Planning commission forwards Richmond’s condensed 2025 Comprehensive Plan to City Council after public hearing

Kendra Ellner, city planner with HKGI, presented the final draft of Richmond’s 2025 Comprehensive Plan at the Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 20, describing it as a condensed, 71‑page document that consolidates material previously spread across roughly 130 pages. Ellner said the plan reflects community engagement dating to 2023 and noted only two public comments were received on the draft: one requested a different photograph, and the other related to the Economic Development Authority’s role in the plan.

Ken Gertken opened the public hearing. Several representatives from nearby Munson Township attended and addressed the commission. Matt Burg told the commission he had reviewed the plan and that it “looked good.” Jerry Hemmesch asked to see the maps to understand how Munson Township lands relate to Richmond’s boundaries and inquired whether Richmond has plans affecting agricultural land north of town and whether the city anticipates a need for new housing. Dean Holthaus urged the township and the city to move forward cooperatively and said he wanted to “put the past in the past” and work with Richmond on future matters.

Ellner emphasized that the comprehensive plan is intended as a guiding document rather than a binding set of rules and said the city and townships could adjust portions of the plan over time. After discussion the commission voted to send the draft plan to the City Council for consideration: Commissioner Jim Hemmesch moved to forward the matter, Commissioner Jon Person seconded the motion, and the motion passed.

The plan’s next step is formal review and potential adoption by the Richmond City Council. The commission did not record substantive amendments or a formal vote tally beyond noting the motion passed.