Welcome to the Carlinville, Illinois Community Vision Survey! The City of Carlinville is in the process of updating its Comprehensive Community Plan, and your input is crucial for shaping the future of our community. This survey is designed to gather your thoughts and opinions on various aspects of life in Carlinville, and it should take approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.
What is a Comprehensive Plan?
A comprehensive plan, also known as a master plan or general plan, is a foundational document that outlines a community’s long-term vision for its future development and growth. It serves as a roadmap or blueprint for guiding decisions on land use, infrastructure, and public policy.
Essentially, a comprehensive plan:
• Sets a vision: It articulates what a community wants to become, typically over a 20-year period, by establishing goals and objectives.
• Guides physical development: It includes maps and policies for future land use, designating areas for residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational purposes. It also addresses transportation, utilities, parks, housing, and public facilities.
• Forms the basis for regulations: The plan provides the policy framework for zoning codes, subdivision regulations, and other regulatory tools that implement the community’s vision.
• Involves community input: Its creation is a democratic process involving participation from residents, stakeholders, and public officials.
• Addresses a wide range of topics: Beyond land use, it often covers community growth, infrastructure capacity, economic development, environmental protection, and sustainability.
The plan is a crucial document for ensuring orderly growth and development, balancing natural and built environments, and aligning day-to-day decisions with a long-range community vision. While not always legally binding on its own, it is the foundation for legally enforceable ordinances and policies.