The Lake Forest City Council presented a proclamation designating October as National Community Planning Month and staff highlighted an interactive planning map intended to show long-range projects that shaped the city.

“ October marks national planning month, a time to recognize the vital role planning plays in shaping vibrant and resilient communities,” assistant planner Zia Mara Solis said as she introduced the proclamation and the planning division’s online map.

Solís said the map showcases long-range planning efforts the city says have generated more than $200,000,000 in city benefits and cited examples that staff said include city hall, a sports park, and multiple housing projects. She also noted recent mixed-use zoning approvals and pointed to incoming projects including a Costco development and a Chase mixed-use building.

Mayor and councilmembers praised the planning division’s work, took photos with staff and accepted the proclamation on behalf of the city. Makara and others noted the city’s population growth in recent years and thanked planning staff for preserving “small town charm” while accommodating growth.

The proclamation is ceremonial; staff pointed meeting attendees to the planning division page on the city website for the interactive map. No council action beyond the ceremonial proclamation was required.