The comprehensive plan is an official public
document that provides the framework for all
activities affecting growth and development in a
community. The plan is long-range (20 years) in nature
and is organized around a realistic and achievable
community vision. The Planning Commission is
responsible for preparing the plan, which is adopted
by the Town Board of Commissioners. In the State of
Maryland, a Planning Commission is required to review
and/or update its comprehensive plan every six years.
The time range of a comprehensive plan is typically
twenty years.
The comprehensive plan provides guidance for
decision-making on development proposals (subdivision
plans, re-zonings, and annexations) and the planning
of infrastructure (roads, sewer and water) and
community facilities (parks, town buildings). Within
the plan are goals and objectives for managing
community resources such as transportation networks,
natural and cultural resources, community facilities,
housing, land use, and economic development. This
structure sets a work program for public officials,
citizens, and planners to implement the community
vision.
To review a specific chapter of the plan, double
click on the chapter of your choice.
