The last time Cayuga County adopted a comprehensive plan, Richard Nixon was president, Neil Armstrong walked on the moon and Jimi Hendrix closed Woodstock.
The county Department of Planning and Economic Development is kicking off a three-year process to create a new strategic plan. The project will be supported by a $103,500 grant from the New York Department of State's Smart Growth Community Planning and Zoning program.
Once finalized, it will be the first countywide plan since 1969.
According to a news release, the strategic plan will be "a vital step forward in aligning the county's future growth with sustainable and community-driven principles." The plan could cover numerous areas, such as economic development, housing, energy, climate change, infrastructure and public spaces.
To launch the multi-year process, the county planning department will hold three public meetings next week. The first will be from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, at the Locke Volunteer Fire Department, 1060 Route 38. That will be followed by a session from 6 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, July 9, at Cayuga-Onondaga BOCES, 1879 W. Genesee St. Road in Aurelius. The final meeting will be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Thursday, July 10, at the Ira Volunteer Fire Department, 12591 Route 176.
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The purpose of the meetings is to outline the project, its timeline and ways for the public to participate in the process.
"This strategic planning effort marks a pivotal moment for Cayuga County," said Kari Terwilliger, director of the county Department of Planning and Economic Development. "It represents a commitment to shaping a sustainable, inclusive future through community involvement and strong partnerships.
Terwilliger continued, "By working together and grounding our approach in thoughtful, collaborative planning, we aim to build a stronger, more resilient county that reflects the shared values and aspirations of our residents."
The process will be led by a committee tasked with developing the plan. Numerous county agencies, as well as the county Legislature, are represented on the panel. The Auburn Housing Authority and Auburn Industrial Development Authority will also be involved in the plan's formation.
More public engagement events will be held in the future.
The development of the strategic plan will be completed by county staff within the Department of Planning and Economic Development. The county will not be hiring consultants for the work.
Government reporter Robert Harding can be reached at (315) 664-4631 or robert.harding@lee.net. Follow him on X @RobertHarding.