Community vision reviewed by planning commission
Steve Garrett asked Hillsboro Community Planning and Development Commission to consider redoing the city's comprehensive plan.
"This group needs to start thinking about a vision," said Garrett. "We're a community without a clear vision."
Garrett said the city has been addressing the needs of residents. An example was given of the study the council recently approved for a new swimming pool.
"It all comes back to growth," said Garrett. "Do we, as a community, understand growth? Where are we going and where do we want to be in 10 years?"
Craig Roble, commission member, said he would like to see an increase in population and new business opportunities. He said this would take new development and encourage industrial growth.
Garrett asked whose job it is to accomplish this.
"The city running around trying to find manufacturers to come to Hillsboro isn't feasible," he said.
Expansion of established businesses can create more jobs than trying to bring in new businesses, said Garrett.
"We need to help established businesses expand," explained Garrett.
However, he was quick to add the city needs to be positioned for future growth.
"If someone wanted to bring in 100 jobs tomorrow," said Garrett, "it can't happen, but we can prepare for it."
He added Hillsboro is a great place to raise a family and the city needs to attract families.
Ray Franz, commission member, commented the downtown district is filled again,with additional retail at Western Heights.
Garrett agreed the retail community is thriving. However, not everybody wants to see the community grow.
"Some people don't want to live in a town any larger than Hillsboro is right now," said Garrett. "But we need to maintain what we have and grow to share the tax burden."
Roma Becker, commission member, said the same quality of life needs to continue. She was encouraged by the activity on Main Street Saturday evening.
"I saw several businesses open Saturday evening," said Becker. "It reminded me of how it used to be."
Garrett said it was easier to identify what a community doesn't want rather than what it does.
John Riggs, planning and zoning consultant for the city, agreed.
"This is the group that needsto start the visioning process," said Riggs. "It needs to be a collaborative effort with major stakeholders involved."
The last time the city completed a comprehensive plan was in 1990. Updates have been made on a regular basis but a comprehensive plan can become outdated.
"Usually a city needs to totally update the plan every 15 years," said Riggs. "Ideas and needs can change over time."
Riggs informed the group of a state grant available based on planning needs and not low to moderate income residents.
"It usually takes $25,000 to $30,000 and 18 months to complete the process," said Riggs. The next due date for the grant is in August or September, which leaves adequate time to apply, said Riggs.
The commission will discuss the topic at the next meeting which will be 7 p.m. April 29, at city hall.
