During a recent government meeting, officials provided an update on community engagement efforts related to the city's comprehensive plan, highlighting significant progress and future initiatives. The meeting focused on the implementation of a partnership framework adopted earlier this year, which aims to enhance collaboration with community members.

Key discussions included the development of chapter-specific vision statements created in partnership with local stakeholders, as well as a redefined concept of \"connected and accessible neighborhoods,\" which replaces the previously used term \"15-minute neighborhoods.\" This new terminology is intended to better reflect community values and aspirations for future neighborhood design.

The meeting outlined the two phases of community engagement that have taken place. Phase 1, which spanned from spring to the end of 2023, emphasized education and awareness, featuring 19 community events and an interactive mapping tool that garnered over 150 participants. A community survey received more than 1,000 responses, and a housing forum was held to discuss new legislation affecting housing production.

Phase 2 shifted focus to land use possibilities, with extensive community mapping activities conducted in April. These sessions allowed residents to suggest various development types across the city, fostering active participation from diverse groups, including youth and community organizations. The feedback collected will inform the development of land use possibilities that align with the council's policy priorities and state housing requirements.

Officials also noted the importance of integrating equity into the planning process, with input from various community working groups dedicated to transportation, climate, and housing issues. The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue refining the definition of connected and accessible neighborhoods, ensuring that future developments resonate with the community's needs and values. The council anticipates presenting a set of land use possibilities for review by the end of the year or early next year.