A listing of the issues we heard at the workshop appears <br /> later. <br /> Manage development <br /> The Comprehensive Plan is the single most important tool for shaping the face of <br /> the community. Through the planning process, a community answers some <br /> essential questions. What form and pace of development could happen? What <br /> is desired? Where should new development occur? How do land uses connect <br /> to form community? <br /> Protect and enhance community resources <br /> Elk River has grown, in part, because of a beautiful natural setting. Planning <br /> provides the means to identify and protect the natural resources of the <br /> community. Development occurs in a manner that enhances the natural <br /> ienvironment,not replaces it. <br /> m Hoisington Kocglcr Group,Inc Page <br /> 3 <br />