Riley County's comprehensive plan draft moves toward adoption; commissioners swap 'sustainable' for 'responsible' growth

Riley County planning staff on Nov. 10 reviewed the draft Riley County Together Comprehensive Plan 2040 and told commissioners the updated document will be republished ahead of public hearings next month.

Amanda Webb, planning director, said Stantec and staff are incorporating edits from recent work sessions and that the draft on the county website will be updated Monday. Webb confirmed two upcoming public hearings: the Manhattan Urban Area Planning Board on Dec. 1 and the Riley County Planning Board at 7 p.m. Dec. 8 in the county commission chambers, with county commission adoption planned for Dec. 18.

During discussion, commissioners proposed wording changes to the vision and guiding principles. One commissioner asked to replace the phrase "sustainable growth" with "responsible growth." Commissioners also urged language that emphasizes "access to diverse housing" rather than a single definition of affordability. Webb said staff would make the edits and return the updated draft for hearings.

Webb described the vision language as drafted: "Riley County envisions a resilient, inclusive, and active community that honors its rural heritage, protects its natural and cultural resources, and fosters responsible growth." The planning director said the guiding principles and core values reflect input collected over the project and that additional edits remain to be finalized.

The commission did not take a final vote on the plan at the Nov. 10 meeting; public hearings and a formal adoption vote are scheduled in December.