Task force proposes 90‑day framework and $75K–$100K estimate for regional growth roadmap

Tom Lennox, who presented the task force proposal, told the committee the group is charged to develop a recommended framework and approach for a regional 20‑year plan rather than to complete the entire plan itself. ‘‘That framework will probably include, among others, issues such as governance, baseline assessments of the entire region, a vision and goals for the region, strategies, management and implementation plans, and measurement and evaluation,’’ Lennox said.

Rob Merchant and other presenters described a two‑phase approach: Phase 1, gather updated baseline information and compile existing land‑use maps and entitlements; Phase 2, run two half‑day regional workshops with elected officials and stakeholders to build a shared future land‑use vision and to produce a regional growth strategy roadmap. Merchant said the committee was given a working budget range of $75,000–$100,000 for facilitation and data work and suggested a proportional cost‑share where Beaufort County would carry a larger share (presented as roughly 43% in initial estimates).

Committee members emphasized coordination with overlapping efforts, including an existing task group and local jurisdiction planning, and asked the two groups to meet to avoid duplication. Several board members asked for updated jurisdiction population and budget shares and for cost alternatives; the chair asked Rob and Tom to coordinate and return with a revised proposal next month so jurisdictions could decide whether to include funding in upcoming budgets.

No formal funding commitment was made; the committee directed staff to collect updated numbers from jurisdictions and to report back for a follow‑up decision.