Becker County encouraging residents to take online surveys to help gather information for a new comprehensive plan; survey deadline is Dec. 15

Detroit Lakes, Minn. (KDLM) – Becker County is seeking the public’s input for their new comprehensive plan, which will focus on identifying issues current residents are facing with building and zoning challenges, and updating the county’s policies and zoning code to reflect those changes.

Residents are encouraged to fill out a short survey online to provide input on various aspects of the new plan.

According to the project website, the county’s new comprehensive land-use plan will define the vision, goals and aspirations for the future growth and development of the community. The plan also intends to identify and locate where land uses should be located and considers population trends, transportation patterns, natural resources, economic development activity with correlating needs for utilities, housing, businesses, as well as parks and open space.

The plan will be used to facilitate where public and private investments in county infrastructure should be located.

During the last Becker County Board meeting on Nov. 21, Kyle Vareberg, Becker County’s planning and zoning administrator, presented to the commissioners the draft mission statement for the county’s new comprehensive plan.

“The mission is Becker County will serve current and future residents by balancing the following priorities,” said Vareberg. “Planning for a community that meets a range of needs and budgets. Supporting jobs and a prosperous local economy. Protecting natural resources and providing sustainable outdoor recreation. Engaging residents and businesses to build a sense of community. And, serving that community by providing financially manageable public services and infrastructure.”

Online surveys will be accepted until Dec. 15. Following the survey portion for the new comprehensive plan, organizers will be holding public input focus groups to more clearly define areas of concern.

The group plans on presenting a draft comprehensive plan to the Becker County Board next summer before again receiving public comments on the draft proposal.

The final plan is expected to be completed in fall 2024.

The Becker County Comprehensive Land-use plan has not been updated since 2003.

Click here to take the online survey for the county’s new comprehensive plan.