Comprehensive Plans
Wilmington Town Supervisor Smith is setting the wheels in motion to update the Town's comprehensive plan. Wilmington does have a comprehensive plan that dates from 1975. It can be downloaded here. Many people do not seem to be aware of this plan. When you ask about the comprehensive plan, you often get the Local Waterfront Revitalization Plan, adopted and approved in 2010. You can download that document here. Yet another 'plan' is Wilmington's Destination Master Plan, created in 2009 to boost tourism. You can download that document here.
What is a comprehensive plan?
A comprehensive plan describes a vision and goals for a town's future, and provides the overall foundation for all land use regulation in the town. It should also describe how to implement the vision and goals. They are not set in stone. They are amended and updated. A good rule of thumb is that they be updated every five years. Clearly Wilmington is overdue.
What is the process for updating a comprehensive plan?
Typically, a planning consultant is engaged to aid in the process. All of the stakeholders should be involved, including town residents and property owners, business owners, and town government and planning/zoning boards.
How is a comprehensive plan implemented?
An important component of a comprehensive plan is having zoning codes that support the plan. According to the New York Department of State: "New York’s zoning enabling statutes (the state statutes which give cities, towns and villages the power to enact local zoning laws) require that zoning laws be adopted in accordance with a comprehensive plan. The comprehensive plan should provide the backbone for the local zoning law." In addition, a future land use plan is critical. Other important aspects of implementation include setting goals, Town-wide participation and engagement, and designated officials who are accountable for implementing the plan.
What can you do?
Keep up with developments in the comprehensive planning process. Attend Town meetings either in person or virtually. Spread the word. We will post updates on the webpage, as well.
Ask yourself questions, such as: What is my vision for Wilmington in 20 years? Do I want to see it larger or smaller? Do I want to see new businesses come in, and, if so, what kinds of businesses? Does Wilmington need public transportation? Child care centers? A senior citizens center? Do I want to see new housing growth restricted to certain parts of the Town? Do I want to preserve forest and green space or do I see open space as unproductive space?
If you would like more detailed information on comprehensive planning, you can download these documents: