Hanover County Board of Supervisors

Workshop: FY12 Comprehesnsive Plan Update

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

7:00 pm

What is the Comprehensive Plan?

The Comprehensive Plan is a means by which local government officials and citizens express their goals for the future of the community. The Virginia General Assembly requires that each locality adopt a Comprehensive Plan, and further mandates the Plan be updated every five years.

A Comprehensive Plan is not a regulatory document; it serves as a “guide” to planning future land use, transportation, public works, community facilities, historic resources, economic development, finance, communication facilities and housing.  Because it is only a guide, the Plan can be changed with notice and opportunity to comment, and land use zoning decisions do not need to “match” the Plan, but should be consistent with its general terms.  Even though a “guide,” citizens and government officials alike often rely heavily on the Plan’s designation of land uses.

The Planning Commission, citizens who have been appointed by the Board of Supervisors, is “charged with” the responsibility of preparing the Comprehensive Plan or its update.  The Commission relies upon the advice and expertise of the planning staff and, ideally, input from citizens of the locality. The Planning Commission advises the Board of Supervisors and the Board ultimately makes the final decisions regarding the Comprehensive Plan, again, ideally with input from citizens.  

How Does It Affect You?

The update of the Comprehensive Plan will set the pace for future growth and development and/or preservation of the County as each of the above referenced entities are addressed in the update process.  Once a feature or condition is actually shown in a plan, even if only a guide to planning, such features often dictate the direction of future growth.

Why Should You Participate, Attend Workshops and Hearings?

The Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors need to hear their constituents’ thoughts and ideas about growth and development, transportation, economic development, parks and recreation, historic resources, and the preservation of character of Hanover County. This is an opportunity to speak out about your vision for your community and participate in determining the future of Hanover County.

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