The American Planning Association describes a comprehensive plan as “the leading policy document guiding the long-range development of local jurisdictions across the country.” The St. James Parish Comprehensive Plan is designed to provide policy guidance as the Parish grows and develops through 2045. Traditionally, a comprehensive plan serves the following functions:
- The plan should guide regulations that are in the subdivision code, building requirements, and land use decisions.
- Councilmembers and the Parish Administration can use the plan as a guide when they are faced with proposals to develop large tracts of land, build new subdivisions, or proposals to extend infrastructure or roads.
- Administrative staff should review the plan to see if proposed subdivisions or land use actions align with the vision and goals/objectives of the plan.
- The plan can guide capital investment and grants planning to help ensure that neighborhoods in the Parish are protected from natural hazards and developed in a way that is efficient and safe for residents.
- Planning Commissioners should cite consistency with the Plan when making a land use or development decision. This consistency will support decisions that are challenged in court or are highly contentious.
The Comprehensive Plan Update should (1) include the voices and perspectives of residents and stakeholders from all areas of the Parish and all walks of life, (2) have tangible guidance for land use and subdivision practice, and (3) provide clear and measurable goals and objectives so that staff can evaluate whether development proposals are aligned with the long-term vision expressed in the Plan.
Why do we need citizen participation for the Plan?
A comprehensive plan must be developed using a collaborative approach that not only incorporates data from organizations and groups, but also engages stakeholders and the public in its creation. This Citizen Participation Plan is a living document that will ensure that a diverse range of community groups are informed of planning efforts, that their feedback and experience is included in applicable plan documents, and that the Parish provides the public ample opportunities to participate. This process will be supervised by Planning Staff and the Steering Committee and will span a ten-month Public Engagement Period, beginning in March 2024 with the Steering Committee Kick-Off and ending in approximately January 2025.