MONROE — The city has drafted a plan that aims to protect Monroe’s “small-town character” while becoming a regional center for commercial development, Community Development Director Dave Osaki said.
Now the Planning Commission is asking people to weigh in on the draft 2015 Comprehensive Plan and the potential environmental effects. A public hearing is scheduled at 7 p.m. on Monday at City Hall.
The 20-year plan evaluates growth, development and land use changes for Monroe. It includes an analysis of how the plan could affect the environment.
“The Comprehensive Plan is a document that establishes the vision for how the community will grow and develop over a 20-year period,” Osaki said. “That’s important to all of us.”
The state requires cities to create long-term plans and update them periodically.
Monroe is anticipating a population of 25,119 and 11,781 local jobs by 2035. The city estimates there were about 18,800 people and 7,800 jobs in 2013.
With those projections, the plan estimates an increased need for services, such as those for schools, parks, utilities and roads. The plan also covers issues such as housing, economic development, transportation and recreation.
The plan aims to make Monroe better suited to the needs of millennials and the aging population, Osaki said.
Monroe also is updating parks and recreation, utility and transportation plans, Osaki said.
Monroe’s draft Comprehensive Plan is posted on the city website. The City Council must adopt a plan by June 30.
Citizens can send written comments on the draft 2015 Comprehensive Plan to City Hall by 5 p.m. June 2. Comments also can be mailed to the city at 806 W. Main St., Monroe WA 98272.
Amy Nile: 425-339-3192; anile@heraldnet.com. Twitter: @AmyNileReports.
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