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Grant Township secures $34,000 for master plan update and outlines public engagement
Summary
The Grant Township Planning Commission reported a $34,000 grant award for a first master plan update since 1992, reviewed demographic baselines, and set a public-engagement schedule including online surveys, a 63-day draft review and a public hearing before township board review.
Grant Township Planning Commission on July 18, 2024, reported that the grant applied for to update the township Master Plan was approved for the full amount of $34,000. The commission said the plan will be the first comprehensive update since 1992 and will use the funds to support community engagement and drafting work.
The commission reviewed baseline community data for the plan: current population appears to be 3,398 compared with about 3,300 in 2020; the county grew by about 3% versus a 2% average; roughly 15% of residents hold a four-year degree and about 90% have a high-school diploma. The minutes record a median household income of $57,000, a roughly 7% increase, and workforce and housing indicators including 27% of residents working in production/delivery roles and an 85% homeownership rate (15% rentals). The minutes list 11% of registered residents as disabled.
Commissioners described planned mapping work (wetlands, floodplains and watersheds) and named three local churches to be considered for outreach: Rice Lake, Grant Christian Reformed and Grace Hispanic Baptist Bible Church. For public engagement the commission outlined options including in-person open houses, two-hour envisioning workshops with activities, and online surveys; the minutes note surveys would be the least expensive and should collect background items such as age and gender. Notices to surrounding areas were also recommended.
The commission described the review timeline: once a draft is produced it will be posted for a 63-day review period on the township website, followed by a public hearing and then release to the township board for their review. The minutes state that Brad (staff member) will send examples of online surveys for the board to review ahead of engagement work.
Votes at a glance: - Motion to accept the May 16, 2024 minutes: moved by Tim Martis, seconded by Edith Elsenheimer; approved by unanimous voice vote of those present. - Motion to adjourn at 7:40 p.m.: moved by Mike Bouwkamp, seconded by Tim Martis; approved by unanimous voice vote of those present.
What happens next: the commission will develop engagement materials and draft language, post the draft for the 63-day review, hold a public hearing, and then forward materials to the township board for additional review and action.
