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Using the Plan • Introduction This section of a comprehensive plan is typically entitled "Implementation." The dictionary defines implementation as "putting something into effect." Putting a comprehensive plan into effect can be as simple as adopting the plan and modifying related land use controls. Implementing Elk River's Comprehensive Plan calls for something more. The Comprehensive Plan is the most important tool for guiding the development of Elk River, but the plans, policies and actions contained within can only help achieve the community's vision for the future if the Plan is used. The purpose of this section is to provide guidance on using the Plan. The section contains three parts: 1. Initiatives - Important actions for achieving the vision for Elk River. 2. Implementation - Steps to be taken to adopt and use the Plan. 3. Project Evaluation - Guidance on using the Plan in the evaluation of private and public projects. 4. Policies - Statements of principles that reflect the intent of the Plan and serve as a guide in assessing projects. Initiatives The planning process yielded a series of initiatives for addressing community • development issues facing Elk River. These initiatives are discussed in the individual elements of the Plan and are important steps in moving Elk River towards its vision for the future. The key initiatives are summarized here for convenient reference as a guide for continued planning and action. Capital Improvements Plan The Comprehensive Plan is a guide for public action. In many cases, these actions lead to public investments in infrastructure and facilities. In a time of limited financial resources, planning for these investments must include a financial element. A capital improvements plan (CIP) matches the estimated project costs over a five-year period with funding sources, allowing the City to prioritize projects and to make best use of available revenues. By looking at future needs, the City is better able to find funding sources to fill gaps and to coordinate projects with other jurisdictions. In 2002, the City adopted its first financial management plan, Key Financial Strategies for Elk River. Policy 10.2 in the plan requires the City Administrator to annually prepare a five-year CIP. Under this policy, a CIP was prepared in 2002. Future capital improvement plans should be coordinated with the Comprehensive Plan using the project evaluation criteria described earlier in this element of the Plan. t* Building the Future -A Comprehensive Plan for Elk River 3•I River