Posted: 10/18/05
City hires firm to develop comprehensive plan
By Jane Palen
Managing Editor
The Caledonia City Council has hired the firm of David Drown Associates to help it develop a comprehensive plan.
The firm made its pitch to the council in a special meeting on October 3. The council voted unanimously on October 10 to accept the bid of $22,500, plus up to $3,000 in reimbursable expenses.
The cityís last comprehensive plan was developed in 1981 in conjunction with the zoning ordinance. Although the zoning ordinance is specific as to setback requirements and the like, the comprehensive plan takes a broader approach to city development.
ìThe final goal is to lay out in maps and words the intent of the city for future development,î according to City Clerk/Administrator Robert Nelson. The plan will help define areas for residential and commercial development, the highway business district, and may even designate areas of land as undevelopable, he said.
The plan will include input from residents of the city and others with an interest in the city, said Nelson.
A comprehensive plan is also necessary to be eligible for state grants, Nelson noted.
According to correspondence received from Drown Associates, creating the plan will involve a review of existing plans and previous studies; scheduling of work sessions to determine priorities and goals; and review of the cityís physical layout and infrastructure to determine future land uses. A draft plan including sections on land use, parks and open spaces, transportation, housing, economic development, and social/recreational issues identified by community volunteers would be reviewed by the comprehensive plan committee.
Maps of the cityís geological and land use areas will be updated and developed as part of the process.
Mayor Michael Morey believes that the comprehensive plan will be important to those who will be making decisions in the future.
ìI want future council members and the mayor to have direction. Coming in new, I had no idea where to start. This will help us and guys coming in after us. Iíd like whoever comes after me to hit the ground running.î
Tennis courts need repair
In other business, the council agreed to solicit quotes on repair of the tennis courts. Clerk Nelson reported that the playing surface is cracked and the courts are in poor condition. Councilman Robert Standish noted that the American Legion donated the courts to the city and suggested that the Legion be approached to help with the cost.
Caledonia Argus
314 West Lincoln St.
P.O. Box 227
Caledonia, MN 55921-0227
507/724-3475
E-Mail: editor.argus@ecm-inc.com