What is a Comprehensive Plan?
A document that presents a vision for what a community wants to be in the future. It is also used by policy makers as a guide for their decisions that manage resources and growth.
Why do we need a Comprehensive Plan?
A comprehensive plan is used to gain citizen input and participation. The plan also provides consistency, as it will guide elected and appointed officials over the next 20 years. Lastly, the plan is required by the state in order to maintain a Qualified Local Government Status.
Who creates the Comprehensive Plan?
Ultimately, you do! The Comprehensive Plan is a work of public input. Public Workshops, the Steering Committee, and the Technical Committee have the most influence into what the Comprehensive Plan looks like.
In addition to Effingham County's Planning Department, Effingham County has contracted with Lott+Barber for assistance with the project. The local cities (Guyton, Rincon, & Springfield) have contracted with the Coastal Georgia Regional Development Center for their portion of the plan. The Planning Department, Lott+Barber, and The Coastal Georgia Regional Development Center will be working together to complete a joint, cohesive Comprehensive Plan for the entire county.
How do I get involved?
We encourage everyone to attend the public workshops. These public workshops will provide an opportunity for the public to give voice to their concerns and opinions. Check here for when and where the next public workshop will be.
In addition the Comprehensive Plan consists of two committees, Steering & Technical, and you most likely know one of their members. So if you have input you'd like considered, contact one of these committee members.
Also, throughout the planning process you are welcome to send us e-mails or contact our Planning Department directly with any questions or comments.
How can I make comments regarding the plan?
Check our contact page. Feel free to e-mail, call or visit our office. We look forward to hearing from you!
What happened to the last Comprehensive Plan?
The comprehensive planning process takes place every ten years in order to make sure that our plan is on target with our community's vision.
What is the timeline? When will the plan be completed?
Check the timeline here. Our goal is to have a draft ready for submission to the Department of Community Affairs no later than January 16, 2007.
What is the Technical Committee, and how were they chosen?
The Technical Committee consists of representatives from various government agencies and organizations. They provide needed insight into how effectively the community is being served as well as current issues.
What is the Steering Committee, and how were they chosen?
The Steering Committee consists of community leaders who volunteered to participate. These members provide direction, identifying issues and opportunities which will lay the framework of the Comprehensive Plan.
Once approved, how does the plan affect ordinary citizens and businesses?
The Effingham County Comprehensive Plan will direct policies, investments, programs, and ordinances to regulate, encourage, and guide public and private day-to-day decisions. Therefore, the Comprehensive Plan will help guide issues relating to Economic Development, Transportation, Land Use, Housing, Natural & Cultural Resources, Facilities & Services, and Intergovernmental Coordination.
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