Town Comprehensive Plan being updated

It’s never too soon to think ahead.

“Or,” quips Town Administrator John Doyle, “the future isn’t what it used to be.”

That’s why La Conner Planning Commission members are in the midst of a major review and revision of the Town’s Comprehensive Plan, the primary policy document that provides a framework for future code development and enforcement.

The panel hopes to forward its recommendations, shaped by public input, to the Town Council in mid-2018.

“Revision of the Comp Plan,” notes Town Administrator John Doyle, “is a collaboration. We’re all responsible for it.”

By “all,” Doyle indeed means everyone – Town residents, Town government at all levels, business owners, service clubs, museums and other private and public entities.

Planning Commissioners pored over Comp Plan economic elements during a 90-minute meeting last week. Their task was – and will continue to be in the months ahead – one of updating goals and policies developed as part of a 2005 Comp plan overhaul.

Much has changed since then.

“That Planning Commission,” Doyle said last week, “worked real hard on this. I think they did a good job.”

The present assignment requires plenty of heavy lifting as well. That’s because Comprehensive Plans, by nature, must be specific and precise yet flexible enough to meet conditions that can be hard to predict.

For example, the Planning Commission last week injected proposed language reflective of a recent two-day blue-ribbon design charrette that focused on anticipated local climate change and issues related to subsequent rising sea level concerns.

As part of their review of economic elements, Commissioners endorsed adoption of a town-wide strategy to address adverse weather and climate effects – such as increased flooding – predicted to impact La Conner.

They also cited the need to encourage incentives for adaptation of Town infrastructure to minimize cost impacts climate change could have on La Conner residents and businesses.

Members likewise embraced the concept of adaptive reuse of existing structures while also cautioning against commercialization of residential areas.

“That,” Doyle said of the latter concern, “has historically been one of the big issues here.”

Doyle, who has been at Town Hall since 2001 and is retiring at month’s end, praised the work of Commissioners Linda Talman, Carol Hedlin, Liz Theaker, Marna Hanneman and Bruce Bradburn, noting their commitment to mid-range and long-term planning, and mindful of striking a balance between residential, commercial, and industrial interests.

More voices are welcome, too, says Doyle.

The public is invited to submit to Town Hall comments and changes regarding the Comp Plan, and to attend Planning Commission meetings, he says.

Doyle says the public can access the Comp Plan at http://www.townoflaconner.org, in person at Town Hall, or at La Conner Regional Library.

“As La Conner residents,” says Doyle, “we’re charged with the responsibility to plan for people, jobs, housing, and natural resources. When you become involved in the planning process you help determine priorities and shape the future of your community.”