Planning Department

Village of Clyde – Town of Galen – Town of Savannah

Joint Comprehensive Master Plan

Developing a Comprehensive Master Plan for the Area

The Village of Clyde and the Towns of Galen and Savannah have cooperatively initiated the preparation of a Joint Comprehensive Master Plan for the three municipalities. This effort represents an areawide approach to planning and collaborating on community issues of mutual concern. Funding for the planning effort is comprised of a $40,000 grant from the State of New York under the Quality Communities Program and $10,000 of matching funds contributed equally by the Village and the two Towns. A Steering Committee to oversee the preparation of the plan has been established by the three municipalities with representation accorded to each. Members of the Steering Committee include elected officials, members of planning and zoning boards, and other residents from the study area.

What is A Comprehensive Plan and Why is it Important?

Much like a “blueprint”, a comprehensive plan is the public’s guide for the development of a community and the management of its resources. The plan provides the framework under which a community can preserve its natural features, build strong neighborhoods, increase commerce, plan for public services, and guide new development. A comprehensive plan serves as the legal basis for the development and application of land use regulations, including zoning ordinances. Comprehensive plans also can help identify various capital improvements projects needed now and in the future. Identification of these projects can help generate support for local funding and in leveraging funding from state or federal granting agencies.

The Planning Process

The Steering Committee for the Plan is overseeing the work of planners from MRB Group which is the firm engaged to prepare the plan. The plan will address a number of issues ranging from land use and natural resources to economic development and community facilities. Extensive public input will be solicited in the development of goals, objectives and strategies for the study area. A draft plan will be prepared for public review and comment. A final version of the plan will be prepared for the governing boards of the participating municipalities which will individually consider adopting the plan. The plan will also be subject to environmental reviews and consideration by various agencies prior to adoption.