2017 Spencer Comprehensive Land Use Plan

Spencer, Iowa  2017  Comprehensive Plan

FUTURE LAND USE PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION POLICIES A framework of goals and objectives are generated for the community to address the future land use planning process effectively. These broad based goals and objectives are which specific land use policy recommendations support and land use decisions should be based. Land use planning is not static, especially when considering and implementing future land use decisions. Planning will be an ongoing and developing process for the community. Therefore, the City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission should intend to review, update and modify the city’s comprehensive plan according to variations in land use and future development patterns. It is important to remember the principal function of this planning document, along with the city’s land use maps, is to serve as a guide for future development and how decision-makers in Spencer address such development. City staff, the zoning administrator, Planning and Zoning Commission and Board of Adjustment all have

important responsibilities in carrying out the intent of this plan. It is also important to consider that board members and city staff should be conscious of the effect of planning decisions upon the entire community, and not lean toward single issue tendencies. Determining specific land uses for specific area or segments within the community is a product of many variables. Identifying the impacts of land use planning becomes even more complex as efforts are made to project or plan where future land uses are to be located. There is no crystal ball to identify where future development will occur in the community. This plan along with the human resources of the community can help predict, plan, and guide development where it will promote the greatest benefit and create the fewest conflicts for the entire community. OBJECTIVE 1. Encourage future development and redevelopment of Spencer with sound planning principles and high quality design standards for the utilization of the land to its highest and best use, while respecting the natural and physical constraints on development of land. The City should maintain orderly and structured growth of the community first utilizing available land if applicable, but not close the door on annexation if the best interests of the city warrant it.

POLICY RECOMMENDATIONS for land use planning, implementation and enforcement of this plan include:

Policy 1.a. – Remain consistent with the city’s current zoning policies in regards to the assignment of zoning classifications for properties brought into the community through annexation. Zoning of annexed properties should allow current land uses of the affected properties, but can be easily changed to reflect intended future land uses.

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NW Iowa Planning & Development