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Council begins year‑long look at updating comprehensive plan; grant timeline and committee steps outlined
Summary
City staff and the council discussed launching a 10‑year review of Beacon's comprehensive plan, potential CFA/Smart Growth grant funding (applications due end of July), forming a committee, selecting a consultant via RFP, and prioritizing targeted, strategic updates such as mobility, housing and scenic views.
Jennifer Gray and planning staff briefed the council on the comprehensive plan’s purpose, timing and process. Gray described the comprehensive plan as the city council’s policy document that guides zoning and implementation, noting Beacon’s 2017 update will be 10 years old next year and recommending forming a committee, selecting a consultant via RFP and pursuing grant funding. Planning staff recommended applying to the State’s Consolidated Funding Application (CFA), which typically opens in May–June with applications due at the end of July and can fund up to 90% of a plan depending on scope.
Council members debated scope and sequencing: some advocated a targeted, strategic update focused on priority areas—transportation, housing/unit sizing, climate adaptation and scenic views—while others urged a comprehensive, full‑plan review. Staff said an RFP should describe target areas to attract the right consultants and that community engagement (charrettes, zoom workshops, farmers‑market outreach and mailed notices) should be integral to the process. Council directed staff to prepare grant work and start committee recruitment ahead of the funding deadline.
