City staff presented a draft framework for the 2035 Duarte strategic plan and asked the Planning and Economic Development Commission for feedback on a proposed vision, values and goals that will guide a council workshop later this summer.

Andres, assistant to the city manager, summarized the process to date: a March launch of community and staff surveys (the community survey drew 892 respondents), a council workshop in June that used those findings to draft the framework, and plans for a second council workshop in August followed by adoption of the strategic plan in August or September. Commissioners were asked to provide feedback on an emerging vision and six values identified from the outreach: community pride, embracing diversity, being safe and welcoming, health and well-being, financial sustainability and connectivity.

The draft vision reads in part: "Duarte is a close-knit, family-friendly small town at the crossroads near urban opportunities and natural environments... We are proud of our homegrown community and provide opportunities for residents of all ages and backgrounds to lead healthy, vibrant lives." Based on that vision, staff presented draft goals for the plan including economic development and activation; engagement, outreach and communication; community safety; financial sustainability; organizational excellence and staff retention; community vitality; and infrastructure and beautification.

Commissioners provided largely affirmative feedback on the draft vision and goals and suggested potential additions or alignments. One commissioner asked about aligning the plan with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs); Andres said he was not familiar with the SDGs’ reporting requirements but welcomed feedback and noted the draft already contains related themes. Staff indicated commissioners would receive the draft materials by email for further comment and were invited to participate in the upcoming council workshop.

No formal action was requested at the meeting; staff treated the presentation as an initial feedback opportunity in the plan’s drafting stage.