Discuss 2030 Comprehensive Plan Assumptions Related to Pending Updates to the City's Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer and Water Plans

The City Council recently approved a contract with Bolton and Menk to update the City's Comprehensive Sanitary Sewer and Water Comprehensive Plans, last completed in 2004 following the completion of the 2020 Comprehensive Plan.  This is part of the regular cycle of plan updates.

It should also be noted that this update of the Comprehensive Sewer and Water Plans will advise staff in addressing a 2011/2012 City Council Strategic Goal regarding analysis of fees for development and building in Ramsey.  The Planning Commission may recall that a Development Cost Study was completed in 2011, resulting in the adjustment of several rates and fees charged by the city to developers and builders.  The update of these plans will help to inform staff and the Council as changes to the rate structure for infrastructure are considered. 

No notification required; for discussion purposes only.

On Monday, February 6th, the City Council will be discussing Chapter 4 of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan as it relates to sanitary sewer and water infrastructure. Chapter 4 contains population, household, and employment forecasts in addition to general assumptions related to growth patterns.

Even during the process of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan Update, concern was raised by several individuals regarding the forecasts. In essence, the forecasts showed that all future growth shown on the Future Land Use Map could develop by 2030; however, based on current market conditions, it seems unlikely that this will occur. Staff has had discussions with the Metropolitan Council staff, who agree amendments will likely be needed to the forecasts, with the City experiencing ultimate build-out of the Future Land Use Map beyond 2030.

As previously discussed with the Planning Commission, the Metropolitan Council has begun working on the 2040 Framework, which will provide the City an official opportunity to comment on forecasts, among other items. It is expected that the Metropolitan Council will begin providing communities with updates on the process in October or November of this year. Official comment periods will begin in 2013.

Please note that the City has processed multiple Comprehensive Plan Amendments that have changed the forecasts published in Chapter 4.  Staff will present updated information at the meeting.  In addition, it is not expected that the Planning Commission develop a new Future Land Use Map or staging plan at this time.  This is an opportunity for the Planning Commission to provide Staff with some general guidance to comment on the 2040 Framework and assumptions based on the current Comprehensive Plan and Future Land Use Map.

Preparation of the discussion is being handled as part of regular Staff duties.

Based on discussion.

For discussion only.  Provide Staff with feedback on Chapter 4 (Assumptions) of the 2030 Comprehensive Plan in preparation for updates to the City's sanitary sewer and water plans.