Planning Principles
Why do we plan?
Comprehensive plans position a city for long-term success by providing a clear framework for development and growth. Planning preserves the city's unique historical, cultural, and environmental characteristics by setting clear guidelines that respect and enhance these elements. Land is one of any city’s most precious resources. Planning helps manage land use, encouraging a harmonious blend of residential, commercial, industrial, and public spaces. Planning also encourages environmental sustainability and emergency preparedness practices to protect natural habitats, reduce pollution, and improve risk management for governments, institutions, businesses, and individuals. By involving community input and incorporatingdiverse feedback points, these plans foster a shared vision for the future.
Who do we plan for?
We plan for the city's current and futureresidents, businesses, and stakeholders. Planning aims to meet the needs offamilies, workers, and entrepreneurs by creating a livable, vibrant, andsustainable environment. It ensures that infrastructure, public services, andamenities are in place to support the well-being and economic prosperity of thecommunity. Additionally, planning considers the needs of future generations,aiming to preserve natural resources and maintain the city's unique characterand heritage. By engaging a broad spectrum of the community in the planningprocess, communities can ensure that diverse perspectives are considered,fostering an inclusive environment that benefits everyone.
What outcome are we looking for?
As residents and business owners of the City of Bainbridge this plan is yours. The plan should reflect the needs, values, and aspirations of the people who live, work, and play in Bainbridge. The plan should also be flexible to accommodate unexpected changes or impacts, whether internal or external, as well as projected future conditions to assist the community in adapting and thriving amidst future uncertainty.
How can we collaborate?
Residents can play a proactive role in shaping the development and character of their communities, ensuring that local planning efforts reflect their collective needs and aspirations. Public meetings held by city councils, planning commissions, and neighborhood associations are public forums where residents can stay informed and actively participate in Bainbridge's development discussions. Public meetings and workshops for Bainbridge Tomorrow provide opportunities to express concerns and suggestions directly related to specific DCA-defined study elements.
The Bainbridge Tomorrow website allows residents to review planning materials and participate in surveys and in community visioning sessions. Residents can also utilize public comment periods to provide input on plans and recommendations.
Residents who want to become more directly involved may consider participating in community advisory boards and local neighborhood associations that work closely with local government on planning issues.
Community events such as town halls, block parties, or neighborhood clean-ups can serve as informal yet effective venues for discussing planning matters and building consensus. Volunteering for local initiatives helps build stronger community ties and provides valuable insights into local needs and priorities.
Partnering with local nonprofits and advocacy groups can enhance advocacy efforts on issues like affordable housing, environmental conservation, and transportation. Another option is to stay informed about local planning issues through newsletters, local news, and community bulletins.
Participatory budgeting, where residents help decide the allocation of public funds, directly influences planning and development projects.
Itis up to us all to advocate for inclusive planning practices that ensure diverse voices, especially from under-represented groups, are heard by decision-makers as part of the decision process.