New planning goals in Summit County get the nod

(Park Record) The Summit County Council has approved a new mission statement to help guide planning practices on the East Side of Summit County.

Officials took several years to rewrite the goals and objectives for land use on the East Side. Some people who attended those meetings were most concerned about preserving private property rights. Many of the town hall gatherings were attended by nearly 50 people.

The agricultural industry on the East Side of Summit County no longer drives the economy here. With the new mission statement many property owners hoped officials would make it easier for them to develop real estate.

"We did hear that sentiment very clearly," Eastern Summit County Planning Commissioner Ken Henrie said.

Eastsiders "are not so sure that farming and that sort of heritage is our highest priority anymore," Henrie said.

Revisions to the mission statement, goals and objectives of the Eastern Summit County General Plan include promoting affordable housing, protecting the rural environment, developing a transportation master plan and addressing energy use.

"I would very much like for you to consider encouraging a transportation system for motorized and non-motorized uses," Summit County Councilwoman Sally Elliott told planning officials.

The new mission statement and goals are the first changes to the East Side general plan since the document was adopted in 1996.

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